How to Address and Prevent Leaking Pipes Hassles

Leaking pipes are a common household issue that can lead to significant damage if not addressed promptly. If you’re dealing with the frustration of leaks, you’re not alone. This blog will explore effective ways to deal with leaking pipes, the potential risks involved, and why Atlantic Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is your reliable partner in Hampton, VA.

The Challenge of Leaking Pipes

Understanding the Impact of Leaks

Leaking pipes may seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can cause serious problems such as:

1. Water Damage: Persistent leaks can lead to water damage, affecting walls, floors, and ceilings.

2. Mold Growth: Damp environments created by leaks provide an ideal breeding ground for mold, posing health risks.

Why Addressing Leaks Promptly Matters

Preventing Structural Damage: Timely intervention prevents structural damage to your property, avoiding costly repairs.

Water Conservation: Fixing leaks contributes to water conservation, reducing your environmental impact.

Dealing with Leaking Pipes

1. Identify the Source

Begin by identifying the source of the leak. Check for visible signs like water stains, dampness, or unusual water sounds.

2. Temporary Fixes

While waiting for professional help, use temporary fixes like sealing small cracks with epoxy or wrapping pipes with rubber and hose clamps.

3. Call the Plumbing Experts

For a lasting solution, enlist the help of professionals. Atlantic Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning specializes in efficiently addressing leaking pipe issues.

Leaking Pipes Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a leaking pipe?

Look out for signs such as increased water bills, water stains, mold growth, or the sound of running water when no fixtures are in use.

Can leaking pipes cause long-term damage?

Yes, leaking pipes can lead to extensive damage, including structural issues, mold growth, and compromised indoor air quality. Prompt professional intervention is crucial.

Contact Atlantic Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

If you’re dealing with leaking pipes or want to prevent potential issues, contact Atlantic Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning at 757-838-1036. Our team is dedicated to providing reliable plumbing services in Hampton, VA. Visit our website to learn more about our comprehensive solutions.

Ways to Tell if Your Heater is Energy-Efficient

How to Know If Your Heater Is Energy Efficient

As the temperatures start to drop, many of us will be turning on our heaters to keep warm. It’s essential to make sure that you use an energy-efficient heater to save money on your utility bills. We will discuss the different ways to tell if your heater is energy-efficient.

1. Check the Energy Star Rating

The first thing you can do to determine if your heater is energy efficient is to check the Energy Star rating. Heaters with an Energy Star rating are certified to use less energy than other models. When it comes to heaters, energy efficiency means that it has an AFUE rating above 90%. The AFUE rating indicates the efficiency of your appliance as it converts fuel to heat. If you’re not sure whether your heater has an Energy Star rating, you can check the manufacturer’s website or on the product packaging. 

2. Compare the Energy Use

Another way to determine if your heater is energy efficient is to compare the energy use. You can find this information on the product packaging or in the owner’s manual for your heater. If two heaters have similar features, but one uses less energy, that heater is more likely to be more energy-efficient.

3. Compare the Cost of Heating

It is essential to compare the cost of heating. A heater that costs less to operate is more likely to be energy-efficient. However, it’s important to note that the size of the heater also affects how much it costs to operate since a small heater in a large space has to work harder to produce the same amount of heat as a larger one that is a more appropriate fit for the home. So, a small heater may cost less than a large heater even if they both have an Energy Star rating.

4. Check the Temperature Settings

Make sure that your heater is energy-efficient by checking the settings on the thermostat. Most heaters have a range of temperatures that they can be set to. If your heater is set to a higher temperature than necessary, you will use more energy and increase your utility bills.

You can save money on your energy bills by setting your heater to a lower temperature. However, it’s important to note that some people may not be comfortable at a lower temperature. So, you may need to experiment with the different temperatures until you find one comfortable for you.

Heating Services For You

Heating your home can be a costly endeavor, especially during the colder months, but by following these tips, you can make sure that you are using an energy-efficient heater that will save you money on your utility bills and help reduce your carbon footprint. If you are in Poquoson, VA, look to Atlantic Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for any questions or issues when it comes to your HVAC needs.

Ways to Winterize Your Home 

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If you live in a cold climate, you know how important it is to keep your home warm. One way to do this is by winterizing your home. Winterize your home by updating your Hampton, VA heating and cooling systems, adding insulation, and installing A/C. Winter is when the temperature drops below freezing and can be treacherous without proper preparedness. Here are six ways to winterize your home. 

1. Seal All Cracks and Install Window Insulation 

Falling air conditioning costs and the sharp drop in temperature can cause a lot of damage to your home. Thousands of homes experience unplanned downtime due to damage from falling air conditioning units every year. To prevent this from happening to you, install weather stripping on all doors and windows, and caulk all cracks. 

2. Insulate Your Attic 

If you have an attic, ensure that it is properly insulated before winter sets in. This will prevent heat from escaping through the roof and walls of your home during the winter months. Heat escapes through the walls because there are gaps between the insulation and these areas of your home. 

3. Check Your AC Unit 

If you have a central air conditioning unit, make sure that you install the appropriate filters and clean them regularly. If it is an older model, check if it has a freon leak. If this is the case, replace the entire AC unit. You can also consider adding another AC unit to your home to keep your temperature constant. 

4. Check Your Gutters and Downspouts 

If you have gutters and downspouts that are clogged, this can lead to a lot of water damage. Make sure to clean them out regularly not to become clogged. If you notice that there is a lot of debris in your gutters, consider hiring a professional to clean them out for you. 

5. Test Your Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors 

Testing your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors is important for your home’s safety. They help alert you when there is a problem in your home, so make sure they are not acting up. Check your batteries regularly and replace them when necessary. If you notice that the batteries are dead, consider replacing them with new ones. 

6. Invest in a Whole House Fan 

A whole house fan can help to circulate air throughout the entire house. This means that it will cool down rooms quickly and keep other rooms from becoming too hot. If you have an older home, adding a whole-house fan can be beneficial for many reasons, such as increasing your energy efficiency and helping to cool down your home during the summer months. 

If you want to winterize your home, you can do many things to make it more energy-efficient. The tips that have been provided here are just a few of the many things that you can do to winterize your home. You may contact a professional if you have any questions or concerns about winterizing your home or Hampton, VA heating and cooling systems. 

The Importance of a Furnace Tune-Up

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Regular furnace maintenance might seem like a hassle. As a house owner, you might encounter thoughts about whether you really need to book one or not. “Is furnace tune-up necessary or worth it?” Of course, it is! 

You might think you’re saving up on your maintenance costs, but delaying annual furnace tune-ups can cost you significant repair costs in the future. If you need slightly more persuasion to book your fall furnace tune-up, you’re on the right spot. Below we list the five vital reasons and benefits of yearly tune-ups for every homeowner. 

Saves Energy Bills 

Furnace heating is a significant portion of your energy bills, especially during extreme winters when you want nothing more but to reside comfortably inside your snug home. 

Now, here’s a catch. Forgoing furnace maintenance can make your heating system inefficient and utilize more energy. On the other hand, well-tuned furnaces consume lesser energy and can help you save more than twenty percent of your heating costs! 

Promotes Safe Heating For Your House 

Timely and thorough furnace tuning can help you avoid gas leaks from overheated coils and clogged furnace filters. That helps keep the hazardous carbon monoxide levels and soot away from your interior and encourages better airflow. It creates a safer environment around your house for you and your loved ones without jeopardizing your health. 

It’s always more rewarding to hire professional furnace tune-ups because they inspect your heating system and identify everything that may be potentially wrong. The technicians also guide you on the fundamental issues leading to ineffective furnace systems and ways to prevent them in the future. 

Meets Manufacturer’s Warranty Requirements

Warranty requirements vary for every manufacturer. However, most furnace warranties usually demand you to conduct annual tune-ups to comply with the criteria. 

High-quality furnaces generally offer you a 10-year warranty. And annual tune-ups ensure that you will have records to prove the regular maintenance if you ever have to utilize this warranty. That’s one way to avoid burdening your wallets with major replacement costs when you can avail yourself of the warranty! 

Extends The Useful Life 

Sporadic furnace tuning means you’re allowing your system to grow older than it actually is. But yearly maintenance ensures it stays at the top of its efficiency in heating your house and offering you optimal comfort. 

Professional furnace maintenance doesn’t only mean cleaning the system. It also includes a keen checkup of your heating system to address potential issues before they become nightmares to rectify. That does wonders to assure that you wouldn’t be needing furnace replacement anytime soon. 

Avoids Sudden Repairs 

It’s a misguided perception that furnace tune-ups don’t do you good. One of the best advantages of annual furnace maintenance is how it saves you from encountering unexpected and critical repairs. 

Imagine leaving the furnace unattended and then watching in dismay as it stops working in the middle of one particularly chilly winter night. That sounds highly inconvenient and unpleasant.

If you plan your furnace tune-up in the fall, you make sure to create a cozy space for your family and avoid the hassle of contacting emergency furnace services. That’s why being safer than sorry always pays off. 

Professional Furnace Heating, HVAC Air Conditioning Yorktown, VA Virginia 

We hope that these five benefits helped you determine the importance of timely furnace tune-ups. So, what are you waiting for? Book an inspection with the experts and keep your furnace well-maintained for the whole year to come. If you’re searching for skilled technicians for furnace heating, HVAC Air Conditioning, Yorktown, VA Virginia offers you a credible solution! 

You can reach out to Atlantic Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning Inc. and let us offer you a detailed furnace tune-up today. We specialize in offering HVAC and heating services and plumbing, including drain and sewer line repairs, leak detection, and drain unclogging. 

You can click on our website to read more about our services. If you have any concerns or queries, you can submit your message through the online contact form or email the questions to atlanticphac@gmail.com. You can also visit our office at 609 Copeland Dr, Hampton, VA, 23661, USA

You can call us at our local offices near your locality to get the latest updates and schedule your furnace maintenance today. We look forward to serving you! 

Hampton 757-838-1036

Newport News 757-877-2696

York County 757-898-5529

The Benefits of Using Natural Gas for Your Home

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What are the advantages of natural gas?

Comfort, dependability, and saving money are the main advantages of this energy source. Home heating oil has consistently been more costly than gas during recent years. Running out of gas is a thing of the past with natural gas, which supplies you with an uninterrupted supply. Even better, it can be used for all kinds of grilling, washing machines, and even hot tubs.

How to Start Using Natural Gas

The first step is to call or email a natural gas provider. They should be able to inform you whether gas is accessible in your area and designate a representative.

Your next requirement is for a gas-safe installer to do your job.

Natural Gas is Secure

There is a constant supply of safe and reliable gas in the United States, and it is one of the easiest and safest sources of fuel available. It is all piped underground and never interrupted by a mechanical breakdown or storm. Gas appliances, however, should be serviced every year to make sure they are safe.

Natural Gas is Environmentally Friendly

Natural gas is an environmentally friendly fossil fuel. It is important in decreasing pollution and keeping the ecosystem healthy. Consumers can use energy-efficient equipment and control their thermostats using these emission-lowering programs.

Did You Know?  The added value of natural gas to your property may enhance the selling price.

How to Fund Your Home Natural Gas Delivery

Several simple payment options are available. Your pay-as-you-go meter will have a payment schedule that enables you to pay just for the gas you use. If you want to spend quarterly or monthly, you may set up a direct debit.

Some homeowners rely on a variety of various utilities. Many US homes that consume natural gas also use other utilities, including electricity, water, and sewage. This is a clean, efficient, and safe energy source that may be used as long as you are well acquainted with any possible risks.

Possible Natural Gas Difficulties

There is a potential for difficulties in utilizing natural gas because of the way it is distributed. A buildup of carbon monoxide may develop as well. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that may cause sickness, because of this risk, you should verify that the furnace you are using is really doing what it is supposed to do. Properly venting a barbecue, for example, is crucial for preventing the accumulation of hazardous gas. Stay current on appliance maintenance and if any issues are detected, notify your utility provider immediately.

Natural Gas Accessory Selections

Natural gas use should be matched with the appropriate accessory selections. It is essential to have these things while utilizing the fuel. Know where the natural gas shut-off valve is situated so you can find the system. Using gas leak detectors in your house or place of business is also beneficial. Natural gas incorporates an artificial smell that serves as a leak detector warning. This gives your leak detector a better chance of discovering the leak. While this isn’t something you should anticipate, you should try to be as secure as possible if it happens.

Even if you can just detect a leak or notice the odor of gas, it is very important that you notify emergency personnel immediately. You should call the relevant emergency services agency to have the issue addressed adequately. Contact either the utility company or emergency medical services if you find any kind of natural gas leak on your property. Using an open flame or smoking cigarettes is not recommended when there is a leak. Doing so may result in a worse issue.

In the market for low- or no-emission energy? 

Look no further. 

In very few cases, no pollution by-products are released into the air. It’s been known for hundreds of years that natural gas is a precious chemical. Natural gas is a good deal for homeowners since it is so inexpensive. Over the last century, natural gas has cost much less than electricity in both money and energy.

Natural Gas for Heating, Cooking, and Cooking

Since it is recognized for use in heating and cooking, natural gas has been used mainly around the house. Because of its low odor, natural gas allows you to have more precise control over the temperature while being less hazardous. Many chefs in restaurants that use natural gas choose a cooktop and range that is natural gas instead of electric as they tend to prefer its accuracy of temperature control.

Natural gas can serve you well if you’re able to take full advantage of it, and it may help offer warmth for your family as well. Continue to check for any issues with appliances that utilize natural gas. Even if it is improbable that problems would arise, the more you know about the system, the less likely troubles will occur.

Where to Buy

Atlantic Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning in Hampton Virginia is your one-stop source for everything with natural gas.
Contact us here to request a free estimate.

How to Know If Your Heater Isn’t Working

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Suppose you’ve tried everything, from fixing blown fuses to changing your thermostat batteries; but you still can’t figure out what’s the problem. In that case, you may need to call a Yorktown heating company for professional HVAC services. This blog will discuss the signs you need to know if your heater isn’t working before you make the call to a plumber.

It is best to maintain your system before the cold hits; here’s a checklist on what you can do to ensure the heater is working.

Checking the Thermostat

The thermostat is the control center of your heating system. If the screen is blank, the battery is likely dead and needs to be changed. You may also need to check the wiring connecting the thermostat to the furnace, in case it’s not responding. An electric tape will come in handy. Replacing a blown fuse or turning on the circuit breaker is also a simple way to ensure you’re doing everything on your part.

Ensure the gas valve is on before turning on the thermostat, and then set it to ‘heat’ and wait to see if the furnace turns on. If you’re unsure about whether the gas is the issue, calling a Yorktown heating company for a plumber is .

Furnace Power Switch

You need to check the furnace’s power switch and make sure it is turned on, and the circuit breaker has not tripped. Look for any blown fuses in the main panel. If you’re not familiar with electrical work, it’s better for your own safety to call a professional.

There is also a safety switch in the furnace, which may turn off if it detects any gas leakage. Is this is the case, get it checked by a professional.

Set the thermostat to heat at a temperature that starts the furnace. Wait for the furnace to start up, and if nothing happens, it’s time to check the filter and motor. 

The safety switch can also turn off the furnace if it is overloaded with dirt. If you turn on the motor and nothing happens, then the motor is likely burned and needs to be replaced. A faulty motor may also point to a cracked heat exchanger, which is dangerous and should be replaced immediately by a technician. 

You may also want to check your furnace for any mold due to poor insulation or incorrect ductwork, which exposes it to moisture. Regularly changing air filters will help keep the system clean. However, do get an expert plumber’s opinion. They can help diagnose the problem and also give you maintenance advice.

Air Filters and Ducts

Try changing your air filters if the heat isn’t coming out. They need to be replaced after every few months or so. Failure to do so can result in accumulated gunk that may affect the furnace’s performance and dust on the heat exchanger. If you can’t see through them, it is time to replace them. 

Vents with inefficient ductwork often leak. These leakages can increase your electricity bills. Ensure the air vents aren’t covered or blocked by any object and inspect them by looking for gaps between branch points. You also need to ensure air registers are covered by curtains or furniture.

If you can’t find the blockage, get a plumber to come and do a thorough look-through.

Debris

Though it sounds like a matter-of-fact solution, dirt and debris can mess up your heating system. You need to check for debris at multiple locations and not just the air filters. Turn off your system and then inspect your chimney’s exhaust flue and clear out any garbage there.

You can also disassemble your ductwork and check for any blockages and leaks due to faulty ductwork. Clear away any dirt, leaves, or ice you find in the furnace, exhaust vents, or pipes.

Flame Sensors 

Flame sensors are found in modern heating systems, which regulate the gas when the heater is on. Furnaces may short cycle frequently or keep turning off if the flame sensor isn’t working correctly. A dirty flame sensor can make it hard to light up the burner if it’s not tuned properly. A sensor covered with dirt will not be able to sense the flame and will cut off. Maybe the burner is covered in dirt as well and thus not working correctly. Call an HVAC technician for maintenance to make sure your furnace doesn’t further damage.

Time To Make That Call

After you have tried your best and done all that cleaning and replacing, maybe your heater will start working fine. If it still doesn’t work or you would like a professional to take care of it, this Yorktown heating company has your back!

Dealing With Heating and AC Issues

HVAC Hampton, VA | AC Repair Near Me | Heating Repair Near Me

Today’s homeowners consider a pleasant temperature to be a fundamental need.

It might seem hard to believe, but some people are unaware of the significance of regular maintenance. If you ignore controlling your home’s climate equipment, you may suffer severe discomfort, regret, and financial hardship in the future. Our Hampton VA HVAC services are designed to ensure your year-round comfort.

Common Misunderstandings About HVAC Equipment in Virginia

A common misunderstanding is that a unit’s average ten-year life expectancy implies it can be counted on to operate until it dies, with no further servicing required. HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems need annual maintenance to ensure they last the number of years they are expected to work in your house. Servicing your family vehicle is a well-known idea that is, surprisingly, not dissimilar to home climate system maintenance. It is generally known that cars need regular maintenance to operate correctly. It is reckless and hazardous to drive your vehicle to and from work, your children’s school, or any of your other errands or recreational activities without having your oil changed. A few thousand miles of oil changes is a relatively minor expense compared to replacing an engine that has seized. Vehicle warranties only apply to owners who suffer problems despite following the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule. Most climate equipment manufacturers will also refuse to replace systems that have been ignored by the owner. Unless you have thousands of dollars more to invest in a new unit, it’s time to be proactive.

Daily Advantages of Good HVAC Maintenance

One of the immediate benefits of positively maintaining a home system is lower energy use and total costs with each monthly bill. Homeowners spend an average of $2,000 per year on utility expenses, with heating and cooling accounting for 49% of unlimited energy usage. Properly planned servicing is the most effective method to ensure that your house is not wasting money due to leaking ducts or inefficient components.

Our service experts at Atlantic Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. in Virginia will check every inch of your equipment for filthy, loose, or broken components that may endanger the safety of your family. Indoor climate systems are renowned for several frequent and avoidable problems, including loose fittings, overheated coils, the freezing effects of low refrigerant, and compressor failure. A neglected furnace may potentially leak colorless, odorless, and lethal carbon monoxide into your house.

Responsible Homeownership

By committing to a Hampton Virginia plumbing maintenance plan, you may improve safety, reduce utility costs, and prolong the life of your equipment. Providers are ready to provide pre-arranged service agreements, enabling busy households to book all necessary check-ups for the year as a reduced package deal. Crossing this task off the list offers you peace of mind and more time to tackle the other pleasures of being a homeowner.

Homeowners using central heating and air conditioning systems are urged to learn more about the significance of HVAC maintenance.

Learn More About HVAC

Your property represents a significant commitment of both time and money. You want to preserve your property and keep its worth as long as possible, whether it’s your home, workplace, or rental. A well-working heating and cooling system are critical for maintaining a constant temperature inside a structure. One of the most significant hazards that every building owner should be aware of is that changing temperatures may cause long-term and significant damage to a system.

Excessive heat in the summer may cause the timber portions of a structure to expand and distort. This may result in uneven floors, jammed doors, or damaged fixtures. Wood naturally expands at high temperatures, and if this repeatedly happens to an excessive degree, it may become permanently deformed. Furthermore, misshaping may lead the jambs surrounding doors and windows to become crooked. An effective heating and cooling system will control the interior temperature and keep it safe for these critical building components. Our Hampton Virginia heating experts have the experience to restore your comfort quickly and professionally.

Excessive cold, on the other hand, may be just as damaging. Because of freezing water, extreme cold may cause breaking in a home’s pipes and plumbing. The most important action to take to avoid this is to winterize your pipes. This procedure entails adding additional insulation to your metal pipes. However, it is also critical to ensure that your property’s HVAC system is entirely operational, mainly if you are out of the building for long periods. A single burst pipe in the winter may cause extensive damage if not detected promptly.

The third main risk is linked to moisture rather than temperature. Most heating and cooling systems are also part of a broader ventilation network. This HVAC equipment helps to enhance the air quality inside a structure while also preventing excessive amounts of moisture from collecting. Damp places are breeding grounds for mold and decay. This may cause severe harm to a building’s structure over time. Unquestionably, excessive amounts of mold may be hazardous, leading to severe respiratory problems, particularly in children and the elderly. These wet areas also make it easier for wood-boring insects like termites, ants, and beetles to infiltrate your home.

Problem Avoidance

All of these problems may be avoided with well-maintained and efficient HVAC equipment. However, since these devices need their own maintenance and upkeep, it is critical to work with local and trustworthy experts to repair your systems. In the long term, investing money today on the finest servicing will preserve your investment and guarantee that its worth stays high for a long time.

Atlantic Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. is a great choice due to our experience, and our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Contact us today for excellent service throughout the Hampton Virginia area. We are ready to help you with prompt service.