Tag: questions

Got Questions About Heat Pumps? We've Got Answers!

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Heat Pump FAQs

Most homes in the country are heated with traditional centralized furnace heaters. They have been around the longest and have provided consistent indoor heating for decades. Still, for some time now, new technology in indoor heating has been developing and experiencing a resurgence in popularity as more homeowners look for cost-saving heating measures without sacrificing quality – this technology is the heat pump system.

Heat pumps have been around since the 1850s and were used to heat homes around the 1960s. Still, this technology has gained much traction for domestic use because of a renewed interest in environmentally friendly heating options. In this regard, heat pumps deliver a lot of bang for the buck. Not only do heat pumps use up less energy compared to gas furnaces, but they also lower carbon emissions by up to 75%. But how do heat pumps achieve this eco-friendly, energy-saving feat? 

What Is a Heat Pump, Exactly?

Instead of generating heat, a heat pump transfers heat from one place to another. In the summer, it uses this concept to cool indoor air by moving heat outside, while it does the opposite in the winter to keep homes warm and comfortable. While there may be different kinds of heat pumps similar to the different types of furnaces, there are only two sources from which heat pumps gather heat: from the ground or the air. Either way, ground-source or air-source heat pumps can be installed at home as a ducted heat pump, a ductless heat pump, or a mini split heat pump. 

Advantages of Heat Pump Installation

air quality To understand why heat pumps are becoming so popular lately, one need not look further than the benefits homeowners can enjoy when opting for heat pump installation.

  • Energy bill savings - A heat pump allows homeowners to save on utility bills. Being more energy efficient than gas or electric heaters allows it to lower energy consumption and energy costs.
  • Better safety ratings - Without fuel storage or delivery systems typical of gas furnaces, heat pumps are safer to operate at home.
  • Lower carbon emissions - Heat pumps are known to lower carbon emissions by as much as 75%, with the most emission reductions possible when a home gets its electricity from clean sources such as wind, solar, or geothermal energy.
  • Can heat or cool - Heat pumps can be used for heating and cooling, allowing homeowners to repurpose their heat pumps as the seasons change.

How To Tell When Your Heat Pump System Is In Need of Repair

heat pump service While heat pumps are meant to last as long as a decade or two, which is about the same lifespan as a traditional gas furnace, they do and will break down occasionally. The trick is to catch these problems early and repair the heat pump as soon as possible so that these problems do not blow out of proportion.

Homeowners who notice that their heat pumps have a malfunctioning or broken motor, thermostat, or starter capacity should get their systems checked. Timely maintenance to prevent frozen heat pump coils, low levels of refrigerant, and mechanical issues will also go a long way to keep heat pumps in great condition and running smoothly throughout the winter season.

About City Plumbing

City Plumbing is a reliable plumbing services provider in Philadelphia and its surrounding neighborhoods. Their flat-rate pricing, 24/7 service availability, and true satisfaction guarantee all speak to their dedication to providing the best service to the people in their community. They have a team of trusted technicians equipped with fully stocked trucks and use the latest technology to ensure that they provide the right solutions on the first try. Call them today for heating service in Philadelphia, PA.

Common Questions About Trenchless Pipe Repair

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Wondering What Trenchless Repairs Are?

Trenchless pipe repair is a much less invasive method of repairing or replacing damaged water or septic pipes. Trenchless sewer line repair eliminates the massive digging typically associated with pipe repair. Plumbers can identify the problem(s) and develop a plan of action by accessing pipes through one or two access points.

How Are Trenchless Repairs Made?pipe

Trenchless repair is performed by first creating an access point in the faulty or damaged pipes. Workers then insert a sewer camera to assess the damage. Most, if not all, of the repairs will then be made within the existing pipes and underground.

Trenchless repair involves pulling a resin-filled liner through the damaged portions of the pipe. The liner is inflated to hold the resin inside the lines, and heat is applied to accelerate hardening. Once the resin has hardened, the liner will be flush with the existing pipes, and the pipes will be solid without reducing flow. This method is commonly referred to as Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP).

Trenchless replacement involves underground removal and replacement of the pipes. Plumbers insert a cone-shaped head into the damaged pipe and push it through. As it progresses, the head bursts the pipe, and an expander follows, creating a cavity. The new pipe is attached, pulled through, and replaces the old pipe.

What Repairs or Replacements Are Made Using Trenchless Methods?

One can use trenchless sewer line replacement and pipe repair to fix various plumbing issues. One of the most common septic pipe issues is blockage caused by tree roots entering the pipes. Trenchless repair professionals can remove the blockage and repair or replace the line(s) much more efficiently than traditional methods.

Plumbers also use trenchless repair to correct minor pipe misalignment, corroded pipes, and cracks in clay, lead, plastic, and cast-iron pipes. 

save Why Use Trenchless Repair?

Trenchless repair is a much less invasive way to repair or replace damaged or defective pipes. It provides long-lasting results with cost-saving advantages.

Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) is very popular for sewer line rehabilitating and is an effective way to repair potable water pipes. This method lasts up to 50 years, can positively affect water flow, and may save costs. Although some have noted the liner put in place may slightly reduce the diameter of the pipe, the smoothness of the liner should improve water flow. As with most trenchless repairs, when plumbers use CIPP, the property and landscaping repair costs are significantly reduced.

Plumbers use pipe bursting when complete pipe replacement is desired. There is little to no need to survey the area before beginning as pipe bursting replaces old pipe within the existing bore. Homeowners save money and time because there is no need to remove and dispose of the old line or have extensive property damage repaired after plumbing repairs are made.

One should note that trenchless plumbing also reduces costly repairs to sidewalks and driveways. These can be the most expensive repairs commonly associated with pipe repair or replacement.

About City Plumbing

City Plumbing has homeowners covered! Whether it's to reverse a problem caused by previous contractors or to prevent future issues. City Plumbing has licensed HVAC technicians and full-time licensed master plumbers on staff. Call them today for all plumbing services in Philadelphia, PA.