DL Vaughn HVAC

2028 Mt. Meigs Road Montgomery, AL 36107 [phone]

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Sump Pump Problems Come at the Wrong Time

It always seems as if sump pump problems come at the worst possible time - and you need an experienced plumber FAST! 

There’s actually no good time for a sump pump to malfunction, or stop working entirely. No matter when flooding happens in a basement or crawl space due to a faulty sump pump, removing standing water and cleaning up the resulting mess is a time-consuming aggravation. 

The solution: Prepare for the unexpected by keeping your sump pump in good working condition. If your pump has not operated for a period of time, have a local plumber check to make sure it works correctly. 

Sump pumps are relatively quiet when in operation. If your sump pump makes noise when switched on, or removes water very slowly, it may be time for repairs. Often, it’s a simple fix to get the pump operating again. 

In some cases, the pump will need to be replaced. The cost of a new pump is far less than paying for the extensive damage caused by flooding.  And hiring an experienced plumbing contractor to install a new pump is worth the upfront cost. A professional will make certain your sump pump works the way it’s intended when flooding happens. 

A functioning sump pump is essential in areas prone to flooding, but heavy rains are not the only cause of flooding. Even in relatively dry areas, water heater leaks  and pipe breaks can result in flooded basements or crawl spaces. 

Don’t wait until your basement floods to install a sump pump. D.L. Vaughn Plumbing inspects, repairs and installs sump pumps throughout the greater Montgomery area. Call 334-265-8713 today to schedule a visit by one of our plumbers.

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Commercial Plumbers Do It All!

Nowadays, D.L. Vaughn Plumbing is busier than ever in metro Montgomery. Maybe it’s because commercial plumbers do it all. 

Most commercial plumbing jobs we undertake call for a wide range of skills and expertise. Residential jobs pale in comparison to the size of some industrial projects, but they are important to us too! 

However, the success of an enterprise such as a restaurant, office building, hospital or shopping mall depends on our ability as plumbers to successfully complete complex jobs on demanding deadlines. Our professionals enjoy the challenge, and the opportunity to help local Montgomery businesses. 

Some of the commercial work performed by D.L. Vaughn: 

•     Plumbing installation for new construction. We handle everything from installing bathroom plumbing in single-story buildings, to commercial kitchens in hotels and restaurants, to new housing subdivisions. 

•    Repiping for existing buildings including apartments, condos and commercial/retail spaces. Replacing outdated plumbing can be cost-effective in properties with aging pipes that require constant service visits. 

•    Emergency repairs. An unexpected pipe break, especially when it happens after hours, can be disastrous to a business. A knowledgeable D.L. Vaughn plumber is on site quickly and gets repairs done fast so your doors aren’t closed for long. 

•    Preventive maintenance. Plumbing contracts are like an insurance policy to safeguard against catastrophe. Routine service and periodic upgrades prevent small problems from developing into big ones. 

D.L. Vaughn Plumbing also offer specialty services, such as cleaning grease receptors at restaurants, performing marine repairs for boats, barges, and ships, and repairing boilers for steam heat systems.

This blog originally posted on:  www.dlvaughnhvac.com

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Simple Radiator Maintenance Will Keep It Cozy Inside

Steam heat is not as prevalent in Montgomery as it was a few decades ago, but it remains a viable, affordable way to warm your home. With a little care, your radiators and steam system can keep warming your home for years to come. 

A steam heat system is not complicated, and most property owners should be able to perform basic maintenance on radiators. It is wise, though, to have an experienced HVAC contractor inspect your steam system once a year. 

D.L. Vaughn Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning recommends you check the following to make certain your radiators work at peak efficiency when the temperatures get chilly: 

•    The slope. Radiators must be tilted slightly toward the inlet pipe to allow water to return to the boiler. If a level placed on the top of the radiator does not indicate a pitch, slip a wooden shim under the feet at the end that is vented. 

•    Barriers to free-flowing air. Radiators work best when the heated air they emit is allowed to move freely around a room. Move draperies, furniture, and other large objects away from radiators. Radiator enclosures should have plenty of vents. Also, vacuum or wipe down the radiator every couple weeks. Dirt and dust inhibit air circulation. A particularly dirty radiator may require scrubbing with a special radiator brush. 

•    Air in the radiator. Trapped air prevents radiators from warming up. To release the air, open the air vent with a screwdriver while the heat is on. Have a bucket handy if water drips out. Once the sputtering stops, close the vent. 

•    Leaks. Major leakage should be fixed by a contractor, but pinhole leaks can be repaired by using epoxies. Check with a local Montgomery Montgomery HVAC contractor for the brand of epoxy that suits your needs best. 

Radiators are only as good as the boiler to which they are connected. If boiler problems develop, leave it to a professional to fix. Call D.L. Vaughn at 334-265-8713 for routine maintenance or repairs to your steam heating system.

Originally posted on:  www.dlvaughnhvac.com

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How to Keep Your Garbage Disposal Grinding Away

Often, garbage disposal repair and installation is a job for a professional contractor. The cost is worth the reassurance your disposal will work when you need it. 

If you are handy or have plumbing experience, installing a new disposal may be a DIY project. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. But there are instances in which even those of us who are not handy can fix a broken disposal. 

A disposal that is humming but not grinding may not be broken. Most garbage disposal units have a reset function when the motor overheats and automatically turns off. Make sure the disposal is not running, then hit the reset switch located on the front or bottom of the disposal, below the sink.

 If the unit does not operate after hitting the reset switch, make sure the disposal is plugged in at an outlet. The outlet is located in the cabinet below the sink. If the disposal is plugged in but not working, reset the appropriate circuit breaker on the electrical panel. 

In some cases, you may need to test the outlet by plugging in another appliance, such as a hair dryer. 

A hard object that goes down the sink can prevent a disposal from operating. With the disposal turned off, shine a flashlight down the drain to see. Use needle nose pliers, bent coat hanger or even a crochet needle to dislodge the object. Again, make certain the unit is not turned on. 

A few suggestions to keep your garbage disposal operating for years: 

•    A garbage disposal is designed to grind biodegradable food only. Fibrous materials such as onion skins and celery should be thrown in a garbage can. 

•    Oil, grease and fat will clog drains and should also go in the garbage can. Harder materials such as ice cubes, egg shells, and small chicken and fish bones are OK to put down the disposal, because they perform a scouring action. 

•    Drop and grind orange or lemon peel occasionally into the garbage disposal to clean the inside of the unit and leave a fresh scent. 

D.L. Vaughn Plumbing performs a range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including installation and repairs of garbage disposals. Call us today at 334-265-8713.

Originally posted on:  www.dlvaughnhvac.com

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DIY Steam Heat Maintenance

Even if you have a yearly maintenance plan for your steam heating system, it’s a good idea to perform some simple checkup steps yourself to guard against an unexpected breakdown in service. They’re simple and take just a few minutes.

On each radiator, inspect:

Air vents. If an air vent does not open to release air as the radiator fills with steam, then closes, it may need cleaning to get rid of corrosion or mineral deposits. Remove the vent with a wrench, then soak the vent in hot vinegar for a half-hour. Dry and re-install, using teflon tape on the vent thread. If the vent still does not open and close properly, you may need to replace it.

Inlet valves. Make certain these valves are either open or closed, not in between. If leaks are apparent around the valve, tightening may be necessary. Use one wrench to hold the valve and a second wrench to tighten the nut at the connection.

The overall condition of the radiator. Vacuum dust, then wipe down. Special brushes available at home improvement stores enable you to give your radiators a good scrubbing.

On the boiler, examine:

The safety valve. Pushing the valve handle should release steam. If nothing comes out, you may need a new valve.

The steam gauge. A reading outside the normal range warrants a call to D.L. Vaughn for service.

Water levels. Steam heating systems occasionally require water to be added. Open the valves on the sides of the water level gauge to make sure your system is OK. The water level guide should be in the middle. You may not need to bother with this step if you have a system that automatically adds water.

Leaks. Check around the the boiler and the pipes, particularly the connections.

If your radiators are noisy, it could be because condensation that should have returned to the boiler has pooled inside. When incoming steam meets the condensation, “water hammering” results.

Use wood shims or furniture pads to tilt the radiator toward the boiler – the air vent side should be slightly higher. That should stop the clanging.

A professional inspection by a D.L. Vaughn Heating & Air Conditioning technician provides a comprehensive evaluation of your steam heat system. Call us today at 334-265-8713 to schedule an appointment.

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Thinking About Our Montgomery Neighbors During Difficult Times

The Montgomery area has been home to D.L. Vaughn Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for nearly 95 years. We extend our thoughts and support to the households and businesses - our neighbors - that have been affected by this winter’s floods. 

After many decades of serving our loyal customers, the employees of D.L. Vaughn have developed a strong bond with the residents of this city and region. We are absolutely confident that families and friends will come together to help each other during this difficult period. 

If you, your family, or business has been displaced by flooding, we pray your lives quickly return to normal. We urge you to seek help through local churches or relief agencies such as the Red Cross for short-term aid. 

D.L. Vaughn also asks victims to use caution once floodwaters have receded. As you return to your home or business, remember: 

•    Make certain your property is safe to inhabit. Water can cause structural issues that are not always apparent, so it may be worthwhile to have a licensed contractor or engineer inspect your property. Do not use electricity or water until local governmental agencies have issued assurances it is safe to do so. 

•    To repair damage caused by flooding, find an honest contractor with a record of quality customer service. Too often, property owners fall victim to out-of-town scammers who are nowhere to be found when their poor workmanship is discovered weeks later. 

•    Talk to your local insurance agent about your policy coverage before repairs begin. A clear idea of out-of-pocket expenses is essential before work starts. 

A D.L. Vaughn Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning technician is prepared to respond quickly if floodwaters have damaged your plumbing or HVAC system. Call us today at 334-265-8713 for fast service.

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A Wish for Happy Holidays and a Tune for You

D.L. Vaughn Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, your longtime neighbor in the Montgomery area, wishes everyone in the River Region a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 

As a longtime local contractor, we also hope you have a worry-free 2016 as far as plumbing, heating and cooling is concerned. D.L. Vaughn appreciates the fact that, when problems do surface, Montgomery households and business know they can rely on us for honest, expert service. 

Your loyalty means a great deal to us, so we’ve penned a little holiday ditty to show how committed we are to your complete satisfaction. 

Sing it - not too loudly if you’re at work - to the tune of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” 

No need to freak out

No need to cry

Try not to pout

We’re telling you why

D.L. Vaughn will never let you down!

 We’ve got a list

of customers nice

When your home has turned cold as ice

D.L. Vaughn will never let you down!

 We know that pipes a’leaking

can cause you much heartache

When we drop by we make things right

For us it’s a piece of cake!

 Oh! Please don’t freak out!

Please don’t cry

Try not to pout

We’re telling you why

D.L. Vaughn will never let you down!

D.L. Vaughn will never let you down! 

And we mean it! Call 334-265-8713 at the first sign of plumbing, air conditioning, or heating problems.

Originally posted on:  www.dlvaughnhvac.com

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Commercial Plumbing Services, 24/7

Commercial plumbing services from D.L. Vaughn keep the doors of your business open when the pipes need repairs. 

An unexpected plumbing catastrophe can cost your business thousands of dollars in downtime. The plumbers at D.L. Vaughn, one of Montgomery’s oldest and most reputable plumbing contractors, realize time is money. We’re skilled at handling a variety of problems, even major industrial plumbing breakdowns, quickly and with a smile. 

In order to minimize disruptions to your business, we offer 24/7 emergency response. We’ll work as necessary to fix your plumbing problems. 

Call D.L. Vaughn when you need professional commercial plumbing services such as: 

•    Leak detection. Broken or cracked pipes waste water and are often hard to find. We’re able to locate and repair even small leaks wherever they exist in mains, sewer pipes, or drain pipes. You’ll save on water costs and maintain adequate water pressure. 

•    Drain cleaning. Clogged drains are often a way of life for businesses such as restaurants. D.L. Vaughn uses state-of-the-art video and snaking equipment to remove grease, roots, or any kind of blockage in pipes. 

•    Repiping. Modernizing the plumbing in an older building eliminates the frequent repairs that are required with aging pipes. If you notice drops in water pressure, constant drainage problems, inconsistent water pressure or discolored water, it may be time to repipe. 

In addition to these commercial plumbing services, D.L. Vaughn is experienced in new construction. If you are building from scratch or expanding your business, D.L. Vaughn works with general contractors to design and install new plumbing. 

Businesses for which we offer commercial plumbing services include restaurants, retail stores and shopping centers, apartments and condos, high rises, and all types of offices. 

Contact D.L. Vaughn Plumbing any time of the day or night for fast commercial and industrial repairs. Call 334-265-8713 or email us today.

This blog was originally posted on:  http://www.dlvaughnhvac.com/blog/

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Leave Plumbing Repairs to a Plumber

Inexperienced do-it-yourselfers often make plumbing problems worse. It’s wise to leave most plumbing repairs or renovations to a professional plumber. 

Even those who are adept at other household tasks are often challenged when it comes to unclogging drains or fixing leaks. Experienced plumbers are better qualified to do the work because of their knowledge of common problems, which can often result in quick fixes. 

You can determine whether you need a plumber by asking a basic question: 

Do I know how to turn the water off in my home? 

If the answer is no, it’s better to rely on a plumber to handle situations such as these: 

•    Major clogs and sewage backups. If you have unsuccessfully tried flushing a stubborn drain with vinegar and baking soda or used a plunger on a balky toilet to no avail, it’s time to summon a professional. Blockages that are deep in pipes and inaccessible from the drain, such as invading roots, require removal by a snaking tool. Sewage may also contain bacteria that pose health hazards. D.L. Vaughn discourages the use of harsh chemicals to unclog drains. 

•    Pipe replacement. Installing new pipes is not a DIY project. Plumbing in even a small house can be complex. Many pipes are difficult to access or are even hidden. Knowledge of residential plumbing design is essential to ensure your fixtures, drains and pipes work correctly after being replaced. 

•    Leak repair. Many leaks are located in underground pipes that probably lead out to the street. They can be detected only with video cameras and repaired with special equipment. 

A plumber will also make sure all work conforms to local building codes that are designed to keep your home safe. 

With a D.L. Vaughn Plumbing professional available to help you 24/7 in the Montgomery area, there’s no need to try to tackle complex plumbing problems yourself.  Call 334-265-8713 today to schedule a visit for service.

This blog originally posted on:  http://www.dlvaughnhvac.com/blog/

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How to Handle Plumbing Backups

Plumbing backups can be nasty surprises, but in many cases it’s possible to get pipes flowing again without calling a plumber.

The safest and most effective DIY method of handling a clogged drain is with a combination of vinegar and baking soda.

First, bail standing water and if possible, clear away visible blockages. Then pour a few tablespoons of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup or so of vinegar. For extra scrubbing power, you may add salt to the mixture, but it’s not necessary.

The baking soda and vinegar will coalesce into a foam and work to dissolve whatever is causing the clog. Repeat the process if the blockage is stubborn. Pouring hot water down the drain will remove whatever remains in the pipes.

At D.L. Vaughn Plumbing, we suggest you don’t resort to using a harsh retail store drain cleaner.

Over time, the chemicals in those cleaners can corrode metal pipes or even eat away plastic pipes. The destruction can happen even faster if the chemical cleaner remains in the pipes for an extended period.

Chemical drain cleaners can also be tough on porcelain and should not be used in toilets. And never use a plunger on a drain down which a chemical cleaner has been poured.  You can cause a chemical reaction creating dangerous gases or chemical splatter.

If you do use chemicals on a drain in a DIY effort, be sure to inform your plumber what you used so they can be safe when working on your plumbing!

You can avoid avoid plumbing backups by practicing a bit of do-it-yourself diligence.

Hair and cosmetics are notorious drain cloggers, so keep them out of the sink. Use bath salts sparingly. Flush only toilet paper and human waste down the commode. Even kitchen sinks with garbage disposals clog, so grease and most food scraps should go in the garbage can.

As a preventive measure, pour vinegar down the drains of sinks and toilets in your home or business every few weeks, whether or not water is draining slowly.

Certain blockages require a plumber to unclog your drains. No amount of vinegar and baking soda is going to remove the plastic toy your child flushed. Ask your plumbing contractor if your pipes could benefit from a periodic cleaning with a plumber’s snake.

For a plumber in Montgomery, call D.L. Vaughn Heating & Air Conditioning today at 334-265-8713.

This blog was originally posted on:  http://www.dlvaughnhvac.com/blog/

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Fall is the Time to Check the Furnace

As the fall season comes around, it’s likely the furnace in your home or business hasn’t run for several months. Taking a few minutes at that time to check its condition will ensure it operates reliably when it’s most needed - winter.

First, tackle the tasks you can do yourself. For good airflow, clean the filter of dust or debris if it is the permanent type, or replace the filter with a clean one if it is not permanent. Refer to the owner’s manual if you are unfamiliar with your heating and cooling system’s filter.

A tip: Your furnace will work more efficiently if it is located in an area that stays comfortable in the winter. Weatherstripping or caulking nearby windows and doors keeps chilly air outside and enables the furnace to use less energy.

Unless you have an HVAC maintenance contract that calls for your system to be serviced twice a year, asking a heating contractor such as D.L. Vaughn Heating & Air Conditioning in Montgomery to inspect your furnace this time of year is well worth the relatively small cost of a visit.

A reputable furnace technician will make certain the unit is lubricated, check to see that wires are flexible and not corroded, tighten gas and electrical connections, and check for carbon monoxide leaks. A test that measures voltage and current on the motor is also typically performed to be sure the system is operating at full strength.

Also, let your technician know if strange noises are emanating from your furnace. The sounds may indicate a minor problem that could develop into a major malfunction if left undiagnosed.

A D.L. Vaughn HVAC technician will also inspect the ductwork in your home or business. Blockages and leaks are costly in terms of wasted energy.

Call D.L. Vaughn Heating & Air Conditioning in Montgomery, AL today at 334-265-8713. Schedule a furnace inspection now will avoid service delays that could occur if your system breaks down during the cold months.

This blog was originally posted on:   http://www.dlvaughnhvac.com/blog/

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Electronic Thermostat Installation Can Save You Money

Can installing an electronic thermostat really save money for a thrifty homeowner who already keeps close tabs on indoor temperatures?

Yes. In addition to keeping costs down, an electronic thermostat can be a convenience you’ll grow to appreciate.

Conscientious monitoring of the thermostat is certainly worthwhile. A difference of just three degrees - say, from 75 to 78 in the summer - can make a significant impact on a monthly utility bill.

But checking and rechecking the thermostat throughout the day isn’t necessary anymore. A programmable electronic thermostat reliably adjusts indoor temperatures automatically, even when you aren’t at home.

Programming your thermostat to gradually cool or warm your home before you return from work is much more efficient than cranking it once you get home. You’ll also be comfortable the minute you step in the door.

Today, electronic thermostats are smarter than ever. Users can program thermostats from their computer or smart phones, making it easy to adjust to temperature changes anytime, anyplace. Some thermostats even allow you to monitor energy usage or notify you if your filter gets dirty.

Because a large part of your monthly utility expenses likely goes toward heating or cooling, the ability to program your thermostat results in savings that can really add up over a year. The relatively inexpensive cost of purchasing and installing an electronic thermostat is well worth it, even if you hire an HVAC contractor to do it for you.

Reports disagree on how much a typical homeowner can save by installing an electronic thermostat. This is not surprising, since the savings amount will depend on factors such as the size of the home, whether it is insulated, and where it is located.

D.L. Vaughn Heating and Air Conditioning, a professional air conditioning and heating contractor in Montgomery, can answer your questions about installing electronic thermostats. Call us today 334-265-8713.

This blog was originally posted on:  http://www.dlvaughnhvac.com/blog/

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Modern Air Conditioning Installation Saves Energy

Even if you replaced your AC less than 10 years ago, you may want to consider installation of a modern air conditioning system to save energy.

The newest air conditioners use less energy than ever. Years ago, a system with a Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio, or SEER, of 10 or less was common. Today, AC systems with a SEER of 20 or more save hundreds, even thousands of dollars a year, for homeowners or businesses.

A high SEER translates into big savings in the River Region, where air conditioners get a workout. Here, it’s not unusual for the AC to be running 24 hours a day for several days at a time. Up to 70 percent of a typical household’s electric bill in the summer is due to cooling the home.

At D.L. Vaughn Heating & Air Conditioning, we recommend thinking seriously about air conditioning replacement if the AC is 15 years old. Many Montgomery-area property owners may be surprised to learn that replacing a unit less than 15 years old also makes financial sense.

A D.L. Vaughn technician can show you how much you can expect to save per year with a higher SEER. The savings, over time, may make it feasible for a new air conditioner installation.

One formula for deciding replacement instead of repair: Multiply the repair cost by the age of the air conditioner. For a $250 repair to a six-year-old unit, the number is  $1500.

At that price, it’s worth it to fix your AC. If the figure exceeds $5,000, you may want to think about replacing it. Factor in estimates for installation and savings per year, too.

Another factor to consider is whether your AC is suitably sized for your property. A too-large system can actually cost you money, while an air conditioner ideally sized will do a better, more efficient job of making the indoors comfortable.

This blog was originally posted on: http://www.dlvaughnhvac.com/blog/

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Air Conditioning Maintenance Contracts Pay Off in the Long Run

If you are looking to avoid expensive repairs to your HVAC system, here are a few reasons why air conditioning maintenance contracts pay off in the long run:

Routinely maintaining your air conditioning and furnace is essential. A heating and cooling system is no different than a car - regular upkeep helps to ensure that major breakdowns won’t occur at the worst times, such as on the hottest days of summer. Maintenance contracts usually call for two service visits a year to clean and lubricate your system, change or clean the filter, diagnose and fix potential problems, replace aging parts, and make sure everything operates the way it should.

HVAC systems last longer when maintained periodically. For just a few dollars a month - the typical cost of a service contract - you may be able to increase the life span of your AC and furnace by as much as 50 percent.

An up-to-date HVAC system uses less energy. The harder a system works, the higher your utility bill. Coupled with other energy-saving measures such as installing insulation and running the furnace and AC only when necessary, operating costs can be cut by 25 percent.

Heating and cooling contractors who offer maintenance contracts will contact the customer when it’s time for an inspection, so scheduling is easy.  A service visit takes 60 to 90 minutes, so the disruption to your business or home life is minimal.

Another bonus: Contract customers are given preference if repairs are needed. It’s nice to know that if the AC conks out in August, you won’t be waiting several days to get it fixed.

Find out how an air conditioning maintenance contract pays off in the long run with real cost savings and convenience. Call D.L. Vaughn Air Conditioning for ac installation, repair and maintenance at 334-265-8713 for more information.

This blog was originally posted on:   http://www.dlvaughnhvac.com/blog/

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How to Tell When Your Water Heater Needs Replacement

Water heaters are no different than any other appliance in that they eventually stop working. You can tell when your water heater needs replacement by watching for these signs:

Rusty water. If the water from your tap is rust-colored, it means the interior of your water heated is corroded.

Age. With water heaters, it’s often a case of out-of-sight, out-of-mind. You may even be surprised at how old your heater is. A unit that is 10 years old is probably showing signs of age.

Broken pressure release valve. This valve allows moisture to escape when the tank becomes overheated. Although it can be repaired, a pressure release valve that continues to leak is indicates a bigger problem.

Sediment buildup.Water heaters should be drained on a yearly basis to eliminate sediment that accumulates due to hard water. If this job isn’t performed regularly, water may fail to flow out of the drain valve, meaning sediment has reached an unmanageable level.

Water at the base of the heater. A call to a local plumber is in order when your water heater is leaking, because the cause is probably internal.

Cold or lukewarm water. Getting hit with an icy shower in the morning is motivation for anyone to replace a water heater. The cause may be fixable, but if less-than-hot water continues to flow, replacement is the solution.

Other signs include popping noises and hot water that is slow coming out of the faucet. Call a reputable local contractor such as D.L. Vaughn Plumbing if you notice any of these problems. The plumber can help you weigh the costs of repair vs. replacement.

Replacement is often a viable option, considering that today’s energy efficient water heaters can lower utility bills. Unless you are a seasoned do-it-yourselfer, we recommend hiring a plumber in Montgomery to do the water heater installation, which can be more complicated than it seems.

This blog was originally posted on:  http://www.dlvaughnhvac.com/blog/

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Air Conditioning Filters Reduce Allergies, Dust, and Clean the Air

Filters work hard to help an HVAC system clean the air indoors. Air conditioning filters keep dust and particulates from being released into the indoor air of your home or business.

Those suffering from hay fever and allergies, young children, and older adults breathe easier when filters are kept clean. That means periodically hosing down permanent filters, and replacing discardable ones.

The frequency with which filters should be checked depends on how often the AC and furnace are used. Most air conditioner contractors recommend the filter be cleaned or replaced every two or three months, but variables such as the number or occupants in the building, or even whether a structure has hard flooring or carpet, can make a big difference.

Check with a local company that does air conditioner installation in Montgomery to find out how often your filters need to be inspected.

The good news is that property owners can clean or replace filters themselves, with little effort. There’s no need to pay a technician to do the job.

Property owners who are not handy or have misplaced the owner’s manual may want to ask a contractor to demonstrate how to remove and clean filters, or replace them. The procedure varies slightly depending on the model, but it’s probably easier than you think.

Along with improving indoor air, clean filters are also integral to the smooth operation of the AC and furnace. The system includes metal coils, which resemble closely spaced “fins.” Air filters prevent coils from gathering dust and dirt and keep the system running efficiently.

HVAC systems that are efficient use less energy. That keeps utility costs down.

Learn more about how air conditioning filters work, and how to keep them clean, by calling D.L. Vaughn Air Conditioning at 334-265-8713 today.

This blog was originally posted on:  http://www.dlvaughnhvac.com/blog/

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Consider Water Heater Replacement in Montgomery

Many property owners in Montgomery need water heater replacement and do not realize it.

Tucked into attics and garages, water heaters are easily ignored. As long as hot water comes out of the tap, everything is working OK, right? Not necessarily.

When water heaters are not regularly maintained, problems can develop, a few of them not initially visible. There are several indications that it may be time to get a new water heater:

Water out of the faucet is slow to heat, or intermittent. Keep in mind that even new tanks may not deliver enough hot water if demand is high.

Water heaters begin to age after about 10 years. The installation date is often written on a label somewhere on the tank.

Noise comes from the tank when hot water is being used.

Leaks at the base of the tank.

One of the major reasons water heaters fail is an accumulation over time of lime, calcium and magnesium at the bottom of the tank. This sediment can damage the heating element that is also located at the bottom of the tank and cause the tank itself to deteriorate.

It can also clog drain valves and force the water heater to work much too hard.

Flushing the tank every couple years to eliminate sediment is recommended, but many property owners fail to do this. At some point, it’s too late.

Handy property owners in Montgomery should be able to replace their water heater, but hiring a plumber in Montgomery ensures installation will be done properly. The technician can also demonstrate how to flush the tank periodically.

Even if the water heater in your Montgomery home has worked well for decades, consider replacement. Today’s water heaters use less energy because they operate more efficiently and retain heat in the tank because they are insulated. You’ll have access to hot water for longer periods.

The relatively low cost of replacement is recouped quickly in reduced utility bills.

This blog was originally posted on:   http://www.dlvaughnhvac.com/blog/