[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":37},["ShallowReactive",2],{"$fJekk5yuKBhs89LlueLSwN-7P2Wjyg8co_kjSgnpO3FI":3},{"post":4,"relatedPosts":14},{"category":5,"date":6,"html":7,"image":8,"readingMinutes":9,"slug":10,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":12,"title":13},"Heating","2018-10-26","\u003Cp>Winter is coming. And with it, the seasonal cold and flu bugs can leave you feeling like you’re in a scene from The Walking Dead.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>But there’s one thing that’s not going to make you feel any better: plumbing problems. And while they may seem like they’ll only affect your home, they can also cause serious damage to your pipes and other parts of your home that could cost thousands of dollars to fix.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Winterizing your plumbing is a necessity for any homeowner in Santa Fe. When the temperature drops, water can freeze in your pipes and cause major issues.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you don’t know how to winterize your plumbing, you’re not alone. Most people don’t think about it until there’s a problem with their pipes. And even if you do think about it, it can be hard to know where to begin. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Luckily, we’ve got you.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>In this article, a \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Frepiping\">professional plumber in Santa Fe\u003C\u002Fa> will tell you the benefits of winterizing your plumbing and provide some essential tips to prepare plumbing for winter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>So, let’s get started.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Why Winterize Your Plumbing?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Winter is coming, and it’s time to winterize your plumbing!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to prepare your home for cold weather. As the temperature drops and snow begins to fall, you’ll want to take some simple steps to avoid a potentially costly frozen pipe situation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>But what do you need to do? Here are some reasons why you should winterize your plumbing:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Prevents frozen pipes \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Did you know that frozen pipes can cause more than just an inconvenience? According to the Department of Energy, frozen or burst pipes can result in water damage and mold growth—and repairs can cost hundreds of dollars. That’s why it’s important to winterize your Santa Fe plumbing system as soon as possible.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Avoid costly repairs\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>When temperatures drop below freezing, water expands inside pipes, causing them to crack or burst. This can lead to costly repairs like replacing damaged sections of pipe or installing new valves and faucets. By keeping your system well-maintained throughout the year, you’ll save yourself from having to make these kinds of repairs when they’re least convenient (like during cold weather).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Maintains water supply\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>One of the biggest benefits of winterizing your plumbing is that it helps to maintain your water supply. Winterization prevents pipes from freezing and bursting, which can severely damage your property and make it difficult for you to access water during cold weather.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Preserves fixtures and appliances\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>In addition to preventing leaks and burst pipes, winterizing your plumbing will help preserve the fixtures and appliances in your home by preventing them from freezing or bursting due to extreme temperatures. It also helps prevent damage caused by freezing pipes or water pressure caused by sudden thaws after extended periods of freezing weather. These problems can cause serious damage to both your property itself as well as any personal items that may be damaged by cracks or leaks in pipes or fixtures (such as furniture).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Reduces the risk of flooding\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>The weather outside may be frightful, but if you don’t take precautions, your pipes could make you very sorry indeed. The National Flood Insurance Program estimates that over 200,000 homes suffer flood damage each year in the United States alone. That’s more than $2 billion in damage! But if you take some simple steps now, you can prevent much of that from happening to you.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Prevents damage to the water heater\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>A properly winterized system will also ensure that heat generated by appliances such as dishwashers or washing machines does not cause pipes to freeze and burst open. This will reduce wear on components within your plumbing system and extend their lifespan by several years at least!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Saves on energy bills \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>This should be reason enough for anyone who wants to stay on top of their finances! When it comes to heating and cooling your house or apartment during the long cold months of winter, it can add up quickly. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average homeowner spends $80 per year on heating their water. That’s a lot of money! And it can go up significantly if you have an older home or poorly insulated pipes. By keeping water pipes from freezing (which means less heat loss), you’ll save yourself some serious cash in energy costs over time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Peace of mind\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Having warm water available when you need it will make you smile each time you turn on the faucet—and we all know how hard it is to stay happy when we’re cold! Winterizing your plumbing, Santa Fe means that no matter what the weather is doing outside, you’ll always have warm water at home with which to make hot cocoa or take a bath (if that’s something you like doing).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>30 Plumbing Tips To Prepare For Winter\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Winter is coming.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you’re like most homeowners in Santa Fe, you’ve probably already started to think about what you can do to prepare plumbing for the winter. But before you start stocking up on firewood and buying extra blankets, there are a few things you should consider doing now so that your plumbing is ready for the long winter ahead.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Here’s how to prepare your plumbing for winter:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Insulate exposed pipes. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Plumbing can freeze when exposed to cold air, so insulate exposed pipes by wrapping them in foam or placing them in an insulated box. You can also place a blanket over the pipe and then wrap it with insulation tape.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Seal cracks and gaps.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors with caulk or foam sealant before they become too wide to seal effectively during colder months (which will happen if they’re already open). This ensures that warm air stays inside where it belongs during winter months while keeping out drafts that might cause damage to your walls or, worse yet—your precious electronics!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Disconnect outdoor hoses.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you have an outdoor hose, disconnect it from the spigot. This will prevent water from freezing inside of it and potentially damaging your home’s foundation when it expands later in the season.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Close outdoor faucets.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you leave outdoor faucets open during cold weather, water can freeze and damage your property. To avoid this, close the faucet and turn on the manual drain valve so that water does not accumulate in the pipe between uses. If you have a leaky pipe or fixture that is causing water to drip outside during cold weather, turn off all water sources at the main shutoff valve or call \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Frepiping\">James Plumbing Santa Fe\u003C\u002Fa> immediately to repair it before further damage occurs!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Insulate outdoor spigots. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you’ve got one of those hose bibs outside that you use to fill up buckets or watering cans, make sure you keep it warm using bubble wrap or even an old blanket. The less time your water is exposed to the elements, the better!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Locate your water shut-off valve. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Find the valve in your basement and mark it with tape or paint so everyone knows where it is in case of an emergency. Having a clear plan of action will help prevent panic if there’s a frozen pipe or burst pipe during the winter months.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Keep the heat on. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>When it’s cold out, your pipes will shrink—and if they shrink too much, they’ll crack or burst. To keep them from getting too cold, make sure you set your thermostat at a comfortable temperature (but not too high because that will waste energy). And when it gets really cold out? Make sure to turn the heat up!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Open cabinet doors. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you have cabinet doors that are closed, or if there are gaps around them where air can get in, this can cause condensation in your pipes and create an environment where mold can grow. That’s why it’s a good practice during winter to open all of your cabinet doors so air can circulate freely through them and dry out any moisture on the inside of your cabinets. This will also help prevent ice dams from forming on your roof during the colder months!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Insulate the water heater.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>It’s easy to forget about your water heater, but it needs just as much love as everything else in your home. To keep it from freezing during the cold months, be sure to insulate it well! If you have an older model with no internal insulation, consider getting a new one that does have built-in insulation. This will help keep you from having any issues with freezing pipes during the winter months.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Service your heating system. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If your furnace hasn’t been serviced in the last year or two, it’s time! You want to make sure that your heating system is safe and ready for cold weather before you need it this winter (and then again every year).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Check for leaks.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Check your toilets, shower heads, faucets, and sinks. If you hear water running when no one’s using it, you may have a leak. Leaks can waste up to 10 gallons of water per day and cause thousands of dollars in damage over time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Clear gutters and downspouts.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>These are important because they protect the foundation of your home from rainwater runoff that may cause cracks or other issues if it builds up too much pressure within them over time (or if it freezes). Make sure they’re completely clear, so there’s no buildup during the rainy season ahead!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Install frost-proof spigots. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>You’ll want to make sure that your outdoor faucets are protected from freezing temperatures. There are a few different kinds of frost-proof spigots available, but one of the most common is called an “anti-freeze faucet,” which uses a small amount of water inside its valve core to keep it from freezing up during winter months. The other type of frost-proof faucet is called a “heat tape”—it looks like electrical tape and can be wrapped around vulnerable valves so they don’t freeze over during these cold seasons.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Insulate the crawl space. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you have an unfinished basement or crawl space, this is where all of your pipes are located—and when it gets cold enough outside to make these areas uncomfortable for humans (or even pets), it can also get too cold for the pipes themselves! That’s why you should ensure they’re protected with insulation that keeps them warm enough so they don’t freeze over during winter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Drain your sprinkler system. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you have an underground sprinkler system, start by draining it. This will prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Monitor the weather forecast. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Check with your local weather station for any upcoming cold weather as well as when it will start to warm up again. This way, if there is a chance that it might turn cold again soon (or if it turns out that it’s already gotten cold), you’ll know what needs to be done to take care of your plumbing system before things get bad!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Let faucets drip.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>You may be used to shutting off your faucets as soon as you’re done but letting them drip a little after each use can help prevent freezing. This will also help prevent corrosion in your pipes from occurring over time!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Install a water leak detection system.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you’re worried about your pipes freezing and bursting, installing a water leak detection system might be a good idea. These systems can alert you if there is any water loss from the house or if there has been a sudden change in flow rate (which would indicate that something is wrong).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Clean your sump pump.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>When you’re not using it, clean your sump pump every year before the winter sets in. If you don’t, you might find yourself with a frozen sump pump that won’t work when you need it most—during a snowstorm or other weather event where temperatures are below freezing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Winterize your pool! \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you have an above-ground pool or a pool in an unheated area of your home, you’ll want to consider draining it and refilling it with fresh water before freezing temperatures arrive. You should also cover and protect the pool when not in use during cold weather months so as not to damage its structure or filter system through exposure to harsh elements such as falling leaves or snowfall.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Inspect your sewer system.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>You should already have an inspection of your sewer system every year. But now, as winter approaches, it’s especially important to ensure that your sewer lines are clear and debris-free. This can be done by simply flushing your toilet while it’s still running water (this will push any debris out of the line). You can also use a long hose to spray down the pipes under your sink or shower. If there is any rust or buildup on the inside of your pipes, do not attempt to remove it yourself—call an anytime plumbing Santa Fe right away!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Know how to thaw frozen pipes. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Frozen pipes can cause serious damage and waste thousands of gallons of water over a few days, costing you hundreds of dollars in repair bills. Make sure that you know how to thaw frozen pipes with hot water and\u002For a hair dryer before winter hits! The best thing you can do is isolate the broken pipe and wrap it with insulation like newspaper or bubble wrap (don’t use newspaper if it has ink on it!), then run warm water over it until it melts free again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Keep the garage door closed.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Your garage is one of the worst places for your pipes to freeze because it’s an enclosed space without any insulation. If you have a garage you don’t use during the winter, just close the door and insulate around it so no heat escapes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Insulate your garage.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you can’t close off your garage entirely, insulate around it to prevent heat from escaping into the rest of your home. You can use foam board or even cardboard if necessary—just make sure it’s thick enough so that no heat seeps through cracks and gaps in between boards or sheets of material (which will happen if they’re too thin).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Use heating tape.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>The cold weather can cause pipes to freeze, which can lead to burst pipes or serious flooding. The heating tape will help prevent this by providing heat where it’s needed most—around the pipes themselves so they don’t get too cold in the first place! Just remember not to wrap too much of it around any one part of your system because it can also cause other problems if left on too long or too tightly (like burning out certain parts). And don’t use heating tape near electrical components because they could become damaged from overuse or even catch fire from over-exposure!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Consider a home plumbing inspection.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you haven’t done so recently, it’s time to schedule a home plumbing inspection. Your local plumber in Santa Fe will check your drainage system for any potential issues and make sure everything is in working order so you can stay warm and dry during the winter months.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Keep exterior walls insulated. \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>It may seem like common sense, but it’s easy for insulation to get pushed aside when you’re busy with other things—like Christmas shopping! Make sure you take care of your home’s insulation before the cold sets in so that you don’t have to stress about frozen pipes or burst pipes later on.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Educate family members.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Educate family members about the dangers of frozen water pipes and how to avoid them. Make sure everyone knows not to turn on any water faucets when it’s freezing outside, and if they see any signs of ice forming on their faucet or pipes, they should shut off the water at its source immediately by turning off valves in the basement or crawlspace—not just at the sink!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Have emergency supplies ready.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>When it comes to plumbing issues, you want to be prepared. Make sure you have a flashlight, a shovel, and some gloves handy in case of an emergency. You never know when the snow will come down heavy or when the pipes might freeze!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Plan for vacations.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If you plan on going away for a few weeks over the holidays, make sure to have someone come by your house to check things out before you leave. That way, if something goes wrong while you’re gone, they’ll be able to fix it before it becomes a bigger problem!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Hire the Best Plumber to Take Care of Your Plumbing Needs in Winter!\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Winter is the worst time of year for plumbing problems. From burst pipes to frozen pipes and frozen water lines, winter can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing. And that’s why it’s so important to have Plumbing Maintenance Checklist this Winter in Santa Fe or hire the best plumber in Santa Fe to take care of your plumbing needs this winter!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Frepiping\">James Plumbing & Heating\u003C\u002Fa> is the number one choice when it comes to heating, air conditioning, and plumbing services in Santa Fe, NM. We’ve been providing top-quality service for over 30 years and have built our reputation on our reliability and expertise.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Our team of licensed professionals offers competitive pricing on all our plumbing services, including:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>– Plumbing Repair\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>– Water heater repair and installation\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>– Drain cleaning\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>– Repiping solution\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>– Hot water heater installation\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>– Faucet repair or replacement\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>– Emergency plumbing services\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>– And many more…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Our fully bonded and insured team has been providing Santa Fe residents with reliable plumbing services for over 30 years. We can handle everything from leaks and clogs to new installations and repairs. The best thing? We offer 24\u002F7 emergency service, so you never have to worry about waiting around for an hour while we’re on our way.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Our plumbers are also experts in their field, so they’ll be able to fix your problem quickly without any hassle. You won’t have to worry about anything once we arrive—our team will take care of everything from start to finish!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you’re looking for an \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Frepiping\">affordable plumber in Santa Fe\u003C\u002Fa> that you can count on, look no further than James Plumbing & Heating! Call us at 505-473-7148 to talk to our professional plumber!\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fwhat-to-do-this-winter-with-your-plumbing.webp",14,"what-to-do-this-winter-with-your-plumbing","","Winter is coming. And with it, the seasonal cold and flu bugs can leave you feeling like you’re in a scene from The Walking Dead.","What To Do This Winter With Your Plumbing",[15,23,30],{"category":5,"date":16,"html":17,"image":18,"readingMinutes":19,"slug":20,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":21,"title":22},"2023-03-03","\u003Cp>You may not think the ice and snow outside impacts your HVAC system inside. The truth is ice is problematic for the HVAC components outside of your home. This isn’t even a winter-specific issue. There are times when the buildup of ice caused by an overworking AC unit can block the exhaust.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>At James Plumbing & Heating, we’re well-versed in HVAC ice buildup and how to deal with it. As a leading HVAC service provider in the Santa Fe area, we’ve just about seen it all. Here, we’ll talk a bit more about how ice and snow affect your HVAC system and what you can do.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>There’s more than one problem stemming from a frozen exterior \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Femergency-service\">HVAC unit\u003C\u002Fa>. When snow and ice block the exhaust, it could:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Shut the HVAC system down: Working hard despite the buildup, your HVAC system may overheat and shut itself down. The system will need to be cleared and restarted to begin running efficiently again.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Damage your home’s ductwork and pipes: No HVAC means no proper heating or cooling in your home. This leaves your pipes especially vulnerable to the elements. When pipes freeze, there’s always a chance they could crack. This leads to leaks and additional repair costs.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Release carbon monoxide or other gases into your ductwork: Everything’s connected from your furnace and AC to every room within your HVAC system. If the external HVAC component backs up and dangerous gases are filtered into your home, the ductwork will carry the gas to every room in your home.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Render your outdoor unit inoperable: There comes a point where some HVAC units just give out. Working hard to fight the blockages caused by ice and snow caused the unit to overheat and break.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Increases power bills: When ice forms on your HVAC unit, it needs to work harder to distribute heat or cold air into your home. You may notice a spike in energy bills because of these spikes in power levels.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Cp>Along with the exhaust blocking, there’s a chance that the water in ice and snow will leak inside your system. If this happens, there’s a chance of electrical damage and, eventually, corrosion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>By proactively managing and maintaining ice and snow blockages around your HVAC system, you can avoid a costly HVAC replacement or repair.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Keeping HVAC Units Clear\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>There are a few ways to manage your \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Femergency-service\">HVAC system\u003C\u002Fa> in the winter or overworked summer months.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Col>\n\u003Cli>Regular maintenance: Your HVAC systems should be inspected by a professional once every year. Twice if you feel concerned about the unit at all.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Clear the outdoor unit: If it snows, head outside and clear the unit as soon as you can do so safely. Like clearing your walkway before it freezes over, this will prevent ice buildup and eventual melting of ice into the unit.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Clean coils: The evaporator and condenser coils are important aspects of your HVAC unit. If they’re caked in debris and dust, airflow is scarce. Wipe them down every three months. More in the winter if they get coated in snow.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Change filters: Many components of the HVAC system have filters. This is to keep dirt and debris out of your air system and ductwork. Cleaning or changing filters in your furnace and AC ensures these machines run smoothly for longer.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Avoid clutter: Clutter near the air intake register is a no-no. Whether it’s garden tools, outdoor lawn furniture, or a pile of kids’ toys. Clear the objects near the return air intake.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\n\u003Cp>Air conditioners are very telling when there’s a problem. If you notice ice on the HVAC, it could be either an airflow problem or a refrigerant problem. The airflow problem can be rectified by the above steps.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>When refrigerant gets too low, it stops being able to move heat from inside to outside. Air still blows over the AC coils, but instead of cold air, it blows warm. Alternatively, the coil could get too cold because it’s unable to regulate temperature. Condensation then ices over, creating frost on the coils and AC unit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>For HVAC Ice Help, Give Us a Call\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>If you’re experiencing ice or snow issues relating to your \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Femergency-service\">HVAC system\u003C\u002Fa>, James Plumbing & Heating can help. We work with home and business owners in and around Santa Fe on problems just like these.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Waiting until HVAC icing issues expand into bigger problems could mean an irreparable unit or expensive repairs. \u003Ca href=\"tel:5054737148\">Give us a call today\u003C\u002Fa>, and we’ll diagnose and remedy your HVAC ice problem.\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-snow-and-ice-affect-hvac-systems.webp",4,"how-snow-and-ice-affect-hvac-systems","You may not think the ice and snow outside impacts your HVAC system inside. The truth is ice is problematic for the HVAC components outside of your home. This isn’t even a winter-specific issue. There are…","How Snow and Ice Affect HVAC Systems",{"category":5,"date":24,"html":25,"image":26,"readingMinutes":19,"slug":27,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":28,"title":29},"2023-02-03","\u003Cp>Water dripping from a hot water heater is a bad sign. Hot water heaters work in our homes all day without a second thought. Sometimes a leak can go on without even being noticed. As soon as you recognize puddles or dripping water around the tank, it’s time to take action.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>So, why does your water heater leak, and what do you do when it does? At James Plumbing & Heating we have a lot of experience in this area. We help families in Santa Fe deal with water heater issues regularly. Here, we’ll shed some light on the situation and help you determine the next course of action following a leak discovery.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Why is my Water Heater Leaking?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>This is likely the first question you’ll ask after noticing a leak. Why is the tank leaking? Did something happen to it? The most common reasons for a leak are:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Relief Valve Pressure Problems: The relief valve on the water heater is meant to allow hot air to escape when pressure mounts inside. If the water heater is used too often, the relief valve isn’t given a chance to relax and reset. Instead, the excessive heat and pressure damage the valve.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Age: All appliances in our homes age, and they all have shelf lives. Water heaters have an approximate 10-year lifespan. Once a decade, you should replace the heater. If yours is nearing that 10-year mark (or has surpassed it), it’s simply a matter of age. Parts wear out over time, making the heater less effective.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Drain Valve Issues: Like the relief valve, the drain valve has taken a beating over the years. Anything trapped in the heater, including sediment, gets caught in the drain valve, ensuring it doesn’t flow into your water system. This valve lets the heater be cleaned, and you may notice some water dripping near this area. A little is normal, but a lot isn’t.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Inlets and Outlets: Where hot and cold outlets appear on the tank, there are weak spots. The inlets and outlets weaken faster than other heater components. It’s one of the first places to check if the tank begins leaking.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Cp>Sometimes there are small signs that the heater is ready to give out. Things like a slight change in the color and quality of water, physical changes to the heater (rust, missing pieces, a crack, etc.), strange noises coming from the heater, and of course, water where it shouldn’t be (outside the heater instead of inside the heater).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you notice any of these signs, or there seems to be obvious trouble with the above-mentioned issues, your heater’s in trouble.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>First Steps to Tackling a Leaky Heater\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>The first step to fixing anything in your home is diagnosing the problem. Where is the leak coming from exactly? And which of the heater components is closest to the leak? This might help you determine where and why it’s leaking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Before acting on any DIY repair attempts, be sure to turn off the power to the tank and drain it. Do this by switching the breaker on your circuit breaker box associated with the heater. Be careful because leaving the power running on a leaky water heater is extremely dangerous, especially if you plan on touching the tank.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If the water heater is gas-powered, there should be a switch to turn it off. Gas or electric, always turn off the power before starting any DIY process.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Next, turn off the cold water and then the hot water valve (main water valve). Once power and water have stopped running to the tank, and it’s properly drained, you can begin to address the issue.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Fixing the Leak\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>There are a few areas you can check out by yourself, including the inlets and outlets. It could be something as simple as a loose connection. A wrench can be used to tighten hardware and stop a leak caused by loose inlets and outlets without help.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>A broken valve is another common culprit. If you have experience changing a valve, you could tackle this project on your own. Most homeowners need a professional for this. There are a few reasons calling a professional is best.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>1. A professional knows which new valve is needed\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>2. Improper assembly could cause bigger problems with the heater.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If the reason the tank is leaking stems from a crack or hole, it’s probably game over. Not you, nor a professional will be able to remedy a hole or crack. Most heaters will need to be replaced entirely in this situation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Call an Expert\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>If the time has come to call a professional in Santa Fe, James Plumbing & Heating can help. \u003Ca href=\"tel:+15054737148\">Give us a call\u003C\u002Fa> for ongoing maintenance or repair. We’re always happy to lend a hand.\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fwhat-to-do-when-your-water-heater-leaks.webp","what-to-do-when-your-water-heater-leaks","Water dripping from a hot water heater is a bad sign. Hot water heaters work in our homes all day without a second thought. Sometimes a leak can go on without even being noticed. As soon as you recognize…","What to Do When Your Water Heater Leaks",{"category":5,"date":31,"html":32,"image":33,"readingMinutes":19,"slug":34,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":35,"title":36},"2023-02-01","\u003Cp>Home heating systems are a necessity, especially during the cold seasons. If your furnace stops working, it can be costly to repair it. This is one reason we at James Plumbing & Heating always tell clients in Santa Fe to invest in \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fservices\u002Fac-repair\">annual maintenance\u003C\u002Fa> to avoid any surprises.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Here, we’ll talk about 10 of the ways you can tell it’s time to call for repairs. This is what to watch for.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>1. Water on the Floor\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Water near a heater is never a good sign. It’s less dangerous than gas or oil leaking onto the floor, but it still causes concern.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Water appears because of condensation. Normally, the condensate lines in your furnace drain and trap condensation safely, keeping it away from the electrical components of your furnace and off the floor. If the water is pooling on the floor, there’s a big issue inside the furnace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If you notice water pooling, call a professional. Left unchecked, this could pose dangers in the home. The condensate line is also not something for a quick DIY fix. It may mean replacing the line, which is a job for the experts.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>2. Strange Furnace Noises\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Clanks and bangs from the furnace are almost never normal. You might hear a sound like a soft bang when it comes off or on, especially if it’s old. If you hear a loud bang or a scraping sound, be sure to call an expert! Something definitely needs to be repaired.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>3. It’s Been a While Since Servicing\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Regular furnace maintenance is a must. If you know it’s been more than a year, it might need a repair. Have a professional come in to clean the furnace and check it for potential problems. The longer your HVAC system goes without regular maintenance, the more likely it will unexpectedly stop working when you need it most.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>4. The Smell of Gas\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>If you smell gas, call for help. Turn off the furnace or gas supply to be safe, take your family out of the home, and call a repair technician. Never light candles or turn on any type of flame in the home if you smell gas or oil.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>5. Vents Blow Cold\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>If the air coming from your vents isn’t hot, there’s a furnace problem. There are a few reasons it could be blowing cold. Before calling a professional, check to make sure the furnace is switched on.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>On older furnaces, you can check for the pilot light inside the sliding door on the side of the furnace. If the light is out, it needs to be relit by an expert.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>6. The Furnace is Blowing, but Barely\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Weak airflow could be a sign that components inside the furnace have stopped or slowed. Motors, belts, and other working parts make your furnace come to life and heat your home. If something has jammed or stopped, air may blow weakly. Call for repair to handle this issue.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>7. Higher Than Normal Heating Bill\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Is your heating bill running high? It might be a sign that your furnace needs maintenance. In many cases, a good cleaning will fix this problem.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Something as simple as a dirty filter can cause your furnace to go into overtime, burning harder in an effort to heat your home when the filter clogs. A blocked filter stops air from flowing freely, which forces the furnace to work harder. The harder it works, the higher the bill.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>8. Thermostat is Reading Wrong\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>The thermostat helps you control the heat in your home. If it stops working and you find yourself constantly turning it up to heat the house, there’s probably a disconnect somewhere between the furnace and the thermostat. This is likely a wiring issue. It’s important to call someone as soon as possible to fix this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Faulty wiring and electrical issues are dangerous, especially when you throw an oil or gas-burning furnace into the mix.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>9. Furnace Keeps Cycling\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>When your furnace turns on, it should heat your home as per the thermostat guide. Once heated, the furnace clicks off, and the temperature is maintained.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>If your furnace is turning on and off, on and off, to heat your home, there’s a problem. Constant cycling is another sign that the furnace needs a good cleaning. Don’t panic, but do call a professional.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>10. Age\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Like any appliance in your home, your furnace has a shelf life. Most last about 15 years. The more regularly you service and clean your furnace, the longer it will last. At one point, the furnace will absolutely need to be replaced. Until then, a repair might do the trick and add a few years back to the lifespan of the device.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Call an Expert\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>If you live in Santa Fe and are having trouble with your furnace, we can help. \u003Ca href=\"tel:5054737148\">Call us at James Plumbing & Heating today\u003C\u002Fa> to learn more\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002F10-signs-you-need-to-repair-your-home-heating-system.webp","10-signs-you-need-to-repair-your-home-heating-system","Home heating systems are a necessity, especially during the cold seasons. If your furnace stops working, it can be costly to repair it. This is one reason we at James Plumbing & Heating always tell clients in…","10 Signs You Need to Repair Your Home Heating System",1787213982408]