Help Center
Frequently Asked Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Questions
Q: My heating and air conditioning isn’t working. What should I do?
A: If your heating or cooling system isn’t working, the first step is to check your thermostat. Make sure that you system is turned on, set to the proper setting (‘Heat’ or ‘Cool’), and that your desired temperature is above or below the current temperature. The next step is to check that your furnace is switched on and that you haven’t blown a fuse. If you are still having a problem, contact the experts at Rich’s Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning for an in-home consultation and inspection.
Q: What is a SEER rating?
A: SEER stands for ‘Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio’. This rating measures the efficiency of an air conditioner or heat pump, with a higher rating meaning that it is more efficient. Higher efficiency systems require less energy consumption to cool your home.
Q: Should I be worried about Carbon Monoxide?
A: Carbon Monoxide (C02) is a potentially dangerous gas that accounts for more deaths annually in the United States than any other poisonous gas. Due to the fact that it is odorless and invisible to the naked eye, it can be very difficult to detect. It is recommended that your house be equipped with a C02 detector in the situation that you have a C02 leak in your home. Having your furnace, boiler, or other heating equipment installed and regularly maintained by a licensed and certified technician is the best way to safeguard your home and family.
Q: Why does my water smell like rotten eggs?
A: Foul smelling water is generally caused by the presence of hydrogen, sulfur, and bacteria in your water supply. While most public water supplies use chlorine to eliminate bacteria, private well systems may need to be purified using ultraviolet light or chlorine injectors. Additionally, installing an aluminum anode rod in your water tank may help minimize the problem.
Home Energy Saving Tips
High energy bills can be a huge source of distress, which is why homeowners frequently ask us what they can do to reduce their energy costs. Here are a few tips that can help you reduce our costs by over 30%:
- Programmable Thermostats – Programmable thermostats are relatively inexpensive and allow you to automatically adjust the output of your heating and cooling systems. Programming your heating and AC to increase or decrease slightly while you are at work or sleeping can save you up to 10% on your overall costs each year.
- Check Your Filters – Dirty air filters restrict airflow and force your system to work harder. HVAC experts recommend cleaning your filters once a month and replacing them seasonally.
- Proper Insulation – Adding insulation to your attic and other outside walls can reduce airflow in and out of your home, allowing you to maintain ideal temperatures inside with less strain on your heating and cooling systems.
- Check Seals – Cracks around windows and doors are a huge source of airflow in and out of your home. Make sure that these areas are properly caulked and sealed.
- Clear Debris – Make sure to clear any debris on and around your outdoor condensing unit, as well as from the base pan underneath the unit.
- Regular Maintenance and Diagnostics – Professional maintenance and diagnostic testing from a licensed heating and cooling technician will allow them to identify any problem areas with your system and recommend energy-efficient upgrades and repairs. Contact Rich’s Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning today to schedule your heating, AC, and water heater maintenance!