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Tuesday, 05 November 2019 15:22

The Importance of Replacing Your Furnace Air Filter

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Changing Your Furnace Air Filter Regularly Keeps The Air Clean and Your Heating System Running Reliably and Efficiently

Having a clean, properly sized furnace filter is critical for a number of reasons. A clogged or poorly fitting air filter will make your home's heating and cooling system work harder to move the air around your your home. The result is poor efficiency, higher utility bills and dirtier air.

Replacing Furnace Filter

How Often Should You Replace Your Air Filter?

The frequency of filter replacement will depend on the filter type, the size of your home and your home's air quality. A furnace in a larger home will move more air and clog the filter faster. If you have pets you’ll probably need to change your filter twice as often. Not only are pet dander and hair a leading cause of allergens, they also clog air filters more quickly.

Start with every two months for a standard 1” filter and twice as often if you have a large home, allergies or pets. Costlier filters often claim to last 90 days, but in our experience, these filters restrict air flow so much that they should be changed monthly. Your furnace and air conditioner will breathe easier and so will you!

Choosing An Air Filter

If you’re really interested in cleaning the air in your home, MR Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical can install a whole-house air cleaner in place of your standard furnace filter. HEPA filters clean the air better that any of the standard pleated filters and need to be changed much less frequently.

If you buy your air filters by the case and keep them near your furnace it will reduce the tendency to procrastinate about changing the filter. Buying by the case can also reduce the cost of the filters.

Never run your system with an incorrectly sized filter. An poor-fitting furnace filter will allow dust and other contaminates to sneak around the filter and into your home. This is also the primary cause of clogged air conditioner coils. Clogged AC coils reduce efficiency and compressor life, and can cause expensive problems down the road.

Always turn off your furnace at the breaker panel or disconnect (not just the thermostat) before replacing your filter. Some furnaces have electrical wiring close to the filter location which could shock you if the power is not disconnected first. furnace air filters

If you're uncertain about where your furnace filter goes, what direction to install it, or what size or type to use, give us a call. We're always happy to help.

For improved filtration and healthier indoor air quality, we offer whole-house air cleaners and other Indoor Air Quality systems. Our technicians can recommend the best solution based on your needs and your home.

Tuesday, 18 April 2023 13:45

Water Heater Inspection Checklist

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No Hot Water? Strange Water Heater Noises? Here Are Some Possible Causes


Water Heater Maintenance ChecklistMany homeowners don't think about their water heater until problems arise. However, by performing a simple inspection at least twice a year you can ensure that your water heater is operating safely and efficiently.

Here's what to check:

  1. Is there a consistent supply of hot water? An unexpected drop in the flow of hot water could signal a problem with the burner, or a build up of sediment in the tank. 
  2. Is the water heater making strange sounds. Boiling sounds coming from a hot water heater are often a sign that sediment has built up at the bottom of the tank. Flushing the tank annually can prevent sediment build up. Banging or popping noises are another common sign that a water heater is not working properly. Call your plumber if you hear and unusual sounds to have the unit checked.
  3. Are there scorch marks near the base of the water heater? This is often a symptom of back drafting. Because this is a safety issue that could lead to carbon monoxide being released in the home, have the water heater inspected by a professional plumber. 
  4. Check the water heater for proper ventilation. Ensure the draft hood above the tank is securely connected. The flu should be connected using a minimum of three screws per joint. Flues that pass through to a chimney should be properly lined and connected to prevent carbon monoxide from re-entering the home. 
  5. Is there a drain pan under the water heater? If the tank is on an upper level of the home, a drain pan will ensure that water leaks do not cause damage to the floor and ceiling below. 
  6. Ensure a drip pipe is in place and is not leaking. The T&P or pressure relief valve should have a pipe that extends 6 inches from the floor. 
  7. Ensure there are no combustible materials near the water heater. 

Water Heater Maintenance

Homeowners should regularly flush the water heater to remove sediment buildup, inspect the anode rod and replace it if necessary, check the temperature and pressure relief valve, and check the connections for any signs of corrosion.

If you need water heater maintenance or repairs, call MR Plumbing. We can help with all your home plumbing and hot water needs.
 
 
Wednesday, 02 October 2019 13:34

Fall Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

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Fall Plumbing Checklist
Fall is here and freezing cold temperatures are right around the corner. Now is the time to ensure your plumbing system is ready. By finding the small problems and making repairs today you can prevent expensive damage and the inconvenience of plumbing failures this winter. Here are the systems we recommend checking:
  1. Sump Pump - A failed sump pump can lead to flooded basements and extensive damage. To test your sump pump slowly pour a bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should start up and begin pumping. If it doesn't, check the electrical supply and make sure the float arm is not obstructed. If it still won't start, call MR plumbing to inspect the pump.
  2. Water Pressure Changes – If you're experiencing low water pressure, or your water bill has increased recently, have MR Plumbing inspect the plumbing system for problems. A sudden drop in water pressure can be caused by clogs in supply lines, degraded pipes, or hidden water leaks.
  3. Sewer and Drain Lines - A video camera inspection is cheap insurance against clogged drains or sewer line failure. If problems are found sewer lines can usually be cleared using water jetting or an auger.
  4. Water Heater – A tank storage water heater will last around 10 years. You can extend it's life and make it operate more efficiently with regular maintenance. Flush the tank to remove sediment and inspect the anode rod for excessive corrosion. For additional peace of mind, install a drain pan under the water heater to contain leaks and direct water to the floor drain. 
  5. Outside Water Supply – If there is a shut-off valve inside the home, close it and open the outside faucets to drain the water out. Remove hoses from outside faucets, drain them and store them inside.
  6. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts  – Ensure that there is adequate drainage away from the foundation. 
  7. Prevent Frozen Pipes – Seal cracks and holes in exterior walls to prevent cold air from passing over pipes during extremely cold weather.
Have plumbing problems? Call MR Plumbing, we can help with everything from clogged drains to water leaks and repiping.
 
 
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What Our Fans Are Saying About Mr. Plumbing!

  • "M & R were very professional. The bathroom came out great - looks like a bathroom in a brand new house. All work was done on time and the workmen were extreme professional throughout the entire project We would highly recommend M & R Plumbing."
    – Diane C.
    Guild Quality Review
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