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- Common Sewer Line Problems and How to Fix Them
Your sewer line is a crucial part of your home’s plumbing system. It allows all wastewater from your property to be taken to your septic tank or to your city’s sewer system. Unfortunately, just like any system in your property, sewer lines are prone to wear and tear, which can cause damage to your pipes and put your property at risk. In this blog, we are exploring the most common sewer line problems, exploring their causes and providing solutions so that you can keep your system in optimal condition in Cochrane. Common Sewer Line Problems – Causes and Solutions Tree Root Intrusion · Cause One of the most common problems homeowners have with their sewer lines in Alberta is tree root intrusion. Roots typically seek humid environments to access water and nutrients for the tree. With wastewater running through pipes, sewer lines become the perfect environment. Once roots find their way into the system, they grow rapidly, which can cause tough blockages and lead to more serious problems if left untreated. · Solution A common solution for dealing with a mild root intrusion is using special chemicals that can kill the roots inside the pipes and prevent them from growing. However, this needs to be carefully done if you don’t want to harm the surrounding vegetation of your yard. In severe cases, however, professional help may be necessary. Tough blockages caused by root intrusion may require hydro jetting or pipe repairs depending on the extent of the damage. Clogged Main Sewer Line · Cause Blockages in your main sewer line can be caused by many different elements. In most cases, a clogged system is due to excessive grease, food waste buildup or non-flushable items. These can prevent water flow, leading to an increase in pressure inside your pipes and more serious problems, such as sewer backup, water damage and others. · Solution If you believe you are dealing with a minor blockage located not too deep into your drains, you may be able to tackle it with a plunger or a drain snake. However, blockages on the main sewer line may require the help of a professional to be properly addressed. In most cases, special sewer cameras will be used to identify the cause and location of the clog. Severe blockages may require the use of augers or hydro jetting to be removed. Corrosion and Deterioration · Cause Old properties generally have pipes made of less durable materials, such as cast iron. This leads to corrosion and deterioration over time. If ignored, damaged pipes can lead to cracks , leaks, and even total collapse depending on the age and conditions of your system. · Solution Generally, the most efficient and reliable way of dealing with a corroded sewer line is by replacing the affected pipes. Professionals can help you substitute iron pipes with more resistant materials, such as corrosion-resistant copper. Pipe relining can also be an efficient solution, as it creates a new pipe of polyester or fibreglass within the existing one. However, this method may not be possible depending on the magnitude of the damage in your sewer line. Bellied Pipes · Cause Shifting soil, erosion or poor installation can lead a section of the sewer line to sink. This is commonly referred to as a bellied pipe. This can prevent water from flowing properly which can lead to the accumulation of debris in that area of your line. · Solution If you have noticed that you are dealing with a belied sewer pipe, your best solution is to rely on professional help to excavate and replace the affected section. This typically require experienced plumbers and advanced equipment to ensure that the process can be done safely and efficiently. Sewer Line Leaks · Cause Another common issue that homeowners have with sewer lines is leaks, which can be caused by a wide range of factors. Leaks can be the result of damaged pipes, corrosion or even improper installation. Leaks in your main sewer line can quickly be identified by unpleasant odours or pooling water in the yard. If not promptly addressed, they can lead to more complicated scenarios, such as water damage or even environmental contamination. · Solution To make sure you can properly identify the cause and location of the leak, it is recommended that you get professional help. Experienced plumbers will conduct a thorough camera inspection to locate the problem and perform the necessary repair . Solutions typically include epoxy patching for minor issues or full replacement for extensive damage. Cracks or Collapsed Pipes · Cause When it comes to sewer line problems cochrane, damaged pipes are among the most serious issues. Cracks or collapses can lead to water leaks in your property, which can quickly escalate to serious problems that put your property and the environment at risk. Causes of damaged pipes include soil erosion, aging infrastructure and even excessive pressure from heavy vehicles. · Solution Depending on the severity of the problem, you may be able to get your sewer line fixed with pipe relining. This can be a cost-effective solution for situations where cracks are not too large. However, bigger cracks and collapsed pipes generally require a full replacement to prevent further damage. What Sewer Line Problems Require Professional Help? Deciding whether you will need professional help will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of the problem and your experience with DIY solutions. However, there are typical situations where it is strongly recommended that you rely on experienced plumbers. Some of them include: · Recurring Clogs Frequent clogs may be a sign of underlying issues. Professional plumbers can perform a full inspection to address the problem accurately and effectively. · Extensive Pipe Damage Extensive pipe damage, including large cracks, corroded pipes or collapsed systems will require professionals for a full replacement. · Sewer Backups Wastewater backing up to your property is a serious health hazard and needs to be addressed promptly and efficiently, which is why professional help is recommended. · Unexplained Water Damage If you can’t identify the cause of water damage in your property, you may be dealing with damaged pipes. Full camera inspections can help professionals identify and tackle the problem with precision. Your Choice for Plumbing Solutions in Cochrane Having issues with your sewer line or plumbing system in Cochrane? Problem Solved Heating and Plumbing Ltd has got you covered. Counting on an experienced team of plumbers and advanced equipment, we can help you tackle any problem you may have. Whether you are dealing with root intrusion, cracked pipes, water damage or any other plumbing issue, we have the solution you need. Don’t hesitate to give us a call and let us help you keep your main sewer line in optimal condition. Reach out to us.
- The Ultimate Guide to HVAC Services for Cochrane Residents
Living in Cochrane requires an optimally functioning HVAC system. However, regular maintenance and prompt issue repair are necessary to ensure your HVAC system performs optimally and lasts as long as possible. This guide will walk you through HVAC essentials and provide a handy maintenance checklist to avoid the common HVAC problems Cochrane residents face. What Is HVAC and How Does It Work? HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) is a system used to regulate the temperature and humidity of indoor spaces. It’s an innovative technology that has revolutionized how we live and work, and now we can maintain comfortable indoor conditions regardless of the weather outside. Why HVAC Maintenance Is Important for Cochrane Homes Regular HVAC maintenance keeps your heating and cooling systems functioning efficiently, helps reduce energy costs, and minimizes the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Given Cochrane’s variable climate, maintaining indoor air quality and consistent temperatures is crucial for comfort and health. Moreover, routine maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, protecting your investment and ensuring reliable performance. HVAC Work Checklist If you have HVAC systems, remember the following to keep them in top condition: ● Schedule a seasonal inspection to ensure you are not left high and dry in the peak winter or summer months. ● Change air filters every 1-3 months to improve indoor air quality and efficiency. ● Check for leaks or blockages in your ductwork. Sealing leaks will improve energy efficiency and home air quality. ● Check your furnace, boiler, heater and gas line for leaks or other problems. ● Clear away debris, leaves, or dirt from outdoor units to ensure proper airflow and prevent blockages. ● When your air conditioner breaks down or starts showing signs of inefficiency—such as blowing warm air, making unusual noises, or short cycling—it may need professional attention. Checked for these signs? Need HVAC services or ac repair Cochrane for your home or busines? Let us find out what you may need and when! HVAC Maintenance Required Here is when you need to call a professional for HVAC system maintenance: Heating Maintenance (Fall and Winter) ● Furnace inspection: Check for burner or pilot light issues, which are common in gas furnaces. ● Heat exchanger check: A cracked heat exchanger can lead to carbon monoxide leaks, a critical safety hazard. ● Duct sealing: Sealing ducts keep warm air circulating efficiently throughout your home, saving on heating costs. Cooling Maintenance (Spring and Summer) ● Refrigerant level check: Low refrigerant can reduce your system's cooling capacity and strain the compressor. ● Condensate drain cleaning: A clogged drain can cause water damage or encourage mould growth. ● Fan motor inspection: Fan motor issues can cause overheating, which affects cooling efficiency. Year-Round Maintenance ● Thermostat calibration: A well-calibrated thermostat reduces energy waste and improves temperature control. ● Air quality check: For homes with allergies or sensitivities, check for any allergens, mould, or pollutants in the system. Do not attempt to DIY these repairs and services. HVAC systems are intricate and best left to professionals to service. Technicians are trained to address any HVAC issue, including duct sealing, refrigerant recharging, and component replacements. HVAC Problems in Cochrane: Now Solved! Maintaining a reliable HVAC system is vital to Cochrane residents enjoying a comfortable home environment year-round. Regular HVAC system maintenance, timely AC repairs, and working with reliable professionals ensure that your heating and cooling systems operate smoothly when needed. Reach out to Problem Solved Plumbing & Heating Ltd. to schedule an AC repair or any other HVAC service in Cochrane. Our AC repair services include fixing refrigerant leaks, cleaning or replacing clogged filters, repairing broken compressors, and calibrating thermostats. We aim to ensure you live comfortably all year round!
- How to Choose the Right Water Heater Repair Service in Cochrane
Water heaters are essential in every home or business . Whether you are a homeowner or a business property owner in Cochrane, it is equally important that you promptly tackle any water heater issue that may occur. Water Heater Repairs That You Can Do Yourself Here are some tasks that you can easily do by yourself to fix common issues with your water heater : Flushing out sediment buildup Temperature adjustment Testing of the pressure relief valve When Should You Call a Professional? Have you noticed leaks in your water heater? This might be indicative of a serious issue that needs to be addressed promptly by a professional. Other signs that may indicate that something is wrong with your water heater include the occurrence of strange noises, such as a frequent banging sound. Irregular water temperature and the absence of hot water are also common signs of complex underlying water heater issues. If you notice some of these signs, we strongly recommend that you call upon a professional water heater repair service. Additionally, if your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan, it might also be more cost-effective to replace it rather than get it repaired. Choosing the Right Water Heater Repair Service Are you thinking of hiring professional water heater services for your home or business in Cochrane? Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your selection: Industry knowledge and experience – Look for a company that has a good reputation in the area. You can also check online customer reviews and testimonials to have an idea of what to expect from their services. Licensing – Before hiring someone, make sure that they are licensed to operate in Cochrane. Emergency services – Not all companies provide emergency services. In case you need help with an urgent issue with your water heater, make sure to check if the company you want to hire offers emergency services. Warranties – When discussing with a representative of the plumbing company regarding your water heater issue, remember to ask if they offer warranties or guarantees on repairs and parts. Energy efficiency – If energy efficiency is important to you, make sure to ask the plumbing company about their expertise in energy-efficient water heater repairs and upgrades. Do you own an electric water heater? You can also check out the Government of Canada’s website to learn more about the energy efficiency standards for household electric water heaters. Life Expectancy of a Water Heater While gas water heaters in Cochrane typically last between 10 and 15 years, the life expectancy of electric water heaters is usually between 8 and 12 years. The life expectancy of your water heater can also fluctuate based on several factors, including the model, the frequency of use, and the quality of the initial installation. Professional Water Heater Repair Services in Cochrane While there are several common water heater issues that you can easily fix by yourself, we recommend hiring a professional to tackle more complex matters. This will help ensure that your water heater continues to operate efficiently and reliably. Are you looking for professional water heater repair services in Cochrane? Contact Problem Solved Plumbing & Heating Ltd today!
- The new Heating and cooling Atmosphere
As time goes by, it becomes more evident that environmental changes have become a reality in our lives. From rising temperatures in different areas of the globe to unexpected weather conditions throughout the year, the signs are clear that our climate is transforming. This scenario makes us reflect on how we manage energy in our homes. More specifically, what are the impacts that heating and cooling systems have on the climate and what can we do to make a better use of this technology and reduce our carbon footprint? Heating and Cooling Systems VS The Environment Generally speaking, when it comes to carbon footprint and the impact we have on the planet, unless we use an energy source that is 100% clean and renewable, the more energy we spend, the worse it is for the environment. Unfortunately, one of the biggest contributors to high energy consumption in our homes is our heating and airconditioning system. So, it is fair to say that traditional AC and heaters can be harmful to the environment and, therefore, have a significant impact on climate change. This is particularly true for homes that rely on old and inefficient models that consume more energy when compared to more modern options. Moreover, some AC Units also release hydrofluorocarbons (HFC), considered to be potent greenhouse gases that significantly contribute to global warming. The problem gets worse when we face extreme weather conditions. For instance, as pointed out by CBC, climate changes have brought record cold temperatures and heavy snow across the Country, recently. This makes people rely heavily on their heating systems, which impacts energy consumption and climate change all over again, creating a vicious circle that is difficult to tackle. How to Prevent Cooling and Heating Systems from Harming the Environment Even though cooling and heating systems are usually responsible for a great part of the energy consumption in our homes, there are a few things that we can do in order to attenuate their impact on the environment. · Regular Maintenance Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your heating and cooling systems working at their peak performance. For instance, simply cleaning your AC filter from time to time can help it cool your place more efficiently, which reduces energy consumption. · Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Systems More modern and efficient heating and cooling systems can provide you with the temperature management you desire while using less energy. This can greatly reduce the impact your home has on the environment. For more information regarding the benefits of an energy-efficient heating system, you can check our blog post about the topic. · Smart Thermostats Having a smart thermostat installed can help you manage the temperatures inside your home based on your schedule and preferences, which reduces unnecessary heating and cooling throughout the day. · Improve Your Home’s Insulation Efficient insulation can help you rely less on the use of cooling systems in the summer and heating systems in the winter. It helps maintain the desired temperature inside your home in a more environmentally friendly way. Heating and Cooling in Cochrane and Calgary Now that you have gathered important information regarding the relation between heating and cooling systems and the environment, why not upgrade to more environmentally friendly models? At Problem Solved Plumbing & Heating Ltd we offer a wide range of reliable heating and cooling systems that can efficiently manage temperatures in your home. Don’t hesitate to give us a call and let us provide you with greener and more sustainable solutions.
- How Does the Sewer System Work in My Home?
Ever wondered what happens after you flush the toilet or wash dishes? Your home's sewer system plays a crucial role in handling wastewater. However, it's not something that homeowners often think about until an issue arises and repair is necessary. In this handy guide, your expert team at Problem Solved Plumbing will break down the basics of how the sewer system works in your home. Essentially, a regular sewer system is designed to be straightforward, relying on gravity to move wastewater through pipes from your home to either a municipal treatment facility or a septic tank. While it may seem complex, the fundamental mechanics are simple, emphasizing efficiency and ease of operation. Let's get started. Drainage System Inside your home, a network of pipes collects wastewater from sinks, toilets, showers, and appliances. These pipes are designed to carry used water away from your living spaces and towards the sewer. Again, it's important to highlight the role of gravity when it comes to your home's sewer system. The pipes in your home are sloped in a way that allows wastewater to flow naturally, relying on gravity to guide it downward. This helps move the water effortlessly from your bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room to the main sewer line. Main Sewer Line All the wastewater from your home eventually meets in the main sewer line. This larger pipe runs beneath your property, connecting to the municipal sewer system or a septic tank. In urban areas, the municipal sewer system carries the wastewater to a treatment facility. If your home is not connected to a municipal sewer system, it likely has a septic tank. This underground tank is responsible for separating solid waste from the liquid. Bacteria break down the solid waste, while the liquid portion, known as effluent, continues its journey to the drain field. Treatment at the Facility For homes connected to the municipal sewer system, the wastewater travels to a treatment facility. Here, it undergoes a series of processes to remove impurities and harmful substances. The treated water is then released into the environment or used for various purposes like irrigation. Regular Maintenance Proper maintenance is key to a smoothly functioning sewer system. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet, such as "flushable" wipes or sanitary products. One common issue in house sewer systems is the occurrence of clogs or blockages. These can result from the buildup of grease, hair, or other debris in the pipes. Clearing a sewer system often involves basic equipment like a plumber's snake or auger for breaking up blockages. In more complex cases, a high-pressure water jet can be used to flush out debris. Additionally, sewer camera inspections are valuable for identifying issues within the pipes and providing a visual assessment to guide targeted repairs. How Does the Sewer System Work in My Home? Understanding the basics of your home's sewer system is essential for responsible homeownership. By grasping the simple mechanics behind the drainage process, you can take steps to ensure the system functions efficiently and avoid potential issues down the line. Here in Cochrane, Calgary, and surrounding areas, your premier choice for 24/7 emergency plumbing is always our expert team. Contact Problem Solved Heating and Plumbing and schedule an appointment today.
- Signs You Need a Furnace Replacement
Furnaces are one of the top choices for Canadian home heating systems, making up 82% of Albertan households. Furnaces do an excellent job of heating air and distributing it throughout the house, keeping us warm and toasty in frosty weather. With winter around the corner, now is a good time to check on your furnace to ensure it's in proper condition. Furnaces, though durable, don't last forever. The last thing you want is to find out you have a broken furnace in the middle of winter. Here's a quick guide to when and how to replace a furnace. Read on to find out more. High Energy Bills Compare your energy bills over the last few months. Has there been a significant increase even if you haven't made any changes to your heating habits? If so, it may be time to consult a furnace technician. Your furnace loses efficiency as it ages, causing it to consume more energy to heat your home. A new furnace replacement will save your wallet from unexpected price hikes in your energy bill. In addition, new models are more energy-efficient to begin with, so you can maximize your savings. They're also more sustainable! Unusual Smells or Sounds Your furnace will usually warn you when it's on its last legs. Strange smells or noises from your heating unit are some of these signs. A noisy furnace is often an indication that there's a problem inside the unit. Foul odours, like rotten eggs or sewer, can signify a leak or something worse. There are other reasons why this might happen, and it could just be your furnace telling you it needs some TLC. However, if this happens regularly, it might be better to replace the unit instead. Frequent Repairs Furnaces have an average lifespan of about 15-30 years. Occasional repairs are a natural part of furnace maintenance. You may need a few minor repairs here and there, especially if your furnace has seen some years. As a rule of thumb, you want to get your furnace professionally checked at least once a year to ensure everything is in order. However, if you're calling for repairs more often than you should be, it may be time for a replacement. Some try to push repairs on their dead furnace to save money, but those repairs will cost you more in the long run. How to Replace a Furnace Now you know when it's time to get a new residential furnace. If you don't know how to replace a furnace, it's best not to attempt to do it by yourself. Furnaces are tricky, and improper installments may cause safety issues that will warrant a replacement, even if your unit is brand new. The best way to enter the cold season with a new and fully functional furnace is with the help of a professional. Professionals have the necessary equipment and experience to ensure a smooth and safe installation. Get a Furnace Replacement Today Now you know how to replace a furnace and when you might need it. If you live in or around Cochrane, Problem Solved Plumbing and Heating can help you integrate your new system into your home for the coming winter. If you're not ready for a replacement, you can also contact us for repairs or cleaning services.
- 5 Reasons to Use a Professional to Clean and Unclog a Drain
There are a few things that you should avoid doing with a clogged bathroom or kitchen sink. For starters, ditch the wire hanger and definitely do not call 911 as this person did. Read on to learn why you should hire a professional to fix your slow-draining sink. Explore 5 more reasons why you need a plumber to unclog a blocked drain, here: 1. Get to the Root of the Problem Many people pour a liquid product down the drain to unclog the drain. While there may be some temporary relief, commercial products often fail to get to the root of the problem. They may do more harm than good and cause long-term damage to your pipes. A professional plumber is going to investigate the blocked drain at a much deeper level than you can. Their training and tools allow them to diagnose complex issues that the typical homeowner cannot. 2. Professionals Use the Best Tools Access to a plumber's toolbox is one of the main reasons to hire them. They have the right tools for the most complex jobs. For the typical homeowner, it does not make sense to invest in expensive plumbing tools. They will not use them frequently enough to justify the purchase. Take an electric auger as the perfect example. A professional Plumber uses motorized augers with cables up to 100 feet long. With tools like these, they can break up blockages that are deep into the home's piping system. 3. Certification and Licensing Not any person can claim to be a plumber and work in Cochrane or Calgary. The Canadian government requires plumbers to meet minimum employment standards. This involves the completion of schooling, an apprenticeship program, and multiple years of live experience. Provincial governments then require you to maintain a trade certificate in order to work. 4. Saves Time Plumbers are trained experts in their craft. They have unclogged drains thousands of times. This means that they are efficient at identifying and unblocking clogged drains. With a plumber's help, you can get your sink working in less time than if you tried it yourself. While you are wasting time watching YouTube videos and buying tools, a plumber would be done with the job already. 5. Prevents Future Issues Not only can a plumber solve the clog, but they can also help prevent it from happening again. While investigating the clog, the plumber may discover a latent issue with your pipes. For example, perhaps you have damaged pipes or a connection point that is likely to cause clogs. A plumber can implement changes to the piping system to prevent it from occurring again. Your Guide to Fixing a Slow-draining Sink You are now ready to bring in a professional for plumbing repairs. Trying to do it yourself is going to take longer and potentially result in damage. Instead, a professional is licensed and trained to solve the problem. If you need help with a slow-draining sink, call Problem Solved Plumbing and Heating to schedule an appointment.
- How Often Should a Furnace Be Cleaned?
One key to making sure your heating system is always efficient is to keep up with furnace cleaning. The more consistently you clean out your furnace, the better it will function for your home. But this task is often an out-of-sight, out-of-mind situation. Too many homeowners let this job go undone until it's too late and then have a major problem on their hands. Check out this guide for everything you need to know about furnace maintenance and how to keep up with the job! Signs the Furnace is Dirty It's likely that you aren't taking an in-depth look into your furnace on a regular basis. This makes it easy for the dirt to build up before you even notice it. The best thing you can do is keep an eye out for signs of a dirty furnace. That could include a burning smell, leaking water, or a lack of hot air coming out. When you're in need of a furnace vent or coil cleaning, your system will be much less efficient as well. You may notice an increase in your bill as your system has a harder time generating warm air. Ideal Furnace Cleaning Schedule In order to avoid forgetting your furnace maintenance, it's helpful to set yourself up on a schedule. Talk with your heating professionals to come up with a plan for furnace duct cleaning so you're always on top of it. They can give you a specific ideal timeline based on your local area and the specific conditions your furnace works under. In general, air ducts should be cleaned every three to five years. Your entire system should also have a yearly inspection and maintenance to keep it running properly. You should also schedule times when you personally inspect your furnace system as well. Many homeowners check at the change of seasons to catch any potential issues. Tips for Proper Cleaning For those times in between professional cleanings, you'll want to do a thorough visual inspection of the system. Check around the vents, ducts, and filters for any obvious debris. Clearing out all the excess dust and lint will make a huge difference in how efficiently it can heat your home. A simple wipe-down with a cloth and some water (maybe a little dish soap if necessary) should be enough to keep your system functioning. These inspections are important to make sure you catch the signs of problems early! Everything You Need to Know About Furnace Cleaning Furnace failures rarely come at a convenient time. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a cold house in the middle of winter. That's why keeping up with furnace cleaning is so important! The easiest way to make sure your furnace is always ready to go and functioning properly is to hire a professional furnace cleaning service. These experts will clean every aspect of the system, inspect for problems, and make any necessary repairs. Our team has helped countless houses keep their heat flowing through even the coldest times. If you're ready to get your furnace spruced up, contact us today!
- Easy Fixes for Your Drain Problems
Imagine that you're trying to do the dishes so that you can cook your favourite meal, but the sink won't drain. You don't think there are any major drain problems, but what do you do? A similar conclusion may have led you to look for answers. Luckily, we can provide those answers for you. If any of your drains are clogged, we have listed some easy fixes below. If your drain problems are simple ones, all you need to do is follow the solutions we suggest. You'll be back to using water as needed in no time! Fixes for Drain Problems There are many simple fixes for drain problems. Try using these most common ones before you try anything else. Odds are one of these methods will solve the problem for you. Plunger A plunger is one of the easiest ways to fix an ongoing drain problem. The most common thing plungers are used to fix are clogged toilets, though they can be used for other types of clogs. Plungers work in a very simple way. All you need to do is place the plunger to create a tight seal around the drain, then move the plunger vigorously up and down until the water level reduces. Hot Water Flushing While using the plunger, you should also consider using hot water instead of cold on a clogged drain. Flushing a drain using hot water is known to help loosen a clog far easier than cold water. This is due to a combination of hot water, growing water pressure, and force. If hot water isn't quite enough, you can consider using vinegar to help dissolve the clog further. DIY Drain Snaking You may not have known this, but you can snake a drain yourself. Snaking a drain is what it's called when you sneak a wire into the drain to manually remove the clog. You can either use a homemade snake out of a wire coat hanger, or you can purchase one online. To unclog a drain, all you need to do is carefully insert the snake and rotate it clockwise. Once you remove the clog, continue to flush the drain with hot water. This will help remove any residue. If all of these fail, then you should consider finding a plumber in your local area. Regular Drain Cleaning We would be remiss to point out that preventative maintenance is the easiest way to keep a drain from clogging. If you do regular work on your drains, you'll never have to worry about a clog again. Cleaning your drains regularly will save you money, time and effort, and stress. Reach Out to Problem Solved Plumbing in Cochrane Now that you know how to fix your drain problems, you have the tools you need. Don't forget to reach out to us for regular cleanings or any emergencies you might have. All you need to do is fill out this form. We'll get back to you as soon as we can. Don't wait and let your problems become emergencies. Reach out to us today so that we can help you fix your plumbing!
- A GUIDE TO THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FURNACE AND A BOILER
Heating your home is going to become more important over the next couple of months. As you probably know, the Alberta winter can be treacherous, so learning about the different heating options and what they entail should be a major priority. Today, we're going to tell you the main difference between types of furnaces and types of boilers. Keep reading and you'll have all of the facts should you ever need to repair or replace your residential heating system. What Is a Furnace? In short, a furnace runs on gas or electricity and heats the air in your home. Older furnaces would have run on wood or coal, but today's furnaces are much more efficient, using as much as 98% of the energy that they consume. They work by converting gas or electrical energy into heat. The furnace then pushes the warm air through your ducts and vents into your home. If you're purchasing a new furnace, it's important to know that there are many different types. Which you choose will depend on how large your home is and what your heating needs are. What Is a Boiler? Unlike a furnace, boilers use heated water to warm your home. The boiler holds the water and, when it's sufficiently heated, distributes it throughout your home using pipes. If you've got radiators or baseboard heaters in your rooms, then you've got a boiler. As with furnaces, there are two types of boilers: gas and electric. Electric boilers use heating elements to heat the water, while gas boilers use gas and a flame (similar to a gas water heater). Once the hot water is distributed through the pipes, the heat radiates from the heaters to warm the home. Which Is Better for Heating Your Home? When deciding between a furnace or a boiler for your home, there are a few key factors to note. In terms of cost, furnaces are both cheaper to install and cheaper to operate, especially newer ones that are more energy-efficient. When it comes to indoor air quality, however, furnaces force air through ducts and disturb allergens. Because boilers use radiation, they're quiet and maintain good indoor air quality. Another thing to consider with boilers is leaking. If you have a burst pipe or your water tank freezes and bursts, you could have a serious mess and expensive damages to deal with. Furnaces don't pose as many dangers - unless you have a gas leak. Problems with Your Boiler or Furnace? Now that you know the differences, as well as the pros and cons of boilers and furnaces, you can decide which is best for you. Whether you've got a furnace or a boiler, you need to make sure it's in good working order before winter really sets in. At Problem Solved Plumbing & Heating, we're Calgary and Cochrane's best emergency plumber and HVAC specialist. If you're having issues with your furnace or boiler - or you need to replace one or the other - don't hesitate to contact us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- SIGNS IT’S TIME FOR A FURNACE REPAIR
As the winter months slowly edge closer and the nights get colder, homeowners all around are turning up their furnaces to keep warm. There's little worse than waking up in the middle of a cold night to find out your furnace has stopped working. Your furnace can stop working for many reasons. Some are easy to fix, others might not be. In this article, we'll take a look at five common reasons that a furnace stops working and that require furnace repairs. Furnace Not Igniting Sometimes a furnace that won't ignite is simply because there is no gas or propane being fed to it. If you can smell gas when turning the furnace on then it's probably not the issue. If you use liquid propane, you can check the pressure gauge on top of your storage tank. Often times a furnace will not ignite because there isn't proper airflow going into it. Checking the air filter to make sure it's not clogged could solve the problem. Other reasons for your furnace not turning on could be your pilot or ignition switch, or even your thermostat is not working properly. No Heat Coming From Your Furnace If your furnace is set to heat and yet won't produce any, it could be a circuit breaker was tripped, or a fuse was broken. Checking the breaker by turning it off and then on will determine if this is the cause. When checking for a blown fuse, look for a cloudy appearance or broken metal wire within. These are indications that your fuse is blown. Gas Furnace Blower Runs Continuously A blower or furnace that continuously runs without ever shutting down is a sign that your furnace needs repair. If your gas furnaces blower isn't turning on and off properly, there's a chance you have a faulty limit control switch that needs resetting or replacing Water Leaks There are a few reasons why a furnace might leak, condensation being the most common. If there's an accumulation of water occurring at the base of the furnace, then it's most likely a condensation leak. This could mean that tubing in your furnace is either damaged or clogged. When dealing with water leaking, it is best to address this problem as soon as possible. Temperatures are Too Hot or Too Cold If your thermostat settings on your furnace are normal, yet at times it's heating up your house too much or not enough, then take a look at your furnace control board. Open up your control board access panel and see if any red LED warning lights are on. If a furnace control board malfunctions, then all other operations of your furnace can become an issue. Schedule Your Furnace Repair Having a working furnace for the upcoming winter months is crucial. If your furnace is showing signs that it needs repair soon, let Problem Solved Plumbing & Heating give you peace of mind. Give us a call at any time of the day or night for all furnace repair services in Cochrane and Calgary. Our highly qualified technicians are at your service 24/7.
- 5 COMMON SEPTIC TANK PROBLEMS YOU NEED TO KNOW
If you live in a rural area or small community in Canada or have a cottage, you likely have a septic system. Septic systems comprise a tank, a network of pipes, and billions of microorganisms that process your toilet waste. Even though your septic tank can work for many years without any issues, septic tank problems do arise, and they usually have to do with certain fixable issues. Read on to see what 5 of these septic tank issues are. Tree Roots Tree roots are always seeking out water, and a septic tank is an abundant source of water for them. You might get leaks in your septic tank when or if these tree roots try to get inside your septic tank. Of course, you should avoid planting trees near your tank, but if you already have trees, then you can notice any leakages caused due to them, by looking for patches of oddly healthy grass, sewage on your lawn, and odours. Clogs If your guests ended up throwing non-biodegradable materials into your septic tank, because they were not aware, then this could cause a clog in your septic tank. Sludge can also cause this. Common non-biodegradable substances in septic tanks are diapers, paper towels, and tampons. You will notice that if this is the case, your showers and sinks will take longer to drain, a clear sign that there's a need for septic tank troubleshooting. Line Leaks One of the main ways to ensure you avoid septic tank issues is by regularly maintaining and cleaning your pipes. These pipes carry sewage into the septic tank or effluent out of it. It can get clogged up due to the non-biodegradable substances mentioned above or due to heavy rainfall. Excess Water Avoid overfilling your septic tank system, because the excess water will cause your drainfield (which releases effluent or liquid waste to the soil so the soil can naturally absorb it) to be overfilled and overwhelmed. As always, keeping your septic system maintained properly, especially during the rainy season, is crucial. Hazardous Chemicals The way your septic tank works is that it uses bacteria to break down the solid waste. If you are pouring down hazardous chemicals that will kill these bacteria, your septic tank issues will compound. Avoid pouring anything down into your septic tank that is not meant for it. Only use items that are safe for use with septic tanks - your manufacturer or supplier will be able to provide you with a list. Septic Tank Problems Solved A septic tank needs regular maintenance, more so than a regular toilet. But it's well worth the effort, considering how environmentally friendly it is. If you are having septic tank problems, then you need to contact the experts at Problem Solved Plumbing & Heating to get them repaired. We provide reliable septic tank maintenance and servicing in Cochrane and the surrounding area.