Author: Brenna Thirkell

How to Flush Tankless Water Heater

Sep 20, 2023

How to Flush Tankless Water Heater

  • Plumbing
  • Water Heaters
Learn how to flush a tankless water heater for optimal performance. McHale's offers expert tankless water heater service!

In today’s modern homes, tankless water heaters have become a popular choice for providing a continuous supply of hot water while saving space and energy. These efficient appliances, also known as on-demand water heaters, require proper maintenance to ensure they function at their best. One crucial aspect of tankless water heater maintenance is knowing how to flush it regularly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of flushing your tankless water heater, explaining why it’s essential and offering troubleshooting tips along the way. Contact McHale’s to learn about tankless water heater services!

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

A tankless water heater is a compact and energy-efficient device that heats water as it flows through the unit, eliminating the need for a traditional water tank. This innovative technology ensures hot water is readily available whenever you need it, without wasting energy by continuously heating a large reservoir of water.

Why Flush Your Tankless Water Heater?

Proper maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your tankless water heater and ensuring it operates at peak efficiency. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced performance, increased energy consumption, and potentially costly repairs down the road. Flushing your tankless water heater is a crucial maintenance task because it helps remove mineral deposits and sediment that can accumulate over time. These deposits can clog the heating elements and reduce the unit’s efficiency. Flushing not only improves performance but also prevents damage to the internal components, ultimately saving you money on energy bills and repairs.

Tools and Materials for Flushing Your Tankless Water Heater

Before you embark on the essential task of flushing your tankless water heater, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Gathering the necessary tools and materials beforehand will not only streamline the process but also ensure that you have everything you need within arm’s reach. Here’s a checklist of the tools and materials you’ll want to have on hand to make this maintenance task a breeze:

  • Screwdriver
  • Bucket
  • Hose
  • Vinegar or a specialized descaling solution
  • Pipe thread sealant tape

How to Flush Your Tankless Water Heater

If you choose to attempt water heater maintenance yourself, it’s essential to do so with accuracy and care. Follow these steps to flush your tankless water heater:

  1. Turn Off the Power: Locate the power source for your tankless water heater and turn it off. This typically involves shutting off the circuit breaker or unplugging the unit.
  2. Shut Off the Gas Supply: If your tankless water heater is gas-powered, turn off the gas supply valve.
  3. Cold Water Inlet Valve: Shut off the cold water supply to the unit.
  4. Drain Valve: Connect a hose to the drain valve located at the bottom of the unit and place the other end in a suitable drainage area, like a floor drain or a bucket.
  5. Open Hot Water Taps: Open hot water taps in your home to relieve pressure in the system.
  6. Descale Solution: If using vinegar or a descaling solution, carefully pour it into the bucket.
  7. Flush the System: Open the isolation valves on the cold and hot water lines to allow the descaling solution to flow through the system. Let it circulate for about 45 minutes.
  8. Rinse: After descaling, close the isolation valves and disconnect the hose. Flush the unit by opening the cold water inlet valve and allowing clean water to run through the system for several minutes.
  9. Reconnect Power and Gas: Turn the power back on and, if applicable, relight the pilot light on a gas unit.
  10. Check for Leaks: Inspect all connections for leaks and use pipe thread sealant tape if necessary.

Troubleshooting Tips

While flushing your tankless water heater is a crucial maintenance step, sometimes unexpected issues can arise. No need to worry, though – we’ve got you covered with some troubleshooting tips to help you address common problems that may occur during or after the flushing process. These tips will ensure that your tankless water heater continues to deliver hot water efficiently and that any minor hiccups can be resolved with ease. 

  • Low Water Pressure: If you experience reduced water pressure after flushing, check for mineral buildup in your faucet aerators. Clean or replace them if necessary.
  • Strange Noises: Unusual noises may indicate air in the system. Try bleeding the air out by opening a hot water tap until it runs smoothly.

How Often Should You Flush Your Tankless Water Heater?

The frequency of flushing your tankless water heater depends on your water quality and usage. In areas with hard water, it’s recommended to flush the unit every 6-12 months. In areas with softer water, you can extend the interval to 12-24 months. Regularly monitoring your unit’s performance can help you determine the right schedule for your specific situation.

Tankless Water Heater Experts: McHales

If you ever encounter issues beyond your expertise or need professional assistance with your tankless water heater, consider reaching out to McHales. Our team of experts specializes in tankless water heater maintenance, repairs, and installations, ensuring your system performs optimally. Proper maintenance, including regular flushing, is essential to keep your tankless water heater running efficiently and reliably. By following our step-by-step guide and adhering to a maintenance schedule, you’ll enjoy endless hot water and savings on energy bills for years to come. If you’re not confident in flushing your tankless water heater, trust our experts at McHale’s for all your tankless water heater needs. Contact us today!

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By Brenna Thirkell

When Should I Get Furnace Service?

Sep 14, 2023

When Should I Get Furnace Service?

  • Furnaces
Fall is coming! Is your furnace ready? Check out our blog and see when you should get furnace service with McHales!

Your furnace is a vital component of your home’s heating system, ensuring comfort and warmth during the cold months. To keep it running smoothly and efficiently, it’s crucial to know when and how to get your furnace serviced. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of furnace repair, signs that indicate your furnace needs attention, the best time of year for maintenance, different types of furnace maintenance, the benefits of professional service, and why you should choose McHales for furnace repair.

The Importance of Furnace Repair and Maintenance

Furnace service and heating maintenance are essential for several reasons. Regular maintenance ensures that your furnace operates efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. It also extends the lifespan of your furnace, saving you from costly furnace replacement. Moreover, routine maintenance helps maintain indoor air quality and keeps your home safe by detecting and addressing potential safety hazards.

When Should I Get Furnace Service?

Late summer and early fall, specifically during the months of September and October, stand out as the most advantageous period to schedule your furnace maintenance. This strategic timing offers several significant advantages that can contribute to the overall well-being of your home heating system and, consequently, your peace of mind. This timing offers essential benefits:

  1. Winter Preparedness: It’s a strategic period to prepare your heating system for the impending winter, ensuring your furnace is ready to tackle the cold season effectively.
  2. Preventing Unexpected Breakdowns: By addressing potential issues before winter arrives, you can prevent inconvenient and costly furnace breakdowns when heating services are in high demand.
  3. Extending Furnace Lifespan: Timely maintenance reduces wear and tear on your furnace, prolonging its lifespan and delaying the need for costly furnace replacement.

Signs Your Furnace Needs Servicing

Before we dive into when to get your furnace serviced, let’s discuss some common signs that indicate your furnace needs attention:

  • Unusual noises like banging, rattling, or squealing.
  • Inconsistent heating or cold spots in your home.
  • Rising energy bills without an apparent cause.
  • Frequent on-and-off cycling.
  • Strange odors, especially a burning smell.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to consider furnace repair or maintenance.

Types of Furnace Maintenance

Furnace maintenance includes various tasks such as cleaning, inspecting, and repairing. A professional technician will typically:

  • Clean and replace the furnace filter.
  • Inspect and lubricate moving parts.
  • Check the thermostat for accuracy.
  • Examine vents and ducts for blockages.
  • Ensure safety controls are functioning correctly.

Benefits of Furnace Service

Regular furnace service is an investment that pays off in numerous ways, making it a smart choice for homeowners concerned with both their comfort and budget. Here are the key advantages:

  • Improved Energy Efficiency: Maintained furnaces operate efficiently, leading to lower utility bills.
  • Extended Lifespan: Proper care reduces wear and tear, delaying the need for costly replacements.
  • Enhanced Safety and Air Quality: Cleaning and inspections ensure safe, clean indoor air.
  • Early Issue Detection: Technicians catch and resolve problems before they become major, saving you from expensive repairs.
  • Warranty Compliance: Many manufacturers require regular servicing to maintain your warranty’s validity.

DIY Furnace Maintenance vs. Professional Maintenance

While some furnace maintenance tasks, like regularly changing filters and cleaning around the furnace, can be handled by homeowners, opting for professional maintenance provides a level of expertise and thoroughness that is often unmatched. HVAC professionals are equipped with specialized tools and a trained eye to detect hidden issues. Professional maintenance goes beyond basic cleaning; it involves intricate inspections, precision calibration, and in-depth troubleshooting. These professionals can identify potential problems before they escalate into significant issues, ensuring your furnace operates at peak efficiency and reliability throughout the heating season.

Call McHales for Furnace Repair

Furnace repair and maintenance are essential to ensure the comfort, safety, and efficiency of your home’s heating system. By recognizing the signs that your furnace needs servicing and scheduling maintenance during the optimal time of year, you can enjoy a warm and worry-free winter. When it comes to furnace repair and maintenance, McHales is your trusted partner. Our experienced technicians are well-equipped to handle all your furnace service needs, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs. Don’t wait until your furnace breaks down; contact us today for reliable and professional furnace care.

Check out our Google Reviews to see what our amazing customers have to say about our services!

By Brenna Thirkell

How to Repair a Broken Sewer Line

Aug 07, 2023

How to Repair a Broken Sewer Line

  • Plumbing
  • Sewer Replacement
How to Repair a Broken Sewer Line Mchales

A healthy sewer line system is vital for maintaining the hygiene and functionality of your property. However, over time, sewer lines can get damaged due to various reasons, leading to potential headaches and costly repairs. In this blog, we will explore how to identify signs of a broken sewer line, the importance of timely repairs, different repair methods, and essential considerations when dealing with this issue. Whether you are searching for “sewer line repair near me” or seeking tips to prevent future damage, McHales can guide you on all your sewer line services.

The Importance of a Healthy Sewer Line System 

A properly functioning sewer line is essential to keep your home or business running smoothly. It ensures the safe disposal of wastewater, preventing environmental contamination and health hazards. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to avoid potential disasters, such as sewage backups and costly property damage.

How to Know if a Sewer Line is Broken 

Identifying a broken sewer line early can save you from significant inconveniences. Look out for the following signs:

  • Foul odor: A persistent foul smell in and around your property could indicate a broken sewer line.
  • Slow drains: Multiple slow drains throughout your home might suggest a blockage or break in the sewer line.
  • Puddles in the yard: If you notice sewage pooling in your yard, it could be a sign of a broken pipe underground.
  • Unexplained lush patches: An area of your yard with unusually vibrant greenery could be a result of leaking sewage acting as fertilizer.

How to Repair a Broken Sewer Line 

When facing a broken sewer line, you have several repair options, depending on the extent of the damage and your budget. Consider these methods:

  • Trenchless Sewer Repair: This minimally invasive method involves inserting a new lining into the damaged pipe, sealing leaks, and restoring functionality without significant digging.
  • Pipe Bursting: This technique involves breaking apart the old, damaged pipe while simultaneously installing a new one.
  • Traditional Excavation: In severe cases, excavation might be necessary to replace the entire sewer line.

Things to Consider When Repairing a Sewer Line

 Before proceeding with repairs, keep the following factors in mind:

  • Cost: Different repair methods vary in cost, so choose one that fits your budget.
  • Extent of Damage: The severity of the damage will influence the repair approach.
  • Future Protection: Consider preventive measures to avoid future damage and save on repair costs.

How to Prevent Future Damage 

Preventing sewer line issues is easier than dealing with the aftermath. Follow these tips to safeguard your sewer line:

  • Regular Inspections: Schedule routine inspections to catch potential issues early.
  • Proper Disposal: Avoid flushing items that can clog the sewer line, such as wipes and grease.
  • Landscaping Awareness: Be cautious when planting trees near sewer lines to prevent root intrusion.

DIY vs. Professional Sewer Line Repair

While some minor issues can be fixed with DIY methods, sewer line repair is a complex and dirty job best left to the professionals. Attempting a DIY fix could lead to more significant problems and higher costs in the long run.

Choose McHales for Sewer Line Repair 

When it comes to reliable sewer line repair, look no further than McHales. With years of experience and a team of skilled professionals, we provide top-notch services, utilizing the latest technology for efficient and lasting repairs. Whether you need trenchless sewer repair or traditional excavation, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today if you need help repairing your broken sewer line.

Secure Your Property With Sewer Line Repair 

A broken sewer line can quickly turn into a nightmare if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance, early detection of issues, and choosing the right repair method can save you from costly repairs and significant inconvenience. Remember, when it comes to sewer line repair, always trust the professionals. Contact McHales for expert solutions and experience a smooth-running sewer line system that ensures the health and well-being of your property and loved ones.

Check out our Google Reviews to see why hundreds of our clients choose us when they’re faced with a broken sewer line. 

By Brenna Thirkell

How to Clean Bathroom Sink Pipes: A Complete Guide

Jul 20, 2023

How to Clean Bathroom Sink Pipes: A Complete Guide

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
Learn how to clean bathroom sink pipes with McHales and our step-by-step guide!

Maintaining a clean and odor-free bathroom sink is essential for a fresh and hygienic environment. Over time, bathroom sink pipes can accumulate debris, leading to unpleasant odors and potential drainage issues. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of cleaning bathroom sink pipes effectively. Learn when to clean them, the importance of regular maintenance, how to clean bathroom sink pipes, safety precautions, and who to call for professional bathroom sink pipe cleanings. McHales offers various cleaning services, check out our website to learn more!

Signs You Need To Clean Bathroom Sink Pipes 

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your bathroom sink pipes in optimal condition. Here are a few signs that indicate it’s time to clean them:

  • There is a foul smell emanating from the sink drain
  • Slow drainage or clogs in the sink
  • Presence of gurgling sounds when water drains
  • A noticeable build-up of debris or grime around the sink drain

Benefits of Cleaning Your Bathroom Sink Pipes

Understanding the importance of cleaning your bathroom sink pipes can help prevent potential problems. Here are the key benefits:

  • Eliminate foul odors caused by bacteria and accumulated debris.
  • Prevent clogs and ensure smooth drainage.
  • Maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness in your bathroom.
  • Extend the lifespan of your sink pipes by reducing corrosion and damage.

How to Clean Bathroom Sink Pipes 

Cleaning your bathroom sink pipes is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to get rid of dirt, grime, and odor-causing buildup:

  • Gather the necessary tools: Rubber gloves, a bucket, a pipe brush, an old toothbrush, and a cleaning solution (such as a mixture of baking soda and vinegar).
  • Clear the area under the sink: Remove any items that might obstruct your access to the pipes.
  • Put on rubber gloves: Protect your hands from debris and cleaning solutions.
  • Unscrew the P-trap: Place the bucket beneath the P-trap to catch any water or debris.
  • Clean the P-trap: Use the pipe brush and the cleaning solution to scrub the P-trap thoroughly.
  • Remove and clean the drain stopper: Take out the stopper and clean it with a toothbrush and the cleaning solution.
  • Flush the pipes: Run hot water through the pipes for a few minutes to flush away any remaining debris and cleaning solution.

What Safety Precautions Should You Take When Cleaning Bathroom Sink Pipes? 

While cleaning bathroom sink pipes is generally safe, it’s important to take a few precautions:

  • Always wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from debris and cleaning solutions.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the pipes or cause harm.
  • Ensure proper ventilation in the bathroom to avoid inhaling fumes from cleaning solutions.
  • Use caution when handling any sharp tools to prevent injuries.

Who Should I Call for Bathroom Sink Pipe Cleanings? 

For professional and efficient bathroom sink pipe cleanings, you can rely on McHales. Our experienced team of plumbers will ensure thorough cleaning, address any underlying issues, and provide expert guidance on maintenance to keep your bathroom sink pipes in optimal condition. When you’re feeling unsure about cleaning your own bathroom sink pipes, contact McHales! We can ensure safe and optimal cleaning solutions for your bathroom sink pipes!

The Importance of Regularly Cleaning Your Bathroom Sink Pipes

Regularly cleaning your bathroom sink pipes is essential for maintaining a fresh and hygienic environment while preventing unpleasant odors and potential drainage problems. By following the step-by-step cleaning process, taking necessary safety precautions, and considering professional services like McHales, you can ensure your bathroom sink pipes remain clean, odor-free, and in optimal working condition.

Check out our Google Reviews to see why customers choose us for pipe cleaning services!

By Brenna Thirkell