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DIY Heater Repair: The Risks and Dangers You Need to Know

The Dangers of DIY Heater Repair and Maintenance

Keeping the home warm and comfortable during the colder months is a top priority for most homeowners, and while it may be tempting to attempt DIY repairs and maintenance on a heating system, it’s essential to know the risks and dangers involved. This article will discuss the potential hazards of DIY heater repair and maintenance and why it’s crucial to leave these tasks to professionals. 

Problems Can Be Misdiagnosed and Lead to Costly Mistakes

proHeater repair and maintenance can be daunting for many homeowners, especially if they opt for a DIY approach. One of the biggest risks of DIY repair is misdiagnosing the problem or failing to identify underlying issues, which can lead to costly mistakes and a longer repair process. Professionals are specially trained and have the experience to know what they’re looking for and are less likely to make such errors.

It is a smart choice to trust their expertise because if homeowners make costly mistakes, they’ll have to end up hiring an HVAC contractor anyway to fix the original issue, plus any additional damages from DIY mistakes. With their knowledge and experience, HVAC technicians can diagnose the problem accurately and quickly and fix it correctly the first time, ultimately saving homeowners time, money, and stress.

More Time is Required

timeNot only do professionals have the knowledge and experience to diagnose and repair heater problems correctly, but they can also do it quicker and more efficiently than a homeowner. There are many reasons professionals can get the job done quicker, including:

  • Years of training and hands-on experience
  • Specialized tools on hand that aren’t in the average homeowner’s toolbox
  • DIY repair can lead to mistakes and extended periods of researching how to complete the repair

While attempting a DIY repair might seem like a quick and easy solution, it can end up taking much longer than anticipated. Without the necessary expertise and tools, DIYers might be wasting precious time and still not getting the desired results.

Safety Risks and Insurance

When it comes to DIY heater repair, homeowners may not consider the potential insurance risks. Without the proper insurance coverage, any mistakes made during a DIY repair could result in costly damage to their home, leaving them on the hook for expensive repairs. Hiring a professional HVAC contractor with insurance ensures that homeowners are financially protected. 

In addition, professionals have the knowledge and equipment to perform the service safely, minimizing the risk of injury or further damage to a heating system. Heater repair and maintenance can pose many safety risks if not done correctly, including carbon monoxide gas leaks, burns, electric shock, and fire hazards. Don’t risk safety hazards by attempting a DIY heater repair, and leave it to the professionals! While it’s natural to want to save money on repairs, DIY heater repair can often cost more in the long run. 

About RiverView Mechanical

RiverView Mechanical is a local woman-owned plumbing, heating, and cooling business serving Hallam and the surrounding communities. They offer honest pricing, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for 24-hour emergency heating repair in Hallam, PA. 

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Read About the First Black Woman to Become a Master Plumber

Meet Adrienne Bennett

Over the years, there have been many developments in plumbing technology. To ensure that modern plumbing stays safe and reliable, plumbers must have years of on-the-job training and pass tests to become qualified. Becoming a master plumber is a challenging process that takes years to achieve, and plumbing has historically been a male-dominated industry. But, over the years, women have made inroads into the business. This Black History Month, take a moment and appreciate the achievements of Black women in plumbing. Here is some information about the first Black woman to be certified as a master plumber in the United States. 

How She Got Started 

Adrienne Bennett always had a curious mind and a stick-to-it attitude. She would use these two traits throughout her early life and career to propel her to the position she is in today. From the very beginning, Bennett remembers enjoying working with her hands. As a child, she loved putting together models as a hobby. She also recalls being interested in and excelling at science and mathematics. 

In college, she decided to use her skills to become an engineer. Studying metallurgical engineering, she hit her first obstacle during an internship. After a racially-charged incident, she decided to leave to pursue other options. Not being one to give up on her passions, Bennett looked for ways to use her talents. After a few other jobs, she was approached by a Detroit local looking to award grants to women interested in the trades. In 1976, an annual salary of $50,000 and paid training was too enticing for Bennett to turn down, so she started an apprenticeship with a Detroit plumbers union.  

Journeyman Plumber to Master Plumber

contractorDealing with bullying from her male coworkers was a daily problem, but she persisted, passing all of her exams to become a journeyman plumber. From there, she diversified her career in plumbing by holding positions like plumbing inspector, project manager, and code enforcement officer for the City of Detroit.

After the required 4,000 hours of experience to qualify for the master plumber exam, she was ready to sit for the exam, which she passed in 1987. This made her the first black female master plumber in the state of Michigan and also in the United States.

Owning Her Own Business as an Independent Contractor 

contractorWith all the success she found after those years of hard work, some may be content to rest on their laurels. But not her. Bennett quit her job and started her own company. In her current position, Bennett is the CEO of her own company and works with her son. 

Their company is involved in an effort to rebuild Detroit and has been contracted to work on big projects like the Little Caesars Arena. She has come a long way and successfully made her own path in a male-dominated industry. Currently, there are over 212,969 master plumbers employed in the United States, and only 2.8% of them are women. 

About RiverView Mechanical

RiverView Mechanical is a local woman-owned business serving Hallam, PA, and the surrounding areas. They offer honest pricing, financing, and on-time service. Call them today for plumbing services in Hallam, PA.

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Stay Healthier in 2023 With Cleaner Air

Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality

HVAC systems are concerned with more than just heating and cooling. That is the majority of what they do, but regulating IAQ or indoor air quality is a big part of what central heating and air do for a home. Some households may have specific needs that are not being met by the HVAC system. There may be illnesses or chronic lung conditions that affect certain family members, and a household needs extra help. This article will cover tips to help improve indoor air quality to help homeowners breath easy, especially those suffering from respiratory illness. 

Replace the Air Filters More Oftenfilter

Changing air filters at least every three months is an essential step in maintaining the efficiency and performance of a home’s HVAC system. Over time, air filters can become clogged with dust and debris, which reduces their effectiveness in keeping the air clean. This can cause the system to run inefficiently, leading to energy waste and higher energy bills. In addition, a clogged air filter can put extra strain on the system, which can lead to breakdowns and costly repairs. 

The frequency with which an air filter needs to be replaced will depend on several factors, including the type of filter being used, the number of people living in the home, if they suffer from chronic illness, and the amount of debris in the air. Generally speaking, it is recommended to replace air filters every 1-3 months to keep an HVAC system running smoothly. This step will help keep the air in the home clean and help reduce energy bills.

Air Purifiers and Sanitizers and What They Do

purifierAir purification is an important part of creating a healthy home environment. Whole-home air sanitizers and air purifiers can help to remove allergens, pet dander, pollen, smoke, odors, and other airborne pollutants from a home’s air. Whole-home air sanitizers are designed to be connected to a home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. They can eliminate up to 99% of allergens, bacteria, mold spores, and other airborne pollutants from the air throughout an entire home. Whole-home air sanitizers are often easier to maintain than individual room air purifiers because they are connected to the HVAC system.

Air purifiers remove airborne pollutants such as pollen, pet dander, mold spores, smoke, and odors. They are relatively easy to maintain, as most only require regular filter replacements. Both whole-home air sanitizers and air purifiers offer many benefits for people with allergies or other airborne sensitivities. By removing the pollutants from the air inside a home, homeowners can reduce the risk of developing asthma, allergies, and other respiratory issues. Furthermore, both whole-home sanitizers and air purifiers can help improve a home’s overall indoor air quality, creating a healthier environment for them and their family.

Keep Up With the Housework 

Reducing dust and dander through cleaning may be one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the amount of particulate matter in the air. Simply performing the normal household duties below can help improve indoor air quality and prevent dust and debris from hindering the performance of the HVAC system. 

Cleaning tasks that help improve indoor air quality include: 

  • Dusting
  • Mopping
  • Sweeping
  • Vacuuming

About RiverView Mechanical

RiverView Mechanical is a local woman-owned business serving Hallam, PA, and the surrounding areas. They provide 24-hour emergency service, honest pricing, and financing. Call them today for filter replacement or whole home air purification and cleaning services in Hallam, PA.

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How to Prevent Burst Pipes This Winter!

Why Do Pipes Burst?

Burst pipes can cause extensive property damage because of water damage and mold. A burst pipe could even cause a house fire if the water reaches the home’s electrical wiring and produces sparks. This blog post shares three common reasons why pipes burst and how homeowners can prevent them from happening.

Pipes Freezing

freezingFrozen pipes are one of the most common causes of burst pipes. There are a few different ways that homeowners can keep their lines from freezing in the winter. Homeowners should open cabinets, attic, and basement doors to allow the home’s heating system to ventilate warm air to pipes in hidden spaces. 

Adding pipe insulation is the best way to keep pipes from freezing in winter. Foam pipe insulation is a popular method because it can be easily added or sprayed onto the outside of the pipes. Another way to insulate pipes is by using thin aluminum insulation tape. Fiberglass pipe insulation is a durable and long-lasting solution to insulating pipes in the winter. Pipe insulation can even help homeowners save on utility costs.  

Decay and Corrosion

corrosionWhen corrosion begins in the plumbing, it can eventually lead to a burst pipe because it weakens the structure of the metal. Pipes are designed to stand the test of time, but exposure to certain substances can cause a chemical reaction with the metal that starts the corrosion. 

Homeowners can help prevent the corrosion of their plumbing system by avoiding liquid drain cleaners, as the chemicals in them are corrosive and can permanently damage pipes. The best way to safely unclog a household drain is to hire a plumber for drain cleaning or to use a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Homeowners should call a professional plumber for tough clogs. 

Clogged Pipes 

Clogged pipes are another common reason pipes burst. The pressure imbalance inside the plumbing caused by a clogged drain can rupture the pipes. Routine drain cleaning by a professional can help prevent clogs from happening, therefore, also help prevent pipe bursts. Hydrojetting is an example of a professional drain cleaning service that can be used to fix difficult clogs or prevent them from occurring.

Homeowners should also be careful of what gets put down the drains and toilets in the house. Not putting cooking oil or grease down the drain and avoiding flushing the wrong things can also save homeowners from the headache of a clogged or burst sewer line. 

About RiverView Mechanical

RiverView Mechanical is a locally owned woman-owned business serving Hallam, PA, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, the latest technology, and financing. Call them today for drain cleaning services or burst pipe repair in Hallam, PA.

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Be Thankful for HVAC Technicians During Thanksgiving

Heating and Cooling Services to Be Thankful For 

Despite the hustle and bustle of modern life that can be stressful, society as a whole has things a lot better than humans did just a century ago. Modern amenities are everywhere, making life easier and safer than humankind has ever had. But, with all the luxuries enjoyed, people often take them for granted. 

This month is the perfect time to look back and appreciate all the easy and enjoyable things about life. One of the benefits of modern life is heating and air conditioning systems in virtually every home and business. Without them, people would still be fighting the elements, sweating it out on hot days and nearly freezing during the winter. Take a moment to appreciate heating and cooling systems and the professional HVAC contractors that keep them running. 

Staying Warm in the Winter

winterWith the wild weather swings that seem more common than ever, all it takes is one unexpected storm to shatter the illusion that humans have beaten the weather. Too often, having warm homes in the winter lulls folks into thinking that cold weather isn’t dangerous. That is until a storm knocks out power, and things get primitive fast. 

Keeping warm in the winter has been one of the goals of humankind since fire was discovered. Nowadays, humans still desire the same things but have newer, more complicated ways of doing them. To keep heating systems running properly, HVAC technicians work all year long installing, repairing, and maintaining these systems. To ensure heating equipment lasts through the winter without issues, homeowners should schedule heater maintenance this fall.

Staying Cool in the Summer 

summerWhile winters may seem harsher the last few years, summers are definitely getting warmer. Deaths from heat exposure have risen dramatically over the past few years, and experts claim it will only worsen. Air conditioning is more than just a luxury. It is a necessity. Keeping cool during the brutal heat is an important safety feature of every home, and too often, people forget about the professionals that make it all happen. 

Air conditioner repair experts work hard during the summer to keep everyone cool and comfortable. They perform air conditioner repairs, installations, and maintenance so homeowners can enjoy their cooling system year-round. To ensure cooling equipment lasts through the summer, homeowners should schedule AC maintenance in the spring. 

Keeping Indoor Air Safe and Clean 

The final reason to be thankful for HVAC technicians is indoor air quality services. With most people spending more time inside than usual this time of year, it’s more important than ever that the indoor air is safe and clean. Indoor air tends to collect pollutants like: 

  • Dust 
  • Dander
  • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
  • Bacteria
  • Mold

Keeping these pollutants reduced to a minimum in a home will promote better indoor air quality and can improve the health of the residents. Homeowners can improve the indoor air quality in their homes by replacing their air filters at least every three months, scheduling routine HVAC maintenance from a professional, and having a technician install devices to clean the air more precisely. Homeowners will be thankful to breathe easier with indoor air quality services. 

About RiverView Mechanical

RiverView Mechanical is a locally owned woman-owned business serving Hallam, PA, and the surrounding neighborhoods. They provide straightforward pricing, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for AC, heating, or indoor air quality services in Hallam, PA.

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Prevent Backflow Scares This Halloween With Professional Backflow Testing

What is Backflow? 

At first glance, backflow is one of the most disgusting things that a plumbing system can endure. It causes foul odors, unclean drinking water, and various health concerns. Backflow is a public health hazard that occurs when water unintentionally flows in the direction opposite to what is intended. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that water contamination from backflow can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, and even heart complications. 

The Dangers of Backflow 

waterThe contaminants in backflow can range from fecal matter to pesticide runoff. These are substances homeowners do not want to consume or come into contact with. As noted, exposure can quickly lead to various health complications, some of which could be fatal. 

Other complications that backflow causes include: 

  • Pipe corrosion: Backflow can contain chemicals that literally “eat away” at a pipe’s inside. This can lead to burst pipes, leaks, and other issues. 
  • Dirty dishes and clothing: One can’t effectively wash dishes and clothes with water contaminated by backflow. The water isn’t clean enough to remove stains and other matter. If anything, it will make items worse. 
  • Unusable appliances: Water heaters, dishwashers, and other appliances need clean water to operate effectively. The water contamination in backflow prevents that. 

What is Backflow Testing? 

Every plumbing system relies on valves, gaskets, air chambers, and backflow preventers to prevent backflow. When a certified backflow tester performs backflow testing, they will check these fixtures to ensure they work properly. Some may require tightening, and others may require total replacement. 

Sometimes, backflow isn’t obvious to homeowners, so plumbers may also test the water’s composition during backflow testing, looking for substances that could threaten residents’ health. Finally, a plumber may also check for underlying problems that could cause backflow in the first place. 

The Importance of Backflow Testing 

testingBackflow testing has many benefits, which include the following: 

  • Protects public health: As noted, backflow is a serious health hazard. It can affect entire communities, so annual testing to ensure backflow preventers work helps prevent backflow. 
  • Prevents contamination: Backflow testing helps avoid the contamination of safe treated water with dangerous substances. Preventative maintenance is the best maintenance, stopping problems before they even begin. 
  • Saves homeowners money: Backflow is more than hazardous; it can also be expensive to repair all the damages caused by it. Keeping up with routine backflow testing helps prevent the need to spend money on repairs down the line. 

About RiverView Mechanical

RiverView Mechanical is a locally owned and operated business serving its neighbors in Hallam, PA, and the surrounding areas. They offer honest pricing, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for backflow testing and repair in Hellam, PA. 

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3 Signs of a Broken Thermostat

Broken Thermostat Symptoms

Thermostats are small control panels for the home’s heating and cooling system that homeowners can use to adjust the temperature and function. The thermostat can be used to turn the temperature up and down, switch from heating to cooling or turn on the fan. When the thermostat malfunctions or breaks down, it can cause problems for the entire HVAC system. 

Homeowners should know the warning signs that it’s time to replace the thermostat because it will save them money in the long run. Leaving the thermostat in a state of disrepair can lead to homeowners wasting significant amounts of money on high utility bills. 

Thermostat issues left in a state of disrepair can also cause the rest of the system to age prematurely. Homeowners should know the warning signs of a broken thermostat so technicians can work fast to get broken thermostats replaced. 

Increase In Energy Bills

billThe thermostat controls the overall function of the heating and cooling system. When it malfunctions, this can lead to homeowners paying higher energy bills than normal. A thermostat that cannot correctly read temperatures and control the system’s function can cause the system to be overworked and waste energy. 

Running for longer cycles, short cycling, or cutting on and off at random are a few problems that broken thermostats can cause that lead to higher utility bills. The trick to keeping power bills low is to optimize heating and cooling for efficiency and performance. A broken thermostat can reduce the HVAC system’s efficiency and performance. Replacing a broken thermostat can substantially lower utility costs for homeowners. 

Showing Incorrect Temperatures

readingsOne of the most important jobs of the thermostat is to read the temperature. The thermostat must accurately detect the temperature to tell the heating and cooling system what to do to reach the desired temperature. When the thermostat is broken, it may show an incorrect temperature or take a long time to show the correct temperature. 

It can be difficult to know the temperature inside the house when the thermostat is broken, but sometimes it is very obvious. For example, homeowners may notice that they are hot, sweaty, and uncomfortable, but the thermostat reads that it is a cool 68 degrees. This would be an obvious sign that there is something wrong with the thermostat. 

When homeowners are unsure if the thermostat is correct, they can contact a local HVAC company to inspect the thermostat. Another DIY option is to place an accurate thermometer next to the thermostat and compare readings. 

System Short Cycling

Short cycling is an HVAC term for when the system cuts off too early. Short cycling often means that the heating or cooling cuts on and off repeatedly. This can cause a major increase in utility bills as the system wastes energy turning off and on. It also means more wear on the system parts that could eventually cause a breakdown and reduce the lifespan of the hardware.

A broken thermostat can often be the cause of short cycling. When the thermostat cannot detect the temperature accurately, it may start to cut off repeatedly. A thermostat that incorrectly detects temperature may turn off the air conditioning or the heat prematurely because it falsely detects the desired temperature. Homeowners should try to have thermostat problems repaired as soon as possible to avoid wasting energy and money and prevent unnecessary wear and tear. 

About RiverView Mechanical

Hallam, PA’s go-to heating, cooling, and plumbing company, RiverView Mechanical, is locally owned and provides honest pricing, on-time arrival, and the latest technology. Call them today for thermostat services in Hallam, PA, and the surrounding areas. 

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Back to School: an Introduction to Septic Systems

Learning Three Easy Basics About Septic Tanks

Septic tanks play an important role in taking wastewater away from home. It’s critical homeowners have a basic understanding of how these systems work and how to maintain them. Doing so prevents problems from arising, and certain considerations can extend the septic system’s lifespan.

Here are some commonly-asked questions about septic systems:

What Are Septic Systems?

The home’s septic system removes pollutants from the water and sends the waste away from home. About 25 percent of Americans have septic systems, according to WBUR. If one has a septic system, here’s a basic overview of how it works:

  • A homeowner turns on the shower.
  • Water comes from one of Pennsylvania’s three water sources: the Delaware, Ohio River, and Susquehanna basins.
  • The water exits the home through a drain and enters the septic tank.
  • The water remains in the septic tank until the waste settles to the bottom.
  • The water exits the septic tank and into a soil absorption field (also known as a drain field).
  • Naturally-occurring bacteria in the drain field break down the contaminants in the water.
  • The water re-enters the water cycle through evaporation, where it’s eventually disposed into one of Pennsylvania’s basins.
  • A homeowner turns on the faucet, and the process starts all over again.

It’s a little more complicated than that, but that’s a basic understanding of how it works. For instance, the county will first put germ-fighting chemicals in the water, making it safe to drink. The home also uses a water meter and other components to measure how much water is used.

What Are Some Signs of Septic System Failure?

puddles and spongy grassThe Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists some signs of septic tank failure:

  • Strong odors around the drain field: This could point to a leak in the septic system, causing wastewater to accumulate beneath the lawn’s surface.
  • Wastewater backs up into the home’s sinks and drains: Sometimes, septic tanks fill up. This can cause them to overflow into the house, causing unpleasant odors, clogs, leaks, and mold growth.
  • Puddles and spongy grass growing near the septic tank or drain field: Plants can feed off the waste in wastewater, causing uncontrollable growth. While plant growth may seem good, it could point to a leak beneath the surface. Leaks can also cause large puddles in the yard.
  • Gurgling sounds from the plumbing system: This could mean that wastewater isn’t leaving the septic system or that reactions are happening beneath the surface to break down the waste.

These are just some signs of septic tank failure. A septic systems repair service can assess one’s septic tank and address any problems. One should have a professional inspect their system at least once a year.

Septic System Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

professional maintenanceIn addition to scheduling plumbing maintenance visits from a professional who will pump the tank, one can help maintain their system by:

  • Throwing certain items in the garbage: Homeowners should avoid flushing paper towels, tampons, condoms, and other things down the toilet. The septic system cannot process these items and suffer as a result. If it’s not waste or toilet paper, one should throw it in the trash can.
  • Avoid pouring chemical cleaners down the drain: Like the items listed above, septic systems cannot process corrosive chemicals. These substances could actually weaken the system and cause leaks.
  • Using high-efficiency fixtures: By using WaterSense appliances, one can put less strain on their plumbing system. WaterSense appliances use less water than traditional devices.

These are just some examples of ways to maintain the septic system between professional maintenance visits. Again, one can learn more about maintaining their system by consulting a professional.

About RiverView Mechanical

RiverView Mechanical is a locally owned business offering 24/7 emergency help to those living in Hallam, PA, and the surrounding areas. They provide honest pricing, trustworthy technicians, and the latest technology. Call them today for septic tank services in Hallam, PA.

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All About Refrigerant

What is Refrigerant?

Refrigerant is a compound used as a cooling agent, typically found in either fluid or gaseous form. It absorbs heat and produces cool air in its place after it has entered into a compressor and evaporator. Refrigerant is used in heating and air conditioning systems, car air conditioners, refrigerators, and other items with a cooling function. There are many different types of refrigerants and which kind of refrigerant should be used depends on the appliance or item. 

Determining Which Refrigerant to Use 

fridgerantWhen figuring out which type of refrigerant should be used, homeowners should consult the appliance in question. Often there is a descriptive sticker with various specifications, including the type of refrigerant that should be used. If no sticker is present, it’s recommended to consult the user manual. However, homeowners should consult a professional AC technician if the needed information cannot be obtained by either means. 

For air conditioning units built before 2010, R22 refrigerant, or Freon, is more than likely the refrigerant used. Freon is not used as a refrigerant for newer AC units because it was banned in 2010 due to the environmental damages it has been linked to. 

Homeowners should know that it’s important to determine the exact type of refrigerant that should be used because refrigerants are not to be used at random. Using the wrong type of refrigerant could end up causing damage to your appliance. 

Refrigerant Leaks: What Causes Them?

hvac Refrigerant leaks are common among appliances that use them, and it is one of the top maintenance issues in refrigerant-based machines. Refrigerant leaks can happen due to wear and tear from an older appliance that has exceeded its shelf life or rust and pinholes in the tubing that acids have caused. 

Normally, leaks are not a cause for concern and can easily be repaired by a qualified technician. However, sometimes these leaks can require larger repairs and replacement of the refrigerant and any damaged lines. 

When to Call a Professional 

Some of the most common symptoms of a refrigerant leak are a reduction in cooling capabilities, the AC not keeping the home cool enough, hissing and gurgling noises, and frozen coils. Of course, there are other symptoms that homeowners should be aware of, too.

These symptoms include: 

  • Utility bills that are higher than usual 
  • AC taking longer to cool down the home
  • Increased humidity inside the home
  • Evaporator coils that are frozen 
  • AC leaking water 
  • AC produces warm air instead of cold air
  • Tiny bubbles forming in the evaporator coils 

Many homeowners think the solution to a refrigerant leak is as simple as adding new refrigerant. However, if the leak is not found and fixed, the refrigerant will continue to leak, and the AC will continue to have issues. That’s why it’s important to call a professional immediately when a leak is first noticed.

About RiverView Mechanical 

RiverView Mechanical is a locally-owned business serving its neighbors in Hellam, PA, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency service, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for air conditioning services in Hellam, PA.

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3 Money-Saving Tips for Summertime Water Bills

Spend Less Money This Summer on Water 

Summertime means homeowners will be looking at an increase in their water bills. Between the additional showers needed to wash up after outdoor adventures, the amount of water consumed to stay hydrated, and the usage of water as homeowners tend to their gardens and lawns, homeowners can see the cost of their utility bill rise during the hotter months. However, there are some ways that homeowners can conserve water to mitigate these higher costs.

Purchase and Install a Water-Saving Device 

showerHomeowners should consider a plumbing upgrade if they’re looking to lower their water usage, as many water-saving devices are available today. For example, many low-flow showerheads use less water while maintaining water pressure, and water-saving toilets use around 20% less water per year using a two-flush system. 

More devices can also help homeowners save on water, like the ECO Shower Drop, which measures the water a homeowner uses when showering and notifies them when it’s time to get out. Similarly, a device called Water Pebble also measures the amount of water used when a shower. This device sits at the plughole of the shower or bathtub and will light up in an amber color when it has reached half of the acceptable amount of water.

Don’t Waste too Much Water on the Lawn

lawnWhen taking care of the lawn, homeowners can waste a lot of water by not knowing the appropriate measures to tend to their yard. Watering the lawn is best done in the early morning, before sunrise. This will ensure that there will be less water evaporation since it will still be cool outside. Less water evaporation means more water for the plants per watering, which means less water will need to be used to keep them fed. 

Also, homeowners that live in certain areas can anticipate wetter conditions and plan accordingly. These wet conditions can allow homeowners to skip watering their lawn and garden, as the summer rain will be enough to give the plants the nutrients they need. With rain, homeowners can avoid turning on the hose or sprinkler and thus save money on their water bills. 

Additional Steps to Limiting Water Usage

Aside from installing water-saving devices and limiting how much water is used in the garden, there are some additional ways homeowners can limit their water usage. These ways include checking for and repairing leaks, taking shorter showers, discontinuing water usage while brushing teeth and shaving, and using the dishwasher and washing machine for full loads. 

Also, homeowners can save water by not letting the faucet run idly when hand-washing dishes. These water conservation methods will help homeowners fight against wasting water and high water bills.

About RiverView Mechanical 

RiverView Mechanical is a locally-owned and operated company committed to providing the residents of Hellam, PA, and the surrounding areas with high-quality repairs at fair, honest prices. They offer straightforward pricing, emergency service, and the latest technology. Call them today for plumbing services in Hellam, PA.

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