Company: B&L Plumbing and Heating

When Is Air Duct Repair Needed?

when is air duct repair needed?

Spotting Damaged Ductwork 

Owners spend a lot of time worrying about their air conditioners and heaters. With semi-annual maintenance, the machinery that keeps residential and commercial spaces comfortable often precedes the somewhat invisible portion of the HVAC system: the ductwork. Ductwork makes up at least half of an HVAC system when considering the space that is occupied and the installation cost of a new heating and cooling system. Too often, the ductwork goes unnoticed, to the detriment of the space's comfort. 

Ductwork can develop serious problems that contribute to discomfort in a home or business. Here are the three top signs that ductwork is the source of heating and cooling headaches. 

Dust Buildup and Poor Housekeeping 

Dusty HVAC ductwork vent showing significant dust buildup, illustrating poor indoor air quality and the need for maintenance.Air quality has always been a main concern in HVAC systems, but in recent years, it has become a topic of discussion for the average person. In the wake of a respiratory pandemic, most people are more aware of their indoor air quality. One thing people are not aware of is the role that their ductwork plays in their indoor air quality and general housekeeping. 

Ductwork is expected to last for decades, but aging ductwork can deteriorate and cause damage. Outside dust can be distributed around the home when holes form in ductwork. When owners are diligent with their air filter replacement, but dust is still a problem in the space, the source of the problem is likely the ductwork instead of the air filter. To spot this problem, keep an eye out for: 

  • Dust buildup on air vents
  • Dusty surfaces
  • Frequent cleanings are necessary
  • Poor indoor air quality 

Airflow Problems 

If there is one job for ductwork, it is protecting airflow. Air can only be efficiently distributed around the home with ductwork to keep it regulated. The value of good airflow for comfort and health cannot be underestimated, so when owners notice problems with airflow, they should rectify them quickly. Some of the signs that airflow is being restricted by ductwork are: 

  • Uneven heating or cooling in the home
  • Hot and cold spots
  • Humidity problems
  • Weak airflow from vents

These problems arise when ductwork is damaged or aging. As modern plastic ducts age, they are more likely to collapse. Even with older metal ductwork, corrosion can cause collapse, or external forces can pinch them closed. All of these will contribute to poor airflow and require air duct repairs. 

Energy Bills Are Getting Higher

Young woman reviewing rising energy bills at a kitchen table, surrounded by paperwork, calculator, and a laptop, reflecting concerns about HVAC efficiency and ductwork issues.Efficiency is a major concern with heating and cooling. When owners have to upgrade their equipment, most will pay extra for a few percentage points of efficiency. However, the ductwork is the biggest source of inefficiency in every system. 

Air ducts are insulated to help distribute conditioned air without wasting energy. Over time, the insulation can degrade, allowing heated or cooled air to escape into unoccupied space. The wasted energy from this process can greatly drive up energy bills so it is always in the owner's best interest to get ductwork repaired quickly to keep costs low. 

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating is a veteran-owned plumbing and HVAC contractor. They understand that emergencies happen, so they never charge after-hours fees. Their teams take the time to custom-tailor repair and installation options on each job. Call today for HVAC repairs in Colorado Springs, CO. 

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Signs of a Faulty Water Heater That Indicates a Need for Service

signs of a faulty water heater that indicates a need for service

Signs of Failing Water Heaters 

A water heater is one of those appliances that only seems to fail at the worst moment. When people are vulnerable, disrobed, and ready to end the day with a hot shower, the water heater will fail and cause intense disappointment. Being forced to take a cold shower is bad news, but the good news is that water heaters usually give some preliminary signs that they will leave their owners in the cold. Spotting these signs early can save owners headaches and allow them to take preemptive action. 

Aside from obvious problems like leaks and insufficient volume of hot water, there are three good indicators that something is wrong with the water heater. Here are the top three signs that water heater repairs are needed so homeowners can respond early. 

High Monthly Bills 

Stressed woman sitting at a desk with a laptop, papers, and a coffee mug, illustrating the challenges of managing high utility costs from water heaters.Water heaters use vast amounts of energy. Apart from the heater and air conditioner, the water heater is the home's second-largest power user. Observing the bills for the utility corresponding to the water heater is a great way to catch problems early. For example, monitoring gas bills when a gas water heater is in the home can allow homeowners to catch inefficiencies sooner than they would. 

Over time, inefficiencies and higher utility prices will cause bills to spike. However, the water heater will likely only lose about one percentage point of efficiency every year. Water heater repairs will be necessary if bills are climbing faster than the cost of utilities and the natural loss of efficiency. Additionally, water heater maintenance is an excellent option to prevent natural efficiency losses. 

Unusual Sounds 

Man covering his ears with a pillow, appearing distressed from loud noises, illustrating the effects of unusual sounds from a water heater.One of the best things homeowners can do to ensure their water heater is in good shape is simply paying attention to it. Taking some time every month to listen to it can provide valuable information to the owner. Listen for sounds like: 

  • Banging: Water hammer is a common cause of violent banging noises. When the diaphragm of the expansion tank is damaged, water hammer can echo through the water heater. 
  • Hissing: When leaks form in the water heater, water may drop down onto the hot burner. The resulting steam formed will create a hiss that indicates leaks need to be repaired. 
  • Ticking: Ticking is a normal noise, especially when someone has recently used hot water. Ticking could be mistaken for the next noise if it is too common. 
  • Popping: When sediment forms in the water heater, steam bubbles can cause a popping or rumbling noise. Scheduling water heater maintenance can remove the sediment and restore lost efficiency to the unit. 

Discolored or Smelly Water 

Water heater tanks are lined with glass or enamel to prevent water from contacting metal that might rust. When these linings wear out, the rust that forms in the tank can discolor water or cause odors. Water heater replacement is the only way to fix this problem. If the problem isn't fixed quickly, leaks or tank failures may result. Calling a professional quickly can prevent the problem from causing unnecessary damage to the home. 

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating can help with sewer service and water heater repairs. Their teams handle home and business owners' complaints quickly and accurately. Call today for plumbing service in Colorado Springs, CO. 

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Prepare the AC With Spring Maintenance

prepare the ac with spring maintenance

3 Key Benefits of Yearly AC Maintenance in the Springtime

As summer approaches, homeowners should prepare for the warmer weather to come. Colorado may not be as hot as some places in the Southwest, but it can still get downright toasty, so the best way to get ready for summer is to make sure the home’s air conditioner is in good working order. 

Air conditioning maintenance, performed by a qualified professional, can do just that. But the benefits of having the AC serviced in the spring go beyond simply staying cool for the summer. This article will lay out the biggest reasons why AC maintenance is a must-do this spring!

Improved Energy Efficiency

Woman replacing air filter in home air conditioning vent, emphasizing spring maintenance for improved energy efficiency and comfort.A well-maintained air conditioning system will run better and smoother than one that hasn’t been cleaned or serviced in years. Small tasks like cleaning the evaporator coils, lubricating the blower motor bearings, and recharging the refrigerant (just to name a few) will keep the unit working at peak energy efficiency. Naturally, the more efficient the system is, the less energy it uses to maintain a comfortable temperature, and the less homeowners will have to shell out for their utility bills.

Of course, springtime maintenance is no substitute for regular air filter replacement. As the AC runs, the air filter will inevitably become clogged with dust and debris, reducing the airflow to and from the air handler unit. So, to help keep their energy bills as low as possible, homeowners should change their air filter(s) at least every three months–or even more often, depending on how many pets they have and how dusty their home tends to get.

Better Reliability & Fewer Repairs

Air conditioning unit with refrigerant tank, illustrating HVAC maintenance for energy efficiency and reliability.On top of making the AC more energy efficient, annual spring maintenance also makes it more reliable. If the system has been serviced in the spring, the likelihood of an unexpected breakdown or performance issue is extremely low. That means homeowners won’t have to worry about being without their air conditioner on a sweltering day while waiting for an AC repair technician.

This also means that homeowners will save money on air conditioner repair costs over the long run since the service technician can catch and address any potential issues before they escalate into larger problems. Annual air conditioner maintenance is a relatively inexpensive service, so considering how much it can save on air conditioning repairs, it practically pays for itself!

A Longer-Lasting Air Conditioner

Annual AC tune-ups can also help extend the system’s lifespan. After all, a big part of any professional AC service visit is keeping everyday wear & tear at bay, making it less likely that homeowners will need a premature air conditioning replacement. This is so huge that many AC manufacturer warranties require regular maintenance from certified technicians to keep the warranty valid. 

Air conditioners are expensive appliances, so the last thing any homeowner wants is to find themselves dipping into their savings for an AC replacement years ahead of schedule. However, those who stay on top of annual maintenance may find that their air conditioner can meet or exceed its life expectancy.

So, for those who want to enjoy peace of mind, stay cool all summer, and save money on energy bills, repairs, and early air conditioner replacement, spring AC maintenance is the way to go!

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating has been the go-to plumbing and HVAC resource in Colorado Springs since 1999. As an award-winning local business, they proudly offer competitive pricing, tailor-made solutions to fit any budget, 24/7 emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job. They also offer a money-saving membership maintenance plan that makes annual tune-ups a breeze, so don’t hesitate to call for AC maintenance in Colorado Springs, CO!

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Get the Sump Pump Ready for the Spring

get the sump pump ready for the spring

What Does a Sump Pump Do?

Most owners know that it takes a lot to protect a home or property from the ravages of nature. Whether it is the harsh winter precipitation or a summer storm, the weather always cooks something to cause damage. Reliable roofing and strong siding can do a lot to protect the structure from rain damage, but in many cases, it simply isn’t enough. 

When unfavorable grades or poorly draining soils combine, the results can be disastrous for a home or building. Allowing water to pool on a property or near the foundation can result in anything from landscaping problems to significant structural damage. That’s where sump pumps come in. 

“Sump pump” is a trade term for submersible pumps. These pumps are part of a larger system installed to help handle floodwater on a plot. A sump pump system drains water to a central location and quickly pumps it away so that it won’t pool or damage a foundation or landscape. 

How Do Sump Pumps Work? 

A sump pump works by having part of its assembly submerged in water. Whether that part is the entire assembly or just the pump, the sump pump draws from a sump pump basin, where water is collected as part of a drainage system. A float switch tells the pump when to turn on when the basin is full and when to turn off when it is empty. When the switch turns the pump on, a powerful centrifugal pump quickly evacuates the water. 

In most cases, properties vulnerable to flooding will already have a drainage system and sump pump in service. In that case, it is simply the owner’s responsibility to ensure they are always working. In other cases, such as when water pools in a landscape or near the foundation of a structure, a new system will need to be engineered. 

Options for Sump Pumps

Submersible and pedestal sump pumps showcasing different designs and mechanisms for effective water evacuation in drainage systems.Sump pumps come in two main varieties, each with pros and cons. The two main choices are: 

  • Submersible Sump Pumps: Submersible sump pumps are reliable and effective. Since they sit directly in the basin, they are challenging to work on, making them quieter. 
  • Pedestal Sump Pumps: Pedestal sump pumps have the motor out of the water, driving a shaft to turn the pump in the sump pump basin. This makes them louder but also easier to inspect and maintain. Often, these are the most cost-effective options. 

Testing the Sump Pump

Person pouring water from a blue bucket into a sump pump basin, illustrating sump pump testing for proper operation in a residential setting.Sump pumps are vital to a property's safety and longevity, so owners must know how to deal with them. Inspecting sump pumps for proper operation should be done at least annually. This can be done manually by filling the basin with a hose and observing operation, but often, the best bet is professional maintenance. When plumbers are allowed to test sump pumps, owners can be assured the system is working and the pump won’t unexpectedly fail any time soon. 

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating performs residential and commercial plumbing repairs and installations. It custom-tailors options for every client and never charges after-hours fees. Call today for sump pump service in Colorado Springs, CO.

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A Homeowner's Guide to Duct Cleaning

a homeowner's guide to duct cleaning

What Homeowners Should Know About Air Duct Cleaning Services 

A majority of the homes in the US are equipped with ductwork as a part of the central heating and cooling system installed in the home. HVAC technicians do such a good job installing ductwork that most homeowners never even think about it. While the craftsmanship is appreciated, it can lead to neglect that can have negative consequences around the home. 

One of the things that most homeowners don't even realize is an important part of maintaining the air conditioning system in the home is air duct cleaning. All the air in the home passes through air ducts multiple times daily. When air ducts are dirty, they can distribute the grime that has clung to the inside of ductwork into the home's air. Air duct cleaning can help remove this grime and keep the home healthy. Here is a professional's guide to air duct cleaning for homeowners. 

Why Is Duct Cleaning Necessary?

Woman relaxing on a couch, breathing deeply and enjoying clean indoor air, emphasizing the importance of air duct cleaning for a healthy home environment.It's no secret that the home can get dirty quickly. With people coming in and out constantly, plus the dirt accompanying daily life, it can be easy to let things get out of hand. As air circulates the home, it picks up the dust and grime that gets tracked into the home and the things that get vaporized while cooking or performing beauty routines. Air vents in the floor accumulate trash as stuff falls into them. 

These things will eventually find their way into the entire air duct system, where they will encourage the growth of mold and bacteria and harbor allergens. Duct cleaning helps to give the ductwork a much-needed reset. The process uses powerful vacuums and brushes that scrub the inside of the ducts to remove all of the build-up that occurs over the years. 

Signs That Duct Cleaning Services Could Help

Duct cleaning is a service that is recommended for every home. Cleaner air can help support good health and give people in the home peace of mind that they are maximizing their wellness. Ductwork cleaning is recommended every three to five years, but there are simple signs that can be noticed that tip the owners off that it is time to schedule service. Those signs include:

  • Musty, stubborn odors 
  • Visible grime on or in air vents
  • Mold problems
  • Humidity problems 
  • Inefficient operation of the AC system
  • Poor health of those in the home 

Tips to Keep the Air Ducts Clean 

Woman changing air filter in home air duct, promoting cleaner air and HVAC maintenance tips for better indoor health.A professional ductwork cleaning crew can quickly set things right when these signs are noticed. But how can homeowners stretch their ductwork service so they need it less often and enjoy better health between visits? The simple answer is to keep the home cleaner. Changing some housekeeping habits can make air duct cleaning service last and support better health in the home. Some habits to adopt to clean up the air inside the home are: 

  • Change air filters on time
  • Dust weekly
  • Vacuum weekly
  • Sweep daily
  • Keep pets and plants outside or keep them clean
  • Reduce clutter to make housekeeping easier
  • Launder clothing and linens more often 

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating handles plumbing services and a full slate of HVAC services. Their crews excel at keeping the air in the home safe and clean with AC repairs and a membership package. Call today for HVAC service in Colorado Springs, CO. 

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