Month: March 2023

Top 7 Benefits of Indoor Air Quality Solutions

When you invest in indoor air quality solutions, you’re investing in a cleaner home and better health for you and your family. There are 7 benefits of indoor air quality solutions for your home.

1. 1. Minimized Odors

2. When something smells off in your home, your first thought might be to light a candle or get an air freshener. However, a lot of air fresheners and scented candles are loaded with toxic chemicals that aren’t great for your health or for your indoor air quality. Unless you purchase natural products, you should refrain from using certain candles and air fresheners. Instead, indoor air quality solutions, like air purifiers or air cleaners, can help minimize odors in your home naturally.

2. Increased Home Value

Homeowners always look for house that are unique and have different features they can’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking to sell your house, then you could benefit from having indoor air quality solutions installed in your home. It will set your home apart from the rest. Not only that, but your home value will increase as a result. It’s really a win-win for everyone!

3. Better Sleep

The quality of the air you breathe really determines how well you will sleep. For example, sleeping with an air purifier in the room can really help decrease your exposure to indoor air pollution in the middle of the night, and help you get back to enjoying the quality sleep you deserve.

4. Elimination of Allergens

One of the biggest benefits of indoor air quality solutions is that they eliminate common allergens that circulate through your air. Allergens, such as mold, pollen, pet dander, dirt, and dust can all contribute to allergies and poor indoor air quality. You want to make sure you are using a filter that is able to remove the tiniest of particles, such as a HEPA (high-efficiently particulate air) filtration system.

5. Enhanced Health

As a result of air purification systems eliminating allergens, improving sleep, and minimizing foul odors, you will notice better health as well. Indoor air pollutants can cause a variety of health issues, such as respiratory diseases, headaches, dizziness, irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, fatigue, and more. By eliminating and controlling the sources of pollution throughout your home with indoor air quality solutions, you will be in better health.

6. Easier Breathing

Indoor air pollutants can trigger asthma and allergies, making it hard for some to breathe. According to the American Lung Association, poor indoor air quality can cause or contribute to the development of certain infections, lung cancer, and chronic lung diseases (such as asthma). With indoor air quality solutions, however, the elimination of the pollutants will help you breathe better.

7. Reduced Energy Costs

Maintaining good air quality can help reduce energy costs, lower your electrical bills, and provide greater energy efficiency overall. This has a lot to do with the impact air purification systems have on your HVAC units. When the filters in your system get clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris, it works less efficiently. By having an air purification system installed, you can extend the life of your unit and also keep it running more efficiently. This is because the air purification system will take on removing all contaminants so your filters aren’t getting clogged and your system isn’t having to work harder. Indoor air quality solutions take the burden off your HVAC unit, which greatly can help reduce energy costs.

Wolfgangs Cooling, Heating & Plumbing Offers The Following Indoor Air Quality Solutions:

• HEPA Filtration
• Air Purifiers
• Whole House Air Cleaners
• Duct Sealing
• Dehumidifiers

Contact Wolfgangs Cooling, Heating and Plumbing For All Your Indoor Air Quality Needs In Tempe, AZ Today!

Contact the pros at Wolfgangs Cooling, Heating, and Plumbing today for all your indoor air quality needs. We’ve been providing superior comfort and quality since 1982. Contact us today at 928-766-0872 or fill out our online form here so a team member can be in touch with you soon.

This post first appeared on https://www.thetrustedplumber.com

Common Plumbing Myths Debunked: Know The Truth

You’ve likely heard many of these myths overtime, as you search the internet for plumbing hacks to help you save time and money. However, it’s time to set the record straight because it’s time to you know the truth. Here are common plumbing myths you should stop believing right now.

1. Myth: Garbage Disposals Have Blades You Can Sharpen

Have you ever heard that you can put ice down the garbage disposal to sharpen the blades? This is false, because garbage disposals actually don’t have blades – they have impellers. These impellers move at high speeds in order to grind up food waste.

2. Myth: Putting A Brick In the Tank Of The Toilet Will Save You Money

Putting a brick in the tank of your toilet will not save you money. In fact, it can keep your toilet from flushing correctly. Not only that, but it can also tend to crumble and could even cause damage to your toilet. All that being said, you want to refrain from putting any bricks in your tank.

3. Myth: You Can Flush Cat Litter

Many people are under the impression that they can flush cat litter. While many types of cat litter are flushable, the waste found inside the litter box is not. It’s common to find toxic parasites in cat waste which can be harmful to people – especially pregnant women. It’s better to be safe and toss the litter in the garbage can and not your toilet.

4. Myth: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are The Best Way To Clean Your Drains

Not so fast. This one is actually a big drain-NO! Chemicals aren’t only bad for your health and the environment, but they’re also bad for your drains – and can actually make the clog worse. Not only that, but the chemicals found in drain cleaners can actually eat away at your pipes, even if they’re made of tough material. It’s a much better, safer, and cost effective idea to go with a professional drain cleaner.

5. Myth: Hot Water Melts Grease To Prevent Clogs

While grease may be a liquid, it’s not safe to put down your drain – period. Once the grease hits your pipes, it cools, solidifies, and eventually builds up – even if you use hot water while pouring it. It’s a much better idea to dump the grease instead of pouring it down the drain.

6. Myth: A Wire Hanger Is A Good Substitute For A Plumbing Snake

A plumbing snake is designed specifically to clear pipe blockages. Using a wire hanger in its place can actually cause damage to the pipe from the inside, which can lead to additional build-up. Instead of turning to DIY methods, contact a plumber to help with all your drain clogs.

Contact The Pros At Cool Touch Today! We Are Here For All Your Plumbing Needs In The Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas.

We are here for all your plumbing needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your plumbing appointment by visiting us online here.

The post Common Plumbing Myths Debunked: Know The Truth appeared first on Cool Touch Air Conditioning & Heating.

This post first appeared on https://www.thetrustedplumber.com

From overflowing sinks to standing water in your shower, clogged drains can quickly become a nightmare for homeowners. Do-it-yourself methods often suggest chemical solutions or using a plunger to remove residue buildup. By the time you see the clump of hair, slime, and dirt that comes out of the drain, you’ll wish that you had gone to an expert plumber instead. 

Professional plumbers may use a larger, more intense tool to snake a clogged drain. However, in more severe cases, this isn’t necessarily the most ideal approach because it can risk the integrity of the pipeline. Instead, turn to Express Sewer & Drain for effective hydro-jetting methods that will keep your pipes free of debris.

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This post first appeared on http://www.atozstatewideplumbing.com

A water leak can cause significant damage to your home, as well as increase your water bill. It’s essential to locate and repair a water leak as soon as possible to prevent further damage and save money. Here are some tips on how to find a water leak in your home.

Check Your Water Meter – One of the easiest ways to determine if you have a water leak is to check your water meter. Turn off all the water in your home, including appliances and faucets, and then check the meter. If the meter is still running, it’s likely that you have a water leak.

Inspect Your Water Bill – Another way to determine if you have a water leak is to inspect your water bill. If your bill is significantly higher than usual, it could be a sign of a water leak in your home.

Listen for Sounds – Water leaks can often be heard before they can be seen. If you hear the sound of running water when no water is being used, it could be a sign of a water leak. Try to locate the source of the sound to identify the leak.

Look for Visible Signs – Water leaks can often be seen as well. Look for damp or discolored areas on walls, ceilings, and floors. A water stain is a good indication that water has been leaking into that area.

Use a Water Leak Detector – A water leak detector is a device that can be used to locate water leaks. It works by detecting the sound of water flowing through pipes. Place the device near areas where you suspect a leak, and it will sound an alarm when it detects water flow.

Conduct a Dye Test – A dye test involves adding dye to your toilet tank or sink drain to determine if there is a leak. If the dye appears in your toilet bowl or sink, it’s a sign of a leak.

Hire a Professional – If you are unable to locate the leak or you suspect that it’s in an area that is difficult to access, it’s best to hire a professional plumber. The A to Z Statewide Plumbing crew have the tools and expertise to locate and repair water leaks quickly and efficiently.

Finding a water leak in your home is essential for preventing further damage and saving money. By following these tips, you can identify and repair a water leak quickly and efficiently. Remember, the longer a water leak goes undetected, the more damage it can cause. If you are unable to locate the leak, it’s best to hire a professional plumber to ensure that the problem is resolved correctly.

This post first appeared on http://www.atozstatewideplumbing.com

The human body is approximately 60% water. In some cases, it’s even higher: 75% of an infant’s body is water. This fact makes it obvious that drinking plenty of water is critical for human health. But what about the source of that water? Is your drinking water clean enough to keep you healthy?

There are a variety of water treatment systems available to help ensure that your drinking water is clean. How can you select the right water treatment system? How can you be sure that it’s working properly? And how can you keep it working well in the long term? 

Signs of Water Quality Problems

Many things can indicate that you should get your water quality tested. Consider testing if you notice discoloration or corrosion on and around your water fixtures, an unpleasant smell or taste to your water, or if you or your family members have been ill and you don’t know why—especially pets, who are small and more easily affected by contaminated water. Another reason for concern about water quality is if you live in an older home. 

Sources of Water Quality Problems

Chlorides, nitrates, and arsenic can be absorbed by your water before it enters your home’s plumbing system. An imbalance in pH (acidity or alkalinity) or salinity (salt content) or bacterial growth can all have health consequences. And lead piping was not banned for use in water systems until 1986, so a home older than that may still have a plumbing system that contains lead, which is a dangerous contaminant that can lead to health problems, especially developmental delays in children. 

Solutions to Water Quality Problems

Water treatment systems come in two main configurations: POE or point-of-entry systems, which treat all the water that comes into your home, and POU or point-of-use systems, which treat the water flowing through a specific fixture, such as the kitchen sink. Both types are available for different varieties of treatment that address the specific contamination that is affecting your water. But how can you know what treatment your water needs?

Water Quality Testing

In order to select a treatment that will resolve your water quality problem, you need to know exactly what’s in your water. With professional water testing in Orlando, you can have a complete and detailed breakdown of exactly what your water contains. This will allow us to help you select the right treatment system for your home. 

Water Treatment System Care

There are two critical things that need to be done when you have a water treatment system in place in your home. The first is that your water should still be tested regularly. This will reassure you that the system is working properly, alert you if there’s a problem with the system and contaminants are not being removed, and keep you aware of any new sources of contamination that you weren’t treating for with your current system. The second critical thing is water treatment system maintenance. This may include filter replacement, cleaning and disinfecting the system, and removing any mineral deposits that have built up. With continued care, your water treatment system can ensure that you and your family are drinking fresh, clean water. 

Contact Modern Plumbing Industries, Inc. today and reach professionals with the training and experience your home deserves.

The post It’s Important to Test Your Water Treatment System: Here’s Why first appeared on Modern Plumbing Industries Inc. Blog.

This post first appeared on https://www.modernpi.com

Your furnace needs repairs and it’s got you wondering if it’s time for a replacement.  Furnaces are expensive and no homeowner looks forward to when their furnace is too expensive to repair and replacing it is inevitable.

It makes sense that you’d want to spend as little money as possible. However, no homeowner wants to purchase a brand-new furnace and end up not being happy with their purchase! Not that a new furnace is going to need furnace repair in Wayne, NJ; we’re talking about performance here. 

Lower-priced furnaces aren’t very energy efficient which means they’ll cost more to run over the course of their lifespan. Homeowners who have a bit more to spend when it’s time to buy a new furnace wonder just how much more they should spend. Let’s review high-efficiency furnaces to determine if it’s right for your home.

What Is a High-Efficiency Furnace?

A high-efficiency furnace is aptly named: it’s a furnace that runs extremely efficiently. Compared to standard systems, it’ll use less energy to operate, therefore saving you money on your utility bills. 

A furnace’s efficiency is determined by its AFUE rating which stands for annual fuel utilization efficiency rating. For example, a furnace with an AFUE rating of 83% means that for every dollar spent, 83 cents will go toward heating your home and 17 cents will be wasted. Take a look at this chart from Energy.gov.

Mid-Efficiency Heating Systems:

• Exhaust fan controls the flow of combustion air and combustion gasses more precisely
• Electronic ignition (no pilot light)
• Compact size and lighter weight to reduce cycling losses
• Small-diameter flue pipe
• 80% to 83% AFUE

High-Efficiency Heating Systems:

• Condensing flue gasses in a second heat exchanger for extra efficiency
• Sealed combustion
• 90% to 98.5% AFUE

How Much Money Does a High-Efficiency Heating System Save?

Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer to this question. Your furnace’s efficiency depends on several factors besides its AFUE rating such as:

• How well is your home’s insulation?
• What condition is your ductwork in?
• Where is the furnace located?
• What’s the cost of utilities in your area?
• Was the furnace properly installed by professional HVAC technicians?

The easiest way to get an idea of just how much you stand to save is to use a furnace efficiency calculator. You’ll need to enter factors to determine your current furnace’s efficiency. Then compare it to furnaces with higher AFUE ratings to get an idea of your potential savings.

In a nutshell, high-efficiency furnaces make sense when:

• You live in a cold climate 
• You don’t plan to sell your home for at least ten years
• Your local energy costs are higher than average
• You can apply state and government rebates and tax credits to your purchase

The Bottom Line

We know researching your new furnace can be a confusing and stressful process. It doesn’t have to be! We can advise you on the best furnace for the specific needs of your home and family. We can also tell you which rebates and tax credits you may qualify for. 

Contact MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc. to schedule furnace services today.

The post Can A High-Efficiency Furnace Save Money? first appeared on MarGo Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc..

This post first appeared on https://margoplumbing.com

Living in Ottawa means that you may encounter some common plumbing problems due to the cold weather and other conditions. From burst pipes to frozen water lines, a lot of homeowners experience these issues at one point or another.

 

Fortunately, there are ways to prevent and fix these plumbing problems so you can avoid costly repairs. In this resource, we’ll discuss 10 common plumbing problems faced by Ottawa homeowners and how they can be solved quickly and effectively. We’ll also go over some tips on how to prevent them from happening in the first place. So if you live in the nation’s capital, read on for more information!

10 common plumbing problems faced by Ottawa homeowners and how they can be solved quickly and effectively

 

1. Frozen pipes:

Frozen pipes are a common plumbing problem in Ottawa, especially during winter when temperatures drop significantly. If you notice any frozen pipes in your home, it’s important to thaw them out as soon as possible to prevent further damage or burst pipes. To do this, open all of the faucets connected to the pipe and use a hairdryer on its lowest setting to slowly thaw the pipe from one end to another.

 

2. Clogged drains:

Clogged drains can be caused by a variety of factors such as hair, grease, or food particles getting stuck in the drainpipe. To unclog a drain, you can use a plunger or an auger (also known as a plumber’s snake). If you’re unsure of how to use these tools, it’s best to call a professional.

 

3. Low water pressure:

Low water pressure is usually caused by mineral deposits or corrosion buildup inside the pipes. To fix this issue, you can try using a vinegar and baking soda mixture to clean out the pipes and restore the water flow. If that doesn’t work, then it might be time to call in a plumber for further assistance.

 

4. Leaky faucets:

Leaky faucets are usually caused by worn-out washers or seals on the handles and valves of your taps. To fix this problem, first turn off the water supply to your taps and then unscrew the handles and valves. Replace the washers and seals, reassemble the faucet, and then turn on the water supply again.

 

5. Running toilets:

Running toilets are usually caused by a malfunctioning flapper valve inside the tank. To fix this issue, simply replace the flapper valve with a new one and make sure it’s installed properly so that it can create an effective seal when closed.

 

6. Burst pipes:

Burst pipes are often caused by extreme temperature changes in Ottawa or corrosion buildup inside the pipes. To repair a burst pipe, you need to first shut off the main water supply to your home and then call in a professional to repair or replace the pipe.

 

7. Sewer backups:

Sewer backups are usually caused by a blockage in the sewer line or tree roots growing into the pipes. To fix this problem, you need to call in a professional plumber who can clean out the pipes and remove any debris causing the backup.

 

8. Slow draining tubs:

Slow draining tubs are usually caused by soap scum buildup inside the drainpipe or a clog that can’t be reached with a plunger or auger. To fix this issue, you can use a chemical cleaner to dissolve any build up and clear out any clogs in your drains.

 

9. No hot water:

If your hot water is not working, it’s usually caused by a malfunctioning water heater. To fix this issue, you can try resetting the breaker or check to see if the pilot light has gone out. If that doesn’t work, then it might be time to replace your water heater or call in a professional plumber for help.

 

10. Dripping taps:

Dripping taps are usually caused by worn-out washers or seals on the handles and valves of your taps. To fix this problem, first turn off the water supply to your taps and then unscrew the handles and valves. Replace the washers and seals, reassemble the faucet, and then turn on the water supply again.

 

As you can see, there are several common plumbing problems that Ottawa homeowners may face. If you find yourself dealing with any of these issues, it’s best to call in a professional plumber for assistance. A professional plumber will be able to quickly diagnose and repair the problem so that your home is free from plumbing woes!

The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist For Your Plumbing System

Is your spring cleaning in full effect yet? When you start making your ultimate spring cleaning checklist, don’t forget to add your plumbing system to the list! We’ve made it easy for you, and listed out the most important “to-do” items to start checking off. Here are the top 6 items to add to your spring cleaning checklist.

1. Check For Toilet Leaks

First on the list, make sure you are checking your toilets! Toilets can leak for days or even weeks without you knowing because the leaks aren’t always very obvious. While spring cleaning, try the “food coloring” trick. Drop some food coloring into your tank and wait about 30 minutes. If the water in your toilet bowl doesn’t run clear, that means you have a leak and should have a professional plumber out to your residence quickly.

2. Make Sure Drains Are Cleared

Next, check your drains. If you have any blockages or clogs in your drains, it can cause poor water flow and other problems. While tempting, avoid using chemical drain cleaners or bent wire hangers to clear the blockages and clogs yourself. Homemade contraptions can actually cause more harm to your pipes. Instead, invest in professional drain cleaning to help clear your drains quickly, effectively, and safely.

3. Maintain Your Water Heater

Once a year, you should plan to have your water heater professionally drained, flushed and maintained. As the water runs out of the tank, so will the sediment that has accumulated and built up inside. This can eventually cause your tank to rust and corrosion, which will impact your unit’s efficiency. That’s why it’s so important to invest time and money into having your water heater maintained.

4. Inspect Your Sump Pump

April showers bring may flowers. They can also bring flooding if you’re not careful! Before any rain makes an appearance, check your sump pump’s ability to operate. Over time, gravel, pebbles an dirt can get caught in your pump and make it unable to operate efficiently. You can have a professional plumber assess its condition this spring. Your plumber should also be able to tell you any additional things you should consider adding to your sump pump in order to avoid flooding.

5. Clean Your Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal works hard for you – now is the time you work hard for it! Garbage disposals are designed to break down waste, but over time, it can collect food scraps, bacteria and other debris. Not only can this cause your garbage disposal to work inefficiently, but it can also cause your kitchen to smell. A simple garbage disposal cleaning will help keep it working well for you. However, remember to never put your hand down the disposal – even if it’s off!

6. Check Your Pipes

Your toilet isn’t the only thing that can experience leaks. Make sure you’re checking all the pipes around your house – inside and outside – for any signs of visible leaks. If you spot anything off, such as musty smelling rooms, wet spots, foundation cracks, mold and mildew, high water bills, or damaged ceilings, walls, and floors, don’t wait. Contact a professional right away.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Plumbing Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your plumbing needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your plumbing appointment by visiting us online here.

The post The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist For Your Plumbing System appeared first on Cool Touch Air Conditioning & Heating.

This post first appeared on https://www.thetrustedplumber.com

Believe it or not, the official start of spring is here. When seasons change, many homeowners will begin to realize some of the effects the winter months had on their home—broken pipes, cracked hose bibbs, sump pump failures, etc. After a cold winter, you may be ready for warmer weather, but most importantly, is your home’s plumbing?

Here are a few quick tips for you to consider this spring:

1. Clear debris from places such as your downspouts and any area surrounding your sump pump discharge line.
   • With any additional snow melting and upcoming rain, it’s very important to inspect your sump pump discharge line to make sure nothing is clogged or blocked.
2. Test your sump pump! All too often, we see flooded basements due to sump pump malfunctions. We advise that you follow these tips to test your system.
3. Inspect your property for blockages or obstructions that could prevent any remaining melting snow from draining.
4. If you can, clear debris, such as leaves, twigs, etc., from your gutters so water can drain appropriately.
5. Visually inspect your outside pipes for leaks and damage.
   • This is especially important for your hose bibb, also known as an outdoor faucet, although it might be a little early to turn your outside water back on. Once the weather gets a bit warmer, this is definitely something you’ll want to keep in mind.

While this is a short list of spring plumbing tips, they’re important to keep in mind! If you need a plumber this spring, you know who to call. With Len The Plumber’s many service locations, we provide same day service, seven days a week, with no extra charges for evening or weekend appointments.

This post first appeared on https://lentheplumber.com