The Hidden Dangers Of DIY Plumbing: When To Call A Professional Plumber

The Hidden Dangers Of DIY Plumbing: When To Call A Professional Plumber

While DIY plumbing projects can be cost-effective for many homeowners, they also come with hidden dangers that should not be underestimated. The consequences of improper plumbing repairs can be severe, from water damage to personal injury. In this article, we will explore the potential hazards of DIY plumbing and provide insight into when it’s best to call a professional plumber.

Potential Hazards of DIY Plumbing

Contamination

Contamination is a significant risk associated with DIY plumbing projects, especially when handling hazardous materials such as sewage, chemicals, or toxic substances. When not handled properly, these materials can contaminate the home or surrounding area, posing a serious health risk to the occupants.

Contamination can occur in several ways during a DIY plumbing project. For instance, if a sewage line is not properly handled or connected, it can result in sewage backup or spills that can contaminate the surrounding area.

Electrical Hazards

Improper handling of electrical components can result in electric shock, electrocution, or even house fires. One common way electrical hazards can occur during DIY plumbing is when a homeowner attempts to install or repair an electrical water heater without proper knowledge or training.

During this process, if the water heater is not correctly grounded or the electrical connections are not properly installed, it can result in an electrical shock or fire.

Increased Repair Costs

If a DIY plumbing project is not done correctly, it can result in a temporary fix that fails over time, leading to additional damage and repair costs. For example, if a homeowner attempts to fix a leaky faucet but doesn’t properly tighten the fittings, it can result in the faucet continuing to leak and causing damage to the surrounding area. This can result in additional repair costs for fixing the damage caused by the leak.

Incomplete Repairs

When attempting to fix a plumbing issue without proper knowledge or experience, there is a risk of not fully resolving the problem, resulting in incomplete repairs. One common way incomplete repairs can occur is when a homeowner attempts to fix a leak or blockage in a pipe without identifying the root cause of the issue. For example, DIY plumbing only addresses visible leaks on the surface of a pipe without identifying and fixing the underlying cause, such as a cracked pipe or faulty joint; the issue may persist and cause further damage over time.

Personal Injury

Personal injury is a significant risk associated with DIY plumbing projects. Plumbing systems can be complex and involve various hazardous materials and tools that can cause harm to the individual performing the work.

A common way personal injury can occur is through cuts, bruises, and other physical injuries resulting from using sharp tools such as saws or knives during plumbing projects. For example, if a homeowner attempts to cut a pipe without proper safety precautions, it can result in severe injury.

Another way personal injury can occur is through burns resulting from exposure to hot water or steam during plumbing projects. Attempting to work on a water heater or boiler without proper safety measures can result in burns or scalds.

When to Call a Plumbing Expert

Knowing when to call a professional plumber can save you time, money, and stress. If you’re experiencing any plumbing issues, it’s best to call an expert. You can avoid further damage and ensure the problem is properly fixed. Here are the signs you need to call a plumber.

Low Water Pressure

Various factors, such as clogged pipes, leaks, or faulty valves, can cause low water pressure. It may seem minor, but it can lead to significant problems if not addressed promptly. Low water pressure can make it challenging to perform daily tasks such as showering or washing dishes, and it may indicate a significant problem within the plumbing system. It’s crucial to be keen with low water pressure and call a professional as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the issue before it leads to further damage or safety hazards.

Leaking Pipes

Leaking pipes can cause significant damage to your home, including water damage, mold growth, and structural damage. It’s essential to be keen with any signs of leaking pipes, such as damp spots on walls or ceilings, the sound of running water when no taps are open, or a sudden increase in your water bill. Leaking pipes can lead to a significant waste of water and money and may indicate a more significant problem within the plumbing system. It’s crucial to call a professional as soon as possible to identify the source of the leak and fix it before it causes further damage to your home.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains can be an inconvenience in your home, leading to slow draining, backups, and unpleasant odors. It’s essential to be keen on any signs of clogged drains, such as gurgling sounds, water pooling around the drain, or unpleasant smells. Clogged drains can further damage your plumbing system and cause water damage to your home if not addressed promptly. It’s crucial to call a professional plumber as soon as possible to unclog the drain and prevent any further damage to your home’s plumbing system.

Rusty Water

Rusty water can indicate a significant problem within your plumbing system, such as corroded pipes or a damaged water heater. It’s essential to be keen on any signs of rusty water, such as brown or reddish water coming from your taps or a metallic taste in your water. Rusty water can harm your health and damage your appliances, leading to costly repairs. Calling a professional as soon as possible is crucial to diagnose and fix the issue before it leads to further damage or safety hazards.

Attempting DIY plumbing can lead to hidden dangers and costly damages. Hiring a professional is the safest and most reliable option for ensuring proper installation and maintenance of your plumbing system. Call Just In Time today for any plumbing needs and let their experts handle your plumbing issues with the utmost care and expertise.

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Averting AC Emergencies Through Regular Air Conditioning Service

Averting AC Emergencies Through Regular Air Conditioning Service

A routine air conditioning service is critical, considering an air conditioner’s importance, especially during the heating season. Without maintenance, your air conditioner can have difficulty cooling your home to the thermostat’s set temperatures. Maintenance ensures that you can catch any developing issues before they worsen to become full-blown. Failure to service the air conditioning unit means you might expose your unit to emergency air conditioning repair problems. Imagine your air conditioner not turning on during the cooling season. This would undoubtedly require the attention of an emergency AC repair technician. Unfortunately, such repairs aren’t cheap. Fortunately, you can avoid all this through air conditioner maintenance. When the air conditioner stops working, there are specific things that a professional will check, including;

Your Thermostat

Although it might appear highly unlikely, the air conditioner might not turn on because the thermostat is faulty or set to the wrong settings. The thermostat is like the brains of your air conditioning system. Hence, if it doesn’t send the right signals, the unit might not start, and if it does, it might not cool your indoor space as efficiently as you might have wanted. Ensure that the thermostat is set on the “cool” and not the “fan” or “heat” mode. Is it time to replace the batteries? Is the WIFI connection working in the case of a WIFI or smart thermostat? However, it is recommended that you have an AC repair technician service the thermostat. They’ll open it to ensure the wires are intact. If the technician determines your thermostat is the reason your AC unit is not turning on, they might recommend that you replace it.

Your Air Filter

The air filters remove the airborne contaminants from the air circulating from your AC unit into your home, ensuring it is clean and contaminant free. However, by the very nature of their function in your air conditioning system, filters are prone to clogging and getting dirty. Hence, it is recommended that you replace them regularly, preferably after every 1-3 months. However, this period is different if you have pets and children. In such cases, you should replace the air filters after every 21-30 days. The accumulation of dirt on the filter clogs it, acting as an obstruction that prevents proper airflow. When this blockage is too large, the evaporator coils might freeze, making the unit struggle to cool your home and increasing its susceptibility to premature wear and tear. Ensure you have a regular air conditioning service to avert such an emergency.

Circuit Breakers

Have you realized that your air conditioner is tripping the breaker every time you power it on? That is a surefire sign that you should have an AC repair technician come over for a further inspection. One thing is for sure if the circuit breaker is tripped, the air conditioner will not turn on. While you might feel that addressing the issue is as easy as flipping the circuit switch in the breaker panel, that is not the case. You will have addressed a sign and left the problem unattended.

Meanwhile, the problem could worsen when it becomes an emergency or borderline dangerous. Any issues that could make the breaker trip or even blow a fuse can be caught in their early stages during the air conditioning maintenance unless caused by power surges. Hence, routine inspection and maintenance of your unit can help avert such emergencies.

The Condensate Drain Line

Have you noted that the air conditioner is not turning on? That could be because the condensate drain lines are clogged. This is part of your air conditioner that drains the excessive moisture the evaporator creates in your air conditioning system. When it gets clogged or starts backing up, it triggers a safety switch in your air conditioner that shuts off the system automatically, preventing further leaks. This means that the unit will only turn on if you have the air conditioning service provider clear the clog. Such a safety measure is critical as it prevents mold growth that could pose a significant health risk to you and your family members. The last thing any homeowner wants is to pay extra bills on the medication of their loved ones when they contract mold-induced infections or even to pay the hefty emergency AC repairs.

Your AC Motor

The other component the technician will check when you call them for an emergency air conditioner repair is the motors. Did you hear your unit making strange noises, such as screeching or grinding, before it suddenly stopped working? Then its fan motor could have malfunctioned or died. A motor is a mechanical element, and because of its revolution, friction can damage it. It also could suffer damage if there’s dirt around it. If you have experienced this, the best action is to have an experienced technician inspect the unit and recommend the most suitable solution. If the motor is damaged, however, the most probable course of action is a replacement.

Your Evaporator Coils

The air conditioner coils are essential in the heat exchange process that cools indoor air. Unfortunately, the air conditioning evaporator coils usually collect debris, dirt, and dust with time, reducing efficiency. If there is a lot of accumulation of this dirt, the evaporator coils may freeze, clogging your condensate drain lines. Hence, it is recommended that the evaporator and condenser coils be cleaned during the air conditioning service visit.

Your Refrigerant Line

Since the air conditioner does not use up the coolant, refilling is not required. However, the unit might still require to be recharged if there’s a refrigerant leak. Unfortunately, the refrigerant is a particularly toxic chemical that could be hazardous if inhaled. If all the refrigerant leaks, the unit might never start up.

We Can Help

Has your AC unit broken down during summer, and it’s scorching outside? Has it failed to turn on? At Just In Time, we can help. Contact our able technician for any emergency air conditioning repairs.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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8 Water Heater Repair Issues You Should Never Put Off

8 Water Heater Repair Issues You Should Never Put Off

Your water heater is crucial to your home’s plumbing system, providing hot water for daily use. However, like any other appliance, it requires regular maintenance and repair to function efficiently. Ignoring even minor issues can lead to more significant problems, including damage to your property, high energy bills, and potential health hazards. This article will discuss the eight water heater repair issues you should never ignore and explain why timely repairs are crucial for your safety, comfort, and budget.

Low Water Pressure

You shouldn’t put off repairing the minor but important issue of low water pressure from your water heater. It’s a symptom of a larger problem with the heater, such as the accumulation of mineral deposits. Internal parts may corrode or freeze, and the situation might swiftly worsen. Even basic repairs are best handled by a trained professional because of the specialized knowledge and equipment needed for diagnosis and treatment. Inspecting, maintaining, and regularly fixing your plumbing system will save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Strange Noises

When it comes to your water heater, you don’t want to hear any rumbling, cracking, or hissing. These sounds should serve as major warnings that something is wrong. Even if your water heater seems fine on the outside, the noises it’s making are a symptom of inside problems, such as mineral buildup. You’ll likely notice some popping or banging sounds if this is the case. These minerals might cause the tank to break and hamper its functionality.

Although a rumbling noise, in particular, from your heater is not out of the ordinary, you should know that this could be a sign of a more serious issue (such as a faulty expansion tank).

Rusty Water

Even a small amount of rust-colored water dripping from your water heater is more than just an annoyance. It’s a sign of a major issue that needs immediate attention. Too much iron in the water supply or sediment in the tank is typically to blame for this discoloration. While strained filters and other quick fixes can sometimes get the job done, putting off the repair job can lead to more significant issues down the road, such as tank corrosion and expensive repairs or replacements. Don’t wait to contact a water heater repair expert when dealing with rust-colored water.

Smelly Water

Stale or otherwise unpleasant odors in the water supply may indicate pollution. Bacteria in the tank are usually the source of a foul odor in the hot water. The remedy may lie in flushing the tank, which should be done twice yearly at the very least for optimal water heater health. If the problem occurs with hot and cold water, it may not be related to the water heater. In either instance, if the odor persists after cleaning, it’s time to call a plumber.

Pilot Light Issues

Having your pilot light go out repeatedly is, at best, an inconvenience. However, if this issue isn’t fixed quickly, it could spiral out of control. If your pilot light has gone out or isn’t working properly, it’s either because of poor combustion or uneven hot water distribution in the tank, neither of which you should try to fix on your own. If this continues, you should have a professional come out as soon as possible to adjust the gas supply and fix any other problems that may have harmed the heater’s inner workings, posing a safety risk. Proactive maintenance will save you money on costly repairs down the road and keep your water heater functioning smoothly for years to come.

Broken Pressure Relief Valve

If the water heater’s pressure release valve is broken, the subsequent buildup of pressure and heat could cause explosions or other disasters. Having a reliable water heater repair specialist replace the pressure relief valve as needed is an easy way to prevent future tragedies.

Minor repairs like these typically only cost a few hundred dollars, but the problem could snowball into something much more expensive if left unchecked. Taking preventative steps is preferable to waiting and spending more to remedy a greater problem later.

Leaky Tank

A leaky tank is never a good sign. If there’s a puddle under your tank, your heater needs your immediate attention. In addition to warning of impending disaster, it could lead to water damage. The longer the leak goes undetected, the more harm there will be. Finding and fixing the leak is essential if you don’t want mold to spread and cause problems for your home and health.

As was previously noted, the relief valve could be the source of the leak. However, the leak could have been caused by several other factors. Check the water tank for obvious damage. Do you notice anything out of the ordinary? If the tank is leaking, you will likely need to replace it. The average lifespan of a water heater is ten years, so yours may be on its final legs.

If there is a serious leak, you must respond quickly. To do so, locate the water shutoff valve, which is not difficult to do. Remember that this is only temporary to prevent further water damage and will not fix your problem. You’ll still need to call a water heater repair expert.

Replacing the Anode Rod

Do you have concerns that your water heater isn’t functioning properly? Ignoring the need to replace the anode rod in your water heater might lead to expensive repairs. A water heater’s anode rod is a sacrificial component that draws in water’s corrosive elements so they don’t eat away at the heater’s inner workings. A leak in the tank could lead it to fail if you don’t replace the anode rod every few years, which would result in substantially higher repair or replacement costs. If you suspect your water heater requires maintenance, the anode rod should be one of the first things your contractor checks and, if necessary, replaces it.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!

Taking care of your water heater is not only a matter of convenience but also a matter of safety and budget. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to costly repairs, property damage, and even health hazards. Addressing the eight issues discussed above can save you from stress, inconvenience, and unexpected expenses.

If you’re experiencing any of the above-mentioned issues, don’t wait until it’s too late! Contact Just In Time today for professional and reliable repair services. Our team of experts is available 24/7 to help you with any water heater problems and ensure your home stays comfortable and safe. Contact us today and say goodbye to your water heater woes!

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AC Power Consumption: Advice From Your Experienced Air Conditioner Installation Technician

AC Power Consumption: Advice From Your Experienced Air Conditioner Installation Technician

An air conditioning unit is an essential appliance for any home, especially with the change in temperature and season due to global warming. It helps homeowners control the temperature and humidity in their homes through cooling to make them a comfortable haven for their families. As its name indicates, this device uses air to cool items in homes and offices. However, there is a factor to air conditioning units that most homeowners worry about, which is the power factor. Even with the help of air conditioner installation technicians, most worry that the AC consumes much power. Therefore, this article will focus on the most questions by homeowners about power consumption by air conditioning systems.

How Much Power Does an Air Conditioning System Use?

One of the homeowners’ major questions before incorporating an air conditioning unit into their home is how much power an AC unit consumes. Most homeowners expect the unit to skyrocket the electricity bill once they purchase it. Several factors, such as the model of an AC, impact the power usage of an air conditioning system;

Size of the Room

The size of the room the AC system is cooling plays an essential role in how much power your AC will consume. Therefore, an air conditioner installation technician will advise you to get a bigger system if your home requires a high temperature and vice versa.

Duration of Operation

The operation’s duration is the first significant factor affecting an AC system’s power consumption. If your AC unit runs throughout all the hours of the day, its power usage will be high compared to days when it runs for a few hours.

Outdoor Temperature

The other factor that will impact how much power your air conditioning unit uses is the outdoor temperature or the season. During hot summer days, your air conditioning unit will consume more energy as it tries to cool the temperature to the needed temperature. On the other hand, the power required to cool air in the cooler months is considerably less since the air already has lowered temperatures. Your AC setting will also determine how much power the system uses. Therefore, if your system is set on high, the power consumption will be high to meet the requirements.

How is the Power Consumption of an AC Unit Calculated?

The power consumption of any electrical appliance is the amount of electrical energy it uses to run. Therefore, since electrical energy is measured in Kilowatts (KW), this is the same unit used to measure the power consumption in AC units. Therefore, the power consumption of your AC unit is the measure of electrical energy used by your system to cool 1 ton of air by one Fahrenheit. The measure of power usage by an air conditioning unit is given in kWh. It is advisable to consult an air conditioner installation professional to know your AC’s power usage.

Does an AC Unit Use a Lot of Electricity?

Similarly to power usage, the amount of electricity your air conditioning unit consumes is dictated by outdoor temperature, duration of operation, and the size of the room you are cooling. However, the type of air conditioning unit and its EER rating also plays an essential role in the electricity usage of your air conditioning system. An air conditioning system’s EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating is the ratio of your AC’s cooling capacity to the power input. Therefore, air conditioning units with a high EER ratio use less power to input to cool your home. On the other hand, the lower the EER ratio, the less efficient the unit. With all these factors held constant, an air conditioning unit is one of the biggest electricity consumers in most households. Therefore, when choosing an air conditioning unit for your home, it is advisable to select a unit with an EER rating of higher than 8.5.

How Much Electricity Does an Air Conditioning Unit Use in Texas?

As outlined above, the amount of electricity an air conditioning system uses varies dramatically from one area to another. This is because the cooling capacity and consumption of an AC depend on an area’s outdoor temperature. However, it is essential to note that electricity consumption will also differ from one month to the other. During cold months, the electrical consumption of an AC will be lower than in hot months. However, to lower your system’s electricity consumption, incorporate other energy-efficient cooling options, such as ceiling fans.

Which AC Unit Has a Lower Power Consumption?

The power consumption of air conditioning units differs from one brand and model to the next. However, most modern air conditioning units are designed with high efficiency, which helps them to reduce energy usage. These units use components such as inverter-type compressors, which use less wattage to cool your home optimally. Therefore, consult an air conditioner installation professional on the best energy-efficient before purchasing an AC.

Which AC Type Uses More Electricity, Window or Split?

Unfortunately, this question has no straight answer since many factors impact each type’s electricity usage. However, window units typically use less electricity. They are cheaper than split ACs since they use the same electricity for heating or cooling your home. However, before purchasing the window AC type for your home, you should consider factors such as the size of your home since this type mostly comes in small sizes. On the other hand, consider the type of window AC and its placement in your home. For example, window-mounted outdoor AC units are more energy efficient.

Air conditioning units are essential to the comfort of your home, especially during summer. However, before purchasing an AC, it is crucial to investigate its power consumption since it impacts your monthly electric bill. Do you need help choosing an energy-efficient AC unit? Contact us at Just In Time. Our AC repair professionals can even help you with installation, repair, and maintenance.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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HVAC Problems? Call A Heating And AC Company

HVAC Problems? Call A Heating And AC Company

Summers in Illinois are warm, and winters are frigid, so you rely on your HVAC system more than half the year. If your furnace stops functioning correctly in the middle of winter, your house will get dangerously cold. If your air conditioner stops working during the summer, remaining cool and comfortable in your home will be impossible.
If part of your HVAC system fails to work correctly and experiences any of the following issues, it’s best to call an HVAC service immediately.

The Furnace Produces Cold Air

If you feel cool air from the vents when the furnace runs, the problem could be due to an incorrect setting on the thermostat or a dirty air filter, which you can fix yourself. However, if the thermostat is set correctly and the air filter is clean, you should call a heating and AC company.

A few issues can prevent the furnace from doing its job, including:

  • Faulty pilot
  • Dirty or faulty flame detector
  • A clogged condensate line
  • Broken thermostat

An HVAC tech can inspect the unit to diagnose the problem so that it can be fixed and the heat will be restored.

The Air Conditioner Produces Warm Air

Your air conditioner is designed to keep your house cool and eliminate the humidity so that you can remain comfortable in your home. If the unit produces warm air, the thermostat could be incorrectly set, or the air filter may be dirty, and you can fix these problems yourself. If there’s nothing wrong with the thermostat and the air filter is clean, it’s time to call an HVAC repair service.

A few issues can prevent the unit from producing cold air, including:

  • Dirty evaporator coils
  • Refrigerant leak
  • Faulty compressor
  • Broken thermostat

The HVAC tech will check each component to determine which prevents the unit from functioning correctly. This will allow them to fix the unit and restore the cold air.

Insufficient Airflow from the Vents

When the HVAC system runs, you should feel an intense rush of warm or cold air. If the airflow is restricted and you feel minimal airflow from the vents, you should hire an HVAC tech.

Poor airflow will cause the HVAC system to work harder to keep your home comfortable, consuming more energy, and your electric bills will increase. In addition, the extra work will put an excess strain on the unit, decreasing its lifespan.

A few issues can affect the airflow, including:

  • A significant buildup of dirt, dust, and debris in the ducts
  • Damaged air ducts allow the treated air to escape.
  • The blower is broken, causing the treated air to remain stagnant in the duets.

An HVAC tech will inspect the ducts and the blower to determine which restricts the airflow. They can repair or replace the blower if that’s the problem, and they can also clean the air ducts or repair the damage if either is the cause. When the tech completes the job, the airflow will be restored.

Foul Smells

Your HVAC system should produce clean, warm, or cool air, and if you smell something strange when the unit runs, you should call an HVAC tech immediately. Foul smells indicate issues that can harm your home and family, so the problem must be addressed immediately.

  • Mold: A moldy smell indicates mold in the HVAC system and is most commonly found in the air ducts. The ducts are dark, and mold growth can occur when condensation forms. When the HVAC system runs, mold spores will circulate in the air, putting your family at risk for mold-related health issues, such as allergies, chronic headaches, skin rashes, respiratory problems, and weakened immune systems. If a family member has a chronic lung or respiratory condition, mold exposure worsens the symptoms and disease.
  • A heating and AC company can send a tech to eradicate the mold with an antimicrobial fogger. If the air ducts are clear, the mold is likely in the air conditioner, which can be more challenging to eradicate.
  • Burning: A burning smell indicates a wiring issue, and the odor is caused by burning wire insulation. A wiring problem can start an electrical fire that can destroy your house in minutes, so you should turn off the furnace or air conditioner immediately and call an HVAC tech. They will find the faulty wire and replace it so that you can run the HVAC system safely.
  • Rotten eggs: A rotten egg smell indicates a gas leak that can cause an explosion, so you should get everyone out of the house immediately and call 911. The fire department has to cut the gas from your home to prevent an explosion, and they’ll air out the house so it’s safe to go back inside. You can’t turn the heat on until the leak is fixed, so you should call an HVAC tech to fix the leak so the gas service can be restored.

You should never ignore foul smells when the HVAC system runs, and a heating and AC company can help.

Call Just In Time Today

If your HVAC system isn’t working right and you need to hire a heating and AC company, look no further than Just In Time. We’re a full-service HVAC, plumbing, carpentry, and remodeling company, serving customers in the Sandwich area since 2010.

Our HVAC techs are professionally trained, licensed, and insured, and their knowledge and skill have allowed them to tackle some of the most challenging jobs in the industry. They also receive ongoing training because HVAC technology constantly improves, and we want to be sure they can work on the latest HVAC models.

Your comfort is our top priority, and we provide emergency service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you call for emergency service, you won’t get our voicemail regardless of the time because our phones are answered live 24/7.

If it’s time to replace existing heating and cooling equipment, we will provide a free in-home estimate and can give you information regarding money-saving rebates and tax incentives.

Call Just In Time today if you need an appointment for HVAC repair or any other service we provide.

See our most recent blog on this topic here.

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