Tag: McHale’s

Common Household Objects You Should Not Flush Down The Drain

Jan 19, 2022

Common Household Objects You Should Not Flush Down The Drain

  • Plumbing

We’ll be upfront with you: your toilet is not magic. It seems like common sense to say that, but you’d be amazed at the things some people flush without regard for the complicated mechanisms and plumbing systems that make it all happen. Like any tool or appliance, improper use of your toilet can and will result in damage that is going to cost you a pretty penny in the long run. The best solution to these problems is to not let them happen to begin with, since many toilet-related calls we receive stem from improper flushing etiquette. We’ll break down some of the most commonly flushed items that you should find a different disposal method for.

Medication 

This one is a big one. Old pills and the like should always be disposed of properly and never through the toilet. Most pills are resistant to water, meaning they do not break down safely. This leads to the chemicals within them to be absorbed into the water and cause harmful environmental effects and potential health problems in the community. 

Baby/Sanitary Wipes

We know the box says they’re flushable. They’re not. They go down the drain when you flush them, sure, but in reality, they are prime candidates for getting stuck in the pipes and causing massive, sticking clogs and backups that require a professional hand to properly eliminate. 

Dental Floss

Like most other items on this list, dental floss can cause clogging. Unlike most items on this list, large amounts of flushed floss can string together and act as a net catching otherwise safe debris and causing even larger issues. 

Cigarette Butts

Smokers may find it convenient to dispose of their old cigarettes down the toilet. While not known to cause particularly nasty clogs, cigarettes are filled with toxic materials that absorb into the water. Just don’t do it. 

Feminine Products

Widely believed to be safe, even intended, to be disposed of in the toilet, feminine hygiene products are among some of the most dangerous items to flush. These products are meant to act as absorption agents. Meaning that, once flushed, they absorb water and expand, clogging pipes and causing backups over time.

Diapers

Dirty or otherwise, all diapers should be disposed of in a diaper receptacle or the trash bin. Like feminine hygiene products, diapers are built to absorb water, and will cause massive blockage when they expand within the pipes.

Pet Fish

This one surprises a lot of people when they first hear it. Flushing a dearly departed pet fish has become something of a cultural touchstone: it’s just what you assume people do. And while it seems to be the ubiquitous way to send off a fishy friend, it’s not the best for your plumbing. Fish are very slow to decompose in water, and are usually consumed by scavengers in the wild after passing. This is an obvious clog risk, especially if it’s a larger animal. Given this information, consider giving your next pet fish a different type of funeral. 

Paper Towels/Non Toilet Paper Paper Products

Paper towels are heavy and bulky. Great for cleaning up messes, not so great for flushing down the drain. These are the number one cause of drain clogs, hands down, and it’s because folks assume paper products dissolve like toilet paper. That’s an entirely fair assumption to make, but it is not the case. Save yourself the headache later on and walk that paper towel to the trash bin for a proper disposal.

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Start Your New Year With Savings from a Tankless Water Heater Installation 

Dec 15, 2021

Start Your New Year With Savings from a Tankless Water Heater Installation 

  • Water Heaters
tankless water heater installation

If you are looking to save on your bills in 2022, investing in a tankless water heater may be just the solution. Tankless water heaters, also commonly called on-demand water heaters, are the new standard in water heaters. There are many benefits to switching to this model of water heater that can save you money. 

Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater Installation

  • Efficiency: A tankless water heater can be 30% more efficient than a traditional tank water heater. With this increased efficiency comes savings for you. Energy Star estimates that the average family can save $100 per year by using a tankless water heater. 
  • Sizing: A tankless water heater, commonly called a “on demand” unit, is much smaller than a tank heater. They are hung on the wall which frees up floor space in basements in laundry rooms. They are less expensive to run than traditional tank heaters since they only heat water when you need it. There is no heat loss from water sitting in a tank waiting to be used. These units are easy to adjust and allow for more efficient hot water usage.
  • No Heat Loss: When a tank water heater runs, it needs to keep 40-50 gallons hot at all times. This means your tank is burning fuel constantly to keep the water at temperature. Tank models also lose heat as water sits in the tank and travels through pipes. Tankless water heaters lose no heat because they do not store water. You only use the water you need at any given time with on-demand heating. 
  • No Leaks: If you’ve had a water heater leak in your basement, you can recall the frustration and cost associated with repairs. Because tankless heaters do not store water, you will never have to worry about leaks causing damage to your home. 
  • Longer Lifespan: A traditional water heater has a lifespan of 10-12 years. A tankless heater can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance! This longevity will save you money since you can rely on this model for many years past the traditional water heater. 

Have any questions about getting a tankless water heater installation? Call McHale’s Today!

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Electrical Safety Tips to Keep You Safe in Bucks County

Nov 23, 2021

Electrical Safety Tips to Keep You Safe in Bucks County

  • Electrical
electrical safety

In the U.S., we are addicted to our electricity–it allows us to read, work and play after dark, provides power to time-saving appliances, and (most importantly!) powers our personal electronics such as phones and tablets. However, electricity deserves a great deal of respect and careful treatment to ensure that your home isn’t subject to dangerous electrical fires caused by aging wiring or simple negligence. Electrical fires have caused over 50,000 fires, thousands of injuries, and over a billion dollars in direct property damage in the last 10 years, and these damages are largely avoidable when you follow basic safety tips. Being proactive about how electricity is used in your home is the first step towards ensuring that your home and family are safe from the hidden dangers lurking in your walls. 

Dangers Associated with Electricity

Electricity is considered a hidden danger because it’s not something that you can physically see. You see the outcome (a light turns on, the TV works), but you don’t technically see the power flowing through the wires inside your walls. Unfortunately, it’s easy to ignore the need for electrical safety and frequent reviews of your systems until it’s too late. Here’s a few of the challenges that you might encounter with your electricity:

  • Decreased lifespan for your appliances and lightbulbs
  • Lights that flicker, or turn on/off without touching the switch

Apart from these symptoms, homeowners can also end up with a fair amount of pain and suffering from allowing the problems to go on–an increased risk of fires, reduction in property values when your home goes through a contractor review, and increased spending on maintenance services and repairs as you attempt to pinpoint the problems. 

Benefits of Regular Electrical Safety Reviews in Bucks County 

Many electrical fires and electrocutions can be prevented through taking simple maintenance steps and understanding basic safety principles. Whether you’re a homeowner, a renter or a business owner, keeping safety tips close to hand and reviewing them regularly may be the difference between a worry-free fall and a season of frustration–or loss. Benefits of keeping your electrical system up to date include a reduced risk of damage to your family and to your property, a steadier flow of power throughout your home, a longer lifespan on your expensive home appliances and reduced overall spending on your electrical bills. Perhaps the most important benefit to following simple electrical safety tips is the peace of mind that you’ll have knowing that your family and home are safe from the damaging effects of electrical fires. 

Tips for Staying Safe at Home

Even if your lights aren’t flickering, you could still have problems with the electrical flow throughout your home that haven’t shown up yet. Following these tips will help you get ahead of problems before the occur. Knowledge is power, and a solid understanding of your electrical systems and where potential problems may occur can help keep you and your family safe. The good news is that you don’t need an electrical license or a Master’s degree to follow these tips–and while you may have heard a few of these before, you’ll almost certainly find a new idea that can help you save money and stay safe. 

Bucks County Electrical Safety Tips

  • Unplug Battery Chargers. Did you know that your battery chargers continue to pull a trickle of electricity through the wires even if you’re not actively charging your electronics? Unplugging them from the wall completely offers one less opportunity for a fire to start–plus saves money on your next energy bill!
  • Keep Electrical Fixtures Clear. Ensure that your electrical outlets are clear of furniture or clothing that could potentially cause a spark or burn if they got hot enough. 
  • Right-Size Your Bulbs. Lighting fixtures are rated for specific bulb wattages, and exceeding that wattage requirement can cause an overload on your wiring, just as an underpowered bulb can cause stress to the system. 
  • Replace Damaged Cords. Probably everyone has considered putting duct tape or electrical tape on a fraying cord at some point–but resist that idea! Damaged cords are prone to cause shock, short circuits or even fire.
  • Use a GCFI. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (or GCFIs) are commonly used in outlets, and can immediately shut off electric power to reduce the risk of electric shock or fires. They’re intended to trigger when current is flowing through a person or through water.
  • Test Smoke and Carbon Dioxide Detectors. An easy way to remember when you need to test your carbon dioxide and smoke detectors is that they should be tested and batteries replaced with each change of the seasons. 

Outdoor Electrical Safety Tips

  • Cut Back Debris. Outdoor electrical outlets are very handy, but they can also be prone to a lot of different problems such as shrubbery that grows too close to the wall or other debris. 
  • Review Your Tools. Outdoor power tools such as leaf blowers or trimmers have cords that are more likely to fray due to rough usage. Check them often and replace the cords as needed.
  • Upgrade Circuit Panels. When in doubt, call a licensed, professional electrician to upgrade or review your circuit panels. 
  • Know Your Space. When you’re working outside on a ladder, be cautious of the placement of electrical lines and wiring so you don’t accidentally yank something loose. 

These simple tips can help your family stay safe this fall and all year ’round! Electricity is a wonderful modern convenience, but taking the time to perform simple reviews of your wiring and electrical systems can help reduce the number of accidents that occur each year. 

Have any questions about water heaters? Call McHale’s Today!

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5 Water Heater Accessories To Improve Your Heater’s Effectiveness

Oct 25, 2021

5 Water Heater Accessories To Improve Your Heater’s Effectiveness

  • Water Heaters
water heater accessories

A properly installed and maintained water heater will operate efficiently and effectively for years after it’s purchase. And while most systems are more than suited to keeping your household comfortable, we at McHales  believe even good things can be made better. That’s why we’ve compiled this quick list of five water heater accessories you can purchase and install to improve the effectiveness and safety of your equipment. 

  1. Timers Perfect for the energy-conscious customer, these devices help cut down on the power your heater draws when not in-use.  These devices get wired directly into the unit’s electrical supply and can be set so the water heater only draws electricity at specified times, making sure your water heater is never acting like an energy vampire. 
  2. Expansion Tanks These are pretty simple, as they just provide extra tank-space for more water. Ideal for homes that have had additions built and require additional heating, more tank space means more water, which inevitably means more heat. 
  3. Water Heater Pan Another fairly standard item, the pan acts as a reservoir to collect excess/overflowing water. The pan has an opening in the side for a drain hose to carry away any overflow water. While seemingly mundane on its own, the pan is especially effective when combined with our next entry…
  4. Leak Detectors and Alarms. These little gizmos can be real life-savers. They sit either in the pan beside the water heater. If the heater leaks or overflows, the alarm will sense the liquid coming into the pan and give an audible alarm to alert the homeowner that there’s a problem. Some of these alarms are even equipped with Wi-Fi so you can be alerted on your phone. A leak detector/alarm can be a huge money-saver should your water heater ever spring a leak, giving you an early heads-up on the problem. 
  5. Water Heater Stands. These accessories raise gas units off the ground, protecting them (and your home) from fire should flammable liquid spill nearby. When installing one of these devices, note that it will have an impact on your measurements along with your plumbing and venting. Unless you’re a plumbing expert yourself, are absolutely going to want to have a professional on-hand for a stand installation to make sure everything goes smoothly.

Consult With Your Plumber  There are plenty of water heater accessories out there to make your equipment that much more effective at keeping your home comfortable. Give us a call at McHales today and ask us about possible water heater accessories and other ways you can increase your equipment’s safety and effectiveness!

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What to Consider Before You Purchase a Water Heater

Oct 25, 2021

What to Consider Before You Purchase a Water Heater

  • Water Heaters
purchase a water heater

Your water heater isn’t something you think about until you need to. Tucked away in the garage, you just don’t notice it until it stops working and needs to be repaired or replaced. Even if your water heater is still working, it’s a good idea to evaluate older equipment to ensure it’s working efficiently. If your home is older and the water heater hasn’t been replaced in some time, you may be paying more than you need to for hot water.

When It’s Time For A New Water Heater

You may be tempted to head down to your local big box home center and select a water heater to install yourself. However, there are several reasons this isn’t a good idea. Aside from things that can go awry in the installation process, choosing the right water heater for your home isn’t as easy as it seems. Here are some things to consider:

What Kind Of Water Heater?

You have options, and the type of water heater can make a difference in hot water availability and energy efficiency. Here are the basic types of water heater you may choose from:

  • Conventional storage water heaters. This is the kind you are probably most familiar with. It’s the large tank variety found in many homes. These water heaters come in various sizes. If you choose this kind of water heater, it’s important that you get the right one to ensure you have adequate hot water but also save on energy costs.
  • Tankless (on demand) water heaters. Heats the water without needing a storage tank.
  • Solar water heaters.
  • Indirect water heaters.
  • Tankless coil water heaters. These water heaters are best suited for a certain climate.

When You Don’t Have The Right Water Heater

If you are using a water heater that isn’t right for your home, you can run into problems. Aside from not having an adequate supply of hot water, you can also lose energy efficiency, resulting in higher utility bills. If your water heater is working too hard, you may need more frequent repairs. In some cases, the wrong water heater can result in water contamination. It’s important that you choose a water heater that is suited to the size of your home and your individual water consumption needs.

The Benefits Of Choosing The Right Water Heater

The right water heater will run efficiently. This means your heating bill will be lower, and you will still have enough hot water for showers, dishes, etc. You will have cleaner, healthier water and you will be less likely to run into problems. This means fewer repairs and a water heater that lasts for years.

Features You Should Be Looking For

It’s a good idea to know what to consider before you shop around for your water heater. What type of water heater should you choose? What are the pros and cons and what features are most important to you. It may be that you value an eco-friendly, energy efficient water heater above all else.  If that is the case, you might consider a tankless water heater, known for efficiency and conservation.

If your household demands a great deal of hot water, then you will be looking for a water heater that provides high output in the most efficient manner possible. You’ll find that your newer water heater will be more efficient than an older model of a similar type. Your current water heater may work just fine for you, but replacing it with a similar model will give efficiency a boost.

Cost is another consideration. The temptation may be to save some money and buy a less expensive model. The problem is that you could end up spending more money in the long run. Repairs and replacement will cancel out your initial savings, making a cheap water heater anything but a bargain.

Your fuel type is something else to think about. Energy sources typically used include gas, electricity, propane and solar. You’ll have to do some research to determine whether you should switch from your current fuel type to something else. For example, if your current water heater is an electric one, you may think about switching to gas. Figuring out your annual operation cost as well as the cost to switch from one to another is something you will want to talk to a professional about.

Getting Advice About Your Water Heater

If you are in need of a new water heater, your best bet is to consult a professional. Hot water is a daily need. It requires equipment that runs reliably and efficiently. Your water heater can cost you a great deal of money each and every year if you make the wrong choice. Talk to someone who knows what they are doing. Getting equipment and installation assistance from a reputable source can save money and headaches later on.

Have any questions about water heaters? Call McHale’s Today!

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Why You Should Consider an HVAC System Replacement This Fall

Sep 29, 2021

Why You Should Consider an HVAC System Replacement This Fall

  • Heating
HVAC systems

The leaves are changing, the wind is getting brisk, and pumpkin spice lattes have emerged from their year-long slumber. Ladies and gentlemen, fall is officially back. And with the changing of the seasons comes the perfect opportunity to upgrade your HVAC system. You’re going to need it in a few weeks when the snow starts falling. And now for a limited time, when you purchase a Bryant HVAC system, you get a free Rheem water heater to keep your home’s water nice and warm. If that wasn’t enough, here are a couple reasons to consider replacing your HVAC system this fall.  

Mitigate Issues For the Foreseeable Future 

Your first car was probably a heavily used hand-me-down from a parent or a family member. It probably had issues, was unreliable over long distances, and required many, many trips  to the local mechanic. Once you got your first new car, you saw less and less of the mechanic. It’s the same principle with HVAC systems. Older systems require a lot more TLC to run smoothly. This means more frequent calls to your local service provider and a less seamless home heating experience. Much like buying a new car, a new HVAC system can be pricey, but it will save you a massive amount of headache (and money)  down the line. 

Improved Performance 

Let’s stay with the car metaphor. An older model just won’t be able to perform at the level of the latest and greatest models. It won’t have as many features, and overall it will just be an inferior product compared to what’s been made available recently. And while HVAC systems aren’t known for coming with a plethora of bonus features like cars are, newer systems can produce results that older systems can’t even begin to approach. Older systems are prone to missing spots in your home, leading to cold or warm patches in an otherwise comfortable environment. Newer systems eliminate this issue entirely. 

Resale Value

A newer HVAC system means a higher resale value. It’s that simple. The investment could save you money for future repairs, and even make you money in the long run, as we’ve discussed. But a prospective homeowner will feel much more reassured buying a house that contains newer systems and appliances. They can worry much less about overhead of repairs that may tag along with the house or projects that they’ll have to spend extra time on top of other projects they already have planned for the house they’re moving into. Resale is not something you necessarily need to be thinking about every day, but putting some thought into it will only better prepare you for later. 

Safety First

It’s the last item on our list, but always the first priority. Your safety is extremely important to us at McHales, and a new HVAC system can help in that department. As systems age, they develop cracks and imperfections that can lead to fires and other dangerous hazards in and around your home. These dangers can be mitigated with regular tune-ups and maintenance, of course, but ultimately, if a system is getting up there in years, it’s almost always safer to air on the side of caution and look into a replacement.

Have any questions about your HVAC system? Call McHale’s Today!

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Automatic Standby Generators: What You Need to Know

Sep 28, 2021

Automatic Standby Generators: What You Need to Know

  • Generator
automatic standby generator

Automatic standby generators are ideal for areas prone to outages. Lugging a portable generator can be tiring, and perishables could be lost if you’re away during an outage. Opt for automatic standby generators instead of portable or battery-operated alternatives. How exactly does an automatic backup generator work in those kinds of scenarios? Here’s what happens when the power goes out and your automatic standby generator kicks in:

1. Utility Power Goes Out

As detailed above, a power outage can happen for a variety of reasons. Components that comprise your area’s electrical system can fail due to age or extraneous factors, categorized as equipment failure. Animals can find their way into fuse boxes and transformers, which can cause shortages or equipment failure as well. Bad weather can knock trees or other large object into power lines, or build ice on equipment overtime. If it isn’t obvious by now, there are too many extraneous factors to count that come into play when considering why exactly power outages occur. All you can do is be adequately prepared to react when one happens, which an automatic standby generator can help with. 

2. The Automatic Standby Generator Senses an Issue

Electrically sensitive indicators within the automatic generator will immediately pick up on the lack of power being provided to your house. This is done through various connections to your fuse box and regular power supply. Once the generator picks up on the issue, within seconds it will prepare itself for activation. This eliminates any risk of your house not being powered while you’re away and losing any perishables that need electricity, in the fridge or likewise. This also eliminates the need, if you are home, to run out to the garage and lug a portable generator to wherever you plan on giving power. The automatic standby generator takes care of all the legwork and stress for you.

3. The Generator Powers On Automatically

No matter where you are, home or away, the generator will power on all by itself. Whether you’re sitting on the couch with the family watching your favorite series or across the country visiting some old friends, you do not need to lift a finger when your power goes out. It only takes a few seconds once the generator has noticed a power failure to get up to speed and generate electricity for your home. There is no button or manual lawn mower starter that needs to be accessed immediately upon outage. Just sit back, listen for the hum of the generator to kick in, and let the automatic magic happen.

4. Electricity is Restored to Your Home

Once the generator has taken a few seconds to recognize the issue and turn itself on, it will automatically begin supplying electricity your home. This is done via an automatic transfer switch that allows the generator to send power directly to your home. Your perishables will not perish, your cat will continue getting fed by that automatic feeder you installed right before you left, and operations will continue as if nothing had happened. If you’re home with the family, you’ll only have missed a few seconds of that beloved program, and family bonding can continue uninterrupted. The stress of an outage power failure has now been completely eliminated from the equation.

5. When No Longer Needed, It Will Power Itself Off

The generator will continue to function all the way up until utility power has been restored to your location. It will automatically detect this as well, so when we say not a finger needs to be lifted, we mean it. The moment that the power in your are has been restored, the automatic standby generator recognizes it and will shut off automatically, no questions asked. If the power were to be disrupted again for whatever reason, there are plenty, then the generator would be ready once again to power on and aid your house and family immediately.

A standby automatic generator truly eliminates all headache involved with the power outage reaction process. The only factor you now need to worry about it maintaining that generator, just as you would any car engine. Corrosion checks, regular cleanings, and filter replacement will ensure that you’re getting the most out of your generator and it will not quit on you for years to come. The convenience and speed at which it works makes this type of generator a must-have for anyone who is constantly being affected by blackouts or power outages due to the powers that be. Your safety and reassurance is the number one priority. You can count on an automatic standby generator to provide both of those factors to you whenever the lights go out, regardless of where you are.

Be Ready For an Emergency – Why a Generator can be one of your best investments

There may be nothing more annoying and inconvenient than a power outage. Lost work time, spoiled food, loss of heat. These things are all consequences that home and business owners face when the electricity unexpectedly goes out.  There is a solution to these problems, and investing in a backup generator is that solution. Although these generator systems aren’t cheap, even if you just purchase a portable generator, they are a great investment.

Have any questions about your plumbing system? Call McHale’s Today!

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The Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

Aug 25, 2021

The Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

  • Plumbing
plumbing maintenance

Conducting a routine plumbing maintenance check allows you to detect plumbing problems before they escalate into expensive repairs. The maintenance checklist provided below, if followed, will help you with the care and upkeep of your plumbing system:

  • You need to keep your pipes from freezing by using the shut off valve. Forgetting to use this valve could result in non-stop water flow. You should also drain the outdoor spigots and water connections. Draining the water is essential for preventing standing water from freezing. Freezing pipes can cause the shut-off valve and the fixture to break.
  • Your irrigation system needs to be turned off to protect your pipes. For best results, you should winterize this system before the weather starts to get cooler.
  • Dry out your hoses and store them in a dry area to prevent them from being damaged. Do not store the hose if it is damaged. If your hose has a leak, then repair it or replace it before further damage occurs.
  • Pipe insulation is essential to efficiency. It will save money on bills, decrease heat loss, and prevent your pipes from freezing. Different types of pipe insulation include foam insulation, elastomeric foam, fiberglass pipe covers, and spray for insulation.
  • Blown-in insulation can be applied to floors, walls, and attics. This type of insulation is becoming a popular option because it improves performance and takes the least amount of time to settle.
  • Exposed pipes are the most vulnerable to freezing. Plumbing pipes that lie in unheated areas, including garages and crawl spaces, are more susceptible to freezing and can cause other plumbing problems, including bursting pipes.
  • Pipe bursts are a common problem during cold weather, especially when homeowners are on vacation. When you are traveling, your home’s water needs to be turned off completely. One faucet should be left to a slow drip to avoid busted pipes. The minimal difference in your water bill is certainly worth the avoided expense of repairs and replacement of water-damaged items.
  • Plumbing repairs are time sensitive. Be sure to make the necessary repairs to your pipes as soon as possible. Pipes expand and contrast based on the temperature. A tiny leak can transform into a major problem in no time at all.
  • If you are the owner of a sump pump, then the pit needs to be cleaned. If the pit is left unattended, it could freeze and be useless when you need it the most.
  • Water heaters, especially old ones, need to be drained so that rust does not become an issue. This rust can contaminate your water for drinking, bathing, and cooking.
  • Exterior cracks let air in the home and create a draft. Drafts can make your heating system work overtime to heat the entire home, putting a strain on the motor.
  • The drainage areas around your home should not be clogged. Indications of clogged drains include bubbling sinks and issues with toilet flushing.

What Can Happen Without a Proper Checklist?

Without a proper plumbing maintenance checklist, you risk enduring a lot of household issues that can be simply avoided. Frequent drain clogs and lack of steady hot water are only a couple of inconveniences that will confront you. A lack of steady hot water can make bathing, cleaning, and cooking a hassle. Frequent drain clogs force you to take time away from your family and activities. Finances are a major part of this situation. Without a proper checklist to follow, you risk the chance of high utility bills and water damage. Consistent leaks cause your water bill to skyrocket. Leaking pipes can cause water damage throughout the home, making your home more difficult to sell or forcing you to sell at a lower proper value.  Without routine maintenance, pipe leaks can go undetected, and your drinking water can be compromised.

The Benefits of Routine Plumbing Maintenance

Routine plumbing maintenance benefits a homeowner by improving fixture efficiency and providing a surplus of hot water that can be used for various purposes without interruption. Other benefits include a decrease in bill expenses and avoiding costly water damage restoration expenses. Your pipes and fixtures will be subject to less damage and have a longer lifespan. 

You will not have to worry about the replacement of fixtures and pipes for years at a time. If you plan on selling your home, then you can sell at a higher value because the home is up to code with the plumbing, and the home is deemed safe. There is nothing better than having peace of mind; you can rest easy knowing that your home is safe and that your water is not contaminated.

Many homeowners believe that they can cut corners to save money, but they are only prolonging problems, which will cause them to spend more money in the long run. The best thing to do is to create a checklist and to set times to use it. It is in your best interest to conduct a plumbing maintenance check before spring and before winter to ensure peak pipe performance.

Have any questions about your plumbing system? Call McHale’s Today!

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8 Most Common Electrical Code Violations

Jul 21, 2021

8 Most Common Electrical Code Violations

  • Electrical

Many confident homeowners take the DIY electrical plunge thinking it can’t be that difficult to install wiring into outlets and breaker boxes. Although they may accomplish their goal of powering their home, that great feeling of “I did it all by myself!” is often short-lived and wrought with consequences, such as unsafe wiring, reduce property resale value and failure to pass regional and local electrical safety inspections.

What is the National Electrical Code?

A subgroup of national fire codes, the NEC is a book of electrical installation and renovation safety standards established by the National Fire Protection Agency. While not mandated by regional laws in the U.S., the NEC has been adopted by over 98 percent of all U.S. areas. Every three years the NFPA publishes a large volume of electrical safety codes covering both indoor and outdoor electrical practices and standards that serves as a reference guide for professional electricians. Topics discussed in the NEC include conductors, wiring, cables and voltages.

8 Common Electrical Code Violations Every Homeowner Should Know

1. Installing the wrong circuit breaker or failing to install circuit breakers

Circuit breaker boxes contain switches that “trip”, or turn themselves off to stop the flow of electricity in specific parts of a home if the electrical current in that particular area exceeds preset limits. When a switch is tripped, the circuit breaker needs to be manually reset to return the current to its preset level. Some circuit breakers will automatically reset without human intervention.  Neglecting to install the right circuit breaker (or none at all) is not only an electrical code violation but will also put your and your family at high risk for a fire raging in the wall on which the circuit breaker box is attached.

2. Switch locations do not have neutral wires

Most automated light switches require a neutral wire. Switches that don’t need a neutral wire will give you incandescent lighting only. If your home uses fluorescent, LED and other light devices under 20w, you must use a neutral wire or be in violation of electrical codes. The purpose of a neutral wire involves completion of the 120-volt AC circuit, which it accomplishes by providing a safe avenue back to an electrical panel. Here, the insulated neutral wire connects and bonds to the ground to prevent accidental electrocution.

3. Neglecting to install tamper resistant receptacles

The 2014 edition of the NEC requires all new or renovated homes/dwellings install tamper resistant receptacles with spring-loaded coverings (shutters) that protect contact slots in the receptacles. When you insert a plug into one of these TR receptacles, you compress both springs so that shutters open to allow insertion of a plug’s metal prongs. Since two springs need to be compressed simultaneously, a child inserting something into just one opening won’t cause electricity to flow into the receptacle.  Even if you do not have children, your new or renovated dwelling must have tamper resistant receptacles.

4. Not installing enough receptacles

The National Fire Protection Association estimates nearly 50,000 dwelling fire in the U.S. happen every year due to overloading an electrical system not equipped with enough receptacles. To compensate for lack of outlets, homeowners are quick to rely on extension cords not designed to handle large amounts of electricity. Signs of overloaded circuits that could cause fires include dimming/flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers and getting a slight shock when you plug in an appliance.

5. Leaving outdoor receptacles uncovered

Although this seems like a no-brainer, many building owners don’t think of the dangers involved with leaving an electrical receptacle exposed to the elements. If your dwelling has outdoor receptacles that aren’t shuttered, you are in violation of an electrical code that could delay the sale of your home or even reduce the value of your home.

6.  Failing to install ground fault circuit interrupters

Ground faults occur when electricity escapes wiring and takes a direct shortcut to the floor. When ground faults pass through a person, the result could be a deadly electrocution. This is why the National Electric Code requires GFCIs in outdoor receptacles and in new or renovated bathrooms, kitchens, unfinished basements and crawl spaces.

7. Outdated wiring in homes over 50 years old

Electrical wiring in dwellings constructed before 1970 may be in violation of local or regional electrical codes. Aluminum wiring widely used in the 70s may be safe but could present safety issues if connected to copper wiring. Older homes with aluminum wiring will probably need an inspector to confirm it has been properly installed, a complicated procedure best left to professionals.

8. Improperly configuring panels

DIYers aggravated by a constantly tripping fuse or breaker often may hastily replace the offending breaker with a larger capacity breaker. In addition to being extremely dangerous, it is also illegal to have wrongly configured panels and is in direct violation of electrical codes. A breaker is matched to load capacity and wire size. Larger breakers allow more and more current to flow through before they trip, catch on fire or blow out your home’s electricity system.

Adhering to electrical codes means living safely in your home, having appliances and fixtures that operate smoothly, saving on troubleshooting electrical problems, reducing your energy costs and maintaining a higher property resale value on your home.

Have any questions about your cooling system? Call McHale’s Today!

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By McHales

Air Conditioning 101: A Beginners Guide to Cooling in Levittown

Jul 13, 2021

Air Conditioning 101: A Beginners Guide to Cooling in Levittown

  • Air Conditioning
air conditioning

Air conditioning is just blowing cold air into your home, right? Actually, no. Cooling the air in your home is accomplished through a relatively complicated process that involves refrigerant fluid that shuttles heat back and forth between an outside compressor as it transforms from a liquid to a gas and back again. It takes quite a bit of electricity to perform this modern magic show of moving heat from a cooler place and back to a warmer place.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems

There are several different technology options involved with the process of cooling your home: central air conditioners and heat pumps, evaporative coolers, room air conditioners and ductless mini-split air conditioners. 

  • Central air conditioners and heat pumps are the most common form of systems, and unlike some of the other options they are often used to heat entire homes. They generally consist of a large compressor that is external to the home and drives the process and indoor refrigerant coils that distribute cool air throughout the home via ducts. Heat pumps work similarly, except they are also able to distribute warm air in the cooler winter months. Ducts throughout the home are utilized for distribution of both warm and cool air in concert with a fan system. 
  • Room air conditioners are mounted either on the walls, ceiling or through a window. These systems work in a similar fashion to central air conditioners, but compressors are located outside the home and the systems are generally built to control the temperature in a single room. These units are less expensive to purchase, but are potentially less efficient and have a higher daily running cost overall. 
  • Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, can be a practical alternative in certain parts of the country but are much less common than central air or room air conditioners. These unique systems operate by pulling fresh air through an evaporative system that involves moist pads and a whole-house circulation mechanism. While swamp coolers are only efficient in the drier areas of the country, they are very efficient and cost-effective to run and can reduce the temperature of your home by up to 30 degrees. The cost of purchase and installation is also lower as these systems are relatively simplistic. Evaporative coolers work most effectively in dry climates because the system works by putting moisture back into the air — something that isn’t as efficient in a wet climate. 
  • Ductless mini-split air conditioners are more popular outside the U.S., but are gaining prominence with homeowners who are updating a portion of their home or reworking an older addition that doesn’t have ductwork in place. They are similar to room air conditioners in that they are a zoned system, but the functionality is more similar to a conventional central air conditioning unit. When you’re using a ductless system, you also avoid the energy loss that is associated with a traditional system with ducts. You can also maintain overall cleaner air due to the lack of cracks and crevices in the ducts for dust, mold and other contaminants to hide.
  • New technology options include the Night Breeze, which integrates a whole-house fan, indirect water heater and air conditioner in one unit as well as Thermal Energy Storage where energy is stored overnight in ice — ideal for climates where energy costs are high during peak usage times. 

Warning Signs

Other than the obvious (it’s getting hot in here!) signs, there are multiple ways to determine that your system either needs maintenance or replacement. However, if you’re not as experienced with home maintenance and air conditioners, you may wonder if the problem is in your head or if it truly exists. Since air conditioners are used most heavily during the summer months, it’s important to get a tune-up before the heat of summer really kicks in. Qualified and licensed professionals perform a full system inspection to catch some standard problems that can occur. A check up generally includes:

  • Performance test of the full system
  • Visual review of all air conditioner components
  • Tests to determine the state of the refrigerant charge and overall system control testing
  • The use of an approved leak detector to perform a leak test
  • If slow leaks are suspected, your professional may perform a dye detection test

How can you tell that your system is not functioning as it should? Here’s a few things to look out for:

  • Air is not flowing as easily as it should be. If you’re seeing poor air flow through your vents, it’s probably time to call a professional. 
  • Zone issues — where part of your home is comfortable and another part is too hot or cool — are a good sign that there may be something wrong with your thermostat.
  • Excess moisture where it doesn’t belong can also be an indicator that it’s time to call a professional. 
  • Foul odors coming from your air conditioning unit are never a good sign. Mold can grow in wet, dark spaces and an air conditioning unit certainly fits those parameters.
  • Squeaking or squealing sounds coming from your air conditioning unit may indicate that a belt has slipped. This generally requires professional assistance to resolve.
  • Of course, if you find that your home is heating up unexpectedly, or the air conditioner is cycling (turning on and off quickly), you should have your unit checked out. 

With careful use and a solid maintenance schedule, nearly all types of air conditioning units will last upwards of 15 to 20 years. Your system should receive maintenance at least once a year in the spring, before it’s heavily used in the summer heat. This ensures that you’re catching any small problems such as leaks quickly and before they have a large impact on the functioning of your system. The cost of not performing regular maintenance could be decreased system efficiency or even having a system that freezes up or sustains serious damage from broken items such as motor bearings.

Have any questions about your cooling system? Call McHale’s Today!

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

Read Reviews From Our Happy Customers!

By McHales