HVAC Service and Repair

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HVAC repair

HVAC technicians specialize in installing, maintaining and repairing climate control systems. Their job involves ductwork, furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners and other equipment. Most HVAC technicians at https://hubbardmechanical.com/ receive training through vocational schools or apprenticeship programs. They are also required to have strong problem-solving skills and excellent attention to detail.

When looking for a quality HVAC repair company, it’s important to consider their licensing and insurance coverage. Also, read online reviews to see what previous customers have said about them.

Ductwork

When your ductwork lets air escape, your home will be less comfortable and your HVAC system will wear down more quickly. If you suspect a leak, hire an HVAC professional for ductwork repair. A leaking duct can cost you about 20-30% of your cooling energy.

Ductwork problems often involve mold, insects and debris. You can help prevent these problems by removing rodent droppings and other signs of infestation, regularly cleaning your ductwork and using pest control products in and around your house. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for a rancid smell, which is a sign of mold and mildew.

Air ducts are most likely to be damaged by holes or clogs, but they can also suffer from structural damage or be missing entirely. Most ductwork repairs involve patching holes and sealing cracks. This is usually cheaper than replacing a whole duct, especially if the ducts are fiberglass lined. Professionals can use a special type of tape designed for ducts to seal the hole. This tape is backed with a flame retardant to avoid fire hazards.

Leaking ducts are another common problem, and they can be hard to diagnose. A pro will either remove vents and look inside them or send a camera down the ducts to see where the leak is coming from. The more difficult a duct is to access, the more it will cost to repair.

Dirty ducts are a breeding ground for dust and other pollutants, which can clog your system and cause asthma and other respiratory problems. The best way to keep them clean is to vacuum your vents on a regular basis. You can also help prevent dirt and dust build-up by installing a filtration system in your home.

When a duct isn’t properly insulated, your heating and cooling bills will be higher than they should be. Insulation is especially important for ducts in unconditioned spaces, such as attics, basements and crawl spaces. In addition to reducing your energy costs, a well-insulated duct will also help reduce the noise from your AC running.

Thermostats

The thermostat controls your home’s heating and cooling system. It tells the furnace and air conditioner what to do, how much energy to use, and when to turn on and off. There are different types of thermostats, including digital and electro-mechanical models. Each type has its own unique issues and repair methods. The most common problems are related to the device’s electrical connections and its calibration. However, there are also mechanical components inside the thermostat that can become worn over time. In these cases, a professional may need to replace the thermostat.

There are a few minor problems homeowners can often fix on their own. If the thermostat has a blank screen or doesn’t show any information, replacing the batteries may be enough to get it to work again. If this doesn’t help, check the breaker box for a tripped switch. Switching the breaker to “Off” for a few minutes can help diagnose this problem as well.

If you have a hardwired thermostat, you’ll need to remove the cover to see what wires are connected. The most common ones are R, which is the red terminal for the heater and AC, W, which is the white terminal for heat, and Y, which is the yellow terminal for compressor activity. Check that each wire is in its correct place and tightened, using a screwdriver.

You should also clean the unit occasionally to reduce dust accumulation. Older mechanical models often suffer from problems with dust, which can block the lever and contaminate the bi-metal coil. You can often disassemble the thermostat to wipe down the components with a damp cloth or compressed air. You can also clean the small metal contacts on some models by sliding a piece of paper between them.

If you can’t get your thermostat to work, it’s usually best to call a professional. A certified HVAC technician will be able to quickly diagnose the issue and offer technical solutions. They can also determine if the thermostat is the only issue or whether there are other components that need to be repaired or replaced.

Compressors

Compressors are mechanical devices used to increase pressure on certain compressible fluids or gases, most commonly air. They can be as small as a fit-in-your-glovebox unit for inflating a flat tire or as large as a giant reciprocating compressor used in pipelines. Air compressors are used throughout industry to provide shop or instrument air; power tools, paint sprayers and abrasive blast equipment; phase shift refrigerants for air conditioning and refrigeration; and propel gas through pipelines.

Like any piece of machinery, it is inevitable that at some point your air compressor will need repairs. However, there are ways to keep these repairs to a minimum by keeping up with preventative maintenance routines.

Regular oil changes and filter replacements, draining the condensate traps and regularly inspecting for air leaks can go a long way in extending the life of your air compressor. Adding these items to your daily and weekly to-do lists will help prevent costly repairs down the line.

If you are experiencing frequent interruptions in production due to a failing air compressor, it is worth the effort to consider your options for repair or replacement. It may be that the cost of replacing the unit will soon pay for itself in energy savings. Your independent Kaishan distributor can help you develop a payback calculator for your specific application and facility to facilitate the decision making process.

When a compressor stops working, it is likely because the system is not building sufficient pressure. This could mean a blocked inlet air filter, faulty controls and sensors on rotary screw compressors or worn piston seals and rings in reciprocating compressors.

The first thing to try is to reset the circuit breaker that serves the compressor, if it has tripped. Then check that all plugs are in, the switch is on and there is power to the compressor.

When a compressor is not filling up, the most common cause is a ruptured air filter or clogged inlet valve. Other reasons could be a plugged or damaged drier or an air pressure regulator that needs to be cleaned or replaced.

Fans

The fan located inside the condenser unit, and the one in the blower that distributes conditioned air throughout your home, are vital parts of your HVAC system. Without them, your system will not cool your home properly. Both fans need energy to move the air, but they don’t always get that power because of issues with a capacitor or motor.

The capacitor is a small but mighty device that stores energy and provides it to the fans when needed. If you have a breaker switch that keeps flipping or is constantly tripping, the reason may be that the capacitor has burned out, which restricts the flow of power to your outdoor and indoor fans. An HVAC professional will inspect the capacitor to determine if it needs to be replaced and can make that repair quickly.

Your fan might also not be spinning because of a broken fan blade or a physical strike against another component in the system, such as a compressor. A qualified technician will inspect the fans and replace a damaged fan blade or physical strike.

Older air conditioning systems use belts to power the fans, and these are subject to general wear and tear. Loose or worn fan belts can stop the fan from spinning as it should, and an HVAC professional will replace the old belt, adjust it to specifications and lubricate other moving parts to restore full functionality.

You may also hear squealing noises coming from the blower fan, which is most often caused by a loose or worn belt that’s not producing enough power to turn the fan blades. A certified HVAC professional will replace the belt, lubricate other moving parts and adjust them to specifications to return proper airflow.

A humming sound from the blower fan might indicate that a reversing valve is defective or dirty, which could be causing the air conditioner to work inefficiently and cause your home to overheat. A licensed HVAC professional will replace the reversing valve and check the system for any other problems that might be preventing it from functioning correctly.

Water Heater Repair Basics

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Most homeowners don’t give much thought to their water heater, until it goes bad. Suddenly, hot showers become impossible, laundry is left unwashed, and dishes pile up.

Water Heater Repair

Most common issues with water heaters revolve around the pilot light and gas control valve. But there are a number of other things that could go wrong with your unit. For professional help, contact Water Heater Repair Tampa now!

Thermostats are the brains of your water heater. They read the temperature settings in your home and determine when to turn on or off the heating elements to keep the hot water flowing. They also control the rate of flow. Having the thermostat properly set will ensure that you have enough hot water for your family to shower, wash dishes and bathe, as well as maintain your water heaters lifespan.

If you’re not getting enough hot water, the first thing to do is check the thermostat. It could be set incorrectly, especially if you’ve recently worked on the heater or moved into a new house. If it’s set higher than a preferable setting, it can increase your electric bill and cause your water to be hotter than you want it.

You should also check the electrical panel to make sure that the breaker is in the “On” position and that the fuse is not blown. If the breaker or fuse is blown, it needs to be replaced. It’s also a good idea to perform Ohms (or Resistance) tests on the upper and lower heating elements with the power to the tank off.

This will give you a better understanding of how the thermostat and heating elements function together and what the readings should look like. Once you’ve turned the water back on, perform the same tests to see if the heating element is working correctly.

Another possible reason for not having enough hot water is that the tank’s insulation is worn out. This is particularly common in older homes and can be a big problem with electric tanks. Insulation loss increases the amount of heat that is transferred to the bottom of the tank, which causes the metal to rust faster. It also clogs the supply lines and reduces the efficiency of the burners or heating elements.

A faulty thermostat can be difficult to diagnose and replace, but the process is not as complicated as you might think. Having the right information can save you time and money when it comes to repairs and maintenance.

Element

An electric water heater has two heating elements, and if one of them goes bad, you may notice your hot water doesn’t come through as hot. A heating element isn’t expensive, and you can usually find a replacement in a repair kit. If you do choose to replace the element, be sure to purchase a new gasket to ensure a good fit. You should also be sure to turn off power to your electric water heater, either at the main fuse box or the circuit breaker, before you attempt this repair.

A common problem with older units is a rust buildup in the tank that prevents the element from producing heat. This can be a very serious issue that can lead to the unit leaking and creating water damage. In this case, you may need to replace the whole water heater, but it is important to consult a professional plumber to see if repairing your current unit will work before making such a major investment.

Another problem with older units is that a puddle of water around the tank can cause severe damage to your home’s structure and must be addressed immediately by cutting off your water supply and calling a plumber. Often, this issue cannot be repaired and your unit will need to be replaced.

If you’ve tried to relight the pilot light and it still isn’t working, there may be an issue with your thermocouple or gas control valve. While these aren’t as easy to fix as the pilot light, they can be easily fixed by a professional.

Another common issue with older units is the dip tube, which helps to transfer cool water from the top of your heater down to the bottom so it can be reheated. The dip tube can become corroded or spring a leak, which means that your hot water will be mixed with cooler water and will be scalding when you use it. Replacing the dip tube is a relatively simple task and doesn’t cost too much.

Dip Tube

The dip tube is a small but vital component in your water heater. It directs incoming cold replacement water to the bottom of your tank, warming it and separating it from the hot water floating on top that travels to your faucets and appliances. Without a working dip tube, cold incoming water would simply mix with the hot water in your heater’s tank and you’d be left with lukewarm water.

Most modern water heaters use non-metallic (or plastic) dip tubes rather than the older metal models, which were more prone to corrosion. Despite this, it’s possible for the plastic to erode over time, particularly when submerged in water of different temperatures and acidity. This is why many homeowners notice that their hot water isn’t as warm as it used to be, and may find small pieces of plastic in appliance filters and other parts of their home plumbing.

If you suspect that your water heater’s dip tube is degrading, it’s easy to replace. First, shut off the power at your circuit breaker for an electric water heater or the gas valve on your gas heater (depending on your model). Drain your tank by connecting a garden hose to the drain valve located at the bottom of the tank and running it to a drain.

After draining, close the cold water supply valve on your water heater and disconnect the dip tube. This is a short piece of pipe threaded on both ends and usually has a pipe nipple and connector that can be removed by turning them counterclockwise. Once you’ve removed the old dip tube, drop in a new one of the same length as the old. Be sure to choose a non-metallic dip tube that’s designed to withstand the acidity and temperatures of your hot water.

There are also a number of upgraded dip tube designs on the market that can enhance your water heater’s functionality, such as curved tubes that swirl your water as it passes through the tank to better stir up sediment and reduce mineral buildup. Choosing the right dip tube can save you money on utility bills, and is well worth your time to keep in tip-top shape!

Pressure Valve

The pressure relief valve is the most important water heater component to have working properly. This valve is designed to keep pressure below the water heater tank’s maximum safe pressure level, typically 150 psi (pounds per square inch). When it senses that pressure is building beyond this limit it opens and allows excess pressure to flow through it. This prevents the water pressure from reaching dangerous levels and potentially causing the tank to burst, flooding your home.

The valve is controlled by a spring that is compressed by the water pressure in your home’s pipes and regulated by a set point on the downstream side of the valve. This setting is determined by the distance between the regulator’s pressure-sensing passage and the pipeline’s Maximum Operating Pressure (MOP).

During operation, as the hot water flows through the system the pressure rises. This pressure is sensed in the pressure-sensing passage A and the spool shifts to allow flow. When the spool shifts, the pressure in the pressure-sensing passage B is greater than the pressure set point and the valve opens. Then the spool is retracted and the system pressure drops to the set point in the pressure-sensing passage C.

If your water heater’s temperature and pressure are ok but you’re experiencing banging noises coming from your tank it could be caused by loose connections or a faulty relief valve. It’s a good idea to have a professional inspect your water heater for loose or leaking connections at least once a year.

Turn off the water at your main shut-off valve. Remove the existing water pressure regulator and clean all surfaces where the new one will attach using grit cloth. Use a tape measure to mark the length of pipe that needs to be cut away from the wall to make room for the new regulator, then cut the pipe to this measurement. Make sure to mark the position of your new pressure regulator so you can reinstall it correctly. Once the pipe is cut, mark the location where the threaded couplings will go. Remove the old couplings and replace them with new ones. Screw the new pressure regulator onto the couplings, then tighten the external screw on the regulator.

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All The Plumbing Repair Solutions You’re Looking For

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There are a number of common plumbing issues that need professional attention. While some of these problems have at-home fixes, it’s always best for the longevity of your plumbing to let a plumber take care of them.

Some of the most common plumbing repairs include drain cleaning, clogs, water quality issues and leaks. Read on to learn more about these plumbing problems and who should fix them.

Clogged Drains

We rely on our drains to carry away waste, and it’s only natural that some of that material will build up over time. Clogged drains can lead to slow water flow, backups and even flooding. Fortunately, this is an easy problem to solve for homeowners with some basic tools and the know-how.

The first step is to shut off the water supply. This will keep any accidental water (like from a running toilet or dishwasher) from entering the clogged pipe and further worsening the situation. You may also want to put in a stopper or cover the drain with a rubber ducky (found at most hardware stores) to prevent further clogging until you can call in a professional.

Most clogged drains are caused by soap scum, hair, food particles and other solids that build up over time in your pipes and pipes’ openings. These clogs are often worse in areas with hard water, which has minerals that can settle and clog pipes. Installing a water softener can help with this problem.

Other clogs can be caused by flushing things down the drain that shouldn’t go in there, such as paper towels, tampons, baby wipes or other items from your toilets. A plunger can usually clear these types of clogs by creating a suction that forces the clog away from the pipe. If a plunger isn’t working, try using a drain snake, which you can find in most hardware stores. These are wire-like devices that you feed into a clogged pipe while cranking the handle, and they break up or pull away clog materials and move them through your pipes.

If none of these methods work, it’s time to call in a plumber. But before you do, try this tip: Pour one-half cup of salt and a half cup of baking soda down the clogged drain. This will cause a chemical reaction that will apply pressure and corrosive action to the clog, breaking it apart and dissolving it so your water can flow freely again. The salt and baking soda are inexpensive, but you might have to repeat this process a few times before it takes effect.

Leaking Pipes

Pipe leaks are a common problem, and they’re usually caused by age-related wear and tear or a bad joint. They may seem like a minor nuisance, but they can lead to water damage, expensive utility bills, and potential mold growth. The best thing you can do is to act fast — and use the right tools — to repair them.

There are a few different ways to fix leaking pipes. The first step is to turn off the water supply. Locate the stopcock, close it, and dry the area around the pipe before you start. This prevents further water damage and makes the job much easier.

The next step is to examine the pipe to determine what’s causing the leak. You can usually find the source of the leak by looking for signs of water damage or listening for hissing sounds. If the leak is in a hard-to-reach spot, you might need to use pressure testing equipment or specialized cameras to find it.

Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, it’s time to make a quick repair. Duct tape is a great option for most leaks, as long as you don’t have a break that spans more than several inches and you’re planning on a permanent solution soon after. To use duct tape, just close off the water supply, clean and dry the area, and wrap a couple layers of duct tape over the damaged section of pipe.

Another great option for a temporary leak fix is a pipe repair sleeve. These sleeves are available at most hardware stores and consist of a rubber gasket patch and a clamp that work together to seal the broken section of pipe. To use the sleeve, simply cut off a piece of rubber that’s about as long as the leaky section of pipe, wrap it around the broken area, and secure it with a hose clamp or pipe-sleeve clamp.

Another good option is a pipe repair patch and clamp kit, which is similar to the sleeve but works for larger breaks and can be used on a variety of pipe materials. Before using it, you’ll need to shut off the water supply, clean and dry the broken area, and sand down any rough edges to help the neoprene patch adhere properly.

Water Quality Issues

Water quality issues are caused by a variety of factors. These include naturally occurring contaminants such as arsenic and other heavy metals, which can leach from pipes and soil; industrial pollutants; and lack of sanitation. Many of these contaminants are carried by rainfall, runoff or stormwater to lakes, rivers, aquifers and coastal waters, where they have adverse impacts on aquatic ecosystems and human health. Some pollutants enter drinking water during treatment or distribution, including byproducts of chlorine bleaching and ion exchange processes. Others occur when water passes through corroded pipes, such as iron or galvanized steel, resulting in rust-colored water and a metallic taste.

Water-related problems are most common in homes with a private water supply, although they can also occur in public and community water supplies. These problems can cause health problems, damage equipment or plumbing, or make water undesirable due to its appearance, taste, odor or staining. Discolored water is usually a sign of other impurities in the water, such as silt or the presence of oxidized metals (which gives it a brown, orange, red, blue, or green tinge). Unpleasant odors are often caused by bacterial contamination or by hydrogen sulfides, which can give the water a rotten egg smell. Other unpleasant effects include dingy laundry or soap that doesn’t lather, greasy rings around bathtubs and sinks, scale build-up on shower heads, tubs and sinks, and gray or white film or spots in dishwashers.

Sewer Backups

If sewage is backing up into your sinks, tubs, toilets and showers, you have a serious problem. This hazard to your health and safety requires immediate action from a plumber. The first thing to do is shut off water going into all drains throughout your home. Also, turn off electricity if wastewater flows near electrical outlets. Then, if possible, shut off your home’s main water valve until your plumber arrives.

The signs of a sewer backup are clear: clogged toilets that don’t flush, murky-looking wastewater in drains and bathtubs, wet spots around floor drains in basements, garages and laundry rooms, and an unusual smell wafting through your home. In addition, your yard may show signs of damage from a blocked or damaged sewer line. Sewer repair experts can inspect your entire sewer system and make necessary repairs.

Heavy rains from summer storms are often to blame for sewer backups. When storms dump a lot of water at once, it can overload the municipal sewer systems and cause sewage to back up into homes. The good news is that it’s usually easy for a plumber to diagnose and fix this issue.

In some cases, what appears to be a sewer backup is actually just a single drain clog. Hair, grease and foreign objects can get stuck in individual sink, tub or toilet drains and block the flow of water. The best way to address this is with a drain auger or rooter, which can break up and remove the clog.

It’s also a good idea to have your sewer lines cleared every six to 10 years. Professionals can use a camera to look for cracks or damage, then clean and snake the lines to prevent future blockages. Homeowners can also help by not placing tree roots in or near the sewer lines, installing an exterior sewer cleanout and avoiding putting fat, grease and oils down the drains. You should also avoid connecting downspouts, french drains and sump pumps to the sanitary sewer line. These additional lines can cause clogs and even flood your home.