Cleaning a condensing unit can be an important part of maintaining the longevity of your condensing unit. Should you use a pressure washer or liquid cleaner though? The short answer is NO! Do not use a power washer. You may damage fins or other parts of the condensing unit. Use a garden hose and spray into the coil to remove all the dust and other stuff that gets onto the coil over the season. As for liquid cleaners, most of them contain corrosive agents and you don’t want to damage the coil or any other parts of the unit with which it comes in contact.
If you’re thinking about cleaning a condensing unit, a certified AC repair contractor will have specialized cleaners in cases where the coil needs to be thoroughly cleaned.
We recommend a smart thermostat when your home comfort system has both an AC and Furnace unit. In addition to improved comfort settings, many smart thermostats are able to alert you of troubles like “Too Hot” or “Too Cold” warnings – some can even report directly to your phone!
If it’s battery-operated, check the batteries and replace them as necessary. Otherwise, if you have a problem, call one of our experts at ProSolutions.
ProSolutions Inc. suggests Ameristar Air Conditioning brand for a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution.
Experts like ProSolutions will tell you that it’s best to have at least two-thirds of your vents left open for best operation of your AC system. It is far harder to cool down a house versus keeping it at a constant temperature.
Air circulation issues in your home? If you are experiencing this, check the vents in those warmer rooms. Vents bringing hot or cool air into the house winter/summer accumulate dust, pet dander, whatever, and should be vacuumed on a regular basis to ensure good air flow. At the same time make sure that your return air vents are not blocked by furniture or other items pushed up against them.
The AC unit suction line needs protection from outside air otherwise condensation will occur with water dripping on the floor or ground. It also means that refrigerant gas can warm up before it reaches the compressor. Make sure the line is covered with insulation to protect it and maximize the efficiency of your AC unit.
ProSolutions Inc. suggests Ameristar Air Conditioning brand as the perfect solution for a refreshing summer.
The size of AC you need will depend on several factors.
For help finding the right size AC for your home, contact a local St. Albert AC contractor. They will help you find the right size and the right unit for your needs. The contractor will complete a load calculation to determine what size AC you need. Factors like the size of your home, the local climate, the number of appliances you have, etc. will be taken into account. Therefore, it’s best to have a local St. Albert AC contractor complete this estimate so that they can base the calculation on the local climate.
Keep in mind, while you can have an AC unit that is too small you can also have a unit that is too big. An AC that is too small will not be able to cool your whole home and a unit that is too big will waste energy. In both scenarios, your utility bill will be more than necessary and you will likely be reducing the lifespan of the air conditioner. When you’re shopping for a new AC, be sure to keep size in mind.
Looking for the best air conditioning unit? ProSolutions Inc. recommends the dependable Ameristar Air Conditioning brand.
You can reduce your AC bill by ensuring that your air conditioner is running as efficiently as possible.
To guarantee your air conditioner is in top working condition, you’ll want to do some AC maintenance before starting up the unit in the summer. Make sure you clean the inside and outside of your central AC unit and change or clean the filters. This will ensure that airflow is not being restricted, causing your AC to have to work harder. Also, consider checking the concrete slab that your AC unit is sitting on. It should be level. Check your condensation line and the insulation on your coolant lines to ensure everything is in good working condition.
To further reduce your AC bill, consider these energy-saving tips:
Proper AC installation is also important. If your air conditioner is not installed properly, this can lead to reduced efficiency and a higher utility bill.
Looking to beat the heat this summer? ProSolutions Inc. recommends the trustworthy Ameristar Air Conditioning brand.
The best way to reduce your energy bill at home is to ensure all of your household appliances are in top working condition. This includes your furnace, hot water heater and air conditioning system. These types of appliances use a lot of energy. Therefore, if they aren’t running as efficiently as possible it can result in a high energy bill.
The best way to guarantee that these appliances are running efficiently is to conduct regular maintenance. If you live in Edmonton or the surrounding area, your plumbing, heating and air conditioning systems should be professionally serviced once per year. Regular maintenance and servicing will ensure these appliances are working effectively and efficiently and can help to reduce your energy bill by up to 30%.
If you have old appliances, you might also consider upgrading them to more energy-efficient models. Installing a new furnace, hot water heater or AC unit can help to drastically reduce your energy bill.
What uses the most electricity (and other forms of energy) in a house is heating and cooling systems, water heating units and other appliances like refrigerators. To reduce the amount of electricity, or energy, being used, ensure that you have energy-efficient appliances installed in your home. The cost of upgrading to a more energy-efficient hot water heater, furnace, AC unit, etc. can be offset with the help of Edmonton’s Home Energy Retrofit Accelerator program. As well, some professional heating and cooling companies in Edmonton, like ProSolutions PHAC, offer extended discounts for installing new, energy-efficient furnaces, water heaters, and more.
As well, regular maintenance can help to keep these home comfort systems running smoothly and efficiently.
5 of the best ways to save energy in your home include:
The most energy-efficient furnace is one that is ENERGY STAR certified and has an efficiency rating of 97% or higher. When you see an ENERGY STAR symbol on your appliance, you can be certain that it has been certified as energy efficient.
When it comes to the type of furnace, gas furnaces are typically the most energy-efficient. Although preferred in some situations, electric and oil furnaces are less efficient. Therefore, gas-powered furnaces are recommended.
The heating professionals at ProSolutions PHAC recommend the following high-efficiency furnaces:
Tankless water heaters are the most energy-efficient hot water systems on the market. In fact, tankless water heaters can be approximately 35% – 80% more efficient than traditional hot water tanks.
Tankless hot water heaters can be powered by electricity or gas. However, gas-powered tankless heaters are more efficient. In addition to being more energy-efficient, tankless water heaters cost less to operate (up to 50% less than traditional hot water tanks) and last longer (up to double the lifetime).
The plumbing professionals at ProSolutions PHAC recommend the following high-efficiency tankless water heater:
Please note: Although tankless water heaters are the most energy-efficient hot water system, they are not for everyone. Our guide to tankless water heaters can help you decide if a tankless heater is the best option for your home.
Need a new heating system and wondering whether it’s better to rent or buy a furnace? Renting a furnace is definitely cheaper initially but is not the right option for every household.
If you rent a furnace, you will pay a monthly fee and the HVAC dealer will be responsible for maintenance and repairs. However, there are some drawbacks. It is likely that over time you will pay at least double what the furnace is worth. And, because you do not own the heating system, it does not add to the value of your home.
If you can afford to buy a new furnace this is the best option. By buying the furnace outright, you won’t pay any interest and may also be able to benefit from manufacturer or government rebates. Owning the furnace will also add to the value of your home.
Can’t decide if a furnace service plan is worth it? Beyond saving you time, money, and the headache of an unexpected furnace breakdown in the dead of winter, here are some of the benefits of a service plan:
Not all plumbing issues require immediate attention. However, there are several common problems that should be addressed as quickly as possible. Issues that count as a plumbing emergency including burst pipes, frozen pipes, clogged toilets, leaky faucets, and no hot water. Although some of these issues can be addressed quickly by the homeowner, others may require the immediate attention of a qualified professional plumber. If you believe you have a plumbing emergency, there are several emergency plumbers in Edmonton that you can contact. When seeking emergency plumbing services, be sure to ask the plumber if you will be paying a premium price for their emergency services. Professional plumbing companies, like ProSolutions Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, will provide upfront pricing and will not charge premium emergency prices.
The best way to reduce your energy bill at home is to ensure all of your household appliances are in top working condition. This includes your furnace, hot water heater and air conditioning system. These types of appliances use a lot of energy. Therefore, if they aren’t running as efficiently as possible it can result in a high energy bill.
The best way to guarantee that these appliances are running efficiently is to conduct regular maintenance. If you live in Edmonton or the surrounding area, your plumbing, heating and air conditioning systems should be professionally serviced once per year. Regular maintenance and servicing will ensure these appliances are working effectively and efficiently and can help to reduce your energy bill by up to 30%.
If you have old appliances, you might also consider upgrading them to more energy-efficient models. Installing a new furnace, hot water heater or AC unit can help to drastically reduce your energy bill.
What uses the most electricity (and other forms of energy) in a house is heating and cooling systems, water heating units and other appliances like refrigerators. To reduce the amount of electricity, or energy, being used, ensure that you have energy-efficient appliances installed in your home. The cost of upgrading to a more energy-efficient hot water heater, furnace, AC unit, etc. can be offset with the help of Edmonton’s Home Energy Retrofit Accelerator program. As well, some professional heating and cooling companies in Edmonton, like ProSolutions PHAC, offer extended discounts for installing new, energy-efficient furnaces, water heaters, and more.
As well, regular maintenance can help to keep these home comfort systems running smoothly and efficiently.
Boilers can last a really long time. In fact, the average lifespan of a boiler is 10 to 15 years. In order to extend the life of your boiler, it’s important to ensure that it is properly maintained and serviced on a regular basis. Even the best boiler will require maintenance and repairs from time to time.
If your boiler is giving you signs that it needs attention, make sure to hire a professional heating company to do the job. This will ensure your boiler lasts as long as possible. Some signs to keep an eye out for include: low water pressure, no heat coming from your radiators, banging noises, a pilot light that keeps going out or isn’t blue.
It shouldn’t take a professional heating company in Edmonton too long to install a new boiler. For a simple boiler replacement, you can expect a trained professional to take between 4 and 6 hours.
Your new boiler will be up and running in less than a day. However, installing a brand new boiler, where one didn’t exist before, is a bigger job. Upgrading your current boiler to a different system or moving your boiler to a new location can also be more involved and will take a bit longer.
Because these jobs are more complex, they may take a team of professionals a few days to complete. Typically, you can expect to wait no more than a week for your new system to be up and ready!
Boiler heat is not expensive on a day-to-day basis. In fact, you may save in energy costs when heating your house with a boiler compared to a furnace.
However, installing a boiler is typically more complex and therefore more expensive than installing a furnace. On average, a boiler will cost anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000 to purchase and install (depending on the brand and the system’s energy efficiency rating). Plus, your home will need extensive modifications to make a boiler system work – radiant heating must be implemented.
On the other hand, the average cost to buy and install a furnace in Edmonton is only $5,500 to $10,000+. With boiler heat, you will save in the long run but will have to pay more upfront.
The difference between a boiler and a hot water tank has to do with the way in which each uses the hot water that it produces.
Both boilers and hot water tanks take cool water, heat this water and then distribute it throughout a home via pipes. However, the water that is heated by a boiler is distributed throughout the home via pipes, radiators and radiant in-floor systems in order to heat it – to keep the rooms, floors, garage, etc. comfortable and warm.
On the other hand, a hot water tank heats water that is used for cooking and cleaning purposes – for showers, dishwashing, laundry, etc.
A residential boiler system is used to heat a household. The boiler heats water inside a tank and distributes this hot water (or, in some cases, steam) via pipes, radiators and/or a radiant in-floor system in order to heat the inside of a home. Once the water has cooled and can no longer provide heat, it is sent back to the boiler to be reheated.
Although the name might suggest otherwise, modern-day boilers do not boil water. The term boiler comes from the fact that, in the past, steam boilers were common. Steam boilers boil water in order to create steam for heating purposes. Today, however, most boilers are water heating systems that distribute hot water, rather than steam, in order to heat a house.
Need a new heating system and wondering whether it’s better to rent or buy a furnace? Renting a furnace is definitely cheaper initially but is not the right option for every household.
If you rent a furnace, you will pay a monthly fee and the HVAC dealer will be responsible for maintenance and repairs. However, there are some drawbacks. It is likely that over time you will pay at least double what the furnace is worth. And, because you do not own the heating system, it does not add to the value of your home.
If you can afford to buy a new furnace this is the best option. By buying the furnace outright, you won’t pay any interest and may also be able to benefit from manufacturer or government rebates. Owning the furnace will also add to the value of your home.
A gas furnace is the most efficient way to heat your home and by far the most popular in Alberta. Gas furnaces are reliable, cost-effective, and efficient and manufacturers are continually improving their efficiency and quietness and introducing new features.
Amana is one of the best brands of furnaces, especially for homes in Alberta. Amana is one of the few furnace brands with a stainless steel heat exchanger and the only with a lifetime replacement warranty. This makes an Amana furnace a reliable option for any household.
We also think that Trane Furnaces are an exceptional option in Alberta. They have been very reliable over the past few years and look to continue that manufacturing trend.
If you’re wondering what is the best brand of furnace for your home, talk to a local heating services provider. Their expertise can help you make the best choice for your climate.
The average cost to install a furnace in Edmonton is between $5,500 and $10,000+. The cost depends on various factors, including brand, size, company, etc. However, with the average cost of a new furnace being around $3,000 – $6,000, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 in total, including installation.
Check out our Current Offers to see how you can save with deals and rebates.
In Alberta, a heat-loss calculation must be done when installing a new furnace. When hiring a professional to do your install, this will be factored into the price.
Hiring a professional heating company to install your furnace is essential. It may cost more initially but will save you money, time, and headache in the long run.
Unless you’re a trained professional, it’s not a good idea to attempt to install your own furnace. Yes, you’ll save money now but the issues and damage that can occur from an improperly installed furnace can result in costs far beyond what you would have spent to hire professionals to do your install.
Hiring a professional heating services provider in your area to install, maintain, and repair your furnace is always the best way to go. This will save you time and money in the long run. In addition to properly installing and calibrating your new furnace system, technicians are trained to help you find the perfect size furnace for your home. This will ensure that your furnace is not too big or too small. This, as well as the additional services provided by professional technicians during installation, including the calibration of your thermostat, will result in a highly-efficient furnace that will save you money in energy costs.
There are several steps involved in installing your new furnace. These steps will vary depending on the furnace you choose, your home’s existing furnace system, and any changes you want.
At this point, it’s important to check your work, make sure everything is connected properly and there are no gas leaks.
Please note: these steps are extremely simplified and meant to provide an overview to understand the professional furnace installation process better. It is highly recommended that you have your furnace professionally installed in order to avoid dangerous problems and issues with your new furnace. Having to get furnace repairs on your new unit would not be covered under warranty without professional installation.
Hiring a professional will be more costly initially but will save you money in the long run.
It typically takes between four and eight hours to install a new furnace in Edmonton or the surrounding areas. However, install time can vary depending on factors like the age of your home and the condition of its wiring and ductwork.
No need to worry about spending a long night freezing inside your home during an Albertan winter. A professional furnace company can have your new furnace up and running within a day to keep you and your family comfortable and warm!
When getting free furnace installation quotes in Edmonton area, make sure to ask how long the installation is expected to take. Local furnace companies will have a good idea based on their experience in your area.
The size of the furnace you’ll need largely depends on the size of your home. Size recommendations based on square footage are:
1,200 square foot home: 36,000 to 72,000 BTUs
1,500 square foot home: 45,000 to 90,000 BTUs
1,800 square foot home: 54,000 to 108,000 BTUs
2,100 square foot home: 63,000 to 126,000 BTUs
2,400 square foot home: 72,000 to 144,000 BTUs
Other factors that affect the size of the new furnace installation you’ll need include:
For more info om furnace shopping, read our full article on “how to choose the right furnace“.
A modern, high-efficiency furnace should last approximately ten to fifteen years. This is based on the average lifespan of a furnace so it is possible that yours may last longer or need to be replaced sooner.
The key to a long-lasting furnace is regular maintenance and upkeep. It’s important to stay on top of minor furnace repairs, tune-ups, and maintenance. Scheduling regular maintenance with a professionals heating company will help to maximize the life of your furnace and minimize the need for major repairs. This is especially true in Alberta, where cold winters can take a toll on your furnace.
A local furnace company will know how to care for your furnace in this climate and what to look for if it is having issues.
The key to knowing when to replace your furnace versus when to repair it depends on its age and how many more years you can expect it to last. But, rather than humming and hawing about these questions, there is a simple equation you can use to help you decide.
This equation compares the cost of repairing the unit to the cost of replacing it. Here’s the calculation you can use to decide when you should replace your furnace:
“Cost of Repair” x “Age of Unit (in years)” > “Cost to Replace Furnace” = Replace Furnace
Multiply the cost of the furnace repair by the age of the unit. If this number is less than the cost of replacing your gas furnace, then opt for the repairs. If this number is larger, it will be cheaper to replace the furnace.
If you’re living in Alberta, in the St. Albert/Edmonton area, and you’re still unsure, talk to a local heating company. With their expert knowledge about your particular climate, they will be able to help you make a decision as to whether you should repair or replace your furnace.
Furnace filter replacement is important if you’re using your AC. Maybe not as frequently as in winter when monthly changes are best. But check the filter regularly to see that it is functioning properly, and replace when necessary.
If you run your AC during the spring or fall, you will want to check your filter more often since this time of year has more allergens and particulates in the air that can cause you to become sick.
Furnace filters should be changed every three months. Regularly changing your filter will ensure the air quality inside your home, as well as the safety and comfort of you and your family. In addition, regularly changing the filter will ensure your furnace doesn’t overheat, resulting in damage or an unexpected breakdown.
Preventative maintenance like this extends the longevity of your furnace and helps reduce maintenance and repair fees.
Not sure how long ago your filter was changed or if it needs to be replaced? A heating services provider can take a look at your filter and let you know if it should be replaced with a new one.
Can’t decide if a furnace service plan is worth it? Beyond saving you time, money, and the headache of an unexpected furnace breakdown in the dead of winter, here are some of the benefits of a service plan:
If there is a crack in the heat exchanger of your heating system, your furnace could be leaking carbon monoxide (CO). This can be dangerous for you and your family, as CO can cause serious bodily harm and even result in death. Carbon monoxide is a colourless, tasteless, and odourless gas and therefore is not easily detected, especially in small quantities.
Your furnace may be leaking carbon monoxide if you or other members of your household are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
If you think your furnace is leaking carbon monoxide contact a local heating company right away. If you think you are experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, please seek professional medical advice immediately.
If you live in Edmonton or other northern areas your furnace should be professionally serviced once per year. This will prevent you from having to get expensive furnace repairs or replacements and will extend the life of your furnace. In fact, regularly scheduled inspections and service on your heating system can help identify potential breakdowns and reduce emergency repairs by as much as 95%! Regular service can also lower utility bills by up to 30%.
Harsh winters in Edmonton, and other Albertan cities, can take a toll on heating systems. A company that provides furnace service and maintenance will ensure that everything is in top working condition so that you can rely on your furnace all through the winter without having to worry about issues or failures.
Here’s how much furnace tune-ups & servicing costs in Edmonton.
The cost of servicing your furnace can cost between $150 – $500 per visit, depending on what is being done and the type of furnace you have in your home.
On average, heating and plumbing companies charge a rate of $150 – $300 per hour. However, if you have a membership to a Service Partner Plan, or another annual plan, you can reduce your cost.
By signing up for a plan with a local furnace company in Edmonton like ProSolutions Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, and scheduling regular servicing, you can save money on the services provided and in energy costs.
As well as the cost savings, regular servicing will help to prevent your system from encountering any unexpected problems – especially important during the long winter months.
Check our Furnace Offers & Coupons section for deals on Furnace Tune-ups & Servicing. We always offer competitive pricing too.
A professional technician will have an extensive checklist to go through when providing furnace tune-up service and maintenance. The items on this list cover every part of your furnace in order to ensure that it is in top working condition.
Some of the most important items included in this furnace service checklist are:
A checklist that includes no less than 22 points of inspection should be used during your furnace service.
A modern, high-efficiency furnace should last approximately ten to fifteen years. This is based on the average lifespan of a furnace so it is possible that yours may last longer or need to be replaced sooner.
The key to a long-lasting furnace is regular maintenance and upkeep. It’s important to stay on top of minor furnace repairs, tune-ups, and maintenance. Scheduling regular maintenance with a professionals heating company will help to maximize the life of your furnace and minimize the need for major repairs. This is especially true in Alberta, where cold winters can take a toll on your furnace.
A local furnace company will know how to care for your furnace in this climate and what to look for if it is having issues.
A furnace could stop working for a variety of reasons. Most commonly, furnaces stop working because of:
Winters in Edmonton, Alberta can be cold! Avoid layers upon layers of sweaters – if you’re experiencing any of the following issues, get your furnace repaired right away:
If you are in Edmonton and surrounding area, contact ProSolutions Inc, we’d love to be your HVAC company of choice. If you’re outside of our service area, contact a local furnace company with top ratings on Google.
Furnace on the fritz? Here are a few things to check if your furnace isn’t working:
If one of these is not the issue, you may need a professional to help you uncover and solve the problem. Don’t wait until it’s too late – a broken furnace, especially during an Edmonton winter, can result in broken and burst water pipes! Find a local furnace repair contractor to fix the problem as soon as possible.
It can cost anywhere from $150 to $1,500 to repair a furnace, depending on the issue. If you’re in the Edmonton area, the average cost to repair a furnace will be around $700.
Make sure the furnace company you choose to do your repairs is upfront with their pricing. They should be able to provide you with the price ahead of time so that you know exactly what to expect before moving ahead!
Want to save some money? Often professional heating and plumbing companies will offer a Service Partner Plan – we call ours the ProComfort Plan. This type of plan will help you keep on top of the regular maintenance your furnace needs for a fraction of the price. Regular furnace tune-ups and maintenance will help prevent any major issues, saving you from repairs and replacements that could cost you thousands of dollars! With plans like this, there is often a discount for members, meaning you’ll save money with every visit.
The key to knowing when to replace your furnace versus when to repair it depends on its age and how many more years you can expect it to last. But, rather than humming and hawing about these questions, there is a simple equation you can use to help you decide.
This equation compares the cost of repairing the unit to the cost of replacing it. Here’s the calculation you can use to decide when you should replace your furnace:
“Cost of Repair” x “Age of Unit (in years)” > “Cost to Replace Furnace” = Replace Furnace
Multiply the cost of the furnace repair by the age of the unit. If this number is less than the cost of replacing your gas furnace, then opt for the repairs. If this number is larger, it will be cheaper to replace the furnace.
If you’re living in Alberta, in the St. Albert/Edmonton area, and you’re still unsure, talk to a local heating company. With their expert knowledge about your particular climate, they will be able to help you make a decision as to whether you should repair or replace your furnace.
If humidity is too low in your house, this can lead to many different issues. Some of the most common problems created by low humidity in Edmonton homes include:
In addition to these physical effects, low humidity can damage hardwood flooring, wood furniture, paint, and wallpaper (causing it to crack/peel). Low humidity also makes it more challenging to maintain proper air temperature. Dry air is more difficult to heat. Therefore, your furnace will be forced to work harder to keep your home warm. As a result, you’ll have higher heating bills, and your furnace may experience more frequent repairs and a shorter lifespan
In Edmonton, winter home humidity should be between 35% and 45%. In general, indoor humidity levels below 30% are too dry, and anything above 50% is too damp.
If the indoor humidity level in your home is too high in the winter, you may see condensation accumulating on the inside of your windows – or even your walls. If your home has single-pane windows or insufficient insulation, this will make matters worse.
As a result of high humidity, mould, mildew, and rotting can occur. Therefore, it is vital to maintain appropriate humidity levels in your home, as improper humidity can lead to an uncomfortable, unhealthy, and damaged home.
There are numerous benefits of professional installation of a whole home humidifier system.
First and foremost, a professional humidifier installation company, like ProSolutions Inc., will help you choose the correct size humidifier for your Edmonton home. Choosing the right size humidifier is essential. That’s because a humidifier that is too small will provide no real benefit. On the other hand, if a humidifier is too big, it will waste energy for no reason!
In addition to helping you pick the proper size humidifier for your home, a professional humidifier installation company will guarantee that your system is installed and calibrated properly for the local conditions. This will ensure maximum home comfort and optimal performance. As a result, your humidifier will run efficiently and effectively for years to come.
When it comes to choosing a humidifier, Edmonton homeowners have two options:
Portable units are the cheapest option – they are easy to find and use and require no installation. However, most portable humidifiers can only maintain proper humidity levels in one or two rooms. As well, portable units require a lot of maintenance. This includes regularly filling the water reservoir and consistently cleaning the unit to maintain optimal air quality and minimize bacteria and viruses.
A whole-home system, although more expensive up front, requires much less maintenance and can maintain optimal humidity levels throughout your home.
For Edmonton homeowners, whole-home humidifiers (also known as furnace humidifiers or in-duct humidifiers) are the best option.
Whole home systems can be installed in residential homes with forced-air heating systems. These humidifiers use the air ducts and plumbing system to deliver consistent humidity levels. Best of all, once installed, a whole home humidifier will provide reliable home comfort without needing to lift a finger!
Some of the best whole-home humidifier brands in Edmonton include:
You’ll need to increase the humidity level if you have low relative humidity in your Edmonton home. The best way to fix low relative humidity is to install a whole-home humidifier. This specialized home comfort appliance will significantly improve your indoor air quality and allow you to live more comfortably.
There are many benefits to maintaining good humidity levels in your Edmonton home with a whole home humidifier system. These benefits include:
Wondering how to check the humidity level in your Edmonton home? Good news – it’s simple to do! You’ll just need one of two things:
If you want to check the humidity level in your home by hand, you’ll need a tool called a hygrometer. This tool can be purchased at your local hardware store for about $10 to $20.
To use a hygrometer to check the humidity in your home, simply place it in the room you want to check. It’s important to note that humidity levels won’t be consistent throughout your home – some rooms may have more or less humidity than others. Therefore, placing the hygrometer in a room you are concerned about or where your family spends most of their time is best. Also, ensure you don’t put your hygrometer near a heat source. For example, a radiator, heat register, chimney, etc.
Once the hygrometer is placed, wait up to two hours (it can take a couple of hours for the tool to get an accurate and stable reading).
If you have a humidifier in your home, it will have a built-in hygrometer. Therefore, you won’t need to buy a handheld tool. Instead, this internal hygrometer will automatically monitor and adjust the humidity level in your home, keeping your Edmonton home comfortable all year round.
Maintaining the proper humidity level in your Edmonton home is essential! If the humidity level in your house is too low or too high, your home will be uncomfortable – and you could run into a host of health issues.
Proper indoor humidity is critical in the winter, as Edmonton gets extremely cold, forcing residents to stay inside the majority of the day.
If your skin feels dry and it’s more difficult to breathe than usual, you may have improper humidity levels in your Edmonton home. In this case, the humidity level is likely too low. Thus, you and your family are breathing stale, dry air instead of crisp, refreshing air.
Luckily, there are several ways to fix the low humidity level in your Edmonton home.
The strongest drain cleaner is an acidic drain cleaner. When you have a clogged drain, it’s always best to try snaking or plunging it first. This method will ensure you do not damage your pipes. If that fails, give a drain cleaning product a try (at your own risk).
Different types of drain cleaners have different uses. When you have a tough clog – hair, food, grease, soap scum, paper – an acidic drain cleaning product will be your best bet.
Keep in mind that you should never use chemical drain cleaning products in a completely clogged drain. These types of clogs require the product to sit in the drain for an extended period and this can cause damage to your pipes.
If a drain cleaning product doesn’t cut it, plumbing contractors in Edmonton can help. Contact a local, experienced plumber to have your drains unclogged and working like new in no time.
If your drain is clogged with hair, baking soda can dissolve hair in a drain.
To try this safe and easy method at home – first, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain. Then pour a cup of vinegar (white vinegar) down. Allow the mixture to sit for several minutes. Keep an eye out for bubbling in the drain (this is caused by the reaction between the baking soda and vinegar). Once the bubbling stops, wait a few more minutes then pour some boiling water down the drain. Repeat until the clog is cleared. Keep at it, it can take a long time.
With a heavy-duty clog, you might need something more powerful. In this case, try snaking the drain, plunging it or calling a local Edmonton drain cleaning company to get the job done.
Chemical drain cleaners do work, depending on the type of clog you have and how tough it is. Chemical drain cleaners work by creating a chemical reaction in your pipes.
When using chemical drain cleaners, always make sure to choose the right type of cleaner for the job. Also, make sure you know what kind of pipes you have, and how old they are so you can avoid using any chemical drain cleaner that might damage your pipes. Older pipes can become damaged due to the chemical reaction created by chemical drain cleaners. This can lead to bigger issues, like leaking pipes, and the need for plumbing repair services.
To avoid damage, physical methods are always best. Plunging or snaking a drain will ensure that it is not damaged by chemicals. When in doubt, call a drain cleaning plumber for professional advice and assistance.
Drain cleaners can be bad for pipes. This is particularly true for chemically costic drain cleaners.
Chemical drain cleaners create a chemical reaction in your pipes. This results in heat being emitted. It is this heat that can be bad for your pipes. Older and plastic pipes, especially, can be damaged by chemical drain cleaners. If you have plastic pipes and you use a chemical cleaner, the heat may melt the plastic. This can result in leaks and further damage. As well, drain cleaners are not good for septic systems.
To avoid damaging your pipes, try another method of unclogging your pipe first. If you’re unsure, call a professional drain cleaning plumber services provider to help you get the job done right.
The best homemade drain cleaner is baking soda. Baking soda can be used along with vinegar or lemon juice to create a strong and effective homemade drain cleaner that is safe for your home’s pipes.
To unclog your drains using baking soda and vinegar or lemon juice, pour one cup of baking soda then one cup of white vinegar or lemon juice down the drain. Allow this to sit for an hour then pour down a few cups of boiling water. If this doesn’t work the first time, repeat as necessary.
If your homemade drain cleaner isn’t working, call an experienced provider of drain cleaning plumbers near you to take a look. A professional plumber will be able to determine what is causing the clogged drain and how to fix it.
The difference between a boiler and a hot water tank has to do with the way in which each uses the hot water that it produces.
Both boilers and hot water tanks take cool water, heat this water and then distribute it throughout a home via pipes. However, the water that is heated by a boiler is distributed throughout the home via pipes, radiators and radiant in-floor systems in order to heat it – to keep the rooms, floors, garage, etc. comfortable and warm.
On the other hand, a hot water tank heats water that is used for cooking and cleaning purposes – for showers, dishwashing, laundry, etc.
There are several common signs that your hot water tank may stop working. Consider calling a water heater services company to take a look at and repair or replace your unit if:
Unfortunately, hot water heaters don’t last forever. On average, a traditional hot water heater will last about 8 to 10 years in Leduc. However, as this is based on the average lifespan, your tank may last only 7 years or it could last 11 or more with proper care and maintenance. The lifespan of a unit will depend on several factors including location, the type of water tank, water quality, the quality of installation, and how it is maintained. You can ensure that your hot water heater lasts as long as possible by scheduling regular hot water tank maintenance to ensure that it is in top working condition. Leduc plumbing services companies can help by providing Service Partner Plans and scheduled yearly water heater maintenance.
Tankless water heaters are the most energy-efficient hot water systems on the market. In fact, tankless water heaters can be approximately 35% – 80% more efficient than traditional hot water tanks.
Tankless hot water heaters can be powered by electricity or gas. However, gas-powered tankless heaters are more efficient. In addition to being more energy-efficient, tankless water heaters cost less to operate (up to 50% less than traditional hot water tanks) and last longer (up to double the lifetime).
The plumbing professionals at ProSolutions PHAC recommend the following high-efficiency tankless water heater:
Please note: Although tankless water heaters are the most energy-efficient hot water system, they are not for everyone. Our guide to tankless water heaters can help you decide if a tankless heater is the best option for your home.
The amount of time it takes to get hot water from a new water heater depends on the size and type of hot water heater. A properly and professionally installed gas hot water heater will provide hot water most quickly. An average 40-gallon heater will only take about 30 to 40 minutes to provide heat water, while you can expect hot water from a larger tank (80-gallons) in approximately 60 to 70 minutes. Electric hot water tanks, on the other hand, will take a little longer. For an average 40-gallon electric heater it will take about 60 to 80 minutes and for an 80-gallon tank about 2 hours.
You can’t run out of hot water with tankless water heaters – unless, of course, the power supply is off or goes out. However, a tankless water heater can have trouble keeping up with demand if too many things require hot water all at once. For example, if several appliances are operating at the same time (the dishwasher, the laundry machine, etc.), and you go to have a hot shower, you may find that your tankless unit isn’t capable of providing enough hot water. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that you install a tankless water heater that has a large enough capacity to handle your demand for hot water.
In Edmonton, you can expect to pay approximately $3,000 – $7,000 for a new water heater to be installed. This estimate includes the price of a high quality hot water tank, as well as installation. Keep in mind, the cost to have a professional Edmonton plumbing services provider install a water heater in your home will depend on the complexity of the installation, and the hot water tank you choose to purchase. For a simple job in which one hot water tank is being replaced by a new tank of the same type, the labour costs will not be too high. However, if you are having a hot water heater installed in a new location or in a home that does not currently have one, you will be looking at a more difficult job and therefore a higher price.
In Edmonton, you can expect to pay approximately $3,000 – $7,000 for a new water heater to be installed. This estimate includes the price of a high quality hot water tank, as well as installation. Keep in mind, the cost to have a professional Edmonton plumbing services provider install a water heater in your home will depend on the complexity of the installation, and the hot water tank you choose to purchase. For a simple job in which one hot water tank is being replaced by a new tank of the same type, the labour costs will not be too high. However, if you are having a hot water heater installed in a new location or in a home that does not currently have one, you will be looking at a more difficult job and therefore a higher price.
There are several reasons a faucet may drip or leak. Most commonly, a defective part will cause a faucet to drip. However, more serious problems can also be indicated by a dripping faucet. For example, if your plumbing is not properly maintained and regularly cleaned, corrosion can result, leading to leaky pipes and a leaking faucet. In addition, extreme changes in temperature, a shifting foundation, high water pressure, and intrusive tree roots can also cause pipes to leak. In order to fix a dripping faucet, you’ll first need to find the location of the leak. In some cases, the leak may be difficult to find. If the cause of your dripping faucet is not obvious, having a qualified plumber detect and repair the leak is vital, as it could result in costly damage to your home if left unrepaired. If you notice a leak, make sure to contact an emergency plumber in Edmonton as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Not all plumbing issues require immediate attention. However, there are several common problems that should be addressed as quickly as possible. Issues that count as a plumbing emergency including burst pipes, frozen pipes, clogged toilets, leaky faucets, and no hot water. Although some of these issues can be addressed quickly by the homeowner, others may require the immediate attention of a qualified professional plumber. If you believe you have a plumbing emergency, there are several emergency plumbers in Edmonton that you can contact. When seeking emergency plumbing services, be sure to ask the plumber if you will be paying a premium price for their emergency services. Professional plumbing companies, like ProSolutions Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, will provide upfront pricing and will not charge premium emergency prices.
A sump pump is an appliance that is used to help prevent flooding in your home. If you’re in a flood zone and your basement floods regularly, if you have older plumbing, or if you just want to take a proactive step against flooding, then a sump pump installation is right for you. Sump pumps help prevent flood damage in your home by detecting increasing water pressure or water levels. If high levels are detected, the sump pump will pump water out of your basement and away from your home to a better location like a storm drain or a well.
On average, sump pumps last about 10 years. As with any other appliance in your home, a sump pump can become damaged and may need to be replaced as it gets older or experiences more use. Unfortunately, unlike other appliances, it isn’t always obvious when a sump pump has reached the end of its life. In fact, this isn’t usually detected until the sump pump should be working but fails to do its job. In order to prevent your sump pump from failing when you need it most, it’s important to contact a professional plumber nearby to provide sump pump services if you notice that there is no water in the sump pit when your pump is running, if you see rust, if there is a musty or dank odour in your basement, if you hear strange noises coming from your sump pump or if the pump is failing to run automatically.
Sump pumps need annual maintenance. Like other appliances in your home, a sump pump should be maintained and serviced on a yearly basis. In some cases, more maintenance may be required. It is important to stay on top of sump pump maintenance in order to prevent a disaster. Oftentimes, homeowners will not notice that their sump pump isn’t working until it’s too late. Suddenly, when the sump pump is required, the homeowner discovers that it isn’t working as it should be. Many professional plumbing contractors provide Service Partner Plans that can help you properly maintain your appliances. An annual maintenance plan like this will ensure that your sump pump is always in top working condition.
Tankless water heaters have many benefits over traditional hot water tanks however, the truth is, a tankless water heater is not worth it for everyone. Any professional plumbing company can tell you that a tankless hot water system is best for homes that don’t often use large amounts of hot water. For example, if you often take baths in a large tub, or you have numerous high-volume shower heads in your shower, then an on-demand hot water system may not be worth it. On the other hand, a tankless hot water heater will save you money over time, you won’t run out of hot water and it will last much longer than a traditional hot water tank. Consult your local tankless water heater plumber and they can help you decide whether a tankless water heater is right for you.
It can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $5,500 to get a water softener installed in your home. This estimate includes the price of the unit as well as installation. The total cost will range depending on several factors including the type of water softener you choose, the softener’s capacity, the size of your home and the difficulty of the installation. In order to avoid unnecessary costs down the road, it’s important that you have your water softener installed by an expert. Water softener installation in Edmonton is ideal, especially if you are constantly having to deal with soap scum and limescale buildup or you want to increase the longevity of your household appliances that use water.
Installing a water softener doesn’t take too long when a professional technician is completing the installation. As long as no unforeseen setbacks or problems are encountered, a professional plumber should be able to install a water softener in about two to three hours. Choosing to have your water softener installed by an expert is a good idea, as this will ensure that it is installed and working properly, helping to prevent problems down the road. In addition, water softeners are available in various makes and models and an experienced technician can help you find the best system for your home and your family.
Water softeners last about 10 to 20 years. The lifetime of your water softener will depend on several factors including the type of water softener and brand you buy, as well as the installation. Proper installation is important to ensure maximum effectiveness and lifetime. One of the many benefits of having a water softener installed in your home is that it will extend the lifetime of your other plumbing appliances. Hard water is tough on appliances like water heaters and laundry machines, as the minerals in the water wear away pipe sealants over time causing leaks and clogs. However, a water softener will remove excessive mineral content from all of the water, helping to protect your plumbing and appliances from unnecessary damage.
