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Don't Let Halloween Make Scary Things Go Wrong With the HVAC System

Lookout for Issues Coming From the HVAC System

The best way to check for issues in an HVAC system is to schedule routine maintenance. Halloween time is generally when the weather starts to drop, so it’s important to schedule maintenance to ensure comfort during the cooler months. Hiring a professional to inspect a home HVAC system is the best way to guarantee that it’s being checked properly to avoid what can go wrong with a system. This article will cover the issues that can go wrong with an HVAC system and show why scheduling routine maintenance is important.

Sign 1: A Carbon Monoxide Leak

Lack of regular maintenance can lead to a carbon monoxide leak which can be extremely dangerous and even deadly. Regular maintenance checks are important because carbon monoxide has no color or odor, so it can be a silent killer. While homeowners can install carbon monoxide detectors on the interior of their homes, one shouldn’t avoid regular HVAC maintenance. A system will try to operate regularly, but components within the system will eventually break down and lead to a gas leak.

The not-so-obvious signs of a carbon monoxide leak were discussed, but there are also more apparent signs homeowners can look out for. These signs include gas odors, stale air inside the home, and burning smells. One can install carbon monoxide detectors, as mentioned earlier since they can save the lives of the people living in the house. It’s important to know the signs of a carbon monoxide leak and schedule regular HVAC maintenance.

Sign 2: Mold Growth

One of the more scary issues that can stem from an HVAC system is mold growth. Mold growth can appear in several places, but it’s important to know that it can grow in an HVAC system. This is because the moisture inside the system provides a healthy area for mold to grow. After all, mold grows the most in wet conditions. The air ducts are one of the most common places that the mold will travel to. If the air ducts are older, there is a strong possibility that moisture can get through the gaps if they haven’t been sealed. The dirt inside these air ducts creates the perfect habitat for rapid mold growth.

If regular HVAC maintenance isn’t scheduled, homeowners will notice mold growth if a musty odor is apparent. Another sign of mold growth can be allergic reactions like coughing and itchy eyes. While this might not seem like a huge concern, long-term mold exposure can cause continuing side effects like memory loss, insomnia, and pneumonia. Avoid mold growth by scheduling regular maintenance.

Sign 3: Home Furnace Overheats

Another sign that is more obvious than mold growth and a carbon monoxide leak is an overheating furnace. Older furnaces are more likely to overheat because they have been overworked. It’s important to schedule regular maintenance so that overheating doesn’t occur. Another sign of a furnace overheating is a burning smell. Over time, a furnace can accumulate heat and emit a burning smell throughout a house. As a furnace age, the system won’t work properly and cause overheating. If a homeowner experiences these signs, they should contact an HVAC technician as soon as possible.

There are ways to prevent furnace overheats, like scheduling regular maintenance. Experts suggest hiring a professional to conduct a maintenance check at least once a year to ensure the system is operating properly. Another way that homeowners can prevent an overheating furnace is by regularly changing the air filter. Air filters that have not been changed can restrict airflow, which causes a furnace to overheat.

About City Plumbing

City Plumbing has been operating and providing services for nearly 20 years. These plumbers are clean, professional, and have strong experience in the field. Call them today for HVAC services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania!

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HVAC Systems Don't Appreciate That Autumn Breeze as Much as People Do

How Fall Weather Impacts the HVAC System

The fall season is in full swing. All of the green on the trees has turned to those gorgeous warm colors, the pumpkin patches are abundant, and the fall jackets and scarves have made their way to the front of people's closets. Many people enjoy the cooler weather of fall as a nice change of pace from hot summer days.

However, the HVAC system in a house doesn't always feel the same way. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can clog up the unit and make it harder for the HVAC system to function as it should.

Falling Leaves Could Suffocate the System

The falling leaves of the fall season are so pretty to see. They're a hassle to rake, but it's still hard to deny the beauty of their colors. But for HVAC systems, falling leaves are a completely different story. They can end up suffocating the system and slowing down its efficiency. For homes with an electric heat pump, part of the HVAC system is located outdoors.

The outdoor air compressor is an essential component of the system and is used to generate heat for the home's air. However, if leaves fall around the unit, it can block the airflow and make it more difficult for the unit to do its job. Homeowners need to make sure the outdoor unit stays clean so that it can stay efficient.

Dirt and Debris Make Their Way Into the Unit

In addition to falling leaves, there is often dirt and other debris that comes with the fall. This can cause the same problem on outdoor units. The dirt and debris can make their way into the unit and restrict the airflow needed to keep the system efficient. As a result, this leads to greater energy consumption, higher bills, and potential damage to the unit's components.

Homeowners should also keep in mind that the outdoor unit isn't the only one at risk. Though indoor units don't typically collect leaves and dirt as frequently as outdoor units, they can still collect dust or other particles floating through the air. Homeowners need to take the appropriate cleaning and maintenance measures to ensure their HVAC system remains functional during the fall and winter months.

Why Heater Maintenance Is Important

When it comes to heater or furnace maintenance, fall is the best time to get the job done. The temperature will only drop further in the months ahead. When homeowners are ready to turn on the heat in their house, they need to be sure that it is safe to do so and that the heater will make it through the season without an emergency breakdown. Scheduling heater maintenance is the best way to do this before the weather gets too cold.

These maintenance checks can involve cleaning the unit and removing any airflow restrictions to keep the system running efficiently all winter long. Maintenance checks also look for wear and tear and malfunctioning components, allowing homeowners to repair or replace them before they cause an HVAC emergency.

Contacting a local company is always the best route to take for maintenance - so be sure to schedule an appointment before it's too late.

About City Plumbing

At City Plumbing, they know that plumbing and HVAC problems can be a nightmare to deal with. Whether customers need them to reverse a problem that a previous contractor caused or to prevent future issues, City Plumbing has it covered! Contact them today to schedule HVAC maintenance in Philadelphia, PA!

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Don't Run From Those Scary Water Heater Sounds!

Hot Water Heater Sounds: Beware

Scary sounds coming from a water heater can be quite scary. Is the water heater haunted? It could be, which is a disturbing prospect. However, a more worrisome thought is that the water heater needs repair. Popping, screeching, and crackling are common sounds that water heaters make when something is malfunctioning.

Fortunately, qualified plumbing professionals can tackle even the most complex gas and electric water heater problems and can quiet them down right away.

Popping Sounds Explained

What’s that loud popping sound all about? Mineral deposits in water cause sediment to collect at the bottom of water heaters over time. When the water is heated, the sediment whirls, bubbles, and pops, explaining the puzzling sound. The accumulation of sediment is inevitable, particularly in homes with hard water. That said, the amount of sediment needs to be controlled. This is accomplished by having the water heater routinely flushed out by a plumbing professional.

Too much sediment causes a multitude of problems for the water heater. It can cause accidental overheating, which often leads to damaging leaks. Too much sediment also causes a water heater to operate less efficiently, wasting energy. Regular flushing out of a water heater is an absolute must, and hearing that popping sound may mean it’s time to schedule an appointment.

Why the Water Heater Is Screeching

It’s never a good sign when the appliances start to scream. Luckily, there is a perfectly reasonable explanation for a screeching water heater. When water flow becomes restricted, it causes a sharp, high-pitched sound to emanate from the pipes. Water restriction can usually be corrected by having a plumbing professional adjust all the valves to ensure that they are properly open. Another possibility is that the pipes are corroded, have a leak, or require partial replacement. There are several ways that water can become restricted, causing the screeching noise. A plumber will quickly put an end to the noise with some swift repairs.

Crackling Hot Water Heaters

Now the water heater is crackling? What on Earth? The good news is that crackling is most likely due to condensation hitting the burner, which is completely normal. Condensation causes water vapor to build up around the burner, resulting in a sizzling, popping sound. Smaller water heaters tend to produce a lot of condensation, and it is usually most noticeable when the outside temperature drops. However, if the amount of condensation that builds up on the burner is excessive, have a professional inspect your water heater because it could be a sign of failure.

About City Plumbing

City Plumbing has been “turning nightmares into pipe dreams” in Philadelphia for nearly 20 years, providing a wide array of plumbing and HVAC-related services. With a stellar reputation, a comprehensive list of services offered, affordable pricing, and friendly staff, they are the ideal choice for Philadelphia water heater services.