Tag: hvac

Why You Need HVAC Service

Just like a car, an HVAC system needs routine maintenance. This can help prevent problems before they happen, such as an inefficient airflow or a compressor leaking refrigerant.

HVAC Service

During a maintenance call, a qualified technician will check several components and test thermostat settings and operations. A reliable HVAC company like Grand Prairie HVAC Service will also discuss energy-saving services that optimize home comfort all year round.

An air filter may seem like an insignificant component of your HVAC system, but it is very important for the performance and longevity of your equipment and for maintaining good indoor air quality. Replacing filters monthly or as recommended prevents dust, dirt and other contaminants from damaging internal components and circulating them through your home. It also helps reduce the symptoms of respiratory problems and improves comfort and overall health.

An HVAC air filter is essentially a screen that fits into an HVAC compartment to trap and block airborne particulates from entering the blower and circulating throughout your home. The filtered air then passes through the heat pump or air conditioner, where the particles are removed and dispersed. A dirty air filter puts extra strain on the system, which can result in lower energy efficiency and higher utility bills. It can also damage internal components or cause them to become clogged, which will require repair and replacement sooner than normal.

There are many different types of HVAC filters to choose from. Each has its own filtration capabilities, lifespan and price range. Some are disposable, while others can be washed and reused. When choosing a filter, make sure to consider the type of heating and cooling system you have and follow its manufacturer’s guidelines for size, rated MERV value, and proper installation.

Some people prefer a fiberglass air filter, which is typically the least expensive and does a great job of keeping large contaminant particles out of the system. However, it does not do as well a job of filtering small airborne irritants. If you have allergies or asthma, it is best to use a higher-rated filter with a MERV rating of 14 or above, and to change them often to prevent clogs.

If there is construction in or near your house, it is especially important to frequently check and replace your filter as necessary. Dust and other debris from worksites can suck into the ventilation system, increasing the stress on your HVAC system. Moreover, a damp filter can quickly become moldy and spread airborne mold spores throughout your home.

Condensate Drains

When your HVAC system heats or cools your home’s air, it produces humidity in the form of condensation. This moisture has to go somewhere, and that’s where your condensate drain line comes in. This line runs directly from your indoor unit to a pan, then to a drain pipe outside. It’s the system’s way of funneling the condensation away from your indoor air conditioning cabinet, so it doesn’t damage the unit or your home.

During your home’s HVAC service, the technician will check to make sure this drainage system is working properly. A clogged drain line can lead to mold, mildew, and other problems with your indoor air quality. You can help prevent clogs by regularly changing your filter and by avoiding debris buildup in the drain line.

The technician will also inspect the condensate pan and drain line for signs of a clog. They’ll also check the temperature settings on your thermostat, which can be affected by dirty filters or uncalibrated sensors.

If the technician discovers that your air conditioning drain line is clogged, they’ll probably recommend a professional cleaning or repair. This may include removing any debris or blockages, flushing out the drain line, and sealing the drain line to the condensate pan. Alternatively, they’ll likely install a “ceiling saver” kit that will disable your air conditioner when it detects water in the secondary drain pan. These kits can save you from costly water damage, and they’re usually less expensive than a full replacement of the primary or secondary drain line.

Thermostats

The thermostat is the brains behind your heater and air conditioner, allowing you to choose when these systems should turn on and what temperature they should be set at various times of day. We’ve seen many homeowners call our pros for HVAC service when the real issue isn’t a broken system, but a malfunctioning thermostat that isn’t properly managing these systems.

Thermostats that are programmed to run on a schedule need to be equipped with a battery to preserve their settings in the event of a power outage. It’s important to replace these batteries once per year as part of your annual HVAC maintenance service to ensure your thermostat can work as designed.

A faulty thermostat can cause your heater or AC to work overtime in the summer and winter, which can increase your energy bill significantly. It can also shorten the lifespan of your HVAC equipment by forcing it to operate under stress. Thermostats with adaptive learning technology learn your family’s heating and cooling habits over time, so the system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain optimal comfort levels in your home.

When a thermostat can’t display the correct temperature or doesn’t stay at its desired setting, it’s likely due to dirty or damaged components. Dirt and debris from dust, pet and human dander, cooking grease, humidity, oils transferred from the skin, and other common contaminants can accumulate on the surface of your thermostat or underneath buttons and switches. It’s a good idea to wipe down your thermostat with a damp cloth at least once every two weeks.

In addition, a faulty thermostat can be caused by the heat anticipator (the part that tells the unit to switch to heating mode) being stuck. A technician can usually fix this by removing the cover and gently tapping on it with a screwdriver to loosen it. In this case, the unit will then need to be calibrated for a more accurate reading.

Electrical Connections

The electrical system provides the power for all of your HVAC equipment, and it is an essential part of keeping you cool in summer. It can also play a role in heating your home in the winter. However, the electrical components in your HVAC system can develop problems that require professional evaluation and repair from an experienced technician.

One of the most common HVAC electrical issues involves faulty wiring. Electric wires connect all of the components in your HVAC system, and they can become damaged or worn over time. Loose connections can cause overheating and may create fire hazards. Electrical wires can also become corroded or frayed, and these problems can cause your system to malfunction.

Another common electrical problem is an overloaded circuit. When the voltage in an HVAC system exceeds a safe level, the circuit breaker or fuse will trip. This is a safety mechanism that prevents the excess current from creating more damage and causing more costly repairs.

Overloaded circuits can also lead to a decrease in overall HVAC system efficiency. The extra strain causes the system to work harder to maintain your desired temperature, which can result in higher energy consumption and expensive utility bills.

An overloaded circuit can also cause the compressor, blower motor, and transformer to become faulty. These electrical components are expensive to repair, and they can reduce the lifespan of your system.

Licensed HVAC technicians are trained to work with electricity, so they know how to safely and properly handle these complex electrical components. They can also recognize other signs of an electrical problem, like tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses.

Electrical codes say that any equipment requiring more than 50 volts must have a positive means of disconnect adjacent to and in sight of the appliance. This typically means a 240-volt pigtail. A faulty or improperly installed disconnect can be a fire hazard and should be replaced as soon as possible.

What Does a Plumber Do?

Plumbers In Shreveport install and repair pipes that convey water, gas, and waste in residential and commercial settings. They also inspect plumbing systems to ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards.

If you like on-the-job variety and the challenge of solving problems, a career as a plumber may be right for you. Learn more about this rewarding career.

Plumbers install pipes, fixtures, appliances, and other equipment used for water supply, waste disposal, and heating in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They are patient individuals with a practical mind and manual dexterity, capable of working efficiently with great attention to detail.

Plumbers may specialize in particular areas of the field. Some focus on specific plumbing fixtures like toilets, faucets and showers while others are expert in laying pipe networks for water, gas and sewage. They are able to read and interpret blueprints and are accustomed to working in high-rise buildings or other complex structures.

Plumbing technicians are also skilled at diagnosing and repairing issues with water heaters, dishwashers and other kitchen or bathroom appliances. They can also help their clients choose new fixtures and appliances and recommend upgrades to improve performance or efficiency.

In addition to installing and repairing appliances, plumbers can also install backflow preventer devices to protect against hazardous water conditions. They are able to test water pressure and temperature, operate testing equipment, and use a variety of hand tools and power tools to complete their tasks. They are often required to climb or work in tight spaces, so they must be fit and able to carry heavy loads.

Some plumbers also offer bundled services for home inspection and maintenance, which can include repair and replacement of a wide range of parts in the plumbing system including gas and water pipes, drains, showers, taps and toilets. This is a good option for homeowners who want to take care of all their plumbing needs at once and save money in the long run.

Other plumbers install and maintain natural gas lines for a variety of household purposes, from cooking to heating and cooling. These plumbers must be knowledgeable about a wide range of factors, such as proper installation techniques, city codes and regulations, and safety precautions. They are also likely to be required to spend a significant amount of time on the job site, away from their homes and families. This can be stressful for both the plumber and their loved ones.

Plumbers repair the pipes that supply water and carry waste away from homes and businesses. They also install plumbing fixtures, such as bathtubs, sinks, toilets, and showers. To fix pipes, they may need to cut through walls and floors or excavate to find and replace damaged sections. Plumbers also use tools to clean drains and sewer lines. They sometimes inspect their work with cameras to ensure the job was done correctly.

Plumbers can be called for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common repairs they make are for leaky faucets, clogged toilets and drains, and broken shower heads. Plumbers have the tools and skills to solve these problems quickly, so homeowners don’t have to live with them for long.

When a pipe bursts, it can cause significant damage to the home and property. In some cases, it’s more cost-effective for the plumber to replace the entire section of pipe rather than repairing it. If the plumber determines that it is more cost-effective to replace the pipe, they will discuss the options with the homeowner and get started on the project as soon as possible.

A clogged toilet is a huge inconvenience for any household. It can lead to overflowing and messy cleanup, and it’s often a sign of bigger issues with the water or sewer system. Plumbers have a wide range of tools to clear blocked toilets and can often diagnose the problem with a camera inspection. If a clog is caused by a serious issue, such as a broken pipe or tree root infiltration, the plumber might recommend a trenchless sewer line repair.

The plumbing systems of commercial buildings are more complex than those of residential homes. Commercial plumbers must be knowledgeable about a wider variety of issues, including complicated heating and cooling systems, large-scale piping projects, and environmental regulations. They also often work with specialized equipment, such as garbage disposals and steam boilers.

To become a plumber, you usually need at least a high school diploma and several years of apprenticeship or vocational training. Some states require licenses for plumbers, and you must pass an exam to earn your certification. You can find a trade school that offers the courses you need to start your career in plumbing or look for plumbers who have completed the necessary education and training to be licensed in your state.

Most people don’t give much thought to their plumbing systems until there is a problem. That’s when they turn to a plumber. A plumber can help with a variety of maintenance issues, from clogged drains to water leaks. Plumbing maintenance is vital to keeping your home running smoothly and efficiently.

A plumber can inspect your home’s pipes, fixtures, and appliances to ensure that everything is working properly. This includes checking for leaks, assessing damage, and ensuring that your pipes are insulated. A plumber can also install new fixtures or pipes if necessary.

Plumbing fixtures include toilets, kitchen and bathroom sinks, bathtubs, showers, faucets, water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, and more. Plumbers can expertly install, repair, and replace these fixtures. They can also install backflow prevention devices and septic tank systems.

Plumbers must be able to read and interpret blueprints and building codes when installing new plumbing systems. They must also be able to troubleshoot problems and find solutions quickly. They often work with other professionals on construction teams to ensure that plumbing is installed correctly and meets building codes.

Most plumbers complete a four- to five-year apprenticeship program after completing high school or equivalent. Apprenticeship programs combine classroom study with on-the-job training under the supervision of a journeyperson plumber. During this time, an apprentice works and learns the skills of the trade while earning a salary. Apprentices usually start at about 50 percent of the journeyperson’s hourly rate and increase their wages as they gain experience.

Plumbers are responsible for ensuring that water supply and drainage systems function safely and effectively in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. These systems facilitate the distribution of clean water, maintain proper sanitation, and prevent hazardous waste from entering the environment. Plumbers may work on a variety of plumbing systems, including gas, sewer, and stormwater. They can also install and repair gas lines, water heaters, and backflow prevention devices. They are often required to maintain their licenses and certifications, which vary from state to state.

Plumbing inspectors examine and test a building’s plumbing systems to ensure water, gas, and waste are distributed efficiently. They often collaborate with other professionals, such as architects and construction teams, to ensure plumbing is seamlessly integrated into building projects and meets required standards and regulations. They also respond to emergency calls to fix clogged pipes, toilets, and drains.

Residential plumbing inspections are thorough examinations of a home’s pipes, fixtures and appliances to identify problems before they become major issues that require repairs or replacement. During the inspection, the plumber checks for leaks, damage, and corrosion in supply lines, drains, water heater tanks, and all other components of the plumbing system. The plumber may run water through fixtures like sinks, showers and bathtubs to check the water pressure and flow rate. Slow draining tubs and sinks or gurgling noises from toilets indicate that there are drainage obstructions, clogs, or improper venting.

Plumbers also inspect the home’s drain and venting systems for proper function and installation. They check for signs of clogs or improper slope in drain pipes, which can lead to water siphoning and sewage backups. They also inspect venting to ensure that air is flowing properly through the system and preventing gases from being trapped in spaces like basements or attics.

Commercial and industrial plumbing inspections are similar to those performed in homes, but on a larger scale. In these environments, the plumber might examine a complex network of pipes and valves that serve multiple occupants simultaneously. This type of plumbing system typically includes restrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and factory production areas.

Commercial and industrial plumbers also test for water leaks, verify installation of gas appliances, and repair or replace damaged or faulty parts. They might also collaborate with engineers and construction teams to ensure that plumbing systems are integrated seamlessly into building projects and adhere to all applicable codes and regulations. They might also provide customer service, educating clients on the best ways to maintain their plumbing and troubleshoot common issues like clogs and leaks. They should also be able to prepare detailed reports on plumbing systems, including cost estimates for any necessary repairs or replacements.

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