Friday, July 23, 2010

Changing Filters in the HVAC System

If there is not a separate breaker and your unit is circulating air at an ambient temperature, the mechanism that heats or cools air may be lacking some essential chemical or feature to perform its task. If your heater is gas-powered, ensure that the pilot light is lit and that gas is still available. If your air conditioner isn't cooling, then the issue might be that the refrigerant is no longer effective. A variety of coolants are used in modern air conditioners. Just which one your unit uses should be documented in its manual, and if you are uncomfortable with the process of changing it yourself, then a qualified HVAC repair contractor should be consulted.

Preventive HVAC maintenance is the best means of minimizing or avoiding HVAC issues. Here are a few tips that will keep your unit operating at top efficiency.

First, change your filters regularly, typically once per month. Clogged filters can make your unit operate much less efficiently, requiring it to displace more air than is needed and imposing a strain upon its systems over time. Dirty filters also draw waste products into the unit itself which, given time, wear away at the internal machinery and cause parts to break down prematurely.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.



Wednesday, July 21, 2010

HVAC System Maintenance

It's an event we've all certainly experienced. The heat of summer or freezing cold of winter arrives, and our home's HVAC system chooses that moment to fail, leaving us uncomfortable at best or exposed to serious health risk at worst. Fortunately, there are a variety of items to check and routine tasks to perform that may not only resolve any HVAC system issues, but might also minimize their likelihood as well. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind that will keep your heater or air conditioner humming along nicely.

Many HVAC systems feature a distinct breaker for heating and cooling. Often either near the unit itself or a separate breaker in your home's box, this switch maintains the portion of the system that heats or cools on a circuit separated from that which provides ventilation. If your unit is blowing air that is not being heated or cooled, look for such a switch and determine if it is on or off. This may be all that is necessary to resolve any HVAC issues you are experiencing.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.


Monday, July 19, 2010

Saving Costs on Air Conditioning

If your air conditioning unit is less than ten years old and still functions or is already an energy efficient model, there are other ways you can save on energy costs. Properly sealing buildings from outdoor air and insulating the building can add on additional savings to energy bills every month. The same principle applies to having HVAC system ducts sealed and insulated properly as well. Energy efficient windows are now available which help reduce energy losses. Upgraded lighting can be a huge money saver, since conventional lighting systems often create massive amounts of heat each day that air conditioners need to work non stop to cool down.

Selectively using ventilation throughout your building can greatly impact indoor air quality as well as save energy. Using window tints and cool roofing to minimize the effects of solar heat gain in warm climates, and alternatively using methods to increase solar gain in colder climates can help reduce the need for as much heating or air conditioning. Utilizing equipment indoors such as computers and printers which do not produce as much heat as previous models can help reduce the air temperature in office settings. Economizers can help bring in fresh cool air from the outdoors when temperatures outside are cooler than the indoor temperature.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.


Saturday, July 17, 2010

Tips for Energy Efficiency

Any commercial HVAC company can tell you that energy efficiency is the most important aspect of air conditioning these days. With concerns of over consumption of energy leading to pollution and global warming, the energy efficiency of every day appliances has become a major interest in consumers. The high cost of running a commercial HVAC also has consumers looking for more efficient alternatives in order to save money spent on electricity bills each month. Energy efficient air conditioners and commercial HVAC components are more affordable than ever because of the increased demand of production.

Having a specialized consultation with a reputable commercial HVAC company can help you determine what HVAC components you have are the least efficient and need to be upgraded. A commercial HVAC specialist will also be able to tell you which appliances will be able to save you the most money depending on the needs of the building. Consumers are now becoming familiar with the idea that paying a bit extra initially to purchase an energy efficient appliance can save thousands of dollars in energy costs over the lifetime of the appliance.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.


Thursday, July 15, 2010

Considerations for Water Heater Replacement

There are a few considerations you have to make before deciding to replace your water heater. Before you do, make sure that you check different stores for available heaters. Compare their features and make sure that it is the right one for you. Before you do, check out these tips to know if your heater needs to be replaced:

1. How old is the devices? Most gas water heaters have a life span of eight to twelve years. The electric heaters on the other hand can last from ten to fifteen years. If you have been using your heaters for this long, then it is probably more cost efficient to replace them than to just repair them. Although this still depends on your budget.

2. Kid you are no longer getting a clear water when you turn the faucet on. If it is rustic or tinted, then it is probably time to replace it.

3. If you are not getting the same hot water as you used to, then you probably need a new heater or to at least have it checked.

4. If water is accumulating around the heater, then it may be leaking. Moisture around the base of the heater is also an indicator of a leak. If this is the case, consider replacing your water heater.

5. Another best indicator is when your heater does not produce any hot water anymore. In order to find the right replacement, consider a few factors as well. First is your need for hot water. How much hot water do you need daily? Once you figure it out, you will have an idea of the right heater for your needs.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.


Tuesday, July 13, 2010

The Right Time to Replace Your Water Heater

No matter how careful we are with our things, there comes a time when we need to replace them. The question is when. It is essential that we know to replace them or what characteristics to check to know when replacement is needed. There are also instances when you need to check the device or the item closely. In most cases, close monitoring is the only key to know when it is time to replace the device just like the water heater.

There is no definite time to tell you when it is time to replace your water heater. This is why you need to check it regularly. There are signs that you need to replace the parts of the heater. Various replaceable parts will show indication that they need to be replaced. The leaking in the pressure valve will mean that you need to repair or replace it when repair is no longer possible.

You also have to check any leakage or malfunction in other parts of the heater. In most cases, you will not need to replace the heater, just repair or replace the water heater parts. However, if the heater is old and there are leaks and damages on certain parts, consider replacing it.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.


Sunday, July 11, 2010

Why Should You Replace Your Water Heater?

Replacing the water heater system may also become an option for you. You have several decisions that need to be made before you replace the system. Tankless water heaters have become more popular over the years and you may be tempted to buy one as a replacement for your current heater. Now here is something for you to consider. One of the drawbacks of these kinds of systems does include heating performance. However the benefits may outweigh the drawbacks. A system of this sort is often cheaper than a traditional heater and last longer. They are also more energy efficient which can cut down on your electricity bills and heating bills.

These also tend to last a lot longer than regular water heaters. So if your water heater is acting on the fritz, then it may be time to replace it with a new one. Taking the time to research the type of water heater replacement can be a cost saving measure as well as giving you an option when it comes time to replace the heater in question. If the repairs are not worth the time, then the heater should be replaced. Only a qualified plumber should make any type of repair or replacement of water heaters and will be able to help you with the selection of one.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.


Friday, July 9, 2010

Need a New Water Heater?

This may sound like a silly question but it is noted that it should be asked. There are several reasons why it may be time for your water heater to disappear and one of them is indeed age. The older a heater gets, the less useful that it is and most honestly only last about 10 years or so. This can also depend on the type of maintenance that you do with your water heater and your plumber can give you advice on when to replace it.

There are many different reasons that you would need a water heater plumber for your water heater and repair is just one of the reasons you would need to call a plumber like this for. Repairs can be needed for many different reasons such as thermostats malfunctioning or sediment deposits are just two of the reasons that your heater may need repair. With so many different needs for repair, it is wise to call a professional and let them handle the repair on your current water heater. One thing to ask would be how long the system will last after the repair is made.

This knowledge is crucial in order to ascertain whether or not you will need to get either a new water heater or a new water heating system for your home or business. If not, then the system can be repaired. However the cost involved may make you want to think about replacing your water heater, especially if it is more than 10 years old. If proper maintenance is not performed then your heater will not only be unable to heat water properly but will also cause plumbing damage that will cost a lot to repair.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.


Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Common Water Heater Problems

2) Water that is too hot or too cold. This is usually caused by a faulty temperature pressure relief valve. This valve is supposed to shut off the water heater's heating element once the water reaches a certain pressure. If this valve is faulty, it can be dangerous because of the scolding hot water the unit could produce, plus the fact that the unit could burst due to built up pressure. Make sure to call a licensed repairman to inspect your unit.

3) Pilot light. If the pilot light keeps going out on your gas water heater, the problem is most likely with the orifice. Clear it from any dirt or debris. The problem could also be with the thermocouple. If this is the case, it will not cost too much to replace it. If you are handy, you could even do it yourself.

4) Water not hot enough. If the hot water being produced is not hot enough or not hot at all, the problem is most likely with the heating element. If this is the case, buying a new one is probably the best option because the water heater repair will be expensive.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.


Monday, July 5, 2010

Repairing Your Water Heater

Not many of us know a whole lot about water heaters or water heater repair. However, it is something that every homeowner has to deal with at some time or another because no water heating unit lasts forever. Determining whether or not you should repair your water heater or buy a new one depends solely on what is wrong with it in the first place. Below is a list of problems and what the best solution is for each.

1) Leaks. Almost always, leaks can be fixed very easily. The leak will usually come from one of three places - the drain valve, the pipes or the tank. The drain valve is the easiest fix. You can simply tighten it and in most cases the leak will stop. If the leak is coming from the pipes, inspect the fittings and tighten each one. If the leak persists, the leak is most likely being caused by a hole or crack in one of the pipes due to corrosion. This is a relatively easy fix and is worth it to do because of the relatively small cost, even if you have to hire a professional. Lastly, if the leak is coming from the tank, the tank most likely needs to be replaced. Generally speaking, purchasing a new one is most likely the best fix here.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.


Saturday, July 3, 2010

Installing a Water Heater

Before anything else, the homeowner should turn off the utilities needed to run the water heater. Water, gas or electricity should all be turned off to prevent any accidents. The replacement water heater usually needs two or more people to do since these machines are on the heavy side. It is important to clean the spot of the old one to ensure that there are no wet areas, dust or other corrosives. Align the building's existing plumbing unto the new unit and try to make sure that the unit is level. It is now time to install the pressure relief valve as well as any other fitting which may have come with the new unit.

The use of Teflon on the fittings, pipe connections or valves is a good idea. Electrically powered or gas powered water heaters units may have different fittings to accommodate the difference of the power source.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.


Thursday, July 1, 2010

Water Heater Replacement

A water heater is a great addition to a home because it can be very helpful for the homeowners. The primary purpose of such a device is to warm or heat up water for the use of bathing or cleaning up. This device is usually installed in bathrooms or any other water source for homes or establishments where it may be deemed necessary. There are a lot of uses for hot or warm water, most of which are sometimes taken for granted when one is used to the device. When it breaks down, the importance of maintenance and upkeep comes to light, a little too late.

Choosing the Next One

Following the same fuel type as your old one makes sense since there will be little adjustment for the new device. If one is so inclined to change the fuel source of the new device them make sure you are aware of the implications and costs of doing so before even buying the new fixture.

The Connections

It is always a good idea to check the source for the water heater before buying it. Double check the sizes of the pipes to make sure they are in accordance to the openings in the new one. It is not actually difficult to make a new connection if the pipes of the machine do not fit the ones of the source but the integrity of the connection may be compromised with the addition of another pipe that facilitates the correction. If in case, the tubes from the water source were connected to the machine without the use of an inlet pipe or a union connector then the installation may require the addition of these. The temperature and pressure relief valve is usually placed at the connections from the structures plumbing.

Serving the communities of Port Jefferson, Rocky Point, Miller Place, Shoreham, East Shoreham, East Setauket, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Wading River, Center Reach, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Seldon, Coram, North Port, East North Port, Commack, Smithtown, Hauppauge, Suffolk County, New York, Long Island, Babylon, Islip, East Islip, Nesconset, Huntington, Dix Hills, Massapequa, Seaford, Plainview, Woodbury, Hicksville, East Meadow, Holtzville, Holbrook, Medford & Patchogue.