Author: City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

What Exactly Is a Sump Pump?

As spring approaches, homeowners should bring out the spring checklist of things to get done around the house. Whether this is a physical checklist or one that resides in the back of the mind until winter is over doesn’t matter. What matters is that testing the sump pump is on the list somewhere—preferably near the top.

A sump pump is simple, but it is like an insurance policy that homeowners hope they never have to use. It’s always better to have one and not need it than to need one and not have it. This is because a sump pump can help prevent thousands of dollars in water damage when powerful spring storms roll through. So read on to learn about the basics of sump pumps and how to test them in time for spring storms!

Sump Pumps: The Basics

For those not familiar with sump pumps, they are simple pumps that are installed at the lowest point in the house in a sump pump basin. Usually, the pump should be installed in the basement or crawlspace. If moisture collects, it usually does so in the basement or crawlspace first, so the sump pit needs to be down there. When the water flows into the pit, the sump pump can pump the water out of the house via a discharge pipe, directing the water away from the foundation.

Most sump pumps are designed to work automatically when they sense water with a sump pump float switch, but some do require manual operation. Automatic sump pumps are the better bet, just in case no one is home when a storm hits and the basement starts flooding. Likewise, a sump pump with a battery backup is also a good idea, just in case there’s a power outage during the storm.

Two Primary Types of Sump Pumps

The two main types of sump pumps are pedestal and submersible. Pedestal sump pumps are cheaper than submersible sump pumps, but they’re not as powerful. They get their name from the fact that the motor sits up out of the sump pump basin on a pedestal, keeping it out of the water and preventing the need for the expensive waterproofing that is common among submersible sump pumps. Meanwhile, the impeller and one end of the discharge pipe are down in the basin, ready to pump water out when needed. This makes them ideal for more narrow sump pump basins that couldn’t easily fit a submersible pump.

As the name suggests, submersible sump pumps are designed to go into the water, motor and all. They are waterproof and usually more powerful, making them ideal for handling high volumes of water. Since the motor sits in the pit, these sump pumps are much quieter than their pedestal counterparts. However, submersible sump pumps tend to wear out faster than pedestal pumps, which can last two to three times longer than submersibles.

Making Sure the Sump Pump Works

Like anything else, sump pumps need to be tested and maintained for proper function. Luckily, testing is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. The easiest way to test a sump pump is to pour water into the sump pump basin. If everything works correctly, the sump pump float switch should sense the water and cause the pump to turn on. If this happens, it’s crucial to ensure the pump removes water from the pit, completing the process.

If the water nears the top of the basin and the pump doesn’t turn on—or it turns on but doesn’t pump water out—then a problem with the pump must be addressed. It’s always best to contact a professional plumber to troubleshoot or repair a malfunctioning sump pump. With the help of a professional, homeowners can rest easy knowing their sump pump is in good working order for the next time it’s needed.

About City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning have proudly served Odessa, TX, since 1967. Their technicians show up on time and perform excellent workmanship. They also provide upfront pricing and a satisfaction guarantee on every job. Contact them today for sump pump installation or maintenance in Odessa, TX.

What Owners Need to Understand About Humidity

Keeping the home or office comfortable during every season is a delicate balance of temperature and humidity. If the temperature isn’t right, the space can be distractingly uncomfortable. If the humidity isn’t right, the air will feel clammy or contribute to poor general health. That’s why controlling the humidity in a space is essential.

Humidity is probably the most misunderstood aspect of indoor air quality. To set the record straight, local professionals specialize in designing systems that promote high-quality indoor air. This article is a quick guide to understanding humidity and how to control it.

Why Is Humidity So Important?

The ideal humidity, indoors or outside, is between 40% and 60%. In the summer, when humidity levels climb, the air feels heavy and hotter as the humidity impedes the evaporation of sweat. In the winter, colder air causes humidity to drop, so the dry air pulls moisture from the skin and lungs, leading to dry skin and respiratory problems. The right humidity can help offset these problems, but owners must understand their responsibility to provide safe and comfortable spaces.

Indoor humidity is largely dependent on outdoor humidity. In the summer, moisture migrates into the home, making the space feel sticky and causing owners to run the air conditioner to compensate for the discomfort. In the winter, already-dry air is dried further by furnaces, causing problems like allergies and sinus infections. Luckily, controlling the humidity in a space is simple with the right equipment.

Using Humidifiers

Humidifiers are valuable tools in the fight against low humidity, especially during the winter. Humidifiers come in several portable units, and whole-home humidifiers are installed with central heating and cooling equipment. Small portable units boost humidity in small spaces, mostly bedrooms. This allows people to sleep in higher-quality air than they would otherwise be exposed to. Whole-home humidifiers automatically adjust the humidity of the entire home, so they take less attention and intervention than portable units.

A humidifier is the right choice for a space if:

• Sinus infections are a problem during the winter
• Allergies cause dry eyes and nasal passages
• Moisturization is necessary for skin or eyes
• Wood furniture starts to dry or crack

Benefits of Dehumidifiers

Humidifiers do a great job adding moisture to a space, but what if the opposite is needed? During the summer, many people suffer from spaces that contain too high humidity. In these spaces, a dehumidifier is an excellent choice. Like humidifiers, dehumidifiers come in portable units or as part of a central HVAC. Installing whole-home dehumidifiers or strategically using portable units can help lower power bills during the summer by lowering the moisture in the home, which leads to that familiar muggy feeling.

Some of the signs that a dehumidifier can help in a home or business are:

• Mold growth or musty odors
• High cooling bills
• Warm, muggy air in the space
• Dirty AC coils
• Condensation on windows

About City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning are the local experts regarding indoor air quality. With dehumidifier and humidifier installation, they also keep the air clean with duct cleaning services. Call today for HVAC service in Odessa, TX.

Why Should Homeowners Go Tankless In the New Year?

With the start of the new year, many homeowners are deciding which home improvement projects to tackle in the coming months. For some, there’s no better place to start than the water heater. Most water heater replacements are done in an emergency when the old unit kicks the bucket. But if their current water heater is getting old (installed more than ten years ago) or needs frequent repairs, homeowners may want to proactively find a replacement.

For many homeowners, upgrading from a conventional water heater to a tankless one may be just what the doctor ordered. Depending on the household, going tankless can save money, enhance comfort, and give homeowners more long-term peace of mind. Read on to discover a few key benefits of tankless water heaters!

Improved Energy Efficiency

For many, the most appealing benefit of a tankless water heater is its superior energy efficiency compared to a typical storage water heater. Conventional water heaters keep a constant hot water supply in a large tank that usually holds anywhere from 30 to 60 gallons. As hot water is used, the tank is automatically refilled and reheated. But even when no hot water is in use, the storage tank needs to be kept at the desired temperature, which results in a lot of standby energy loss.

Tankless water heaters avoid this problem by only heating water as needed. And since water heating is one of the home’s leading sources of energy consumption, this can lead to significant savings on energy bills. Both electric and gas tankless water heaters are highly efficient, but the latter tend to save the most money since natural gas is less expensive in most regions.

Unlimited Hot Water In a Smaller Package

Another advantage of on-demand or instantaneous water heaters is that they provide a virtually endless hot water supply. In large households with conventional heaters, if several people take showers, the last person in line often gets stuck taking a cold shower when the hot water tank is depleted. With a tankless unit, the hot water never runs out, so no one will be left waiting for the tank to refill and reheat!

And since they don’t have enormous water tanks, on-demand water heaters are generally much smaller and more discreet than conventional units. This is perfect if the water heater needs to be installed in a garage, laundry room, or utility closet, where storage space comes at a premium. With a tankless water heater, homeowners can enjoy a nearly unlimited hot water supply without a big, bulky eyesore taking up precious space!

Longer Average Lifespan and Lower Service Costs

Last but not least, tankless water heaters tend to outlast conventional units by several years. With proper maintenance, tankless units have an average life expectancy of about 20 years, while storage tank water heaters only last about 15 years on average. Those extra few years between water heater replacements can save homeowners hundreds or thousands of dollars.

And since tankless water heaters are less prone to sediment buildup and other issues that plague conventional units, they generally don’t require as much maintenance. So not only will homeowners have more time before needing a replacement, but they’ll also be able to save money on water heater maintenance and repairs over the unit’s life.

Naturally, whether or not a home can benefit from a tankless water heater depends on a variety of factors, including how much retrofitting needs to be done for the installation, whether the home has existing gas lines, how many people live in the home, and the water usage patterns of the household – so homeowners should always consult with a qualified plumber to find the best water heater for their needs!

About City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

City Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning has proudly served the Odessa community for over 50 years. Their licensed, insured, background-checked, and drug-tested technicians always arrive on time, provide clear communication at every step, and leave every home better than they found it. They offer competitive up-front pricing, financing, 24/7 emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job – so there’s no one better to call for tankless water heater installation in Odessa, TX!

The Dangers of a Faulty Heater: Identifying the Warning Signs

As the cold weather sets in, homeowners rely on their heating systems to keep their homes warm and cozy. However, with the comforts come some inherent risks. A faulty heater can pose serious health risks and even lead to disasters when things go wrong.

To protect the home, owners need to understand the risks and know how to spot signs of danger. In this article, HVAC experts will explore the hazards associated with malfunctioning furnaces and heaters, the warning signs to look out for, and how homeowners can prevent these dangers.

Threats From Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a danger associated with malfunctioning furnaces or heaters. When a furnace or heater is not functioning properly, it can produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly. Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur when the gas builds up in the home, causing headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even death.

Signs of a carbon monoxide leak include:

• A sudden flu-like illness that affects multiple people in the household
• A burning or sooty smell in the home
• A yellow or orange flame on the furnace or water heater
• Poor heating performance

Carbon monoxide detectors can help alert homeowners to the presence of this deadly gas. These detectors should be installed on every level of the home and near sleeping areas. Owners should always schedule autumn heater maintenance from a reputable expert to prevent carbon monoxide from being produced in the furnace.

Mold Growth in the Heating System

Mold can grow in a heating system and migrate to the air ducts, posing a serious health risk to homeowners. Mold thrives in warm, humid environments, making a heating system an ideal breeding ground. When mold spores are released into the air, they can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and even neurological issues.

Signs of mold growth include:

• A musty odor in the home
• Visible mold growth on walls, ceilings, or floors
• Respiratory problems or allergic reactions

To prevent mold growth, homeowners should ensure that their heating system is properly maintained, including regular cleaning and replacement of air filters.

Dealing with Overheating Furnaces

An overheating furnace or heater can pose a danger to homeowners, including a furnace fire, damage to the heater, and even a house fire.

Signs of overheating include:

• A burning smell or sooty odor in the home
• A humming or squealing noise from the furnace or heater
• A red glow or sparks coming from the furnace or heater

To prevent overheating, homeowners should:

• Routinely change the air filter and furnace filter to ensure proper airflow
• Schedule routine maintenance with a professional to inspect and clean the heating system
• Ensure that the heating system is properly sized for the home

A faulty heater can pose serious health risks and even lead to disasters. Homeowners must know the warning signs of carbon monoxide leaks, mold growth, and overheating furnaces and heaters. By taking preventative measures, such as installing carbon monoxide detectors, properly maintaining the heating system, and scheduling routine maintenance with a professional, homeowners can ensure the safety and efficiency of their heating system.

About City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning offers on-time service for heaters. Their AC and heater tune-up service can get the heating and cooling system for the demands of the coming season. Call today for straightforward pricing on heating service in Odessa, TX.

Three Things to Know About Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes have a way of sneaking up on homeowners. One day, it’s bright and sunny. The next, it’s so cold that water freezes inside the home’s pipes. This does more than cause low water pressure; it can also lead to burst pipes, which can lead to flooding, which can lead to mold growth and property damage.

Homeowners don’t have to accept frozen pipes as inevitable when fall and winter roll around. They can read this short article and learn three need-to-know facts.

Frozen Pipes Can Prove Dangerous

As noted, frozen pipes can cause a domino effect. If a homeowner is unfortunate enough to have a frozen pipe burst, they could deal with the following:

• Mold and mildew growth. Both substances can impair homeowners’ health, leading to respiratory problems, dizziness, and a general feeling of malaise. These growths can eat away at a home’s drywall, exposing the home’s foundation to the elements.
• Flooding. Flooding can prove disastrous if a frozen pipe leaks or bursts. Flooding does more than threaten homeowners’ safety; it can also affect their financial stability. The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) notes that just one inch of standing water can cause $25,000 in damage.
• Electrical hazards. Water and electricity don’t mix. A homeowner risks a nasty shock if a frozen pipe bursts and water touches an exposed wire.

Pipe Insulation Works Wonders in Preventing Frozen Pipes

Homeowners don’t have to cross their fingers and hope for the best when preventing frozen pipes; they can rely on a professional to insulate them. A plumber can help pipes retain their temperature and stop freezing using a material like foam, cloth, or plastic.

Aside from preventing frozen pipes, insulating pipes can:

• Save homeowners money. Water can lose heat as it travels through a cold pipe. With insulation, water retains heat as it travels from the water heater to the faucet.
• Prevent water damage and unexpected repairs. Nobody wants to get slapped with a repair bill around the holidays. Insulation is a small investment with a long-term payoff.
• Promote homeowners’ comfort. Just like nobody wants to pay a costly repair bill, nobody wants to wait five minutes for the shower to heat up. Pipe insulation, as noted, keeps water hotter for longer.

A plumber will likely suggest insulating pipes outside the home, such as connectors to the sprinkler system or house. They may suggest insulating indoor pipes for houses that don’t have great protection from the elements, such as old farmhouses.

Other Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Aside from insulating the plumbing system, other considerations that can prevent frozen pipes include:

• Keeping the home at a consistent indoor temperature. Turning off the heater to save money could cause pipes to freeze. The home should remain above 50 degrees to prevent this from happening.
• Letting water trickle from the pipes. Turn on the faucet and let water slowly trickle out. The flow of water will prevent ice from forming inside the plumbing system.
• Consulting a trained professional. Plumbers rely on their experience and training to advise homeowners on prevention methods. It’s a good idea to have a plumber check the home’s system at least once a year––preferably before the holidays start and appointment slots fill up.

About City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning offers the resources of a big-city service with a small-town feel. They offer reliable service coupled with transparent pricing options. Don’t stress about a frozen pipe––and don’t assume that Odessa, TX, will have a mild winter. Schedule an appointment with these professionals now for plumbing service!

What Goes into Winterizing the Heater?

The weather in Odessa, TX seldom gets cooler than 70 degrees. But, homeowners want to be prepared and have their heaters in working order when it does. After all, no Texan wants to spend the holiday season shivering under a Cowboys blanket.

The good news is that heating maintenance is fairly simple once homeowners know what to do. To prevent problems and ensure maximum efficiency, one should:

Schedule a Heating Maintenance Tune-Up

The U.S. Department of Energy notes that homeowners should schedule a heater maintenance appointment at least once a year––preferably before it gets too cold and technicians get booked. When evaluating the heater, a professional may:

• Check the air ducts for any leaks
• Seal any leaks or perforations they find
• Check the home’s insulation levels and replace them where necessary
• Clean the evaporator and condenser coils

In-home heaters generally last 10 to 15 years. If a home has an old unit, a professional may recommend replacing it. Newer units on today’s market conserve more energy without sacrificing efficiency. Also, getting an EnergyStar-branded is now affordable under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.

Being Mindful About Air Filter Replacement

A well-functioning heater uses an air filter to cleanse the air from pollutants and other contaminants. However, these devices don’t last forever, and once they become too clogged, the heater risks short-cycling and overheating.

EnergyStar notes that homeowners should replace their heaters’ air filters once every three months. They should do even more often if:

• The home has dogs and cats that shed
• More than three people inhabit the household
• The heater/AC system remains on all-day

A new air filter ensures the HVAC system can “breathe.” It also helps regulate indoor air quality.

Monitor the Home’s Energy Usage

According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average Texas household spends about $132 a month on energy bills. A household should monitor their energy usage if it spends more than that. Not only could this save money, but it could also reveal any AC system problems that need addressing.

Homeowners can monitor their heating costs by:

• Keeping track of energy bills. Many residents of Ector County pay their energy bills through the City of Odessa. Through this platform, one can check for unexpected increases that could point to heating loss.
• Getting a smart home thermostat. These devices pair with smart homes and offer a wealth of information, including how much energy the home uses. They also estimate how much a homeowner may spend on a single month to power their home and appliances.

If a homeowner finds that they’re spending too much money on their heating costs, they should consider weatherstripping. This is where a professional locates gaps between windows, doors, and other portals. Then, they apply caulk or rubber to seal the gaps, preventing heat loss. One could do this on their own, or they can partner with a trained professional.

About City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

When Odessa, TX residents call City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning, these professionals come running. These reliable experts offer same-day service, straightforward pricing, and online quotes. There’s a reason why Texans have called on these HVAC specialists time and time again since 1967. Call today for heating services!

No More Drain Clogs

If a sewer line clogs, it can leave homeowners with a mess they likely don’t want to deal with. From sewage leaks to slow drains, foul odors, and more, blockages in sewer lines can have major implications on a property. If these are not repaired quickly, they can cause inconveniences in the house and lead to potential health issues for a family.

Homeowners can avoid these issues by following expert advice from plumbers, including scheduling professional drain cleaning services, installing mesh drain screens, and knowing what foods cannot go down the sink.

Professional Drain Cleaning

One way households can prevent sewer line blockages is to schedule professional drain cleaning services. During these routine services, experts can perform sewer line cleanouts to remove buildup that can lead to later clogs. This also lets plumbers inspect the lines and address and repair any issues early before it leads to larger problems later.

These services also let experts:

• Identify if there are large blockages, like tree roots. These can be removed using specialized tools.
• Determine if hydrojet drain cleaning is needed to remove large clogs that normal cleaning tools cannot eliminate.
• Recommend video camera inspections if experts feel a defect in the line needs to be identified and addressed.
• Educate homeowners on proper drain usage and maintenance techniques.

Mesh Drain Screens

Another way homeowners can avoid clogged sewer lines is by installing mesh screens over their drains. These devices help catch items that commonly go down the drain and cause blockages. This can include collecting hair in the shower and bathtub drains, soap scum, and food particles.

These screens are easy to install and clean, making them good household options.

Avoid Putting Food Waste Down the Kitchen Sink Drain

One of the easiest ways for homeowners to avoid clogged sewer lines is to avoid putting the wrong types of foods down the drain. Even if households have a garbage disposal, food particles should still be disposed of in the trash and not down the sink.

It’s especially important to avoid putting these types of foods and particles down the drain:

• Grease, fats, and cooking oils. These can cause blockages when they solidify.
• Coffee grounds. These can accumulate and cause clogs.
• Eggshells. These can stick to the pipes and lead to clogs.
• Pasta and rice. Starchy foods can expand when they get wet, leading to potential blockages.
• Fruit peels. Orange peels, banana peels, and others can get stuck in the pipes.
• Stringy vegetables. Celery, asparagus, and other fibrous vegetables can wrap around the garbage disposal blades.
• Bones and meat. These should never be put down the drain or the garbage disposal, as they can lead to clogs.

About City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

Since 1967, City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning has provided quality services to Odessa. They provide reliable, on-time services, and offer straightforward pricing. Call them today for plumbing services in Odessa, TX.

Why Is Indoor Air Quality Important?

If a household has been experiencing ongoing respiratory issues, it might not just be a bug circulating through a family. It could be due to the home’s indoor air quality.

Indoor air quality is the air quality in a home. It can include the humidity, ventilation, temperature of the house and any exposure to mold or chemicals. If the air quality is low, it can impact a family’s overall health. It can increase allergy and asthma symptoms, leading to respiratory illnesses.

August is National Wellness Month. Homeowners should take this time to focus on themselves and their households. They can take steps to schedule indoor air quality services to improve their family’s health.

Health Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality can negatively impact a household’s health. If exposed to poor indoor air quality, some symptoms family members might experience can include:

• Respiratory Problems: Exposure to pollutants and irritants in the air can lead to coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, asthma attacks, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections.
• Allergies: Poor indoor air quality can trigger or worsen allergies. Common indoor allergens are dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and pollen. This can cause sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, and skin rashes.
• Asthma: Indoor air pollutants like dust, smoke, mold, and chemicals can trigger asthma symptoms and asthma attacks.
• Respiratory Infections: Contaminants like bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the indoor air can increase the risk of respiratory infections, such as the common cold, flu, pneumonia, and other respiratory illnesses.
• Eye, Nose, and Throat Irritation: Exposure to pollutants, chemicals, and irritants indoors can cause irritation and inflammation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Symptoms may include redness, itching, burning sensation, nasal congestion, sore throat, and hoarseness.
• Headaches and Fatigue: Poor indoor air quality can cause headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

Air Filter Replacement and Maintenance

Homeowners have options to improve their indoor air quality. Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance and frequently changing their air filters can help.

Experts suggest changing an HVAC system’s air filters at least every three months. These should be changed more frequently if they have pets or people with allergies or asthma. Filters collect dust, debris, and allergens. They cannot properly remove particles from the home’s air if clogged, leading to health problems.

Scheduling yearly tune-ups and maintenance services on air conditioners can also improve indoor air quality. During these routine services, technicians can clean the system and look for any leaks that could cause contaminants to enter the air.

Air Cleaners and Filtration Systems

Another way homeowners can improve their indoor air quality is by installing an air cleaner or a filtration system. These can include air purifiers or UV sanitizers.Both work to improve indoor air quality, but they also have key differences:

• Air Purifiers: These units remove dust, allergens, and other particles from the air. They commonly use HEPA and ionic filters.
• UV Air Sanitizers: These destroy pathogens and bacteria to eliminate illnesses in a home.

About City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

Since 1967, City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning has provided quality services to Odessa. They provide reliable, on-time services and offer straightforward pricing. Call them today for HVAC services in Odessa, TX.

When Repiping Is Needed

If a household has had leaky pipes repaired repeatedly, it can signal a larger problem than a recurring leak. It can indicate they need repiping services.

Plumbing experts recommend property owners schedule whole-home repiping if they experience frequent leaks, low water pressure, or discolored water in their homes.

Frequent Leaks and Pipe Repairs

Frequent leaks and needed pipe repairs can indicate homeowners need to repipe their homes.

While some leaking pipes can occur from time to time, frequent leaks can require repiping services. This can indicate a problem with the pipe itself, especially if there are signs of rust, corrosion, or flaking. If there are multiple leaks throughout a piping line, it means there is a problem and repiping is required.

If a homeowner experiences frequent leaks in their pipes, it can be more cost-effective for them to replace the pipe rather than keep paying for services.

Poor Water Pressure

Reducing water pressure can indicate a problem with a home’s piping, and repiping a house may be necessary. Some signs homeowners can watch for are:

• Corrosion: Deteriorating pipes can cause reduced water flow, lowering water pressure. Pipes made of galvanized steel or iron can experience more corrosion and may need to be replaced with copper or PEX pipes.
• Leaks: A leak in a pipe can lead to low water pressure. The pipe may need to be replaced.
• Clogs: Clogged pipes can lead to water pressure issues. If the blockage cannot be removed, the pipe may need to be replaced.
• Wear and tear: Aging pipes may need to be replaced if they show signs of wear and tear and start to erode.

The Color or Smell of the Water Has Changed

Another sign that a house may need home repiping services is if the water is discolored or has an odd smell.

When there are rust particles in water due to pipe corrosion, it can cause the water to have a brown or yellow tint. To resolve the discoloration and remove the rust, homeowners may need to replace the pipes.

If an odd smell comes from a home’s water, it can indicate bacteria or other contaminants in the water. Repiping may need to be performed to make the water safe for the household to consume.

About City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

Since 1967, City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning has provided quality services to Odessa. They provide reliable, on-time services and offer straightforward pricing. Call them today for plumbing services in Odessa, TX.

Spend Less While Staying Cool

When summer weather arrives in Odessa, TX, residents should stay cool in their homes. However, beating the heat and humidity can be costly as utility bills soar. Instead, homeowners need to explore ways to trim expenses while still staying comfortable.

Air conditioning contractors provide tips on how property owners can stay cool without running up their utility bills, from installing smart thermostats to adding weatherstripping to using fans to circulate the air.

Programmable and Smart Thermostats

Homeowners can reduce their energy bills this summer by installing a Wifi thermostat to replace their nonprogrammable thermostat. These digital devices give households more control over the indoor temperature in their home.

Smart thermostats let residents set different temperature settings for various times of the day. They can set the temperature higher when no one is home and lower when residents return. This allows the system to run and keep the house cool when needed and save energy by not keeping the house at an ideal temperature when no one is home.

These units also let residents achieve a consistent temperature throughout the day. This can improve the property’s energy efficiency. By avoiding large fluctuations in temperature, the system doesn’t need to overwork to cool the house.

Programmable thermostats also allow households to change the temperature through an app on their phone. This lets them control the temperature even when they are not home.

Weatherstripping

Homeowners can reduce their AC bill this summer by installing weatherstripping around their doors and windows. This prevents hot air from entering and cold air from escaping.

Air leaks can account for a significant portion of a home’s energy loss – especially in older homes with drafty windows and doors. By sealing the gaps around these areas, outside air won’t enter, making the house hotter and causing the air conditioner to work harder to keep the property cool.

Use the AC Less and Fans More

Air conditioning technicians recommend using your AC system less and turning on your fans more to reduce energy costs. An air conditioner requires a lot of energy to run and to properly cool your home. Turning that off and instead turning on ceiling fans and other fans around the house can allow homeowners to save money on their energy bills.

Ceiling fans – which should be counterclockwise when setting the ceiling fan direction – can keep the air circulating in a house, making rooms feel cooler and relieving residents.

About City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

City Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning can do it all for the residents of Odessa. They provide 24/7 services to ensure they can repair their neighbors’ problems quickly and restore comfort to their homes. Call them today for HVAC services in Odessa, TX.