Author: McHales

Air Conditioning Installation Cost Guide: Factors to Consider

May 03, 2023

Air Conditioning Installation Cost Guide: Factors to Consider

  • Air Conditioning
Air-conditioning-installation-cost-McHales

If you’re considering air conditioning installation, you’re probably wondering how much it will cost. The answer depends on several factors, including the type of AC unit you choose, the size of your home or office, and the complexity of the installation process. In this AC installation cost guide, we’ll take a closer look at what to expect when it comes to air conditioning installation costs.

5 Things to Consider When Installing Air Conditioning

Before we dive into the cost breakdown, here are five things to consider when installing air conditioning:

  • Type of AC Unit: There are several types of air conditioning units to choose from, including central air, ductless mini-splits, window units, and portable ACs. Each type has its own cost range, with central air installation being the most expensive.
  • AC Unit Size: The size of your AC unit depends on the size of your home or office. A unit that is too small won’t be able to cool the space, while a unit that is too large will consume more energy and increase your energy bills.
  • Labor Costs: Installation costs can vary based on the contractor you choose and the complexity of the installation process. Labor costs can range from $500 to $4,000, depending on the job.
  • Other Factors: Additional factors that can affect the cost of air conditioning installation include the condition of your ductwork, electrical upgrades, and permits.
  • Choosing the Right AC Unit: It’s important to choose the right AC unit for your space to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency. Consider factors such as SEER ratings, noise levels, and warranty.

Air Conditioning Unit Average Costs

If you’re replacing an existing AC unit, the cost can vary depending on the type of unit and the size of your space. Here’s a cost comparison table to give you an idea of what to expect:

Air Conditioning Unit Average Costs, type of AC unit, cost range, best for, McHales
Air Conditioning Unit Average Costs

Other Factors That Affect Air Conditioning Installation Cost

In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are other factors that can affect the air conditioning installation cost. These include:

  • Ductwork: If your ductwork is in poor condition, it may need to be replaced or repaired, which can add to the cost of installation.
  • Electrical Upgrades: If your electrical system needs to be upgraded to accommodate your new AC unit, it can add to the cost of installation.
  • Permits: Depending on your location, you may need to obtain permits for air conditioning installation, which can add to the cost.

How To Choose The Right AC Unit For Your Home

Choosing the right AC unit is crucial for optimal performance and energy efficiency. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an AC unit:

  • Room Size: Consider the size of the room or space you want to cool. The larger the space, the larger the AC unit you will need.
  • Energy Efficiency: Look for an AC unit with a high SEER rating. This rating measures the energy efficiency of the unit. The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit is.
  • Noise Level: Some AC units can be noisy, which can be a concern if you plan to use it in a bedroom or quiet workspace.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Some AC units require more maintenance than others. Consider the maintenance requirements and factor them into your decision-making process.
  • Warranty: Look for a unit with a warranty that covers both parts and labor. A warranty can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected repair costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Can I install an AC unit myself?

Answer: While it’s technically possible, we recommend hiring a professional HVAC contractor to ensure the installation is done correctly and safely.

 

Question: What size AC unit do I need?

Answer: The size of your AC unit depends on the size of your space. A professional HVAC contractor can help determine the right size unit for your needs.

 

Question: How long does AC installation take?

Answer: The installation process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the job complexity

 

When it comes to air conditioning installation, there are several factors to consider that can impact the cost. By understanding installation costs, you can budget accordingly and make informed decisions about your AC unit. McHales can help you choose and install the right AC unit for you.

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By McHales

Importance of Regular Generator Maintenance For Emergencies

Apr 11, 2023

Importance of Regular Generator Maintenance For Emergencies

  • Generator
Importance of Regular Generator Maintenance For Emergencies - McHales

A backup generator can be a lifesaver during power outages or other emergencies, but it’s essential to ensure that it’s in good working condition when you need it most. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure reliable performance during emergencies. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of regular maintenance, the benefits of regular maintenance, how to maintain your backup generator, recommended maintenance schedule, and the risks of neglecting maintenance.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your backup generator can provide several benefits, including:

  • Improved reliability and performance during emergencies
  • Increased lifespan of your generator
  • Improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions
  • Lower likelihood of expensive repairs or replacements

How to Maintain Your Backup Generator

  • Checking and replacing oil, filters, and spark plugs
  • Inspecting fuel system and battery
  • Testing and exercising the generator

Recommended Maintenance Schedule

The recommended maintenance schedule depends on several factors, including the type of generator, its age, and how often it’s used. In general, it’s recommended to have a professional service your generator at least once a year. However, if it’s used frequently or it’s an older model, you may need more frequent maintenance.

Risks of Neglecting Maintenance

Neglecting maintenance can lead to several risks, including:

  • Reduced reliability and performance during emergencies
  • Increased risk of damage or failure
  • Higher likelihood of expensive repairs or replacements
  • Potential safety hazards

Choosing the Right Generator Maintenance Service

When choosing a provider for your backup generator maintenance, it’s important to consider several factors, including:

  • Experience and expertise
  • Availability and responsiveness
  • Reputation and customer reviews
  • Cost and service agreements

McHales can help you install and maintain your generator. Give us a call for more information.

Generator Maintenance is Important for Times of Emergencies

In conclusion, regular maintenance is crucial for reliable emergency performance. By understanding the benefits, how to maintain your backup generator, the recommended maintenance schedule, and the risks of neglecting maintenance, you can ensure that your generator is ready when you need it most. Contact McHales for more information and further assistance.

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By McHales

5 Easy Drain Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners – McHales Plumbing

Mar 22, 2023

5 Easy Drain Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners – McHales Plumbing

  • drain cleaning
5 Easy Drain Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners - McHales Plumbing

If you’re a pet owner, you know that they can bring joy and love to your home, but they can also bring a lot of pet hair, debris, and other messes that can clog up your drains. Keeping your drains clean and free of blockages is important to prevent costly plumbing issues down the line. In this blog post, we will share 5 easy drain cleaning tips for pet owners that will help you maintain healthy and clean drains.

1. Use Non-Toxic Drain Cleaning Solutions

Pet owners should avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can be toxic to pets and humans alike. Instead, opt for natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar. Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and pour it down the drain. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes before flushing it down with hot water. This will not only clean your drain but also remove any bad odors.

2. Brush Your Pet Regularly

Regularly brushing your pet’s fur can help prevent hair from accumulating in your drains. Depending on the breed of your pet, you may need to brush them every day or once a week. Use a grooming tool that is appropriate for your pet’s fur type to avoid causing any irritation.

3. Clean Up Pet Waste Promptly

Pet urine and feces can cause blockages in your drains if they are not cleaned up promptly. Use pet-safe cleaning solutions to clean up any messes, and dispose of waste in the trash instead of flushing it down the toilet. Flushing pet waste can cause serious plumbing problems, especially if you have a septic system.

Pet waste can contain high levels of bacteria, which can cause corrosion and damage to the pipes. Over time, this can lead to leaks and blockages. Additionally, pet waste can cause foul odors to emanate from the drains, making it unpleasant for people to be around. If pet waste is flushed down the toilet, it can also cause problems in septic systems as it can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the tank. Therefore, it is important to clean up pet waste promptly and dispose of it in the trash to prevent clogs and plumbing problems.

4. Schedule Regular Drain Cleaning Maintenance

It’s important to schedule regular drain cleaning maintenance to prevent clogs from forming. Depending on the size and number of pets in your home, you may need to clean your drains more frequently than the average homeowner. Professional drain cleaning services can help ensure that your drains are clean and free of blockages.

5. Use a Drain Strainer

To prevent pet hair and debris from entering your drains in the first place, use a drain strainer or stopper. These are inexpensive and easy to install, and can save you a lot of time and money in the long run by preventing clogs from forming. You can find drain strainers at your local hardware store or online.

Easy Drain Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners

In conclusion, these easy drain cleaning tips for pet owners can help keep your drains clean and free of blockages. By using non-toxic drain cleaning solutions, brushing your pet regularly, cleaning up pet waste promptly, scheduling regular drain cleaning maintenance, and using a drain strainer, you can ensure that your drains are in good condition and prevent costly plumbing problems.

If you need professional drain cleaning feel free to call McHales for fast and efficient drain cleaning services.

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By McHales

McHales Cares To Renovate Middletown Athletic Association Baseball Field House

Mar 02, 2023

McHales Cares To Renovate Middletown Athletic Association Baseball Field House

  • Uncategorized
Middletown Athletic Association Baseball Field house being renovated by McHales and McHales Cares

As part of McHales’ McHales Cares initiative, McHales Cares will renovate the MiddleTown Athletic Association (MAA) baseball field house. This effort will be in place of the monthly $1,000 donation McHales Cares makes to a local organization, voted on by local community members. This initiative will replace the donations for the months of March and April.

About the Middletown Athletic Association (MAA)

The Middletown Athletic Association (MAA) is a non-profit organization located in Levittown, Pennsylvania, that has been making a positive impact on the local community for over 60 years. Founded in 1958, the MAA has been providing recreational sports programs for children and adults in the Middletown Township area.

The MAA offers a wide range of sports programs including basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, football, and cheerleading. The organization provides a safe and structured environment for children to learn new skills, build self-confidence, and make new friends. For adults, the MAA offers softball and basketball leagues, providing a fun and competitive outlet for community members.

How the Middletown Athletic Association impacts our Levittown community

One of the MAA’s most significant impacts on the community has been its commitment to inclusivity. The organization welcomes children of all abilities and offers adaptive programs for children with disabilities. This has been a source of joy for many families who may have struggled to find inclusive recreational opportunities for their children.

Additionally, the MAA is entirely volunteer-run and relies heavily on community involvement to keep its programs running. This has created a sense of community pride and engagement, with families, businesses, and individuals all coming together to support the organization.

The MAA has been an integral part of the Middletown Township community, providing opportunities for physical activity, personal growth, and community involvement. Its impact has been felt by generations of families, and its continued success is a testament to the dedication and hard work of its volunteers.

McHales & McHales Cares Will Renovate the MAA Field House

In March and April, McHales and McHales Cares will renovate the Middletown Athletic Association (MAA) baseball field house. The renovation will include installing a new roof, replacing the siding, painting the interior and exterior, and installing new lights. This project will not only enhance the appearance of the fields but also provide safer and more enjoyable conditions for the children and adults who utilize the facilities.

We hope the impact of this renovation will be felt by the entire community. Our goal is for the renovated fields to provide a sense of pride for the community, reinforcing the idea that recreational opportunities are essential for the longevity of our vibrant community.

Moreover, this renovation aims to further involve the local community and support the MAA. McHales and McHales Cares are proud to support the organization and look forward to creating long-term community partnerships. This renovation project will not only improve the physical infrastructure of the MAA but aims to strengthen the bonds between community members and local businesses, ultimately creating a more resilient and connected community.

By McHales

Main Sewer Line Clog: 7 Reasons Why

Feb 16, 2023

Main Sewer Line Clog: 7 Reasons Why

  • drain cleaning
main sewer line clog inspection done by McHales

A main sewer line clog is a common plumbing issue that can cause major problems for homeowners. A clogged sewer line can lead to slow drains, backed-up toilets, and raw sewage in your yard. It’s essential to understand why your main sewer line is clogged so you can take the necessary steps to prevent it from happening again. 

Why Your Main Sewer Line is Clogged

1. Roots

The first reason your main sewer line may be clogged is due to roots from trees and shrubs. Roots are naturally attracted to the moisture and nutrients in your sewer line. Over time, roots can grow into the pipes. Once the roots get into the pipes, they can cause blockages and damage them, leading to leaks and other problems. To prevent roots from clogging your main sewer line, keep trees and shrubs trimmed and away from your sewer line. If you have a persistent root problem, you may need a professional to remove the roots and repair any damage to your pipes.

2. Grease and Oil

Another common cause of clogged main sewer lines is grease and oil. When you wash oily dishes, grease can accumulate in your pipes. Over time, this buildup can cause a clog in your sewer line. This is why it’s important to avoid pouring grease down your sink and to dispose of oil and other fats properly. Instead of pouring grease down the drain, let it cool and solidify, then throw it in the trash. Also, try to wipe down dishes and pans with a paper towel to remove as much grease as possible before washing.

3. Non-Biodegradable Items

Non-biodegradable items such as wipes, sanitary napkins, and diapers can also cause clogs in your main sewer line. These items do not break down like toilet paper and can create blockages in your pipes. To avoid these clogs, it’s important only to flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. If you have small children in the house, it’s also a good idea to keep all flushable wipes, toys, and other small objects away from the toilet.

4. Foreign Objects

Foreign objects such as toys, jewelry, and clothing can cause a main sewer line clog. These items can fall into the toilet or be accidentally flushed down the drain, leading to blockages in your pipes. You can prevent this kind of clog by keeping all foreign objects away from your toilets and drains. You can also install drain screens in your sinks and shower to catch foreign objects before they reach the sewer line.

5. Mineral Deposits

Mineral deposits can also build up in your main sewer line over time, causing clogs. Hard water, which contains high levels of minerals, can leave behind buildup in your pipes, leading to clogs. Regular drain cleaning can help prevent this from happening. In addition, installing a water softener system can reduce the number of minerals in your water, preventing buildup in your pipes.

6. Corrosion

Corrosion can also lead to clogs in your main sewer line. Over time, the pipes in your sewer line can corrode, leading to cracks and leaks. When this happens, debris and other materials can get into the pipes, causing blockages. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent corrosion and its associated clogs. If your pipes are made of iron or other metals prone to corrosion, you may want to consider replacing them with PVC or other corrosion-resistant materials.

7. Sagging Pipes

Finally,  sagging pipes occur when the soil shifts and moves the pipe out of place. This is often caused by heavy loads on top of the pipes or water moving the soil around. To prevent sagging pipes from causing clogs, it’s vital to prevent underground leaks and manage drainage around your home. Additionally, you should always address any issues as soon as they are identified.

What to Do With a Main Sewer Line Clog

If you suspect your main sewer line is clogged, you need to act quickly to prevent further damage and potential health hazards. Here are some steps to take if you have a clogged sewer line:

  1. Call a professional plumber: A professional plumber will have the tools and expertise to diagnose the issue and provide the necessary repairs.
  2. Avoid using your plumbing: If you have a clogged sewer line, it’s best to avoid using it as much as possible to prevent further blockages.
  3. Try a plunger: If you have a clogged toilet, try using a plunger to see if you can clear the blockage.
  4. Use a drain snake: If your sinks or bathtub are clogged, try using a drain snake to see if you can clear the blockage.
  5. Consider hydro jetting: Hydro jetting is a powerful and effective method of clearing clogs in your sewer line. A professional plumber can use high-pressure water to blast through the blockage and clear your pipes.

By understanding the causes of main sewer line clogs and taking steps to prevent them, you can help keep your plumbing running smoothly and avoid costly repairs. If you are having trouble with your sewer line, you should call a professional plumber as soon as possible. They can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action to get your pipes back in working order.

Additionally, it’s important to have your main sewer line regularly inspected to catch any potential problems before they become more extensive and more costly to fix. Regular maintenance can also help extend the life of your pipes and prevent more serious issues from developing.

Main Sewer Line Clog: Bottom Line

In conclusion, clogged main sewer lines can be a major problem for homeowners. Understanding the causes of clogs, such as roots, grease and oil, non-biodegradable items, foreign objects, mineral deposits, corrosion, and sagging pipes, can help you take steps to prevent them from happening in the first place. Regular maintenance and proper disposal of waste can go a long way in keeping your sewer line clear and functioning correctly. 

McHales is running a $48 Main Drain Opening special right now, so don’t put off this critical piece of maintenance! Call McHales today, and don’t forget to check out our stellar Google reviews!

By McHales

6 Winter Plumbing Tips To Prevent Problems

Jan 26, 2023

6 Winter Plumbing Tips To Prevent Problems

  • Plumbing
winter plumbing maintenance from mchales

Winter can be a tough time for homeowners when it comes to plumbing issues. Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze, drains to clog, and water heaters to malfunction. In this blog, we will discuss some of the most common plumbing problems and our winter plumbing tips to prevent them.

Winter Plumbing Tip #1: Insulate Frozen Drain Pipes

Frozen drain pipes can be a major problem during the winter months. When water in the pipes freezes, it expands, causing the pipe to crack or burst. This can lead to major water damage and costly repairs.

Source of the issue

Drain pipes are often located in unheated areas of the home such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics. These areas are more susceptible to freezing temperatures, which can cause the water in the pipes to freeze.

Damages or repairs

A frozen drain pipe can cause water damage to your home and can also lead to costly repairs. If the pipe bursts, it will need to be replaced and any water damage will need to be repaired.

Winter plumbing tips for frozen drain pipes

To prevent frozen drain pipes, homeowners should insulate pipes in unheated areas of the home. This can be done by wrapping them in insulation or using pipe sleeves. It is also important to keep the temperature in the home above freezing during the winter months.

Winter Plumbing Tip #2: Avoid Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are another common problem during the winter. Cold temperatures can cause grease and oil to solidify, which can lead to clogs in the pipes.

Source of the issue

Drains can become clogged during the winter months due to a buildup of grease and oil. When the temperatures drop, these substances solidify and can cause blockages in the pipes.

Damages or repairs

Clogged drains can cause water damage and can also lead to costly repairs. If left untreated, the clog can cause the pipe to burst, resulting in water damage to your home.

Winter plumbing tips for clogged drains

To prevent clogged drains, homeowners should avoid pouring grease and oil down the drain. Instead, they should be disposed of in the trash. It is also important to keep an eye on drains and address any clogs as soon as they are noticed.

Winter Plumbing Tip #3: Water Heater Issues

Water heaters can also experience problems during the winter months. Cold temperatures can cause the water in the tank to freeze, which can damage the heater.

Source of the issue

Water heaters are located in unheated areas of the home such as basements and garages. These areas are more susceptible to freezing temperatures, which can cause the water in the tank to freeze. Normally, the tank won’t freeze. However, if your water heater is no longer heating the water inside due to a compromised heater or energy supply, this issue can occur.

Damages or repairs

A frozen water heater can cause the tank to burst, resulting in water damage to your home. The heater will also need to be replaced, which can be costly.

Winter plumbing tips for water heaters

To prevent water heater issues, homeowners should insulate the tank and any pipes connected to it. It is also important to keep the area around the heater above freezing during the winter months.

Winter Plumbing Tip #4: Address Sump Pump Issues

Sump pumps are used to remove water from basements and crawl spaces. However, they can experience problems during the winter months due to freezing temperatures.

Source of the issue

Sump pumps are located in unheated areas of the home, making them susceptible to freezing temperatures. When the water in the pump freezes, it can cause the pump to malfunction. It’s not uncommon for your sump pump to work overtime during the winter either. When snow melts and the ground thaws, excess water can cause your sump pump to be constantly working.

Damages or repairs

A malfunctioning sump pump can cause water damage to your home and can also lead to costly repairs. If the pump is not working properly, water can build up in the basement or crawl space, causing damage to the structure and any personal belongings stored there.

Winter plumbing tips for sump pumps

To prevent sump pump issues, homeowners should make sure the pump is in good working condition before the winter months. This includes checking the float switch, ensuring the discharge pipe is clear, and checking the power supply. It is also important to keep the area around the pump above freezing temperatures during the winter months by insulating it or using a heating device.

Winter Plumbing Tip #5: Insulate Septic Lines

Frozen septic lines can cause problems during the winter months. When the water in the lines freezes, it can cause blockages and damage to the septic system.

Source of the issue

Septic lines are located underground and can be susceptible to freezing temperatures. Cold temperatures can cause the water in the lines to freeze, which can cause blockages and damage to the system.

Damages or repairs

Frozen septic lines can cause sewage backups and can also lead to costly repairs. If the lines burst, they will need to be replaced and any damage to the septic system will need to be repaired.

Winter plumbing tips for septic lines

To prevent frozen septic lines, homeowners should make sure the lines are properly insulated. This can be done by covering the lines with insulation or using pipe sleeves. It is also important to keep the area around the septic system above freezing temperatures during the winter months.

Winter Plumbing Tip #6: Prevent Basement Floods

Basement floods can be a common problem during the winter months due to frozen pipes, clogged drains, and malfunctioning sump pumps.

Source of the issue

Basement floods can occur due to a variety of reasons, including frozen pipes, clogged drains, and malfunctioning sump pumps. Cold temperatures can cause the water in the pipes to freeze and expand, causing them to burst and flood the basement. Clogged drains can also cause water to back up and flood the basement, and malfunctioning sump pumps can cause water to build up in the basement.

Damages or repairs

Basement floods can cause water damage to the structure of the home and personal belongings stored in the basement. The cost of repairs can be significant, and it can also lead to mold and mildew growth.

Winter plumbing tips for basement floods

To prevent basement floods, homeowners should take steps to prevent frozen pipes, clogged drains, and malfunctioning sump pumps. This includes insulating pipes, avoiding pouring grease and oil down the drain, and keeping an eye on the sump pump. It is also important to keep the temperature in the home above freezing during the winter months.

Winter Plumbing Problems Solved

In conclusion, it is important to be proactive about winter plumbing problems and address them before it’s too late. By taking steps to prevent common issues such as frozen pipes, clogged drains, and malfunctioning water heaters, homeowners can avoid costly repairs and water damage to their homes. Don’t wait for the problem to happen, take necessary precautions and be prepared for the winter months. Call McHales if you are experiencing any of the listed issues, or if you need an expert plumber otherwise! Don’t forget to check out our Google reviews!

By McHales

200 Amp Electrical Panel Upgrade: 3 Reasons To Get One In 2023

Jan 26, 2023

200 Amp Electrical Panel Upgrade: 3 Reasons To Get One In 2023

  • Electrical
200 amp electrical service panel upgrade

As a homeowner, it is important to stay on top of the latest advancements in technology and safety when it comes to your home’s electrical system. One of the most important updates you can make in 2023 is a 200 amp electrical panel upgrade. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of upgrading to a 200 amp panel and why it is essential for your home’s electrical system.

Increased Safety and Reliability

One of the main reasons to upgrade to a 200 amp panel is the increased safety and reliability it provides. A 200 amp panel is able to handle a larger electrical load, which means it can safely power more appliances and devices in your home. This is especially important if you have a larger home or plan to add more electrical devices in the future.

A 200 amp panel also provides increased reliability by reducing the risk of power outages and electrical fires. The larger load capacity of a 200 amp panel means it is less likely to overload and cause a power outage or fire.

Future-Proofing Your Home

Another important reason to upgrade to a 200 amp panel is that it future-proofs your home. As technology continues to advance, more and more devices and appliances will require more power to operate. By upgrading to a 200 amp panel, you are ensuring that your home will be able to handle the increased power demands in the future.

Cost Savings

Upgrading to a 200 amp panel may seem like a costly endeavor, but it can actually save you money in the long run. A 200 amp panel is more energy efficient and can help reduce your energy bills. Additionally, upgrading to a 200 amp panel can also increase the value of your home, which is beneficial if you plan to sell in the future.

Conclusion

A 200 amp electrical panel upgrade in 2023 is a smart move for any homeowner. The increased safety and reliability, future-proofing, and cost savings make it a worthwhile investment. It is important to hire a licensed and experienced electrician to handle the upgrade, to ensure that it is done safely and correctly.

By having a 200 amp electrical panel upgrade done, you can have peace of mind knowing that your home’s electrical system is up-to-date, safe and reliable, and ready for the future. Call McHales today to schedule your upgrade to a 200 amp electrical panel, and don’t forget to check out our Google reviews!

By McHales

What Is The Best Heating System For Your Home?

Jan 16, 2023

What Is The Best Heating System For Your Home?

  • Heating
boiler heating system for home

If you are considering updating your home’s heating system, you may be wondering what type of system would best suit your needs. Your decision will likely come down to a few common choices: heat pumps, furnaces, ductless mini splits, and boilers. Each option has its own benefits that must be weighed in order for you to make the best decision for your needs. Let’s take a closer look at each option so you can decide which is the best heating system for your home!

Heat Pump Benefits

Heat pumps are an efficient choice if you live in an area with moderate temperatures year-round. In the winter months, heat pumps use the air outside to heat the air inside your home. This process takes very little energy, making it an economical choice for many homeowners. Additionally, during the warmer months, heat pumps can also cool air inside of your home by drawing warm air out and pushing cooler air in.

Key features why a heat pump would be the best heating system for you:

  • versatile
  • energy efficient
  • good for temperate regions

Furnace Benefits

Furnaces utilize either gas or electricity as a fuel source to warm air inside of your home via a ventilation system that circulates the heated air throughout all areas of the house. Furnaces offer a consistent temperature that is difficult to achieve with other systems such as fireplaces or space heaters. Furnaces are less expensive than some other options but require more energy than other systems such as heat pumps or ductless mini splits.

Key features why a furnace would be the best heating system for you:

  • lower initial costs
  • availability

Ductless Mini Split Benefits

Ductless mini splits offer one major benefit over traditional heating systems: they do not require ductwork like furnaces or boilers do and therefore cost significantly less money to install and maintain than those traditional systems do. Additionally, these systems tend to be more efficient because they have adjustable thermostats in each room allowing occupants to control temperatures on individual levels rather than one temperature for the entire house like other systems provide. Ductless mini splits also provide excellent indoor air quality due to their filtration capabilities that reduce allergens and pollutants from entering your home environment via airflow from outside into inside spaces.

Key features why a ductless mini split would be the best heating system for you:

  • more control and adjustability
  • improved air quality
  • no need for ductwork

Boiler Benefits

Boilers are incredibly efficient when it comes to energy consumption; however, they tend to be more expensive than other options and installation requires complex piping that some homeowners may prefer not having visible within their homes. For those who prefer hot water radiators or under-floor heating instead of forced-air vents for heating purposes, boilers offer an ideal solution since they supply hot water rather than hot air like most other heating options do today. Boilers also tend to last longer than most furnace models but require regular maintenance checks in order keep them running efficiently throughout their lifespan—which can exceed 20 years with proper care and upkeep!

Key features why a boiler would be the best heating system for you:

  • versatile
  • long-lasting
  • efficient

Best Heating System For Your Home

Deciding which type of heating system is best for your home depends largely on where you live. It also depends on how much money you want to spend upfront on installation costs versus long-term operational costs. Heat pumps are ideal for moderate climates while furnaces work best in cold climates; meanwhile, ductless mini splits combine efficiency with affordability while boilers offer superior longevity along with energy efficiency if budget allows for higher initial installation fees associated with them. Be sure to consider all options before deciding which system is right for you, and call McHales for when you’re ready to move forward with your home-improvement project. Don’t forget to check out our amazing Google reviews!

By McHales

7 Christmas Light Safety Considerations

Dec 13, 2022

7 Christmas Light Safety Considerations

  • Electrical
christmas light safety considerations mchales

With Thanksgiving over and more holidays around the corner, you may feel that it’s finally appropriate to start hanging decorations. For those who celebrate Christmas, that means lights around the tree, outdoors, and more. These lights can draw a significant amount of energy and pose a safety hazard if not properly installed. Here are some Christmas light safety considerations to keep in mind while hanging your decorations this year.

Christmas Light Safety Considerations

1. Never leave the lights on without supervision

The number one rule to keep in mind before installing Christmas lights is to never leave them on without supervision. You should never leave them on if you have to leave your home, or while you are sleeping. While you may be home while sleeping, it’s easy for an issue to go unnoticed, causing a much larger and more dangerous problem. 

2. Application matters (indoor/outdoor)

Don’t overlook this crucial safety consideration when buying lights for your home. While indoor lights may be less expensive, they are NOT made for outdoor use. Outdoor Christmas lights are sealed and protected from the elements. Indoor lights are not built with the elements in mind, so avoid installing them outside. 

3. Consider their environment

When hanging Christmas lights, whether it’s indoors or outdoors, you need to consider their environment. If you are hanging Christmas lights on a metal tree, any imperfections in your lights could pose a very dangerous scenario. Christmas trees are the number one source of house fires during the holiday season. And this isn’t solely due to metal trees. Keeping a live tree watered and maintained can reduce your risk of fire. When the tree dries out, its risk of catching fire increases dramatically. Considering the heat that some lights generate, keeping your tree well-watered is crucial.

4. Type of bulb matters (& age)

When you’re buying your Christmas lights, consider choosing LEDs over incandescent lights. Going back to heat, LEDs produce much less heat than incandescent lights. This will reduce the risk of setting your live tree on fire. Older incandescent lights tend to have fewer fail-safe features built in, such as fuses. Fuses will prevent further damage in the event of a surge or short. Additionally, since incandescents draw more power, never string them to LEDs.

5. Properly secure your lights

Securing your lights goes along with choosing the appropriate environment for them. If your lights were to fall, would they come into contact with anything that could be dangerous? Properly securing your lights to your roof, tree, or whatever fixture they may be tied to is critical in preventing hazards. Even if they won’t hit anything that could be an issue, the wires or bulbs can break leaving an open, live circuit. That itself can cause a host of issues. Something to keep in mind is to NEVER use staples, nails, or any construction hardware to secure your lights. Fasten the appropriate hangers to string your Christmas lights for safe and secure application.

6. Don’t plug too many into one outlet

Christmas lights are convenient in that they typically allow owners to stack cords into one outlet. Seems great, right? Well, to an extent. Your outlets are designed to manage a certain amount of current. When that current exceeds the rating of the outlet, you are creating an unsafe situation. How many you can safely plug into your outlet depends on the draw of the lights.

7. Use caution with extension cords

Extension cords used for extended periods of time should be avoided. Sometimes, for temporary applications such as Christmas lights, it makes sense to use them. You should keep in mind where they are run to avoid issues. If the extension cord will be around water or snow, especially at a low point, they are vulnerable to moisture. It should go without saying that water and electricity do not mix, so this should be avoided at all costs for proper Christmas light safety.

If you need your home electrical system inspected before you run your Christmas lights this year, feel free to schedule an inspection with us here at McHales! If you don’t already know how great we are, check out our wonderful reviews!

By McHales

What To Do If Your Sewer Keeps Backing Up

Nov 17, 2022

What To Do If Your Sewer Keeps Backing Up

  • Sewer Replacement
Sewer backing up how to prevent mchales

When it comes to your sewer, the phrase “out of sight, out of mind” doesn’t apply. There are many preventable, common reasons why your sewer might be backing up. Nobody wants to deal with toilets not flushing, washing machines overflowing and sinks not draining. Check out these common reasons why your sewer keeps backing up, and some simple steps to prevent it from happening in the future.

Why Your Sewer Keeps Backing Up

Some common reasons why your sewer may be backing up are:

  • Clogs
  • Blockages
  • Compromised Pipes
  • Municipal Problems

The next step is figuring out how you can prevent some of these issues in the future.

How To Prevent Sewer Back-Ups

With the holiday season rapidly approaching, don’t forget about these easy preventative measures to make sure you don’t experience any issues!

Food & Grease

This one is common, especially if you have a garbage disposal. Avoid putting scraps of food down the drain to prevent the chance of a build-up occurring further down your sewer pipes. This includes grease, fats, and oils that would otherwise coagulate and create stubborn build-up on the inside of your sewer system.

Flushable Wipes

Flushable wipes really are not all that flushable. Where regular toilet paper is designed to break down, wipes are much more durable and can snag or collect anywhere within your sewer pipes.

Gardening

Outside of the home, you must be mindful of planting trees or large plants, including bushes, around sewer pipes. Their roots can dive deep under the surface and cause expensive blockages and repairs for your sewer.

Prevent Your Sewer From Backing Up

To prevent wastewater from backing up into your home after entering the sewer system, ask to install a sewer backup valve. This one-way valve will allow wastewater to leave your home but not come back in.

If you are regularly having sewer problems and backups, don’t bail and call McHales today. Be sure to check out our amazing reviews!

By McHales