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Do You Need Duct Cleaning This Spring?

If you have central heating and air conditioning, your home incorporates a series of ducts that are responsible for carrying air from your HVAC system into each living space. Over time, particles and moisture can be carried with this conditioned air and deposited into your ducts, impacting both the available space through which air can flow and the quality of your home’s indoor environment. Duct cleaning is not an annual HVAC requirement, but should instead be performed every few years or when you notice the signs that your ducts have developed buildup that could be impacting your home energy usage or indoor air quality. If you aren’t sure whether it’s time for duct cleaning, your Orem HVAC service can help you evaluate the condition of your HVAC appliances and ducts to determine whether this service is needed.

Frequent Dusting

Does it seem that your home accumulates dust at an alarming rate? If you find yourself dusting, vacuuming, and cleaning much more often than you recall doing so in the past, it could be due to dirt and dust buildup inside your ducts. Over time, this buildup will cause more particulate matter to enter your home as it is dislodged and carried with the air circulated by your HVAC system. Even with regular cleaning, you’ll have trouble keeping up with this excess dust, as more is added every time your HVAC system activates. Duct cleaning is a one-time solution that will reduce the overall amount of dust in your home so you can spend less time cleaning.

Increased Allergies or Asthma

When dust, pollen, animal dander, and other particles accumulate inside your ducts, they can cause an increase in the incidence of allergies and asthma attacks in your home. Even if you clean your home regularly and keep your furnace filter in good condition, dirty ducts can undo all this hard work by allowing allergens lodged in your ducts to be carried through the air every time your heating or air conditioner activates. Any time indoor air quality is a concern and your HVAC service has ruled out a dirty filter or dirty HVAC appliances, the next step is to schedule duct cleaning to remove potential allergens from your home’s ductwork.

Mold, Pest Problems, or Construction

In some cases, duct cleaning is recommended after a major event that affects your home. If you have recently suffered a mold or pest problem, duct cleaning is a good way to ensure the effects of these issues have not spread into your ducts. Additionally, a recent renovation or construction project is another good reason to schedule a springtime duct cleaning for your home. Construction dust and debris can easily settle into your ducts even when your contractors are careful and take pains to clean up after they’re done—duct cleaning is a surefire way to remove construction dust from your ducts for cleaner, healthier air.

Our HVAC service is committed to helping you enjoy the most comfortable and energy-efficient home possible. If you’d like to learn more about services such as duct cleaning, HVAC tune-ups, and steam humidifier installation, please visit us online or click through our monthly blog for more details, information and ideas.

#duct cleaning

A Brief Sump Pump Selection Guide

Sump pumps provide round-the-clock protection from basement flooding by activating the moment an excess of water in your basement is detected. For the greatest efficiency and reliability, your sump pump system should be matched to your needs and maintained regularly to ensure it is always ready to protect your home, even if you’re not present to make sure it’s working. Whether you are purchasing your first sump pump or it’s time to upgrade or replace your existing sump pump, keeping a few tips in mind can help you make the wisest selection for your Orem home.

Sump Pump Types

There are two major categories of sump pump design: pedestal sump pumps and submersible sump pumps. Pedestal sump pumps consist of a vertical shaft that holds both the sump pump and a float sensor; the sump pump itself is located above the sump pit, rather than inside it. Because pedestal sump pumps are installed above the sump pit, they are easier to maintain and repair. However, pedestal sump pumps are also easily visible if your sump pit is not located inside an enclosure, such as a closet. Submersible sump pumps are located inside the sump pit, allowing the entire pit to be closed off from above. Submersible sump pumps may require slightly more work to access, maintain, and repair, but they also offer a cleaner look for a finished basement and do not leave the sump pump exposed to prevent accidental injury if you have children or pets in your home. A submersible sump pump is also quieter and less obtrusive than a pedestal sump pump, especially if the pump is likely to activate frequently.

Sump Pump Sizes

Like many appliances, sump pumps are available in various sizes and with varying pumping capacities. A larger sump pump will run less frequently and pump more water out of your home at once. It’s important to match the capacity of your sump pump to your home’s needs to prevent overexerting the sump pump, which can lead to a higher risk of sump pump failure and leave your home susceptible to flooding. Although larger sump pumps may be more expensive to purchase and install, if you require a sump pump with a significant pumping capacity, opting for a smaller sump pump will only increase your long-term costs because you’ll need to replace the unit much sooner and may be left with the clean up costs of water damage if the pump fails.

Sump Pump Backups

Because you rely on your sump pump to protect your home from flooding, you want to make sure your pump is always ready and able to provide this function. Sump pumps typically operate using electricity gained directly from your home’s electrical system, but this can leave the pump unable to work if the power to your home is cut off. Battery backup systems provide backup power in the case of a power outage so your sump pump can continue working even in the absence of residential power. Alternatively, water-powered backup sump pump systems use pressure differences achieved through a plumbing hookup to continue removing water from your home without the need for electricity at all.

Are you looking to install or replace a sump pump in Orem, UT? Our experienced plumbers can help you choose, install, and maintain the right sump pump system for your property—please visit us online to find out more or schedule plumbing services, or click through our blog to find out more about how your plumbing system works and how to maintain it.

#pump selection #sump pump #pedestal sump

All About Weatherproofing

Your home is built to withstand heat, cold, rain, snow, and wind. However, over time, these elements can cause natural wear and tear on your home that affects its ability to maintain indoor comfort. Small gaps, cracks, or holes in your home’s exterior allow for air and moisture exchange between your home’s interior and the outdoors, leading to leaks while letting warm air escape in the winter and cold air escape in the summer. The process of weatherproofing seals these gaps or holes to restore the air- and water-tightness of your home so you can enjoy greater comfort at lower cost.

Areas of Focus

Weatherproofing can be used in any area of your home where air exchange occurs with the outdoor environment. However, there are certain areas more likely to incur damage or allow for air exchange if careful measures are not taken. These areas include your windows and doors, your chimney, and the places where pipes or vents enter and exit your home. If you are looking to improve your home’s ability to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature with less effort, these are the first places you should look.

Types of Weatherproofing

There are many types of weatherproofing; the best solution will depend upon the area of your home in need of improvement. Caulk is typically used to seal the areas around windows and window frames, while rubber strips can be affixed to window sashes and around doors to seal any areas where they don’t fit snugly into the frame when closed. Expanding foam is a versatile solution that can be used to fill small and large holes alike, particularly around pipes and vents. Flashing is typically used around chimneys and on other areas of your roof to seal out moisture, heat, and cold.

Benefits of Weatherproofing

Weatherproofing offers many benefits for your home, both over the short and long term. After improving your home’s weatherproofing system, you’ll immediately enjoy lower energy bills because your furnace and air conditioner will work less hard to heat and cool your home. Additionally, your HVAC system will last longer overall and need less frequent repair because it is under less stress to constantly maintain your home’s indoor temperature. Better weatherproofing means your home will be more comfortable today and in the future, thanks to a lack of drafts, leaks, and hot or cold spots caused by air exchange. Improved weatherproofing also makes your home less accessible to pests, which often enter a home through small cracks and holes. If all of these defects in your home are sealed, insects, vermin, and other pests have no way to enter and cause trouble.

Better weatherproofing will ensure your home stays cleaner and more comfortable, regardless of the weather outside. You can find out more about weatherproofing and insulation for your home when you visit our website to check out our full list of home improvement services or request a free estimate. Our website also features detailed information about modern building science and innovations in the insulation industry to help you improve your home’s value and energy efficiency.

#weatherproofing system

Spotlight on Sewer Problems

Although most homeowners focus on keeping their drains and in-home plumbing clear, it’s important to recognize the signs of sewer trouble as well. When your sewer drain experiences leaks or clogs, it can affect the function of the plumbing throughout your home. Because your sewer drain is buried beneath your yard, it’s important to seek professional help to diagnose and solve a sewer issue. Your Memphis plumber can help you address sewer problems quickly and effectively to restore the health of your home’s entire plumbing system.

Sewer Clogs

Sewer clogs can be large or small, causing minor or major disruptions in your home’s plumbing. A clog can develop over time as waste and debris builds up in the line, or a clog may occur when an item that is too large to pass through the pipe is flushed down a drain. A small sewer line clog will affect drainage within your home, often in multiple appliances at once. Toilets are typically the first fixtures affected by a sewer clog; you may experience bubbling or overflowing toilets before you see any other signs of a sewer clog. Overflowing toilets may occur when you are using other appliances, such as a sink, dishwasher, or washing machine. Other signs of a clog include slow drainage or backups in tub and shower drains; because your sewer is connected to all your drains, you will likely notice these problems in more than one bathroom at once. If your sewer becomes completely clogged, you will experience the backup of wastewater into you home because it has nowhere to go when flushed down the drain. In this case, stop using any plumbing appliances and contact your plumber for help immediately. Whether you suspect you have a minor or major sewer line clog, your plumber can evaluate the situation and perform a professional cleanout to remove the clog and restore normal function to your home’s drains.

Tree Roots

Over time, the root systems from trees and other landscaping can cause plumbing problems beneath your yard. As these roots quest for water, they can break into sewer lines, causing clogs and leaks. Sewer leaks allow wastewater to flow into your yard, rather than into the main sewer system for treatment. Signs of a leak include standing water or wet, spongy patches in your yard. You may also notice a contained area of weed, grass, and landscaping overgrowth caused by excess water in the soil. In most cases, sewer drain leaks will also leave behind a telltale odor of raw sewage. Sewer leaks cannot be solved on your own—contact your plumber at the first sign of a leak so it can be addressed as quickly as possible. Your plumber will find the problem, remove the roots, and make repairs to the sewer line to restore its integrity. You can protect your sewer line from tree root problems by making sure to plant trees and landscaping far from the line or installing root guards to protect the drainpipe.

Your Memphis Mr. Rooter plumber is here to help you protect your sewer line from problems so you can enjoy problem-free plumbing throughout your home. Take a look through our website to learn more about our residential and commercial plumbing solutions, or check out our blog for even more helpful tips and tricks to maintain your plumbing.

#Memphis plumber #plumbing sevices

What Is a Home Energy Audit and How Can It Benefit You?

An energy-efficient home offers many benefits, ranging from greater indoor comfort to lower utility bills. Factors such as insulation, air leaks, poor roof repair, and the type, maintenance history, and age of your HVAC system can all affect the overall energy efficiency of your home. A home energy audit takes all of these factors into account to determine if there are areas you in which can make improvements to reduce the amount of work your HVAC system must do to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. Depending on the results you receive, a home energy audit could save you up to 30% on your energy bill when you make the recommended upgrades.

The Home Energy Audit Process

During a home energy audit, a certified energy expert will perform a thorough evaluation of your home. This evaluation will look at all the factors that affect your home’s energy efficiency, with a particular focus on indoor comfort and air quality. Your energy expert will examine your HVAC system, your roof, your doors and windows, you attic, and the exterior of your home. He will note issues such as aging, insufficient, or improperly-installed insulation, damaged roofing and siding, poorly-maintained HVAC appliances, air leaks in your home and around windows and doors, and other factors that can lower the energy efficiency of your home. Once all these factors are taken into account, you’ll receive a report with an energy efficiency rating and list of possible home upgrades you may wish to make. Your auditor can also tell you which upgrades are the most cost-effective in terms of gaining you the greatest energy savings for the cost.

Benefits of a Home Energy Audit

Because the majority of your home’s energy costs go into heating and cooling your home, finding ways to make your home more efficient can save you money. Many of the changes your home energy auditor will suggest will likely be simple solutions, such as switching to high-efficiency light bulbs and sealing any cracks or holes around windows and doors. Some of the changes that may be suggested are great long-term investments—maintaining your HVAC system and installing new or supplementary insulation will increase the value of your home if you want to sell it in the future. Furthermore, the changes your energy auditor will suggest are designed to increase the overall comfort of your home. When your home can better hold in the heated or cooled air produced by your HVAC system, you’ll enjoy greater, more even comfort throughout the entire house.

Your home’s insulation can be one of the biggest factors affecting its overall energy efficiency. If you’d like to learn more about how you can enjoy warmer winters and cooler summers at lower cost, visit our website for details about our home energy audit and insulation services in New York. You can also contact us online for a free estimate on any service we provide.

#Home Energy Audit Process #poor roof repair

Caring for Your Drains

You may already know the basics of clog removal. However, caring for your drains requires more than simply knowing which tool to reach for when your drain isn’t working as it should. Taking good care of your drains offers many benefits—your home’s plumbing will last longer, you’ll make fewer calls to your Memphis plumber, and you’ll experience less stress overall associated with plumbing problems.

Proper Usage

Caring for your drains begins with using them properly. The best rule of thumb when using drains is to never flush anything but water, soap, human waste, and toilet paper down your sinks and toilets. Plumbers advise against disposing of chemicals such as paint, lacquer, cleaning solutions and other harsh liquids down your drains for many reasons. These chemicals can damage your drains and plumbing, leading to corrosion and leaks. They can also have negative effects on your septic tank or sewer system. Check with your area’s waste disposal service to find out how you should properly dispose of household chemicals—they’ll tell you which are safe to put down the drain and which aren’t. If you have a disposal, keep in mind that only certain foods can be handled by this appliance. Avoid disposing of large pieces of food; instead, cut them into smaller pieces to reduce the likelihood of a clog. Never put pasta, rice, or grease and fat down your disposal or kitchen sink drain—these are some of the most common culprits when it comes to clog formation. Furthermore, toilets and other drains should never be used as garbage cans. Your drains may seem large enough to accommodate small objects at first glance, but they narrow quickly, setting the stage for clogs if you try to flush something the pipe can’t handle. Never flush any object down your toilet other than toilet paper, including any other paper products.

Protecting Your Drains

In addition to using your drains properly, there are steps you can take to protect them. Use mesh hair traps in showers and sinks, which will cut down on the amount of hair flushed down the drain. Hair can easily become snagged inside drain pipes, providing a net that catches other debris that builds up quickly into clogs. Similarly, using a removable kitchen sink strainer when washing dishes can prevent loose food debris from washing down the drain and accumulating over time. Make sure to remove and empty your hair traps and sink strainer (in the wastebasket) after every use. You should also check your sink’s strainer bowl—the permanent drain in the bottom of your sink—on a regular basis. If it appears corroded or leaky, you can replace the drain basket strainer yourself or contact your plumber for help. If you do experience a slow drain, address it immediately using an enzymatic or eco-friendly drain cleaner. This will help to flush out the forming clog before it can grow any larger. Avoid using commercial chemical drain cleaners—these can damage your pipes and often aren’t effective in removing or reducing clogs.

Addressing clogs and other issues quickly is an important aspect of caring for your drains as well as your home’s entire plumbing system. Visit our website to find out more about our residential plumbing maintenance and repair services in Memphis. Our blog offers even more tips on plumbing care and problem-solving at home.

#repair services in Memphis

Why Do You Need Key Control Services?

Key control plays an integral role in a variety of industries today. From vehicle dealerships to government installations, control of keys and other equipment is essential to daily operations and employee safety. Any one of KEYper Systems’ many key control services offers you the accuracy and confidence you need for efficient and safe daily operations by providing instantaneous access to current key usage statistics and past access logs.

Inventory Management

Key control allows you to manage your inventory quickly and easily. You can tell at a glance whether vehicles or other items are present or have been removed for employee or client use—and by whom. Inventory management has many applications throughout the business world and beyond. Knowing which items are in use most often can help to improve efficiency and product flow. Depending upon the type of key control system you utilize, you can generate usage reports and statistics on a regular basis for data analysis purposes. Monitoring product or vehicle usage over the long term will help you to streamline your business based upon both your employees and customers’ needs.

Employee Safety and Integrity

Key control also plays a large role in employee safety and integrity. The management of keys and locks can protect employees on the job, as per OHSA regulations. A poorly-managed lockout system will not inspire confidence in your employees, nor will it help you maintain the safety and security you need to comply with federal and state safety standards. Knowing with the utmost confidence that your employees are safe on the job improves your company’s overall safety ratings, as well as employee attitude and morale. Additionally, key control can also play a role in maintaining employee integrity. Monitoring key usage allows you to monitor employee actions as well, ensuring that all regulations and safety codes regarding equipment and practices are followed at all times. The information you can gain via key and lock usage statistics allows you to take steps to improve employee safety and performance if necessary.

Property and Access Control

Property control is an important factor in many industries. Control of vehicles, dealer plates, keys, locks, and other equipment is necessary for smooth and safe everyday operations. Additionally, ensuring you have complete control over employee or customer access to certain areas provides safety and security in both government and civilian applications. Organized key control solutions will prevent unauthorized access of equipment or areas that are restricted for any reason. If you are concerned about a breach of safety or security, usage reports provide accurate and up-to-date information regarding property usage or access of restricted areas.

Key control services offer a wide variety of applications that can improve your business model and ensure safety and security on your property. Visit our website to explore our customizable and secure key control systems, including electronic and manual key and lock control. You can find out more about the latest key control solutions and how they can benefit you on our blog.

#key control solutions

Signs You May Need Pipe Repair

Your home’s plumbing consists of fixtures, drains, vents, and pipes. Each part of this system works in concert with the others to funnel water in and out of your home. It may come as no surprise that your plumbing pipes play a key role in the health and function of your overall plumbing. However, over time, one or more sections of pipe can degrade, causing leaks and other problems. Learning how to spot the signs that you may need pipe repair will help you take quick action to reduce wasted water and water damage in your Memphis home.

High Water Bills

Unusually high water bills are a common sign of plumbing problems. One of the best ways to catch plumbing issues in their early stages is to check your water bill each month. Because water usage can fluctuate throughout the year, compare your water bill with the same month in previous years. If your water bills are consistently higher than in the past and nothing about your water usage habits has changed, it’s time to call in a professional plumber. High water bills are typically due to leaks, but it can be difficult to diagnose a hidden leak without professional help.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is another common indicator of plumbing problems. If you experience a sudden drop in water pressure, it could be due to failing pipes. Because your water supply pipes rely on pressure to send water to your fixtures, pipes that have multiple leaks or poor connections cannot maintain the pressure needed to deliver water consistently. As with high water bills, water pressure problems could be due to a variety of plumbing issues—that’s why it’s important to contact a professional plumber to diagnose the origin of your problem.

Wet Spots

Wet spots in your yard or your home typically point to a pipe leak. Sewer line leaks are accompanied by a foul smell; if you don’t notice an odor associated with wet spots, the leak may be in an incoming water line instead. You may notice that the floor or soil in your yard feels wet, warm, or spongy. Outdoor pipe problems can also cause overgrowth in certain areas of your yard when excess water is supplied to the plants in the area. Wet spots inside your home may also be associated with signs of water damage, such as dark streaks or mold growth.

Hot Spots

If your hot water pipe has developed a leak, you may feel “hot spots” under the floor of your home. If certain areas feel unusually warm, it could be because hot water is leaking just below your floor. If a hot water leak occurs outside your home, it can cause the vegetation in your yard to die from excess heat. You may notice that some areas of your yard have turned brown, while others are brilliant green.

Damaged or worn plumbing pipes can cause hidden leaks that waste water and result in extensive water damage throughout your home and yard. If you think you might need pipe repairs in Memphis, you can contact a professional plumber on our website for more information and personalized advice. Check out the other articles on our blog to find out more about troubleshooting common plumbing problems that could affect your home.

#pipe repairs in Memphis

About Eco-Friendly Plumbing

Today, many homeowners are discovering the benefits of choosing eco-friendly solutions and services for the home. Energy-efficient appliances, recycled materials and goods, and environmentally-friendly cleaners can all benefit your family and help you save money. Your Hammond plumber can help you develop eco-friendly plumbing habits and make positive changes in your home’s plumbing system that will benefit your pocketbook as well as your local and global environment.

Drain Cleaning

Eco-friendly drain cleaning is a small step that can make a big difference in your home’s plumbing and your environment. If you reach for a bottle of chemical drain cleaner when your drains are running slowly, you’re not alone; however, these chemicals can be harmful to your plumbing and the environment. Rather than using caustic chemicals to clear your drains, consider eco-friendly solutions that are just as effective. The cheapest and easiest way to keep your drains clear is to flush them once a month with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Pour 1/4-1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, then follow it with one cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with a stopper or washcloth and let the mixture sit for five to ten minutes. Finally, flush the drain with a pot of boiling water. This solution can both keep your drains clear and remove stubborn clogs, although you may need to repeat the process more than once to address a clog. Alternatively, you can use an enzymatic drain cleaner, such as Mr. Rooter’s BioChoiceES® drain cleaner, to maintain and unclog your drains. Enzymatic drain cleaners contain beneficial microbes that eat away the organic components of clogs, clearing them without the need for harsh chemical solutions.

Water Heaters

Is your water heater ten years old or older? If so, you could benefit from considering a replacement. Today’s water heaters are designed to be more energy and water efficient than ever before. By using less water and energy than your current water heater, a new water heater will help to conserve these valuable natural resources and reduce your home’s carbon footprint. Traditional water heaters, called storage water heaters, are the most popular and cost-effective water heaters. Installing an ENERGY STAR rated gas storage water heater can save you $40 a year over your current model. Over an average 13-year storage water heater lifespan, your savings will add up to a total of $520. Alternatively, tankless water heaters create hot water on demand, rather than keeping it continually hot in a tank. Tankless water heaters cost more to purchase and install than storage water heaters, but can offer greater energy savings as well—up to $80 per year over a ten year-old storage water heater.

Are you looking for ways to green your plumbing so you can enjoy monthly savings and the knowledge that your home is healthier for the environment? Visit our website to learn more about our eco-friendly plumbing solutions and services in Hammond, Valparaiso, Portage, Merrillville, Dyer, and beyond. You can also check out our blog for more handy home plumbing tips and news.

#plumbing services in Hammond #24-hour plumbing service

Exploring OHSA LockOut/TagOut Rules and How KEYper Systems Can Help

“Hazardous energy sources” include electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, thermal, and other types of mechanical equipment that can pose a hazard to workers if handled improperly. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration has thus instituted rules regarding the regulation and access of hazardous energy sources in the workplace. LockOut/TagOut procedures are designed to protect your employees through the control of devices that limit access to hazardous energy sources and allow machinery and other systems to be disabled during maintenance or repairs to prevent injury to workers on the job.

The Importance of Controlling Hazardous Energy Source

An estimated three million Americans perform job functions that could put them at risk due to uncontrolled hazardous energy sources. OHSA LockOut/TagOut regulations are in place to protect your employees while they perform work duties. During servicing or repairs, improper handling of hazardous energy equipment can cause injury or even death to workers who may be exposed to dangers that include electricity, heat, and more. Having standard LockOut/TagOut procedures in place prevents an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries each year, in addition to reducing the number of missed workdays due to injuries incurred on the job.

How Employers Keep Employees Safe

The OHSA standards regulating LockOut/TagOut procedures state that employers must develop, implement, and enforce a system that regulates access to hazardous energy sources to protect employees while at work. This system may use either lockout or tagout devices to ensure equipment is not activated in circumstances where it could injure employees while servicing or repairing equipment or systems. Lockout or tagout devices must be identifiable by user and can only be removed by the employee who put it in place to ensure others cannot accidentally remove it while work is being done.

How KEYper Systems Can Help

KEYper Systems is a leader in providing key and lock control systems that can benefit your business. We know that key and lock replacement is costly, while improper use of locks could put your employees at risk. Our KEYper® key Lockbox Management Systems provide the tools your safety division needs to easily and properly implement OHSA LockOut/TagOut procedures. Each lock management system can store and manage up to 75 individual padlocks, either with or without locking enclosures. Every employee is issued an access peg for his or her individual lock. To use a lock, the access peg must be inserted into the port beside it; the peg cannot be removed until the lock is returned. This system provides you with an at-a-glance inventory of which locks and keys are currently in use, and by whom. Controlled access to your padlock and key inventory will not only increase efficiency by ensuring locks and keys are available to employees at all times, but also improve safety by strictly controlling access to lockout and tagout devices and providing you with up-to-date information on which devices are in use at any time.

Whether your business is small or large, KEYper Systems is here to offer cost-effective and secure key, lock, and license plate control systems. Our key management systems have been used by businesses, educational institutions, government installations, and more to improve safety and efficiency. You can learn more about our products or find support and training videos on our website; be sure to check out the latest news for more information about key management tailored to your needs.

#lock control systems #key management systems

All About Plumbing Traps

Plumbing traps are u-, s-, or j-shaped bends in the plumbing pipes attached to drains. The purpose of these traps is to prevent sewer gases from traveling up the drainpipe and entering your home. However, because of their shape, plumbing traps are also a common place for clogs to form or foreign objects dropped down the drain (such as toys or jewelry) to become lodged. If you’re experiencing a stubborn clog or you’ve dropped something down your drain and want to recover it, checking and cleaning your trap may solve the issue.

Accessing the Trap

The plumbing traps beneath your sinks are the most readily accessible. To find the trap, look beneath your sink for the u- or j-shaped bend at the lowest part of the pipe. Before you access the trap, you’ll want to place a bowl or a bucket beneath the drain to catch any water still in the trap when you remove it. The traps attached to drainpipes that lead away from toilets, bathtubs, and showers are usually located behind a wall or beneath your floor. These plumbing traps will need to be accessed remotely by an auger. If you are concerned about something you’ve dropped down the drain and want to recover it, calling your plumber may be the best solution—he has more experience with using an auger to remove items to ensure they are not pushed down the drain.

Removing the Trap

To remove the plumbing trap beneath your sink, look for the nuts on either end of the bend. Loosen these nuts by turning them counterclockwise. If the nuts are difficult to turn, you can use a pair of pliers or a wrench to loosen them. Place a cloth between the nuts and your tool before turning them to avoid damaging the nuts. Once the nuts are loose on both ends, the trap should easily pull away from the rest of the drain. Keep in mind that there will likely be water inside the trap, making sure to dump it into your bucket.

Cleaning the Trap

Once you’ve removed the trap, clean it out with a pipe cleaner or flexible, soft-bristled brush. You may also be able to use your fingers to loosen a clog or flush it through with water from a different source. After you’ve flushed out the trap, dry off the exterior and put it back into place, tightening the nuts once more. It’s important to note that some traps can be cleaned without removing them. If your plumbing trap has a small access port at the bottom of the bend, you can try cleaning it through this port first. You’ll still need a bucket or bowl beneath the drain to catch any excess water.

Learning how to clean your plumbing traps is a great DIY plumbing skill to master. If you still need help dealing with a stubborn clog or backup, visit our website to find out more about our services or to contact a Memphis plumber for service. You can also stop by our blog to check out the latest plumbing news and tips to keep your drains flowing freely.

#Mr. Rooter of Memphis #Memphis plumber service

How to Save on Your Summer Energy Costs

With warm weather approaching, you are probably dreading the day that you are forced to turn on the air conditioner. Running your AC all summer can cause your electricity bills to skyrocket, but there are a few ways you can cut down on your energy and air conditioner costs and still stay cool.

Weatherproof Your Home

Weatherproofing isn't just for the winter months. Old windows and doors can cause drafts to come into your home, which makes your house colder in the winter and hotter in the summer. New windows help to prevent direct sunlight from warming your home, so you don't have to crank your AC up as high just to stay cool. Weather-stripping your doors and windows can also help to keep heat outside during the summer months.

Have Your HVAC System Inspected

You should have your system inspected every spring. Your HVAC repairperson will inspect your air conditioner and perform routine air conditioner maintenance to ensure everything works smoothly throughout the summer. It's also a good idea to have your ductwork checked to make sure you don't have any leaks that could prevent your home from being cooled efficiently.

Turn Your Thermostat Down at Night

When the sun goes down, the temperature drops. If you run your AC during the day, your home should be sufficiently cool when you get ready for bed. Turn the air conditioner off or down and turn on a ceiling fan to keep you cool at night. You won't have to pay to keep the house cool when you are sleeping, which cuts down on your monthly utility bills.

Consider Investing in a New Air Conditioning System

Today's central air conditioning units are much more energy efficient than the ones made just 15 or 20 years ago. By installing a new unit, you can save a lot of money on the cost of operation, and you can feel good about making less of an impact on the environment. Look for models with the Energy Star logo so you know you are getting an efficient model. Your HVAC specialist can help you find the model that is the right size for your home, so you won't waste money buying a unit that is too small to work properly in your home.

Update Your HVAC System with Zoning

Each room in your home is different. Some rooms get more direct sunlight than others, making them more difficult to cool—even with a new, efficient air conditioner. Your HVAC specialists can revamp your system to allow for heating and cooling zones that improve the efficiency of your equipment. This helps you to cool each room with the right amount of energy without using too much electricity. A room in the basement with no windows won't need as much cooling as a second-story room with floor-to-ceiling windows. Zones help to even out the energy used to keep each room at an optimal temperature without driving your energy bills through the roof during the summer.

Air conditioner costs don't have to eat a hole in your wallet. With some careful preparation in the spring, you can ensure your home will stay cool all summer long without costing a fortune. Talk to your HVAC specialist to learn more about how to control your home cooling costs this summer.

#HVAC specialist #Air Conditioning System Maintenance

When Do You Need to Get Your Air Conditioning Repaired?

A failing air conditioner is no way to usher in the warm days of summer. If your air conditioner is in poor shape, you won’t enjoy the full benefits of a cool and comfortable home when the temperature outside is high. A professional tune-up and repair service can have your A/C running at peak capacity in no time. How will you know if your air conditioner needs repairs this summer? Keep reading to learn a few of the most common indications that you need to have your air conditioning repaired.

Your Home Is Too Warm

Many homeowners don’t think about their air conditioner until it stops functioning as it should. If you’ve been setting the thermostat lower with no noticeable result, your air conditioner needs to be checked by an HVAC professional. There are many causes for a malfunctioning air conditioner, ranging from thermostat problems and worn or damaged parts to dropping efficiency due to system age. Air conditioners are generally expected to last an average of 10-15 years. If your HVAC system is more than 15 years old or quickly approaching that age, your air conditioner may be ready for replacement. However, not all cooling problems require an all-new air conditioning system to solve them. Contact your local HVAC professional for an evaluation to determine whether the cause of your cooling problems is repairable or if you’ll need to replace your air conditioner to restore indoor comfort.

Your Energy Bills Have Skyrocketed

One sure indication of HVAC problems is a significant increase in your energy bills with no obvious cause. While your energy bills can fluctuate from month to month, check each month’s bill against the same month’s bill in previous years to get a better idea of how much you should be paying. If there has been no significant change in temperature, occupancy in your home, or other factors from previous years to the current date, a high energy bill could indicate that your air conditioner is experiencing problems that are causing it to lose efficiency. Having your system repaired can restore its ability to convert energy input into cooled air without wasting excessive energy.

Your Air Conditioner Runs Constantly or Noisily

Does your air conditioner run constantly, as though it’s always trying to play catch-up? Is your air conditioner suddenly making sounds like screeches, bangs, pops, and other worrisome noises? These are two indications that you need a professional to evaluate your home’s cooling system. An air conditioner that seems to work all the time is having difficulty keeping your home at the proper set temperature, thus running more often to make up for the continual temperature difference. A change in the noise level or types of noises your air conditioner makes is often associated with failing or damaged parts. Both of these issues can be diagnosed and repaired by an HVAC professional.

Your air conditioner needs regular maintenance and repairs to maintain efficient, problem-free cooling for your Atlanta home. If you are experiencing problems with your air conditioner, don’t wait—click over to our website to contact an HVAC professional for personalized advice. You can find out more about maintaining, repairing, and replacing your home’s furnace or air conditioner on our blog.

Water Heater Maintenance and Repairs

Keeping your water heater functioning efficiently will ensure that hot water is always available for your every need, reducing the need for repairs and prolonging the overall lifetime of the appliance. While most water heater maintenance and repair tasks are simple and can be done on your own, more complex repairs should always be performed by a professional plumber.

Check the Temperature

Water heaters are able to put out hot water over a wide range of temperatures. However, most manufacturers recommend a water temperature that is higher than actually necessary for comfort in your home. Reducing the water temperature to 115-120 degrees Fahrenheit will not affect your comfort, but it can reduce your energy costs as well as long-term wear and tear on your water heater. If your water heater’s temperature dial isn’t labeled in degrees, use a thermometer to measure the temperature of the hot water you’re getting from the tap.

Test the TPR Valve

Traditional water heaters store hot water in a tank, where it remains ready for use until you open a hot water tap. These water heaters also have a safety component called a TPR valve, or “temperature-pressure-relief” valve, which will open automatically to drain water if the pressure inside the tank gets too high. Without this valve, high pressure inside your tank could cause it to explode. Test the TPR valve two to three times a year by pulling up on the valve partway, then releasing it. Water should drain from the valve; if the valve continues to drip after a few minutes or no water is released when you pull it, the valve will need to be replaced. You can replace the TPR valve on your own, but you can also contact your plumber to do the job for you if you’re not sure you want to perform this repair yourself.

Flush Regularly

Minerals and sediments carried into your water heater’s tank with the incoming water can build up on the bottom and sides of the tank over time. These deposits can become corrosive, causing the tank to leak. If you discover a leak in your water heater’s tank, you’ll need to contact your plumber to replace it. However, regularly flushing your water heater will reduce the risk of corrosion inside the tank. To flush the water heater, connect a hose to the drain at the bottom of the tank. Turn off the power and incoming water line to the unit, then open the drain valve and allow all the water to drain completely. If the water is rusty, it means it’s carrying built-up sediment with it (and out of your tank). You can repeat this process one or two times, as necessary, by closing the valve and refilling the tank before draining it again. Once the water runs clear, close the valve, remove the hose, and restore water and power to the appliance.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your water heating costs low and your home’s water heater functioning properly for many years to come. You can find more helpful plumbing tips when you click through the articles on our blog, or visit us online to contact a Memphis plumber for personalized advice and fast, friendly service.

#Memphis plumber #Mr. Rooter of Memphis

Maintaining Your HVAC System through the Summer Months

Regular maintenance is a must to keep your HVAC system functioning efficiently all summer long. Maintaining your air conditioner and furnace this summer won’t take much time, but it can save you stress by preventing potential breakdowns that can affect your indoor comfort. As an added bonus, most of the tasks you perform to keep your air conditioner in great shape will help protect your furnace during the summer as well. Contact a local Atlanta HVAC professional for more details about maintaining your home’s HVAC system to continue enjoying energy efficiency and problem-free function.

Change Your Air Filter

One simple—yet essential—way to keep your HVAC system in top condition this summer is to change its filter regularly. Air filters are designed to remove airborne particles such as dirt, dust, and pollen, preventing them from reaching your HVAC system’s working components and circulating throughout your home. Over time, however, the filter will fill up with dirt and dust, reducing airflow through your entire HVAC system until the filter is replaced. Dirty filters can reduce HVAC performance by up to 15 %, increasing your energy bills and affecting the longevity of the system. Changing your filter takes only a few minutes, but will help protect both your air conditioner and furnace from dirt and dust buildup that can rob these systems of efficiency and cause premature wear.

Clear the Area

In most homes, the furnace and air conditioner are located in a garage, basement, or crawlspace. There areas are often used for storage, but placing items too close to your HVAC system could affect the performance of your unit. If these items fall, they can cause damage to the system or its ductwork. You can avoid this issue by keeping the area around your furnace and air conditioner clear for at least three feet in all directions. Limiting clutter in this space will also make the area less enticing for pests, which can damage your HVAC system as well. Keep in mind that your central air conditioner has an outdoor component as well, which houses the compressor and condenser. Maintaining the outdoor component of your air conditioner is just as important as protecting its indoor counterpart. Trim landscaping and trees away from the condenser and check the area frequently for signs of pests. Clear away other debris and check the area after storms or windy days to ensure blowing or falling objects haven’t damaged the system.

In addition to these steps, you should also schedule a yearly professional tune-up to keep your HVAC system performing at its best. Visit our website to learn more about our comprehensive HVAC services in Marietta and Atlanta, or to schedule service for your home. We invite you to explore the other articles on our blog for more do-it-yourself tips and inside information on when you need to call in a professional to handle heating and cooling issues.

Appealing Apartment Decorating Tips

Your new Sunnyvale apartment is like a blank canvas just waiting for your own personal touches. If you’re feeling at a loss as to how to decorate your space, keep reading for some of the most popular apartment decorating tips to help you create the appealing, chic look you’re after.

Group Like Objects

If you’re looking for a way to create a stunning wall or shelving display, the key is to find the right group of objects to draw and appeal to the eye. “Like objects” are best for these types of displays, but this term can actually cover a range of similar properties. Consider finding objects made from the same materials, colors, or shapes—for example, hang a variety of mirrors on your wall or group a number of glass vases on a table or shelf. Although these objects are all alike, you can vary their size, shape, and other properties as long as they all have one thing in common. Such groupings create a sense of flow and coherence while still remaining visually interesting. A good rule of thumb is to use an odd number of objects. Interior designers have found that odd-numbered groupings are more visually appealing than groups of even-numbered objects.

Use Bookcases for More than Books

Bookcases needn’t hold only books—in fact, interspersing other objects among your many tomes offers a great storage solution as well as an appealing decorative element. Use bookcases in your dining area to store plates and table settings alongside your favorite volumes. Bookcases can be used in living areas to store DVDs, CDs, books, and game consoles in addition to decorative accessories or family photos. You can even bring bookcases outdoors to serve as a place for plants (or your entire garden) when adding greenery to your balcony or patio. If you’re looking for other ways to spice up your bookshelves, consider painting the back of your bookcase a different color. Draw from the decorative colors in each room to create a unique bookcase that complements the look of each area of your apartment.

Highlight the Appeal of Fabrics

Fabrics are a great way to add visual depth and texture to any room. Using throw pillows and blankets on your living room couch creates a cozy space to watch movies or hold an exciting game night. Pile the pillows onto your bed to create a colorful display that makes your entire bedroom look brighter and more inviting. Using colorful napkins and placements in the kitchen and dining areas draw the eye and make friends and family alike ready to enjoy a meal in your home. Area rugs can be placed over tile, vinyl flooring, and carpeting alike to soften a room or create an appealing focal point. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures, but keep in mind that every piece within a given room should share at least one shade in common.

Are you ready to let your personality shine when you decorate your new loft-style apartment in Sunnyvale? Loft House’s one- and two-bedroom apartments feature all the space you need right alongside the finest amentias, including incredible views, European wood-style cabinetry, and designer quartz countertops. Would you like to learn more about our luxury apartment community? Visit our website for all the information you need on our floor plans, features, and availability.

#loft-style apartment in Sunnyvale #Sunnyvale apartment

Popular Trails Near Your Sunnyvale Apartment

In addition to its well-known public parks, Sunnyvale, CA, is home to numerous biking and hiking trails that highlight both urban landmarks and the lush natural California landscape beyond the city’s boundaries. Summer is the perfect time to pull out your bike or your hiking shoes and enjoy the wide network of trails that traverse your amazing California home.

San Francisco Bay Trail

The San Francisco Bay Trail is a hikeable and bikeable corridor planned and executed by the Association of Bay Area Governments. This trail was designed to act as a “ring around the Bay” by linking nine counties and 47 cities in the San Francisco area. The San Francisco Bay Trail connects landmarks that include the Golden Gate Bridge, Candlestick Point, and Sunnyvale’s Baylands. As the Bay Trail winds through Sunnyvale, it begins in the westernmost part of the city just past the edge of Lockheed Martin’s property. From there, the four-mile Sunnyvale portion of the Bay Trail takes hikers east, passing a number of retired landfill hills, Sunnyvale’s Water Pollution Control Plant, the Twin Creeks Sports Complex, and Baylands Park. As you reach the easternmost portion of the Bay Trail in Sunnyvale, you’ll pass the Guadalupe Slough, Calabazas Creek, and San Tomas Aquino Creek, until you arrive at the Great America Parkway and head on to the neighboring community of Alviso. In addition to connecting Sunnyvale to the surrounding areas, the Bay Trail also contains numerous offshoots and side trails along the way, many of which take you through natural landscapes that include saltwater ponds, marshes, and retired landfill and water treatment areas that now contain lush plant growth and numerous species of wildlife.

The Saratoga Gap and Ridge Trail Loop

The Saratoga Gap and Ridge Trail Loop is one of the Sunnyvale-area’s most popular nature trails. This moderate-intensity trail is located in nearby Los Gatos, CA, and features numerous activity options throughout the year. You can choose to hike or ride this 5.5-mile trail on horseback as you take in some of Castle Rock State Park’s most beautiful natural sights, including Castle Rock itself, Goat Rock, and a waterfall that is active year-round. The trail features a few areas that are slightly rocky with an uphill slope, but it is this aspect that attracts rather than discourages many hikers. The early portion of your hike will take you over a viewing platform where you can admire Castle Rock Falls. Next, the trail will lead you right up to some of the area’s most amazing vistas as you look across a natural canyon and beyond, with views often stretching all the way to the Pacific. Along the trail, you’ll also see some of California’s stately oak and redwood trees as they blanket the forest around you. Other highlights include views of Monterey Bay, nearby Varian Peak, and the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Loft House in Sunnyvale, CA, features spacious New York loft-style apartments in a location you’ll love. Our apartment community is just minutes away from some of the area’s best outdoor recreation, shopping, dining, and entertainment. At the end of a long day of exploration, you’ll look forward to coming home to your one- or two-bedroom luxury apartment. You can check out our neighborhood on the web, or stop by in person for a tour of what could be your next Sunnyvale home.

#Loft House in Sunnyvale

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