Dive into our comprehensive FAQ guide to discover solutions to frequently asked questions regarding residential heating, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical and renovations. Find responses to your inquiries and acquire valuable insights into the maintenance and troubleshooting of these essential systems for a comfortable home.
Do I Need a Professional for All Heating Repairs?
It’s tempting to take a do-it-yourself approach to heater repairs, but there are only a few things you can do safely on your own. You should change the air filter in your air conditioning and heating system at least once every three months, and sometimes as often as once a month. If you’re having trouble with efficiency or odors, try investing in annual heater maintenance.
You also should keep the area around your heating equipment clear. This includes landscaping around exterior units, keeping your utility room clean for good airflow and arranging your furniture and other belongings so that your vents aren’t blocked. Addressing airflow issues often can help fix problems with poor comfort and uneven heating, For all other Issues, you should turn to a qualified HVAC technician.
When Should I Replace My AC System?
So how do you know for sure when it is time to replace your existing air conditioning system? Here are some guidelines:
- Your home is not cooling properly. The causes of this common problem can range from an aging system that has simply reached the end of it’s life to a wrong-sized air conditioning condenser unit that never should have been installed at your location in the first place – an all-too-common issue.
- More and more repairs needed. If your system is causing you to call to service more and more frequently, you may have reached the point of diminishing returns. A failing system can waste a great deal of money.
- Energy bills keep going up. A reduction in efficiency is a clear indicator that it’s time for replacement. Current cooling systems have the latest technology and can be much more efficient than systems that may be only a few years old.
- Diminishing air quality. A reduction in air quality is a common sign that your system is no longer working properly.
- Too old. Generally speaking, you can expect 10 or so faithful years of service from your air conditioning system. Beyond that, you’ll save money on efficiency and repairs by scheduling an air conditioning replacement.
Which Water Heater Is Right For Me?
The average American home uses between 80 and 120 gallons of hot water every day for dishes, laundry, and showers or baths. In fact, between 17 and 18 percent of the energy used in your home can be attributed to your water heater. If you’re worried that your aging water heater is failing, or if it’s already forcing you to take cold showers, Cook Home Services can help. Today, there are more choices than ever. In addition to the familiar storage tank water heater, we can explain tankless, solar, and recirculation systems so you’ll be able to choose the water heater that’s right for your needs.
ARE YOU DUE FOR A WATER HEATER INSPECTION?
The best time to deal with a water heater failure is before it happens. A water heater inspection is a simple, cost-effective way to avoid trouble and keep your system in great shape. Inspections should be performed at least annually, but it’s a good idea to schedule a visit whenever you experience:
- Inconsistent heating or limited hot water supply.
- Poor or fluctuating water pressure.
- Loud or unusual noises.
- Unexpectedly high utility bills.
- Smelly or discolored water.
- Visible leaks or signs of corrosion.
Our water testing process can detect bacteria and viruses. Microbial analysis detects the presence of harmful bacteria, viruses and parasites in the water. This testing is crucial to identify pathogens such as .E coli or Giardia that can cause serious illnesses.
Chemical contaminants. Although chemical analysis involves examining the water for heavy metals, pesticides and industrial pollutants, including pre- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – known as PFAS.
Chlorine and other disinfectants. Accurate testing for chlorine and other disinfectants is essential to monitor the effectiveness of water treatment systems. It ensures that appropriate levels of disinfection are maintained to eliminate harmful microorganisms.
Nitrates and nitrites. These substances primarily enter water sources through agricultural runoff, septic systems and industrial discharges. By conducting tests specifically designed to measure nitrate and nitrite concentrations, homeowners can identify potential risks and take appropriate actions to ensure safe drinking water.
pH imbalance. This testing determines the acidity or alkalinity of the water. An imbalanced pH level can affect the taste, appearance and usability of the water, and it may indicate potential issues with the water source or treatment.
Minerals and hardness. This testing assesses the presence of elements like calcium, magnesium and iron. Excessive mineral content can lead to scale buildup in pipes and appliances, while inadequate mineral levels may indicate the need for additional treatment.
What Causes Clogged Drains?
The drains in your home are designed to whisk away water quickly and efficiently from your fixtures. But most drains end up being exposed to a whole lot more than just water. Whether you’re rinsing dirty dishes or simply taking a shower, the wastewater you generate often is filled with debris and contaminants.
Over time, things like hair, food particles, soap deposits and other impurities mingle together and accumulate to form clogs. If they aren’t removed, these obstructions gradually restrict more and more of the water flowing from the affected drain. Although this can occur anywhere, the most common trouble area is the P-trap found beneath many common household fixtures.
What are the signs you need air conditioner repair?
Symptoms can include warm air blowing from vents, weak or inconsistent airflow, unusual sounds or vibrations coming from the air conditioning unit, or increased energy bills even though your usage has not significantly changed. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to schedule air conditioning repair service with Cook Home Services.