ABC Plumbing Heating & Cooling Blog

Top 5 Garbage Disposal Tips

To maintain proper function of your disposal, adhere to these guidelines: Only dispose of soft foods, ice cubes, softer bones, fruit pits, citrus peels, and coffee grounds. Avoid fibrous materials like corn husks, artichokes, celery stalks, onion peels, and seafood shells. Always run a full stream of cold water, allowing it to flow for an additional 30 seconds after turning off the disposal. Use hot water only when the disposal is off. Operate the disposal for no longer than 30 seconds to grind waste. Refrain from using chemical drain cleaners, as they can harm plumbing and pose safety risks. If the disposal is jammed or backed up, seek assistance from a professional plumber. These practices ensure proper disposal function and prevent damage to your home's plumbing system.

5 Important Plumbing Parts That Make Your Bathroom Safer

Electrical Tips : Holiday Lighting Safety

During the holiday season, it's essential to practice safety when using electrical lights and decorations to prevent shock and fires. Avoid connecting too many lights together, inspect accessories for damage before installation, and turn off decorations when leaving home or going to bed. Use appropriate wattage bulbs and avoid overloading extension cords, never running them through water. Replace damaged parts promptly to reduce fire hazards and ensure safety.

Avoid Sewer and Drain Problems With These Simple Maintenance Tips

To maintain your home's drains and sewer line, follow these tips: Avoid pouring cooking fats and grease down the drain; dispose of them in the trash once solidified. Don't flush non-biodegradable items like wet towels, wipes, or hygiene products. Refrain from planting trees near the sewer line to prevent root intrusion. Schedule periodic inspections with ABC to detect and address minor issues before they escalate, using video inspections to identify problems like cracks or tree root intrusion.

4 Reasons for Uneven Temperature in your Home

Temperature variations within a home are common, especially in areas like attics, basements, and additions. When dealing with discomfort in specific rooms, factors such as inadequate insulation, air leaks, and air duct issues need consideration. Proper insulation with recommended R-values for attics and walls is crucial, while sealing windows and doors prevents energy loss from drafts. HVAC systems may suffer from poorly sized air ducts, hindering efficient air delivery throughout the home. ABC offers solutions like air delivery analysis and air duct sealing to address these issues, promoting better heating and cooling efficiency and ensuring consistent comfort throughout the house.

Quick Tips For Homeowners - Air Conditioners

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9 Energy Saving Tips for Summer to Save Energy and Cut Cooling Costs

To reduce energy costs, which can account for up to 60 percent of home expenses according to the U.S. Department of Energy, implementing various home improvements and lifestyle adjustments can be highly effective. Sealing air leaks in windows, doors, and outlets maintains indoor temperatures, while switching to energy-efficient CFL or LED lights reduces electricity consumption and heat emission. Strategic use of curtains and blinds helps regulate indoor temperatures, and programming the thermostat optimizes cooling usage. Adding attic insulation and ventilation, checking air ducts, and planting shade-providing trees contribute further to energy efficiency. Finally, scheduling regular maintenance for heating and cooling systems ensures reliable operation and peak efficiency.

What are the Effects of Hard Water on Plumbing System

Hard water poses various challenges for homeowners, impacting energy efficiency and appliance longevity. High levels of calcium and magnesium in hard water make heating less efficient, increasing energy consumption. Additionally, limescale buildup from hard water can restrict water flow in pipes, particularly affecting steel pipes and leading to decreased water pressure and potential damage to plumbing fixtures. Common areas of mineral buildup include shower heads, faucets, and valves, which can impair their functionality and lead to leaks. Water heaters are particularly susceptible to mineral deposits, which hinder heating efficiency and can shorten the lifespan of the appliance by clogging pipes, valves, and drains. Regular maintenance and measures to mitigate hard water effects are essential for preserving appliance performance and longevity.

Identifying Water Leaks Around The Home

Water leaks in your home not only inflate your water bill but can also cause hidden damage. Common leaks include worn-out toilet flappers, dripping faucets, and leaking valves and pipes, all of which can be fixed to save water and money. To check for leaks, monitor your water usage and inspect your water meter before and after periods of inactivity to identify any increases, indicating a leak. Leaking toilets can be detected by adding food coloring to the tank and checking for color in the bowl. Leaky faucets and shower heads often result from worn washers or loose connections, while water heaters can develop leaks due to rust. Professional assistance may be needed for persistent leaks, ensuring all water loss issues are resolved efficiently.

Go Green With Your Home's Plumbing

The blog discusses the importance of green plumbing in conserving energy and saving money by reducing water usage. It suggests installing low-flow toilets, energy-efficient water heaters, and using cold water for washing laundry to achieve significant savings. Additionally, it recommends using low-flow plumbing fixtures like showerheads to reduce water consumption and heating costs further.