Author: McHales

Most Common Reasons Why Your Water Heater Stopped Working

Aug 23, 2022

Most Common Reasons Why Your Water Heater Stopped Working

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
  • Sewer Replacement

In our experience, there’s never a good time to see your water heater has stopped working. It’s such a core part of what makes your home comfortable that losing it even for a few hours can be a massive problem.  While you can always call us at Payless to fix any and all issues with your system, we think transparency is important and want you to know exactly what’s wrong with your water heater.  We’ve looked at our records and narrowed down some of the most common reasons water heater stop working. 

  1. Poor Installation Just like a carpenter needs the right tools for the right job you water heater system needs to be properly fitted to your home and your needs. Often, new homeowners find that the previous owners did a slipshod job of installing the water heater. Maybe you had children and expanded the size of your household. An improperly sized system does not provide the results you’re looking for.  Be sure that you have the right heater for your home. 
  2. Rust Rust is an inevitable problem whenever you’re dealing with anything metal, especially water heaters. To prevent against this, water heaters come equipped with devices called sacrificial anodes, which act as deterrents to rust damage. Over time, these anodes wear away. Check your system annually and give us a call if you notice these rods failing. 
  3. Air Quality In order to heat your water, a process called combustion needs to occur. Essentially what this is is that air is taken into the water heater and used to heat the water. But if that air is low quality or contains corrosive fumes? Bad air can destroy your water heater from the inside out. 
  4. Water Pressure Speaking generally, 80 PSI should be your maximum water pressure. If it’s much higher than this, you need to fix the problem  before the damage becomes permanent. 
  5. Accumulated Sediment  The water in your heater contains a lot of minerals and chemicals. Over time, these compounds build up within your system into a sludge-like substance which, as you could imagine, disrupts the efficiency of the water heater. Draining and cleaning the tank regularly can help prevent this, but without regular maintenance, you may need to call a professional to fix the issue. 
  6. Age Time stops for no water heater. Just like people, water heaters get old. They get worn down and parts deteriorate.  Water heaters generally last about a decade or so. If your system is 10+ years old and you’re noticing a decrease in your water quality, it may be time to give us a call. 

Consult With Your Plumber  There’s a lot of misinformation out there about water heaters. We only covered a select handful here. Still have questions about tankless water heaters? Give us a call at McHales! Our team of experts can answer any and all questions you may have about water heaters, tankless or otherwise.

Water heater stopped working? Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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By McHales

A Guide to Cleaning Your Sewer and Drain Lines

Aug 17, 2022

A Guide to Cleaning Your Sewer and Drain Lines

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
  • Sewer Replacement

Nothing is more important than considering the health of both your sewer line and drains. Much like any other system in your home, both of these systems are prone to problems, especially clogs. A clog usually occurs when there is some sort of blockage found within your pipes. This is precisely why regular sewer and drain cleaning is so important. 

Thankfully, there are ways around these series of backups and sewer and drain cleaning are fairly easy services to navigate once you get a professional on board. If you follow the following steps, you can keep your pipes running smoothly. 

Typical Causes of Sewer Backups

Sewer backups can lead to In terms of residential backups; there are many contributing factors. These include:

  • Tree Root Intrusion 
  • Grease Accumulation
  • Improper disposal of paper products

If you do have a sewer line clog, follow these following steps to clear the blockage.

How to Remove a Sewer Line Clog with Sewer Cleaning 

Use a pipe wrench to loosen the cap on your main drain line before you open it entirely. Once the cap is loosened, open it and let the buildup drain out. Once the cap is opened, make sure to step out of the way. If there is any waste caused by the clog, the backflow will spill out of the main line drain. Make sure to let it run off entirely before attempting any further repairs. 

Next, feed the auger cable down the drainpipe. Each auger, or plumbing snake, is different, so be sure to follow the instructions that come with the tool for best results. However, the general principle is that you should gently feed the auger cable into your drainpipe until you hit the clog. You’ll know when you’ve hit it because the cable will get progressively harder to move through the pipe. Allow the auger to run until the clog has been removed. You’ll be able to see when it happens because the water level in the drainpipe will begin to gradually decrease and then drain out entirely.

That said, don’t stop running the machine as soon as the clog disappears. There could still be smaller pockets elsewhere in the pipe, which may cause additional problems down the road. Once the clog has been removed, spray the hose down your drainpipe at full blast. Doing so will simultaneously remove any lingering debris that is stuck in the pipe and clean off the auger. 

Afterwards, pull the plumbing snake out of the pipe slowly. You most likely want to hose the auger cable off a few times before winding it back onto the machine. When you’re done, place the cap back on your drainpipe and use the pipe wrench to tighten it up. 

Avoid Clogging Your Drains

While grease is the absolute worst substance you can put in your drain, there are other objects that should be avoided all together. This is especially pertinent if you have a garbage disposal unit as part of your drain system. These items include the following:

  • Bones
  • Fibrous fruits/vegetables: This includes celery, artichokes, asparagus, lettuce
  • Coffee Grinds
  • Fruit Pits: Includes avocado pits, peach pits, etc.
  • Corn Husks
  • Egg Shells
  • Potato Peels
  • Pasta, Rice and Grains

If these items much like grease or oil, can clog up your drain or prevent the garbage disposal blades from working properly. If the blades are jammed, this can also increase the buildup in the disposal drain.

If you do experience a clogged drain, there are ways to remedy it. 

Cleansing Your Drains

If your drains do have a clog, there can be a number of indicators. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent drains from clogging. 

  • Run hot water through the sink after each use. Hot water keeps oils in food products running down the drain, rather than building up on the interior surface of pipes, which can make drains sluggish and lead to clogs.
  • Throw a handful of baking soda into the drain and follow it with hot water. Baking soda is a terrific cleaning agent, and it’s also great for absorbing foul odors and leaving your drainpipes smelling like a rose. Okay, maybe not like a rose, but a lot better than they otherwise would.
  • Pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain and let it sit for 30 minutes; then chase it down with very hot water. Vinegar is a wonder cleaner. It contains acetic acid, which acts as an excellent organic solvent in removing an organic buildup of crud in pipes. 

Schedule a sewer or drain cleaning with a call to McHale’s today!

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By McHales

When Should I Replace My Old Plumbing?

Jul 25, 2022

When Should I Replace My Old Plumbing?

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
  • Sewer Replacement

For many homeowners in and around Bucks County, their plumbing system is something they take for granted; it’s in the background working for them and doing it’s job. Out of sight, out of mind. That is until something goes wrong. Plumbing repairs are one thing, but some times pipes are in such a state that they just need a replacement.

Because our pipes are so hidden from our view most of the time, it can be hard for homeowners to determine exactly when they need pipe replacement. Visual signs become hard to pick up when you can’t actually get a visual. Thankfully there are other signs to tell when when it’s time to replace your old plumbing.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is one of, if not the, biggest signs that the pipes you have are on their way out. Regularly, low pressure can be caused by a number of different issues. But consistent, regularly low pressure is a surefire sign you need to replace your old plumbing. You might notice that the water pressure in your shower isn’t as strong as it used to be, or that you are not getting much pressure from the sinks. This means that the pipes may be in the early stages of failing at that point, or they may have already progressed in that direction. 

Murky Water

Is your water coming out of the faucet a little cloudy? Failing some sort of major water crisis in your local area, the most likely culprit behind this type of activity is a failing plumbing system. Murky water is a cause for alarm due to health reasons, so if you notice it be sure to call a plumber ASAP.

Rust

Given that pipes run throughout a person’s house, people are sometimes going to see rust spots in odd places throughout their homes if they have old and rusting pipes that need to be replaced. This is more common in older houses. In some instances, this rust is pervasive enough to effect the exterior and interior of the pipe, which ultimately compromises it’s structural integrity and overall water quality. 

Wet Spots in and Around the Home

Surefire signs of plumbing leaks, seeing water pooling in areas where it shouldn’t means you’ve got issues. Don’t make the mistake of thinking someone spilled something or the water came from the outside. Unexplained household leaks are often caused by failing older pipes and not by water coming in from the outside.

 One household leak could have multiple sources. However, if people have several household leaks, and they seem to occur in areas that are heavy on the plumbing, it’s a sign that something is wrong with the internal piping system.

Cracks and Holes

Failing plumbing has a number of consequences, not least of which is wider architectural damage to your house. Cracks, holes, and other unexplainable damage to your home are often the result of pipes failing just behind the walls. This is one of the more serious symptoms of a plumbing system in need of replacement, so don’t hesitate to call us if you see it.

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!“”

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By McHales

How to Patch A Leaky Pipe While You Wait For a Plumber

Jul 13, 2022

How to Patch A Leaky Pipe While You Wait For a Plumber

  • Plumbing

While we at McHales love to see the DIY spirit, somethings just require a professional touch. Leaky pipes are a prime example. When water is coming out of anything but your faucet or shower head, it’s going to take more than a little duct tape to fix the problem in a meaningful way and that’s where we come in. And while our response times are among the fastest in the biz, we can’t teleport directly to your home. Meanwhile, you still have a leaky pipe, which can lose as much as 250 gallons of water through a 1/8 inch crack. While they aren’t permanent fixes, there are some band-aid solutions you can apply to stop the flow temporarily. Here are some easy things you can do to hold down the fort while you wait for the cavalry to come.

Pipe Epoxy

You’re probably already familiar with these types of products since they’re widely available at most hardware stores. Basically, it’s a chemical compound that starts out soft and hardens over time after application to a leak. Think of it like putting some water resistant glue over the hole. They can be relied on for a few weeks, but you still need a plumber to come out and fix the issue once and for all. A temporary solution, but an easy one for the average person to access and deal with. There’s a lot of different brands out there, but for our money, here are some of the ones we recommend:

  • Flex Paste
  • J-B Weld Epoxy Adhesive
  • Oatey Fix-It Stick
  • Gorilla Epoxy Adhesive

Pipe Tape

Literally a band-aid solution. These are exactly what they sound like: tape you put around your pipes to stem the flow of water. Pipe tapes are most commonly made from resin impregnated fiberglass/PVC tape so they can stand up to the water flowing underneath. It work really well on joints and elbows, which are some of the more common plumbing fixtures that spring leaks in the first place. Since they are essentially heavy duty pieces of tape, they do eventually lose their adhesive quality over time usually in a , but in a pinch, pipe tape can be a life saver for a homeowner trying to stop a leak before a plumber arrives. Here’s a few of our recommended brands:

  • Rescue Tape
  • F4 Tape
  • Blue Monster
  • Gorilla Waterproof Tape

Rubber Pipe Connectors

In the event of a major leak at a joint or elbow, a little tape isn’t going to do much for you. Rubber pipe connectors are the thing you’ll need. This remedy is best for leaks that occur around joints or in the middle of water piping. And while it’s much more effective and longer lasting than both epoxies and tapes, it’s a lot more difficult to apply for the average homeowner without extensive plumbing know-how. They may not be the best choice to patch your leaky pipe while waiting for a plumber, we do have some products we tend to recommend for those who it is right for.

  • Watts Rubber Fittings
  • Fernco
  • Cherene

Pipe Clamps

Clamps are another common quick fix while waiting for a plumber. Though more often found in commercial settings, they work just as well holding together a leak in a private home. These pieces of metal are screwed, bolted, wrapped, or otherwise affixed to the pipe, covering the leak. They’re often pretty cheap and easy to apply, so they remain a popular choice among those in need of fast plumbing repairs. And where other products have some variance based on brands, pipe clamps are largely the same no matter which brand you go with. The differences are in the types of clamps, which will vary based on where your leak is and what type/size of pipe you’re dealing with.

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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By McHales

“What’s Wrong With My Air Conditioner Unit?”

Jun 15, 2022

“What’s Wrong With My Air Conditioner Unit?”

  • Air Conditioning

“What’s Wrong With My Air Conditioner Unit?” A dreaded question no homeowner wants to have to ask, especially as we enter the dog days of summer.  Your air conditioner unit is going to be your best friend in the coming months as temperatures soar into the 80’s and 90’s. When your air conditioner unit stops working, you need answers and you need them fast. The best thing to do is to call a professional, but here are some of the most common reasons your AC might be broken.

Electrical Failure

The most common reason air conditioner unit’s fail is electrical failure. An unreliable circuit breaker or a blown fuse are two of the most usual suspects. These are simple enough issues that some handy homeowners may be able to fix themselves. Failing that, there’s a more serious issue at hand. For all other electrical-related mishaps with your AC, we recommend getting a licensed and trained technician on-site.

Frozen Coil

When was the last time you changed out your air filter? Hopefully it was relatively recently, as old, worn-out filters and dirty ductwork are surefire ways to get yourself a frozen coil. The coil is a critical component in your unit’s airflow meaning that it’s a critical component to your AC functioning. You can check your coil by looking down into your air conditioner, but you’re going to need to call a repairman to remove it and install a replacement.

Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is the liquid inside your air conditioner unit that empowers it to do its job in cooling down your home. Think of it as the lifeblood of your system. If there’s a leak sprung, it’s important to get it fixed very quickly. Refrigerant fluid can be hazardous to the environment and your health, so it’s best to get it cleaned up and replaced by a McHales team member as soon as possible.

Damaged Hardware

Being outside, your AC is prone to the elements and all that they bring along with them. Important components of your air conditioner unit, including the fan, the compressor, and the electrical connections, wear down over time, especially in units more than five years old. These components are usually obscured inside the unit itself, and issues with them are only diagnosed by a technician digging around in there and finding them. The good news here is that there’s a reliable way to prevent these issues before they get the better of your trusty cooling system…

A Lax Maintenance Routine

Regular HVAC maintenance is paramount to ensure your system runs smoothly when you need it the most. Having a professional come in at regular intervals and inspect your air conditioner unity from the ground up will help you both catch any latent issues before they become AC breaking problems. A trained McHales technician has the skills and know how to pick up on potential problems before they rear their ugly head, but they need to have eyes on your system to do so. Regular maintenance is THE best way to make sure your AC never needs an emergency repair.

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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By McHales

Signs You Need Professional Sewer Cleaning

Jun 06, 2022

Signs You Need Professional Sewer Cleaning

  • drain cleaning
  • Plumbing
  • Sewer Replacement

Why’s sewer cleaning so important? Our sewer system is one of the most out of sight systems in our homes, and as most people can attest, “out of sight” generally means “out of mind.” Unfortunately, it is also one of the most important systems in modern life when it comes to sanitation and cleanliness. So when something goes wrong with it, such as a clog, a leak, or a full blown sewer burst, it’s more than an inconvenience; it’s a threat to you and your family’s health. Regular , professional sewer cleaning is one of the best ways to keep a trained eye on your sewer system, keep it clean, operational, and safe.

Foul Smells

You don’t need to be a career plumber to know that toilets can smell from time to time. Normally, these odors pass in time. If you’re noticing sustained, heavy, oppressively strong odors in and around your home (particularly from your piping) this can be an early sign of a major blockage. This is usually where most homeowners call a plumber, as it’s one of the more unpleasant issues to have happen in your home. Regular cleaning can make sure the inside of your home keeps smelling as beautiful as it looks.

Water Backing Up

Have you noticed water not going down the drain quickly while you’re in the shower? The sink isn’t quite clearing after brushing your teeth in the morning? Common sewer blocks prevent water from heading down the drain quickly. Much like how plaque can clog an artery and cause blood to flow more slowly through your body, a blockage in your plumbing system can cause your water to funnel through a too-small-to-run-efficiently space. Thankfully, a plumbing block is easier and safer to remedy than a clogged artery: a simple can to one of the pros at McHales can have any blockage removed and cleaned out in just a few short hours.

Gurgling Sounds

You may notice these coming from inside your walls after flushing a toilet or taking a shower. This is indicative of a growing blockage somewhere in your plumbing. As blockages begin to form, the water rushing through the more confined space creates air pockets that make these unpleasant gurgling noises. These can be disconcerting to hear, and understandably so. Once a drain and sewer cleaning service removes the blockage in question, these sounds should disappear as well.

Flooding in Your Yard

If a foul smell in your bathroom is a red flag, then flooding in your yard is equivalent to an air raid siren blasting in your ear. Flooding of foul smelling liquid is indicative of a sewer line burst, one of the most serious plumbing issues you can come across. This means one of your pipes has burst and the raw sewage therein has seeped up through the dirt and into your yard. Not only is this absolutely disgusting, it damages your property and poses a serious health hazard. If you notice your lawn is flooding from below, especially it’s a bad smelling, dirty liquid, it’s well-past time to call in a plumber to preform sewer cleaning: you need full blown sewer repair, a much more costly project.

Sewer and drain cleaning in general should be regular parts of any homeowners maintenance checklist. Just like with your personal health, small issues can snowball out of control very quickly if left unchecked: the minor blockage in your pipes could become a full-blown, water-stopping clog, the leak can escalate into a massive burst sewer line, and so on. Save yourself the headache (and the financial pain) with a regularly scheduled drain or sewer cleaning to stop issues before they get out of hand.

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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By McHales

Split System Air Conditioners: What Are They and What Are Their Benefits?

May 15, 2022

Split System Air Conditioners: What Are They and What Are Their Benefits?

  • Air Conditioning

Keeping up with home maintenance, especially during the winter season can be overwhelming, but the holidays are the perfect time of year to take stock of your appliances. Your HVAC system works especially hard when the snow falls, and it may be time for a replacement. The average lifespan of an air conditioner is 15-20 years, and the older your HVAC unit gets, the less effective it is. Outdated air conditioners are more than just a nuisance; they can cause a variety of safety hazards such as mold, gas leaks, and electrical fires. If it’s time to replace your air conditioner, you might want to consider a split system air conditioner.

When it’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Eventually, it will get to the point that your air conditioner just can’t function as well as it used to. An air conditioner on its last leg not only affects your comfort, but your wallet, and the older it gets, the harder it works. Replacing your air conditioner can be expensive, but a damaged air conditioner can wind up costing you more in repairs and damages, damages which can be dangerous for your home and your health. Luckily there are plenty of warning signs when your air conditioner is nearing the end of its life. Here’s what to watch for.

  • An air conditioner that’s over 10 years old. Most air conditioners have an average lifespan of 15-20 years. If your AC unit is in the double digits, it might be time for a replacement.
  • Your home feels warm and stuffy. It might sound obvious, but if you start noticing that your home feels uncomfortable, the problem might have something to do with your air conditioner. Feel around your AC unit, if you feel little to no cool air, it might be time for a replacement.
  • Your home is dusty. An air conditioner on its deathbed will have a hard time filtering the air in your home, which can result in excessive dust everywhere. If your home seems dustier than usual, it might have something to do with your AC unit.

Why a Split System Air Conditioner Should Be Your Next Air Conditioner

The difference between centralized air conditioning and a split system air conditioner comes down to ventilation. A split system air conditioner doesn’t use air ducts to heat or cool your home which can be ideal for small homes or homeowners planning on adding to their home. As the name implies, a split system air conditioner has two units, one indoors and one outdoors, and are built to efficiently cool your home. Don’t wait if your air conditioner needs a replacement, here is how a split system air conditioner can benefit you

  • It’s easy to install. One great perk for a split system air conditioner is the lack of an air duct system. Packaged or centralized air conditioners are limited by the air ducts in your home, which means you have to install around your air duct system. Instead of connecting the unit to the air ducts, a split system air conditioner only needs two holes drilled in the wall for the copper tubes and wiring. As long as both units are within 100 feet of each other, you can install a split system air conditioner just about anywhere.
  • They’re energy efficient. One of the best perks of a split system air conditioner is its energy efficiency. Since there are no air ducts, there is no energy wasted, because the chilled air or heat is delivered directly into each room. A split system air conditioner gives you more control over which rooms you want to be cooled or heated, meaning you don’t have to run units in rooms that are unused.  
  • It’s quiet. If you want some peace and quiet, rest assured you can with a split system air conditioner. The noisiest parts of an air conditioner, such as the fan and the condenser, are located in the outdoor unit, meaning there is minimal noise when your split system air conditioner is in use.
  • It’s easy maintenance. There’s enough inside your home that requires routine maintenance, and luckily your split system air conditioner is easy to maintain. There’s less to maintain because there are no ducts, and split system air conditioners have washable air filters, and easily accessible outdoor units.
  • You save money on your utility bills. Since a split system air conditioner is built to be energy efficient, it means you can save money on your utility bills. Unlike a centralized air conditioner, a split system air conditioner is built to speed up or slow down the compressor instead of shutting it down entirely, which can save up to 30% on your utility bills. Some split system air conditioners may also qualify for a tax rebate.

Don’t Wait Until the Air Conditioner Busts

Investing in an energy efficient appliance may be a lot cheaper than the upkeep of an older air conditioner. If it’s time to replace your AC unit, a split system air conditioner is the right alternative, as it’s easy to install, cheaper in cost, and easy to maintain. No homeowner wants to deal with a busted air conditioner. Call an HVAC technician today to get started.

Call McHale’s for drain and sewer repair today!

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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10 Warning Signs You Need Drain and Sewer Repair

May 12, 2022

10 Warning Signs You Need Drain and Sewer Repair

  • Plumbing

Although maintaining a fully-functioning drain system is a vital element to the upkeep of any home, this luxury is often taken for granted. Indeed, the literal lifeblood of any home, although most people discount the vitality of maintaining a functioning drain system, its importance becomes evident just moments after it begins to malfunction. Rather than waiting until you are forced to endure mishaps such as leaking, frequent clogging, and more, the following is an overview of 10 warning signs that you need drain and sewer repair. 

1. Water Flooding in the Basement

One of the top tell-tale signs of a drainage problem is spotting standing water in your basement. Given that this is the lowest point of your home, it should come to no surprise that waters from things such as overflowing gutters or a fluctuating water table would convene here. 

2. Strange Gurgling Noises Coming from Drain

Your drain/sewer system should be virtually noise-free. Although there are certainly some exceptions, for the most part, you should not be able to hear what’s going on in your drainage system. If you hear strange gurgling noises coming from your system, this is a sign of some sort of blockage that should be addressed immediately.

3. Foul Odor Coming from Fixture Drains

In addition to that, if you smell any unexplained, unpleasant odors coming from your drain system, this is also a sign of an issue. You should never be able to smell things such as raw sewage assuming your day-to-day activities. If you notice a foul smell that can be likened to that of raw sewage, you may want to contact a plumbing professional as soon as possible. 

4. Home Came with Older Drainage System

Moreover, as with all elements of the home, your drainage system is subject to regular wear and tear. Perhaps, more so than most other elements of your home, your drainage system is one of the most often used parts of your home. Therefore, it makes perfect sense that having a home with an older drainage system would be subject to occasional to frequent malfunctions. 

5. Unexplained Spike in Water Costs 

In addition to that, if you have noticed an unexplained increase in your water bill, this may also be an indication of a drain issue. This is largely due to the fact that sewage system issues are related to things such as leaks and frequent clogs, each of which tends to waste an excess of water which causes an increase in your monthly fees.

6. Poor Water Quality

Moreover, if you have noticed a deterioration in terms of your quality of water, this is a serious sign that you should have your drain system checked immediately. Having drain problems can wreak havoc on your entire water supply by introducing an array of toxic materials and other potentially harmful contaminants. If you notice your water supply appears to be cloudy in nature, that it has a foul odor or anything else you feel is a cause for concern, contact a plumbing professional and have your drain system checked immediately. 

7. Low Water Pressure

In addition to that, if you have noticed that the pressure coming from your sink, bath, or toilet, you should definitely have your system checked. Many systems succumb to things such as tree roots or even feminine hygiene products, among other things. Once your system is sufficiently clogged, you will need a professional to remove the obstruction and get your system back in working order. 

8. Multiple Clogged Fixtures 

Although every drain system is subject to an occasional clog, if you have multiple fixtures in your home all clogged at the same time this is a cause for concern. Given that sewage systems tend to get clogged in the most unreachable places, if your drains seem to be moving more slowly than usual, you may have a massive clog in an unseen area of your home.

9. Slow Drainage

Furthermore, even if your system isn’t actually clogged and is just moving more slowly than usual, this is also a warning sign. In addition to potentially being clogged, your system may just begin to become more sluggish as things cease to work as sufficiently as they once did. 

10. Frequent Overflowing of Toilet

Lastly, if your toilet overflows frequently, this can be a massive sign that you need to have your drain system replaced. Indeed, while a well-functioning drainage system does not typically have such issues, a drainage system has sporadic issues in regards to the random rising and falling of toilet water levels and more. 

Overall, if you do not pay close attention to the early warning signs of your drain system you may end up paying dearly in the end. Not only will you be forced to endure hours, days, or even weeks without a properly functioning drainage system, but you will also put your home at risk for water damage, spikes in service fees and much more. If you can relate to any of the above warning signs, contact a professional plumber today for drain and sewer repair!

Call McHale’s for drain and sewer repair today!

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By McHales

10 Solutions to Fixing Air Leaks

Apr 29, 2022

10 Solutions to Fixing Air Leaks

  • Electrical
  • Remodeling

You wouldn’t run the heat in the house with the windows open in the winter, would you? Of course not! Unfortunately, when you have multiple air leaks in the house, this is the exact effect happening within your home. The warm, expensive indoor air is permitted to escape the house, while chilly, winter outdoor air is allowed into the home. These air leaks can be found in many areas of the home. The attic, windows, doors, and basement are prime places for the average homeowner to lose warm air to the outdoors.

If the weather in your area is beginning to get a little chilly, you may want to begin some yearly maintenance tasks to keep the cold air out of your home. If the warm air leaks outdoors, your heating unit will have to work overtime to try to keep the house comfortable. This means more wear and tear on your unit, and possibly costly repairs in the future. Additionally, you will feel chillier in the house and your heating bills will skyrocket if too much cold air is able to penetrate your home. Most of the following ten repairs are fairly inexpensive and simple to do, requiring little more than a screwdriver, a few easily found items, and a sharp pair of eyes. If you can’t afford the big tasks, like new windows or a complete insulation replacement in the attic, do what you can in other areas of the house. Tackle a few of these jobs each weekend, and you’ll be surprised at how much cozier your home is this winter.

1. Caulk and weatherstrip doors and windows that leak air.

You know what it’s like to stand in front of the door with cold air blowing on your toes from the crack under the door. Seal those door jambs and thresholds with weatherstripping. Also, pass your hand around the window frames and door frames. If you feel cool air, caulk the cracks to keep out the air

2. Install foam gaskets behind outlets and switch plates on the wall.

This is super easy to do, but it does take a little bit of time.  For just a few dollars, you can buy a large packet of foam gaskets to insulate behind your light switches and electrical outlets. Simply remove the center screw that holds in the faceplate, place the foam gasket in place, and replace the faceplate and screw. 

3. Install foam sealants on larger gaps on windows.

If you have larger cracks and gaps in the framing around your windows and doors, you may be better off using expanding foam to seal them up. Use this stuff carefully and always wear gloves while applying it.

4. Inspect insulation for mold and leaks.

When checking out the neglected corners of your house for air leaks, pay attention to the status of your insulation. If you have moldy insulation, you should replace it. Mold can make people very sick, and it’s an indication of dampness that can lead to rotten wood. Make sure there are no gaps or leaks in your insulation .

5. Cover or replace single-pane windows. If you seek replacement, install efficient double-pane windows instead.

While it can be expensive to replace the windows in your home, installing efficient double paned windows can save you big money over the years and keep your home more comfortable. The air space between double paned windows serves as insulation to allow light in, but keep cold air outside. If you can’t afford new windows at this time, using a window insulation kit or heavy insulated drapes can help keep winter drafts at bay.

6. Cover the kitchen exhaust fan when you are not using it.

The kitchen exhaust is like a huge chimney and can vent your indoor air if you don’t pay attention to it. You can cover this opening with a dishtowel using Velcro type attachments. However, it is very important to not forget to remove it before you turn on the fan. Also, don’t make the mistake of shoving an old rag in the opening. If someone doesn’t know about it or forgets to remove it before turning on the fan, the rag can be sucked up into the exhaust fan, completely ruining the appliance.

7. Seal air leaks around furnaces, chimneys, or water heater vents with fire resistant materials.

Be sure that when you insulate and seal around potential fire hazards that you use fire retardant materials. Places like chimneys, furnaces, and hot water heater vents can get very hot. Flammable materials could ignite in these places.

8. Check your dryer vent for any blockage.

While you’re checking around the dryer vent, you may want to make a quick inspection of the dryer vent. If the dryer vent is blocked this is a fire risk.. Also, your dryer will be very inefficient without maximum airflow.

9. Check attics, basements, and crawl spaces for air leaks before the winter begins.

Look around in the frequently overlooked areas of the home for cold air leaks. Attics, basements, and crawl spaces can be places where cool air can enter the home. Close the vents to crawl spaces to keep cool air out. Shine a flashlight in dim corners to ensure that rodents or other critters haven’t chewed holes in unexpected places. Seal up cracks with putty or caulk, and make sure the insulation in the attic hasn’t been disturbed.

10. Seal air leaks around any plumbing or electrical fixtures coming from the walls, floor, and ceiling. 

Any time an electrical or plumbing fixture enters the house, there’s a chance that the opening through the wall isn’t sealed well. Double check these areas, and use foam insulation or caulk to close up holes where cold air can invade. Look behind toilets, under sinks, where the refrigerator water line enters the house, and where the dryer vent exhausts to the outdoors.

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7 Reasons You Have Cold Spots in Your Home

Apr 12, 2022

7 Reasons You Have Cold Spots in Your Home

  • Heating

Winter temperatures are dipping, and heaters are working overtime in many areas of the country. If your home is well-insulated, then you will struggle less with the cold. One issue many homeowners have is cold spots in the home. These spots can be found in certain rooms in the house and sometimes a room will have varying temperatures. You might find yourself comfortable in one spot, and freezing cold just a few feet away! Cold spots in your house are a pain, to put it lightly.

The problem with cold spots in your house is it makes it difficult to heat your home evenly. You may be turning up the heater to warm up in a cold spot, but find that the rest of your home becomes overheated. In addition to issues of comfort, your heating bill is going to rise as you struggle to keep indoor temperatures under control. If you are experiencing cold spots in your home, here are some things you should be looking for:

1. You Have An Improperly Sized Furnace

If your furnace is too small for your home, this will leave some rooms in your house out in the cold. A too-small furnace simply can’t generate enough heat for the amount of square footage. Not only that, but it has to work too hard, which is costing you more money. Talk to an HVAC expert about replacing your furnace with an energy-efficient model that is the right size for your home.

2.  Your Air Ducts Are Leaking

Leaky air ducts are a sneaky problem that will cost you money and create uncomfortable variations in temperature throughout your home. These issues affect you all year long, because they hurt your air conditioning, too. During the winter months, you’ll find that areas of your house are chilly while others are warm. Not only that, but leaky air ducts cause issues with indoor air quality, as well. This is a big problem, especially in the winter when your home is closed up tight. This issue can result in headaches, allergy symptoms and increased illness.

3. You Have Improperly Sized Ductwork

Similar to the issue of an improperly sized furnace, the wrong sized ductwork creates uneven heating in your home, causes the furnace to work too hard and results in increased energy costs and costly repairs to your furnace.

4. Your Furnace Does Not Have Zoning Capabilities

Even if your furnace and ductwork are adequate, if your furnace doesn’t have zoning capabilities, you are still going to run into temperature fluctuations throughout your home. This is because different areas of your home are simply going to be colder. This may be due to large windows, exposure, lack of carpeting/high ceilings and other factors. Zoning allows you to increase the temperature in some rooms and reduce or eliminate it in others. For example, if you don’t use one area of the house as much, there is little reason to heat it. If you have a room that is just naturally colder than another, you can increase the temperature in that particular room without overheating the rest of the house.

5. Your Thermostat Is Broken Or Needs To Be Replaced

This is a relatively easy fix, but people are often unaware that their thermostat is no longer functioning optimally. This is something that should be checked during your yearly maintenance and inspection.

6. Your Home Is Not Properly Insulated

Often, the problem isn’t with your furnace or your ducts, it is with your home. If your home isn’t properly insulated, you’ll have cold spots. A poorly insulated home is not only uncomfortable, it’s expensive! Get your home’s insulation evaluated by an expert to determine if you need to revamp your existing insulation. This  can be costly and sometimes complicated, so get more than one opinion on how to proceed, and remember that you can save money in the long run by addressing the issue.

7. You Didn’t Inspect Your Home For Leaks When The Season Began

Aside from insulation, leaks are a major culprit when it comes to cold spots in the home. Leaks around vents, ductwork, windows and doors are common and can be addressed fairly easily. A quick fix is to place towels in front of doors and use insulating drapes on your windows. You’ll need to get someone out if you have leaks around vents or ducts, but these are relatively easy fixes. 

So how do you know what is causing the problem? When it comes to your furnace the only way to know for sure is to schedule a maintenance and inspection appointment. At this appointment you can discuss your concerns, ensure that your furnace is the right model for your home and make sure everything is in good working order. This is a good time to talk about your options and determine if you need more extensive repairs or replacement. Addressing these issues can help save you money on your ongoing energy bills, and keep your home comfortable throughout the winter months.

Call McHale’s for heating service today! Fix any cold spots in your house!

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By McHales