Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc. Blog: Archive for the ‘Home Improvement’ Category

2024 Tips for an Unpredictable Spring

Monday, March 25th, 2024

If we’ve learned anything about the last few years of weather conditions, it’s that things are becoming a lot more unpredictable. Some parts of the country have experienced record droughts while others have had flooding that hadn’t been seen for a hundred years. This is just par for the course now, and many of our customers are trying to figure out what they should do.

We’re happy to help customers prepare for a particularly unpredictable spring, and that includes tips on best practices, services we offer, and even new systems that could make a big difference. We just urge our customers to not neglect their HVAC systems in Cedar Rapids, IA, and to make sure that no matter how they prepare for the months ahead, they stay calm and collected.

When in doubt, just remember that we’re always available to help when you need it!

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Have You Discovered The Benefits of Home Automation?

Monday, August 17th, 2020

animated-diagram-of-smart-home-componentsAre you utilizing a smart thermostat to control your HVAC systems? How “plugged-in” is your home entertainment system? How about your lighting or security systems?

We’re alluding to the benefits of an increasingly popular service here–home automation installation. if your home isn’t yet a “smart home” allow us to be the first to fill you in on the numerous advantages of making it one. While we might not yet see something like The Jetsons cartoon or a Disney movie, technology has taken significant strides in the last couple of decades to get us there.

Read on as we uncover the benefits of home automation and how you can make your home smarter.

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Home Efficiency Boosting Tips

Monday, August 3rd, 2020

woman-looking-comfortable-in-home-leaning-back-on-couch-with-eyes-closedSummer is chugging right along, and the hottest temperatures are still ahead of us. That means as much as we’re running our home cooling systems right now, we’ll be doing it even more in the coming weeks. of course, this also means hefty energy bills. Air conditioners aren’t cheap after all–actually your HVAC use typically accounts for half of all your home energy use!

This doesn’t mean it needs to break the bank, though. You can take some steps that will help improve the efficiency of your air conditioner and help you out a bit on the financial end.

First, we have to mention maintenance–scheduling routine annual maintenance (or biannual, if you have a heat pump) is key to ensuring efficient AC operation. In addition to staying on top of your cooling system tune-ups, you can:

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Your September Maintenance Checklist

Tuesday, September 18th, 2018

We aren’t excited to say goodbye to warm weather, but September is here!  That means it’s time to get your home ready for winter, while the weather still permits. You don’t have to do it all alone; we’re here to help! Below you’ll find our list of must-dos this fall, and all the items that we can help you check off your list.fall home maintenance

1. Check for leaky faucets

Get a jump start on preventing freezing pipes by inspecting for leaks in the fall. You’ll save a large sum of money by repairing leaks now than you would have to shell out if you have a burst pipe in January.

Checking for leaks is something the Dalton team can help you with. In fact, a plumbing inspection is included with our Complete Home Comfort Membership.

2. Inspect your window seals

A drafty window or door can cause stress on your heating system and make all the difference between a warm and cozy home and a chilly one. Make sure there is a tight seal around doors and windows. If you notice some cracks, call the company who installed them to see if they are still under warranty. If not, consider caulking the seals or having a professional window company do it for you.

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Common Summer Household Issues: How Your Dalton Membership Can Help

Tuesday, August 14th, 2018

Have you been gearing up to have a summer BBQ, only to realize your A/C was out and your guests were left sweltering on your lawn? Or, have you been dealing with various plumbing issues because your home has been using so much more water during the summer months? You’re not alone!

There are common plumbing, heating and cooling, and electrical issues that come up during summer that will catch you in the most inconvenient time. Luckily, the team at Dalton has the list of common concerns to watch out for, and how to prevent them from happening in your home.

Plumbing Pains

Dalton Complete Home Comfort Memberships provide maintenance for your plumbing. They will help you identify small issues before they become massive problems. Use your membership to avoid the common, summer plumbing issues below.

  1. Backed up sewer line

During summer rain and thunderstorms, your sewer can easily back up from the excess water. If your home is susceptible to rising water, consider installing a drain plug in each drain to prevent backed up water from rising during the storms.

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Dalton’s Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Wednesday, April 4th, 2018

home-maintenanceWe know that during the winter it’s easy to hibernate instead of doing routine chores around your home. However, now that the coldest days of winter are behind us, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work on your home maintenance.

 

Don’t worry! You don’t have to comb the internet to find out which tasks need to be done this time of year, because the Dalton team is here to help. We have the expertise to assist you in sprucing up your home and getting it ready for summer. Take a look at the items we have on our helpful spring home maintenance checklist.

Call Dalton for your Preseason A/C Tune Up!

Any time is better than never, but we think spring is the ideal season to get your A/C tune-up. A preseason tune-up will cut cooling costs, lower the risk of future breakdowns and need for repair, and keep your system running longer.

Get a Chimney Checkup.

We suggest having your fireplace inspected and cleaned at least once each year, especially if you use it on a regular basis. Your Dalton technician will ensure the unit is properly clearing exhaust and waste. After, they will prepare your unit for summer, ensuring your cooled air stays indoors.

Stop the Beeping and Replace the Batteries in your Smoke and CO Detectors.

Even when your detectors aren’t indicating they are low, we suggest switching the batteries out every year. The batteries in these devices can make a life-or-death difference for your family, so it is absolutely worth the time spent replacing them.

Keep it Healthy, Pure, and Clear by Replacing your Water Filters.

To ensure clean drinking water for your family, we suggest changing your filter every three to six months. If you notice the water flow slowing down or altering to a darker color, consider replacing it early and get your water tested by a certified Dalton technician.

 

For help with any of your spring tasks, speak to the team at Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces! We are standing by to help you prepare for summer and keep your home’s systems in tip-top shape. You can reach us at (319) 266-3513.

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