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HVAC Tips and FAQs
HVAC systems can get pretty complicated, especially when you begin to think about all the different parts and equipment. It’s common to have questions about how your system works and about how you can improve its operation. Whether you are considering installing a new system or accessory part or you just want to understand your system better, we have the answers.
If you require HVAC Midlothian service, call Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating at 469-518-4211.
Continue reading for tips and answers to your common HVAC questions.
What is the Best Time of Year to Get My HVAC System Serviced?
The best times of year to get your HVAC system serviced are fall and spring. These are the off-seasons for most HVAC companies. Therefore, technicians are less busy and may even offer lower prices. Technicians are also more likely to finish the job in one visit during these months. Whether you are looking for a replacement, repair or maintenance, fall and spring are excellent times to schedule these services.
How Often Should I Replace My Filters?
It is highly recommended that you replace your air filters monthly. A clogged air filter can cause a multitude of problems from poor air quality to total system failure. Be sure to replace all filters, even those directly attached to your system. You can purchase air filters at your local home improvement store and some grocery stores.
What Is a Programmable Thermostat?
A programmable thermostat allows you to set your thermostat at certain temperatures for specific times of day. For example, in the summer you may program your thermostat to be warmer from 9am to 5pm, when you are at work, and then cooler from 5pm to 9am while you are home.
These are excellent ways to save money as you can conserve energy while you are away at home. Many programmable thermostats even allow you to have one temperature schedule for during the week and one for the weekend.
How Does a Heat Pump Work?
A heat pump works by taking in cool air from outside and converting it to hot air utilizing a system of coils and refrigerant. Heat pumps can also convert warm air to cool air during the summer. They are a great way to conserve energy for smaller homes that may not require a large, central HVAC unit.
What Are the Signs that I Need to Replace My HVAC?
It’s important to replace your HVAC system when it’s time. Some of the signs that you need to replace your system are:
- Over 15 years old
- Requires frequent repairs
- Utilizes R-22 refrigerant
- Increased energy bills
- Encountering safety issues
Heating and AC replacement can be frustrating, time-consuming and expensive. But, doing it sooner than later will save you money and additional frustration.
What Is the Best Humidity Level?
It is highly recommended that you keep your home humidity level between 30% and 50%. Low humidity can cause a sore throat and dry skin. High humidity on the other can cause your home to feel hotter than it actually is and encourages mold and mildew growth. You can purchase a dehumidifier to help regulate these levels.
How Can I Improve Indoor Air Quality?
All it takes to improve your indoor air quality is to take care of your system. Changing your filters regularly, regulating humidity, keeping your home clean, getting your ductwork inspected for pests or debris and scheduling regular maintenance are all ways that you can improve your indoor air quality.
Contact your local HVAC technician to find out how else you can improve your indoor air quality.
What Is the Best Furnace Fuel Type?
There are three different kinds of fuels that furnaces may use: gas, electric and propane. Choosing a furnace fuel type depends on how much you are willing to spend for the system and then for the subsequent monthly energy bills. Gas furnaces are typically more expensive to install, however they cost less on a month-to-month basis as gas is significantly cheaper than electric.
Electric furnaces are the other way around. They cost less to install but are more expensive when it comes to monthly bills. Propane furnaces are typically used by those who live in rural areas and have unstable electrical connections or do not have access to a gas line.
How Can I Tell How Efficient My HVAC System Is?
For furnaces, the efficiency rating is called Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). Most furnaces have an AFUE rating of 80% while high efficiency furnaces have an AFUE rating of 90%. Air conditioners, on the other hand, are rated using Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER).
Standard air conditioners have a SEER of 16. Anything at SEER 18 or higher is considered to be high efficiency. To find the efficiency rating of your HVAC system, all you have to do is look up the model online.
How Do I Clean My HVAC System?
To clean your HVAC system, first make sure that you turn off both your indoor and outdoor unit. You need to create ample physical space for your system. There should be at least two feet of clearance between your system and any objects, landscaping or debris.
Next, you need to clean the system. You can wash it down gently with a hose or wipe it with a wet washcloth. You can also straighten the fins on your outdoor unit using a fin tool, if you feel comfortable.
Trustworthy HVAC Midlothian, Texas Service
For high quality, reliable HVAC service in Midlothian, Texas you need Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating. Our qualified team provides maintenance, repairs, installations and replacements to all kinds of home systems. Whether you need a water heater repaired or your ductwork inspected, we have got you covered. Our team is dedicated to providing only the best service possible, no matter the issue.
To schedule an appointment with the Dial One Johnson team, give us a call at 469-518-4211 or contact us online.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.
10 Tips For Early Slab Leak Detection
One of the worst things that can happen to a homeowner is a slab leak. A slab leak occurs when a water line breaks below your foundation. This leak often takes weeks or months to even notice, often causing damage during that span of time. Slab leaks are also difficult to locate and repair for many plumbers as it often calls for removing part of the homes foundation.
Detecting a slab leak early is key to avoiding extensive damage such as structural damage and mold or mildew. For slab leak detection services in Desoto, Texas, contact Dial one Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating at 469-518-2809.
Continue reading for ten tips on identifying slab leaks early.
1. Feel for Hotspots on the Floor
If you have wood or tiled floors then you should be able to detect hot spots quite easily. If the slab leak is coming from a hot water pipe then that can cause hot spots. Walk around without shoes or socks on and see if you notice any. If you do happen to notice a hot spot, along with other signs on this list, then you should call a plumber to see if they can detect a slab leak.
2. Check for Decreased Water Pressure
If you have a slab leak then your water pressure will probably decrease. This is because some of the water escapes from the pipes and results in decreased water pressure. Be sure to check all faucets to see if any of them have substantially lower water pressure. It’s also important to take note of which faucets are affected because it may be able to help the plumber locate the slab water leak.
3. Identify Warped Floorboards and Damp Carpets
Water often pools upward from slab leaks. If you start to notice damp floors or unexplainable warped floorboards in the lowest level of your house then you probably have a slab leak. As the water rises, it can cause damage to your floors. Wood floors may not be repairable and carpets may begin to develop mold or mildew. If you do notice these issues, make sure you can a plumber to check it out.
4. Look for Mold or Mildew
You may have the perfect conditions in your home to breed mold or mildew. Water may accumulate on your floors, walls and other parts of your home. The water, in addition to warmth or humidity, can cause mold or mildew to grow. While you may think it should be fairly easy to spot mold. The growth typically happens inside of the walls and then works its way out to the interior of your home. By the time you can actually see the mold, it may have been growing for a while.
5. Carefully Check Next Water Bill
If you check your water bill only to find that it has substantially increased, then you may have a slab leak on your hands. Slab leaks can cause an increase in water usage because so much water is wasted through the leak. The bigger the leak, the more water that is wasted. Be sure to call a plumber to check for any slab leaks if you notice a high water bill.
6. Look for Water Coming From the Walls
While it may sound strange that a slab leak may cause water to come through the walls, it does happen. Slab leaks often result in water traveling upward. This occurs because the water looks for the path of least resistance. Call your plumber right away if you notice water damage or damp spots on your walls.
7. Check Patio for Pooling Water
If you have a patio, lanai or any concrete surface attached to your home, check it for unexplainable pooling water. Slab leaks can also occur under these surfaces or can run out from the slab and up through the patio. You should especially check in cracked or damaged parts. This is a sign that you may have a slab leak nearby.
8. Keep an Eye out for Foundation and Wall Cracks
Slab leaks can cause foundations to shift. This happens because the soil underneath the foundation is being disturbed by the water. When the foundation shifts it can cause cracks in your floor and walls. If you start to notice a crack developing in your wall or floor, most visible in tiled floors, be sure to call for emergency plumbing services right away. This is usually a sign that the slab leak has been left for a long time. If it is left neglected for longer, it could cause further structural damage.
9. Listen for Running Water Sound in Walls
If you put your ear up to the wall when all the faucets in your home are off, do you hear the sound of running water? This is often a sign of regular pipe leaks, but can indicate a slab leak. To be certain that you have a leak, check your water meter. If the water meter is moving, then you have a slab leak somewhere in your home. Be sure to call a plumber so that they can quickly identify it.
10. Identify Whether Your Water Heater is Continuously Running
Sometimes slab leaks are caused by a hot water pipe leakage. If your hot water pipe is leaking, then it will cause your water heater to constantly run while it tries to replenish the hot water the leak is wasting. Be sure to turn all of your running water off and check to see if your water heater is running. Wait an hour and check it again. If it is still running then you should call a plumber to look for a slab leak.
Trustworthy Desoto Plumbing Services
Slab leaks can be immensely frustrating. That’s why it’s so important to have a good plumbing company at your side. Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating has been serving the Desoto, Texas community for over 50 years. Trusted by thousands of residents, Dial One Johnson is ready to help. Our team provides maintenance, repairs and installations for all kinds of heating, cooling and plumbing equipment.
To schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable and qualified technicians, give us a call at 469-518-2809 or contact us online.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.
How to Choose the Right HVAC Company
Looking for a new HVAC company can be difficult. There are so many out there all with the same promises and claims. Knowing how to spot the reliable companies from the unreliable companies will make a huge difference.
While many homeowners check for years of service or customer testimonies, those aren’t the only markers of a company’s trustworthiness and quality. You should be looking for things like reviews, credentials and home evaluations to determine whether or not you should hire a company.
For reliable service that checks all of the boxes, contact Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating at 469-240-5618.
Continue reading for information on how to choose the right HVAC company.
Know What You Need
Before you even begin to call companies asking for estimates, you should think about what you need first. Write down the answers to these questions:
- What service do you require (repair, maintenance, replacement, etc.)?
- If you need a repair, what is the issue? (making a strange noise, leaking, smells weird, etc.)
- What is the brand and model of your cooling and heating system?
- Where are your cooling and heating systems located?
- What is the maintenance and repair history of your system?
You may also want to consider what kind of services you may need in the future. For example, it may be important to you that the company offers 24/7 emergency services. Make sure you write down these kinds of additional services you are interested in.
Writing down these answers and communicating them to the technician will help you to quickly determine if they know what they are doing. Once you have all of these answers, you can start calling companies and communicating your exact cooling or heating repair needs.
Look at Reviews
Reading reviews is one of the best ways that you can gauge the quality and service of an HVAC company. Be sure to avoid reviews and testimonies listed on the website itself. Instead, check websites like Yelp or Google for honest reviews.
The best place to look for information on a company is the Better Business Bureau (BBB). When you look at a company’s profile on BBB, you will notice three things: BBB rating and accreditation, customer reviews and customer complaints. First, you should look at the BBB rating. Companies with a B rating or higher are often excellent. You should also check to make sure that it is a BBB accredited business.
Next, you should look at customer reviews. The reviews on BBB may be more objective and honest than the ones you may find on Google or Yelp. Be sure to read both five star and one star reviews. In most cases, you can easily pick out the customers who are making objective observations from those taking their anger out on the business.
Last, take a look at the customer complaints. The Better Business Bureau does not only act as a review and rating platform, they also help customers to file official complaints against businesses. All of the complaints are public, which helps you to see what customers complain about the most.
Doing all of this can help you narrow down your choices quite a bit.
Check Credentials
When it comes to searching for an HVAC company, credentials are very important. You should make sure that the company you are researching has the proper licensing and insurance. In the state of Texas, HVAC technicians must have a contractors license specifically in heating and cooling. Not all companies may list this information on their website, so be sure to call and ask.
Companies should also have insurance credentials. This is to protect both the company and yourself. For example, if a technician happens to get hurt on the job or damages your property the insurance can help to cover those costs. This saves you time and money, so be sure to verify that the company you are researching has proper insurance.
Home Evaluation
When you call an HVAC company for an estimate, they should offer to complete a home evaluation first. If they don’t offer to do this, ask them if they can complete one. If they respond by saying that they don’t need to complete a home evaluation or inspection then you should find a different contractor.
The purpose of a home evaluation is to get all of the information on your system that they need. If you receive an estimate without an evaluation, you may end up paying much more than you originally expected.
Get Estimates and a Written Proposal
Once you have received a home evaluation you can start getting estimates. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest offer, it’s typically best to go for one that is somewhere in the middle. The middling offer tends to be the most honest offer. You can also ask if the company has any coupons or promos going on at the moment to help you save money.
When you are satisfied with the estimate, be sure to ask for a written proposal. The proposal should have a cost breakdown so you know exactly what you are paying for. You should thoroughly read through the proposal to make sure that you understand the service you are paying for. When all are in agreement, both you and the company should sign it.
HVAC Repair Grand Prairie, TX
For high quality and reliable HVAC Grand Prairie, TX service, you need Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and 5 stars from customers, you can trust that our team is here for you.
Our certified and licensed technicians can provide you with all kinds of services including emergency, repairs, maintenance and installation. No matter what kind of issue you may be having with your heating and cooling system, you can count on Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating.
To schedule an appointment today, give us a call at 469-240-5618 or contact us online.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.
10 Signs You Need to Call a Plumber
While no one really likes to call the plumber, sometimes it is absolutely necessary. When you put off plumbing issues for too long you may encounter some unwanted consequences. For example, structural damage and burst pipes are common when plumbing issues aren’t taken care of right away.
Continue reading for ten signs that you need to call a plumber.
1. Slow or Clogged Drains
If you have a slow drain, then you may have a partial clog or build up somewhere in the pipe. Take a look at all of the drains in your home, if most of them are slow, then the issue is somewhere in your main water line. However, if the issue is only in one or two drains, then the clog is probably local.
Bathtub drains are the easiest to unclog as they typically only contain hair and residue. A toothed drain stick is the perfect tool to release a clog. On the other hand, sink and toilet drains can be a bit more difficult. These typically require the use of a drain snake or hydro-jetting tool. Give your plumber a call for kitchen and bathroom plumbing services.
2. Reduced Water Pressure
If you are experiencing reduced water pressure in your home, then you are probably facing a water leak, valve issue or mineral build up. Water leaks can cause faucets to have reduced water pressure because most of the water is escaping rather than coming directly to the faucet.
Water pressure valve issues can also cause reduced water pressure. If the valve is set too low, then your water pressure may not be strong enough, set too high and the fixtures may get blown off.
A mineral build up is the most common cause of reduced water pressure for those with hard water. The hard water causes mineral deposits on the faucets and showerheads, blocking the water. All you have to do to remove mineral deposits is put a bag of vinegar over the faucet or showerhead overnight.
3. Unexpected Water Bill Increase
If you encounter a sudden, unexpected increase in your water bill, then you should call a plumber. This could mean that you have a burst pipe or slab leak that you are unaware of. A plumber will be able to effectively determine the location of a leak and quickly repair it.
4. Mold Growth and Wet Spots
If you have a water leak that you don’t know about, you may start to notice mold growth or wet spots on your ceiling, walls and floors. Be sure to occasionally check inside cabinets and closets where piping is present, as these kinds of leaks often go unnoticed for months. Water can cause irreparable structural damage and mold can cause adverse health effects. This kind of issue should be taken care of right away as to avoid any additional problems.
5. Dripping Faucet
A dripping faucet is not only annoying and frustrating, it is also extremely wasteful. A dripping faucet can waste gallons of water in just one week. This may cause your water bill to increase. In many cases a dripping faucet is easy for a plumber to fix, in other cases you may need to replace the fixture. Typically this is only needed if the old faucet has been corroded or is extremely damaged. Give your plumber a call if you start to notice a dripping faucet.
6. Water Won’t Get Hot
If you turn on your faucet or shower and find yourself waiting and waiting for hot water, you may have an issue with your water heater. Hot water is incredibly important for all kinds of daily tasks: laundry, bathing, cooking and cleaning are only a few. Conventional water heaters typically encounter the most problems with heating water because they have tanks. If the tank develops a leak or the heating function has broken, then you are stuck without hot water until a plumber can fix it.
The case may also be that you need to replace your water heater, especially if you have had it for more than 20 years. If possible, replace your water heater with a tankless system to save space, time and money. Give your plumber a call if you are experiencing a lack of hot water in your home.
7. Toilet and Pipes Won’t Stop Running
If you flush your toilet only to notice that it hasn’t stopped running or if you put your ear against the wall and hear continuous water running through your pipes, you may have a water leak. For toilets, the leak could be within the fixture itself or within a directly connected pipe. Pipes within walls however are more concerning as they can cause structural damage from the leaking water. Be sure to call a plumber right away if you notice either of these issues.
8. Soggy Basement
Have you ever gone into your basement and noticed that the floor was slightly wet? Because basements are underground, they can sometimes develop condensation and water buildup. If this is happening in your home, then you may want to consider installing a sump pump. A sump pump is an appliance that drains water from your basement. If you already have a sump pump but it doesn’t seem to be doing its job, then you may want to contact a plumber to check for clogs and other issues.
9. Puddles and Lush Grass in Backyard
When sewer lines break in your yard, the water travels through the path of least resistance. This often means that the water goes up rather than down. When this occurs, you may start to notice brown, foul-smelling puddles in your yard. These could be accompanied by patches of lush grass. If one or both of these things are happening in your backyard then it is very likely that you have a leaking sewer line. Call a plumber right away so that they can quickly repair it using trenchless technology.
10. Foundation and Wall Cracks
Have you started to notice cracks in your floors or walls? These are signs that you have a slab leak. A slab leak occurs when a pipe underneath your foundation begins to leak. The water typically travels upward, into the slab. Because they go unnoticed for so long, slab leaks can cause immense damage such as shifting foundations, cracks, mold and more.
If you have even the slightest suspicion that you may have a slab leak, you need to call a plumber. Using sonar plumbing equipment, they should be able to detect the location of the leak underneath the slab. Slab leak repair is often timely and expensive, so early detection is key to minimizing damage.
Reliable Plumbers
For a reliable plumber choose Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating. Our experienced team of plumbers can help you with any problem you are having. From maintenance and repairs to emergencies and replacements, we have got your back. At Dial One Johnson, we are committed to providing high quality service.
Schedule an appointment today with our plumbing team by calling or contact us online.
Winter Preventative HVAC Maintenance Tips
As the weather begins to cool down, you may want to start preparing your home for when you have to turn the heat on. Things like replacing filters and reprogramming your thermostat are great ways to prepare for the winter season. Completing preventative maintenance will help to ensure that your system does not break down in the middle of the night, leaving you without proper heat.
If you are ready to schedule HVAC contractors in Waxahachie TX, give our team at Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Heating and Cooling a call at 469-518-2809.
Continue reading for more information on how to properly prepare your HVAC system for the winter season.
Schedule Maintenance and Inspection
The most important thing that you can do for your HVAC system to prepare for winter is to schedule maintenance and an inspection. During a maintenance appointment a technician will lubricate moving parts, tighten nuts and bolts, inspect for damage, replace filters if you have them on hand and complete other tasks.
When you schedule regular maintenance two times a year not only does your system benefit, but you benefit as well. With maintenance your system lasts longer, is more efficient and requires fewer repairs. All of this saves you money on monthly energy bills, future heating replacements and frustrating repairs.
The best times of year to schedule maintenance for your HVAC system are spring and fall. This is because these seasons are when weather is most neutral and HVAC companies are less busy. You may even save money on maintenance costs if you schedule it during these seasons. Don’t skip professional maintenance or else you will have to face the consequences.
Replace Filters
Replacing your filters once a month is just as important as scheduling regular maintenance. Many homeowners choose to neglect their filters which can cause many problems. Over time, filters can become clogged with dust, dirt and debris. This causes the HVAC system to work harder in order to produce the same amount of warm air it was previously producing.
This may cause your system to overheat, become damaged or even break down, all of which require repairs. It is much easier to just replace your filter once a month than to have to deal with a broken heating system in the winter. Replacing your filter also improves your indoor air quality. You can purchase filters at your local home improvement store and even at some grocery stores.
Open Registers and Vents
Walk around your home and open up all of the registers and vents to rooms that you use on a daily basis. Don’t open the registers in rooms that are rarely used such as guest or utility rooms. This will save you some money on your energy bills. You should also be sure that all vents and registers are not blocked by any furniture or decor. Doing this allows your heating system to effectively heat your home without putting strain on it.
Reprogram Thermostat
Now that the weather is cooling down, it’s important to reprogram your thermostat. Many homeowners choose to program their thermostats to be higher at night and lower during the day while they are at work. This can save you lots of money on energy costs.
If you don’t already own a programmable thermostat, you may want to consider having one installed. They are an excellent way to conserve energy. This is how they work: you can set your thermometer to automatically change temperatures at certain times of the day. You could set it to be higher when you are home and lower when you are at work. This is so that you don’t waste money on warm air that you won’t be home to enjoy.
Many programmable thermostats have a 5 – 2 feature that allow you to have one program for the five weekdays and one program for the weekend. Talk to your HVAC technician if you are interested in installing a programmable thermostat.
Implement Safety Measures
During the winter, there are higher risks of gas leaks and fires due to use of furnaces, portable heaters, heated blankets, fireplaces and other heating appliances. While it is important to stay warm and comfortable during the winter, you should also make sure you are staying safe. Take a look at some winter safety precautions you should be taking:
- Test carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms every 30 days.
- Get your fireplace and chimney inspected at least once a year, before winter.
- Install a glass cover for your fireplace. This not only keeps you safe when your fireplace is in use, but also keeps warm air inside when it is not in use. Be sure to remove ashes only once they have completely cooled.
- Replace smoke detectors every 10 years. Consider installing a hardwired smoke detector.
- Always blow out candles, turn off space heaters and unplug heated blankets when not in use.
- Install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace.
- When you begin to pull out your heating appliances for the winter, be sure to check them for any electrical damages such as frayed or exposed wires.
- Don’t plug heating appliances such as portable heaters or heated blankets into extension cords. You should only plug them into grounded outlets.
Following these tips will help keep you, your home and your family safe during the winter.
Seal Doors and Windows
Sealing your doors and windows before weather cools down is a great way to make sure you are conserving energy. You would hate to find out that a percentage of your warm air was escaping through your doors and windows. That’s why it is so important to keep them sealed as much as possible.
Quality HVAC Waxahachie TX Service
For quality HVAC service that you can trust, you need Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating. Our team of professional HVAC technicians are ready to help you get through this winter season. Whether you require basic maintenance or a system replacement, we have got your back.
To schedule an appointment with our team, contact Dial One Johnson at 469-518-2809 or on our website: Contact Us
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.
8 Common HVAC Problems Business Owners Face
Owning a commercial building presents the challenge of managing heating and cooling systems. With so much room to heat or cool, the system won’t always work perfectly. You may even have tenants or employees who complain about the heating and cooling system. Understanding what kinds of issues you may encounter is an excellent way to be prepared for any HVAC situation.
To schedule Red Oak commercial HVAC service contact Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating at 469-518-2809.
Continue reading for eight of the most common HVAC problems that business owners face.
1. Building Is Too Hot or Too Cold
If it always seems like your building is too hot or too cold, then your system may not be as efficient as it once was. This is especially true of older HVAC systems as they decrease in efficiency over time.
The easiest way to solve this problem is by scheduling an inspection to see if there is some other kind of problem with the system. If the technician cannot find anything then you may want to consider replacing the system. If you cannot replace it, then you should at least start to schedule regular maintenance for it. This should help to regulate its efficiency.
2. Strange Noises
Have you started to notice, or have heard complaints from others, that the HVAC is making a strange noise? There are a few different kinds of noises that you may be noticing. A clanging noise is evident of some kind of loose part while a repetitive whirring noise could mean the blower belt has slipped.
Give an HVAC technician a call so that they can try to identify why the system is making noise. Sometimes the repair is as simple as tightening a screw and other times you may have to get a part replaced.
3. Leaking Vents
If you have gotten complaints that some of the vents in the building are leaking water, then you may have a clogged filter or clogged condensate line. What can happen is that condensation builds up inside of the ductwork when you have a clogged filter and eventually it will start leaking out of the vents. Be sure that you are replacing your filters and having your ductwork inspected often.
Condensate lines, on the other hand, are there to collect condensation so that it doesn’t leak out of the vent. However, if the condensate line is clogged then the condensation has nowhere to go except out of the vent. If replacing the filter doesn’t solve the problem after a few days, be sure to call a commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technician.
4. Clogged Filters
While replacing your commercial filters does not seem like a big deal, it is actually extremely important to the proper function of the system. Over time, the filters collect dust, debris and dirt. This clogs the filter and makes it harder for the HVAC system to produce the necessary amount of warm or cool air.
As the system is forced to overwork, it becomes damaged and develops additional wear and tear. Not replacing your filters often could cause your system to prematurely fail or result in frequent repairs. Be sure to replace them at least once a month.
5. Uneven Temperatures
With so much space in a commercial building, you may notice spots that are hot and spots that are cool. There are a few reasons why this could be occurring. One is that your building’s layout may not be conducive with your ductwork system. You may want to consider scheduling a ductwork inspection to see how your ducts could be better laid out.
The second reason is pure coincidence. A room with more windows is going to be warmer than a room with only a few windows. While this could also be solved with a few extra vents or a ductless AC system, it doesn’t necessarily mean anything is wrong with your HVAC system.
6. Leaking Refrigerant
Leaking refrigerant is something you’ll only notice if you are looking at your HVAC system. However, one sign of leaking refrigerant is that your building may get hot.
If your HVAC system is leaking refrigerant, do not attempt to clean it up or fix it. Refrigerant can be unstable and dangerous. Only professionals should clean up the refrigerant and repair the system. Be sure to call a technician right away.
7. Thermostat Issues
Your actual HVAC system is not always the culprit for problems in your building. It could be the thermostat itself that is malfunctioning. Thermostats need to be calibrated so that they can communicate to the HVAC system how much to cool and how much to warm.
If they become uncalibrated or the electrical wiring becomes damaged, they may not be able to properly communicate with the system. An HVAC technician will easily be able to recalibrate, rewire or replace your thermostat.
8. Lack of Maintenance
Because maintenance is so important to the proper functioning of a heating and cooling system, a lack of maintenance can cause many problems. When systems are not correctly maintained they can become damaged, require more repairs, fail prematurely and increase your energy bills. It is highly recommended that you schedule maintenance for your HVAC system twice a year.
During this appointment a technician will complete a variety of tasks meant to make your system perform better. These tasks may include lubricating moving parts, tightening bolts and screws, checking connections and wiring, inspecting the system and ductwork and more. Be sure to call a technician to schedule a maintenance appointment if you have not already done so.
Commercial Air Conditioner Repair in Waxahachie, TX
For high quality commercial air conditioning and heating repair in Waxahachie, Texas, call Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating. Our experienced team of technicians can provide all kinds of services such as maintenance, repairs and replacements. We also provide 24/7 emergency commercial HVAC service for when your issue cannot wait. At Dial One Johnson, we are committed to providing only the best service possible.
To schedule an appointment with our team, give us a call at 469-518-2809 or head to our website: Contact Us
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.
Top 15 Ways You’re Wasting Water
The way you brush your teeth or do the dishes can be some of the most detrimental ways that you are wasting water. Most of these habits happen unconsciously and are part of everyday life. There are some easy ways to fix them and start saving water to keep your water bill low.
Contact Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating by calling us at 469-557-2703 if you are facing any Plumbing issues in Cedar Hill, TX.
Read further to find out the 15 most common ways you are wasting water, and how to avoid these common mistakes.
1. Older Equipment
Older pieces of equipment tend to use more water than newer, more efficient models. The toilet is the one thing in your home that can end up costing you the most money and wasting the most water. An older toilet may be wasting gallons of water per flush. To save water and money in the long run, install an energy efficient toilet by scheduling bathroom plumbing services.
2. Hosing Down your Sidewalks
Hosing down your sidewalks to clean them may save you time, but it is a common way to waste gallons of water. Consider giving your property a light sweep to keep it tidy instead.
3. Older Showerhead
The older the showerhead, the less efficient it becomes. Showerheads can start to fall apart, get clogged, become loose or have other issues that cause it to waste water. Installing a new one will help to save water and money.
4. Leaky Faucets and Others
A leaky faucet may seem like an annoying problem, but it can become a costly one if left alone. While a drip may not seem like much, throughout the day it can waste gallons. Make sure to keep your plumbing units maintained and schedule water leak repair.
5. Partial Laundry Loads
Washing a half load of laundry may seem like you’re saving yourself time, but it actually wastes water. Wash loads when the machine is full so that the amount of water used is not wasted on a half cycle. If you do decide to have partial laundry loads, consider a normal washing cycle or light cycle.
6. Running Faucets
One of the most common ways you waste water is having the faucet running. It is an unconscious habit that can be costly if not broken soon. Set a reminder while brushing your teeth to turn the faucet off. Washing dishes with running water can also easily be fixed by using a stopper and filling the sink with soap and water. It may seem counter-productive, but it will save you a lot of water.
7. Pool Covers
Do you have a pool but do not own a pool cover? Having a pool cover can reduce the amount of evaporation from your pool. The more water that is vaporized, the more you’re going to have to fill up your pool. If you have a pool cover, it is more likely to cool off on a hot and sunny day.
8. Overwatering Outside
If you tend to water your plants and grass during the day, there is a chance that you may be wasting more water than you think. With evaporation, you can unintentionally overwater your plants. This is not beneficial for your wallet or your plants.
9. Long Baths and Showers
Taking a long bath or shower seems like the best thing at the end of the day, but it can also be one of the biggest water wasters. Add in an inefficient showerhead and you have a recipe for gallons of wasted water. Consider taking shorter showers and baths to aid in conserving water.
10. Owning a Top-Loading Washing Machine
If you own a top-loading washing machine, you may need to consider purchasing a front-loading washing machine. A top-loader uses more water to wash the same amount of clothes as a front-loader. It is less efficient and uses about two times the amount of gallons per cycle than a front-loading washing machine. To get the most bang for your buck, opt in for a front-loading washing machine.
11. Washing Dishes
Washing dishes by hand can be an easy way to get a lot of dishes out the way. But this can waste a lot of water if you leave the faucet running. Put in a stopper for the drain and fill up your sink with soap and water. You will be doing the dishes in the same amount of time but with less water wasting.
12. High Water Temperatures Outside
Keeping your pool and hot tub at high temperatures when not in use can waste water due to evaporation. Not only will you have to fill it up more often, but it will also be a big electricity drainer.
13. Overfilling the Bathtub
Overfilling the bathtub can waste a tremendous amount of water, especially for small pets, children and others who do not need a full tub of hot water. Consider a half tub of water for pets and children, and possibly a sink bath for infants.
14. Watering on Windy Days
When it is windy, the water will not always land where you aim. Wind pushes the water away and you might end up using more water for your plants than on clear days. If you do need to water on windy days, make sure to water in the early mornings or later in the night. This can also help to deter the effects of evaporation.
15. Partial Dishwasher Loads
Feeling a bit lazy in the morning with only a few dishes in sight? Try not to partially fill your dishwasher with dishes because you will be wasting more water for less dishes. Instead, wait until you have filled up your entire dishwasher, from top to bottom, and perform a normal cycle. If you do need to do a partial cycle, set it to a light rinse.
Cedar Hill Plumbers Near Me
Looking for a Cedar Hill plumbing company? Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating is your number one choice for any job on any day of the week. Dial One Johnson specializes in plumbing maintenance, repairs and replacements of a variety of systems. Our team is ready to provide quick and quality service.
If you are ready to schedule a plumbing service call in Cedar Hill, TX call Dial One Johnson today at 469-240-5618 or contact us online.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.
10 Advantages of Ductless Cooling and Heating Systems
Ductless cooling and heating systems are the future of HVAC systems. A ductless system has many adaptations compared to the older unit that will make it more efficient. With these advantages, you will be able to save money on monthly energy costs, maintenance and repairs.
If you are ready to install a ductless HVAC system, contact Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating at 469-557-2703.
Keep reading to find out the 10 advantages of a ductless air conditioning system.
1. Decreased Operating Expenses
A ductless heating and cooling system can decrease the amount of money spent to operate the system. A ductless system cuts down energy costs and helps to reduce carbon output. Ducts have a higher risk of having leakages that can make your air conditioner work harder. With a ductless air conditioner, there is no chance of air leakage because of the absence of ducts. Switching over to a ductless air conditioner can be a huge money saver.
2. Smart Control
The world of electronic control now encompasses air conditioners. One of the advantages of going with a ductless air conditioning unit is the electronic upgrade that comes with it. Newer models will have compatibility features that can allow a homeowner to control their air conditioner wirelessly. This is beneficial to you if you are on the road most of the year or if you want to control the temperature of your home with a single tap. Some air conditioning units can also create a temperature and humidity log as well as other home smart capabilities.
3. Increased Efficiency
When researching air conditioner units, the important thing to pay attention to is the energy ratings. The energy ratings will tell you how efficient a model is. Compared to other models, the ductless cooling and heating systems are more energy efficient. Going ductless can be easier to repair and maintain which can increase the lifespan and efficiency of your air conditioning unit. Contact your local HVAC company to schedule an installation.
4. Easy Installation Process
A ductless air conditioning unit is going to be easier to install than commercial heating and cooling systems. Having less ductwork to place will speed up the time of installations. The cost of installations are also going to be less expensive. This is due to the decreased labor in placing the units in your home. Installing a ductless heating and cooling system will also not wreak havoc on your ceilings and walls of your home. Instead, there will be minimal modifications to place the unit in your home.
5. Provides Heating
Ductless air conditioners can provide both heating and cooling without any special modifications to your unit. Having this dual function can help during the hotter and colder months of the year without the need for a separate furnace. Having a ductless heating and cooling system will keep you comfortable year round, without any extra worries.
6. Carbon Footprint
With a higher energy rating, a ductless heating and cooling system will provide greater efficiency. Higher efficiency results in a lower carbon footprint. The environment is easily damaged by an increase of carbon production by high energy users. By making the decision to go ductless, you will be keeping money in your pocket from the lowered energy bills with the added benefit of helping the environment.
7. Air Quality
If you are working from home, you will notice how big of a difference air quality can make in your day. You should have great indoor air quality to counteract the risk of increased exposure to small particles such as dust, pollen and other major sources of pollutants. Ducts can attract a lot of moisture and are often warm. These are favorable conditions for some pollutants. Mold, for example, grows best in these conditions. This can pose a threat to you and your family if it is being spread around your home through the vents. Ductless heating and cooling systems can decrease the amount of airborne particles by filtering the air efficiently. Without ducts, there is a lower risk of pollutants growing within the unit.
8. Low Maintenance
A ductless heating and cooling system has less parts to maintain and repair compared to its bulkier ancestor. Without the need for ducts, the important parts of the system can easily be cleaned and washed. Having a regularly cleaned air conditioning unit can lengthen its life span and decrease the costs of regular maintenance. As with a ducted air conditioner, keep any blockages away from the units to prevent safety hazards and damage. Since there are no ducts, there is less need to check for leakages or blockages. Schedule regular maintenance with your local HVAC service repair company to ensure you are taking proper care of the system.
9. Optional Rebates Available
Utility companies offer rebates, coupons and financing for homeowners and businesses who decide to install ductless air conditioning units. With the lower energy usage, the energy companies are able to use the energy that is leftover for other pressing needs in the community.
10. Placement Flexibility
Having a ductless air conditioning unit installed in your home or office can be helpful for flexibility. Due to its compact size, a ductless unit can easily be placed without worrying about space. For some office owners, you can even decide where to place the air conditioning unit. Having more than one unit can decrease the time and energy used to heat up your home or office. The decrease in energy usage will also decrease your utility bills at the end of the month.
High Quality HVAC Cedar Hill Services
For Cedar Hill air heating and air conditioning services, choose Dial One Johnson. Deciding to go ductless is the best option when installing a new air conditioner unit. With flexibility and higher efficiency, the ductless system is unparalleled to the original ducted unit. If you are in the Cedar Hill, TX area, contact Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating for installing your new ductless air conditioning unit.
To schedule an appointment, contact Dial One Johnson by calling us at 469-557 2703 or booking online.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.