Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc. Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Cedar Falls’

It’s Never Too Late for a Generator Installation

Monday, May 14th, 2018

generator being installed by two techniciansTemperatures have only just begun to warm up, but as a diligent homeowners, you’ve probably already begun thinking about your air conditioner—getting it serviced if need be, or upgrading to a new, more efficient system. This is a very important part of summer preparation, but certainly not the only home system you should be thinking about.

Coping with power outages is a very real threat in our area. They may not be frequent, but when long term blackouts do occur, you need to have some way to keep your HVAC system running as well as other important home components. This is where Cedar Falls, IA generator installation comes in.

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Are You Making Any of These Home Security Mistakes?

Monday, April 30th, 2018

exterior of a homeIs your home as safe and secure as possible? Sure, you keep the front door locked, you have a basic security system, and maybe you even have a dog whose bark you hope will scare burglars away quick enough that they discover the dog really just wants to lick them to death.

These are all great first steps (though we really don’t recommend relying on the family dog), however to truly protect your home, it’s vital that you have an effective whole-home security system professionally installed by trained and experienced Cedar Falls, IA electricians. This will give you protection as well as a peace of mind whether you are away from home or your family is soundly sleeping.

In addition to this installation, there are a number of things you can do around the house to limit your risks of being burglarized even more. We’ve shared some of the biggest home security mistakes below, to help provide some guidance on how to do just that.

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When Do You Need Gas Fireplace Repairs?

Monday, December 25th, 2017

Burning natural gas fireplace surround by stoneA gas fireplace is a very effective and efficient way to warm the room you’re in without needing to run your entire whole-home heating system—or it can even supplement that heating system so you don’t have to turn it up as much.

It’s important to remember, however, that if you detect or suspect a problem with your fireplace, then you should call for Cedar Falls, IA gas fireplace repairs right away. But are there any troubleshooting tips you can try on your own? Sure, and we’ll get to that below.

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Will I Really Benefit From a Water Softener?

Monday, December 11th, 2017

water softener systemThese days, most water supplies throughout the country have a significant level of filtration and conditioning they go through before that water gets to your faucets. And if you use ground water from a private well, you very likely have your own water treatment system in place. However, something many homeowners don’t realize is missing from their homes is protection from hard water.

Water softeners are an increasingly popular, and extremely helpful, Cedar Falls, IA water treatment system. Hard water is the result of a high concentration of minerals within the water supply—namely calcium and magnesium. While these minerals are harmless to ingest, they actually do a great deal of damage to your plumbing system over time. Hard water should be addressed before it has the chance to put your pipes out of commission. But are there really that many benefits to having a water softener installed? Keep reading, and then decide for yourself.

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The Surprising Benefits of Ceiling Fans

Monday, June 26th, 2017

ceiling-fans-surprising-benefitsTemperatures may still be relatively mild for now, but with summer officially here, it’s only a matter of time that we begin using our air conditioners on a daily basis. When this happens, it’s only natural that you want to find a way to cool your home as effectively and efficiently as possible, and keep your cooling costs down.

The good news is that you don’t have to try to use your air conditioner less just to save money—there’s no reason for you to sacrifice your comfort just to save a few bucks. You may be surprised by how much one simple electrical addition to your home can help with this. That’s right, we’re talking about a Cedar Falls, IA ceiling fan installation.

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Top HVAC Mistakes that Increase Your Energy Costs

Monday, April 17th, 2017

top-hvac-mistakes-increase-costsAs cooler weather slowly but surely warms up, we’re almost ready to shut off our heating systems and turn to our air conditioners to keep us comfortable instead. With all this HVAC use throughout the year, it’s only natural that you want to find ways to save money—particularly since your HVAC systems account for about half of all your energy costs!

Whether you’d like to put money in a savings account or actually spend it on something enjoyable—like a vacation—every little bit of savings can help. So you may be surprised to find that you could be making mistakes with your HVAC system that are actually costing you.

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Common Plumbing Leaks and How to Detect Them

Monday, February 20th, 2017

Common-Plumbing-LeaksIs your home in need of plumbing repairs? Perhaps it is, but you don’t even realize it. That’s why it’s a good idea to know the signs of a leak so you can detect a potentially disastrous problem like this right away. Fortunately, if you do have an emergency, you can count on our team for superior emergency plumbing services in Cedar Falls, IA. But, we understand that you’d like to avoid a scenario like this altogether!

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As Winter Progresses, Watch for These Signs of Heater Trouble

Monday, January 2nd, 2017

As our temperatures approach below-freezing levels, our furnaces—or other heating systems—are working particularly hard to meet the heating demands of your home. Hopefully, you had your heating system professionally maintained before winter began, as such service will ensure that your system runs as efficiently and effectively as it can this season.

If you do start to notice any minor issues with your heater, regardless of whether you had maintenance done or not, it’s vital that you not ignore the signs. Contact our professionals and the first indication of trouble so that we can ensure you’re all set for the remaining chilly weather. Keep reading to learn more about the signs of heater trouble within your home.

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Are You in Need of Fireplace Repairs?

Monday, November 28th, 2016

With the weather turning cold and the holidays right around the corner, many homeowners throughout the area will begin using their fireplaces as a source of warmth as well as festive ambience. However, before lighting up your fireplace this season, consider whether or not it’s in good condition.

To make sure that your chimney and fireplace are as safe as they should be and in good working condition, be sure to call in a professional for fireplace installation, inspection, and repairs. Keep reading to learn some of the signs that you may need fireplace repairs before you start using yours on a more regular basis.

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Help! My Furnace Won’t Start Up

Monday, October 24th, 2016

Temperatures have begun to decline, signaling that the start of winter is a lot closer than it seems. Soon enough, you’ll be turning on your heater to keep your home comfortable, if you haven’t already. Hopefully if you have, you didn’t have any problems.

But what happens if you go to turn your furnace on and it doesn’t start up? What could be the cause of this trouble? Read on to learn why furnaces may fail to turn on. And if your unit is aging or repeatedly giving you trouble, it might be time to explore which home heating system is right for you and whether a newer, more efficient model could be a better long-term investment.

Furnace replacement involves removing your existing furnace or old unit and installing a new furnace that is properly sized for your home’s square footage and heating capacity needs. This process includes disconnecting vents, electrical wiring, gas lines, air ducts, and ductwork to safely remove the old furnace. Handling heavy objects, such as the furnace unit and other large components, requires proper safety measures and often two technicians. The use of power tools is essential during installation for both efficiency and safety. Preparing the installation area by checking for obstructions and ensuring readiness is a key step before starting the project. After removal, the furnace installer will inspect and reconnect air ducts to ensure optimal airflow and system performance. Choosing a high energy efficiency model can help lower your heating bills and provide long term savings. Upgrading to a new system can also improve your furnace’s efficiency, resulting in additional cost savings over time. When replacing your furnace, it’s important to consult a professional furnace installer, who has special training required for the job and is responsible for inspecting ductwork, ensuring proper sizing, and performing the installation steps. The cost of furnace replacement can vary depending on the type of system, such as a gas furnace, installation complexity, and efficiency features, so be sure to consider other factors such as your home’s requirements and overall value when deciding to replace your furnace. Furnace installation is a comprehensive project that requires careful planning and coordination to ensure a well-done job and long-term satisfaction.

Introduction to Furnace Installation

Furnace installation is a critical step in ensuring your home’s heating system operates safely and efficiently. The furnace installation process involves much more than simply placing a new unit in your home, it requires specialized training, technical knowledge, and the right tools to guarantee proper installation. An experienced HVAC technician understands the complexities of connecting ductwork, electrical wiring, and fuel lines, as well as calibrating the system for optimal performance. Because the installation process is complicated and involves many technical details, attempting it without the right expertise can lead to costly mistakes and safety hazards. By recognizing the importance of professional installation, homeowners can make informed decisions that protect their investment and ensure reliable heating for years to come.

Types of Furnaces

When selecting a new furnace, it’s important to understand the different types available and how they fit your home’s needs. Gas furnaces are among the most popular choices for residential HVAC systems, known for their strong heating capacity and ability to deliver heated air efficiently throughout your home. They typically offer high energy efficiency and lower operating costs, especially in areas with access to natural gas. Electric furnaces, while often less expensive in terms of initial cost, may result in higher heating bills due to electricity rates, but they can be a good option for homes without gas supply. Oil furnaces are another alternative, though they are less common and may require more maintenance. The right furnace for your home will depend on factors such as your desired energy efficiency, the size of your space, and your budget for both upfront and ongoing costs. Consulting with an HVAC professional can help you choose a system that matches your heating requirements and maximizes efficiency.

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