5 Benefits of Scheduling a Last-Minute Checkup for Your A/C System

How To Know If It's Time To Replace Your Hot Water Heater

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 21:01:07 GMT

Your hot water heater is an essential part of your home, providing you with hot showers, clean laundry, and sparkling dishes. However, it's not uncommon for homeowners to overlook their hot water heater until it's too late. Like any appliance, hot water heaters need to be replaced eventually, and knowing the signs that it's time to replace yours is crucial to avoiding major headaches and expenses down the road. In this blog post, we'll explore the telltale signs that your hot water heater is on the brink of failure so you can make an informed decision about when it's time to replace it.

Age

The age of your hot water heater is the most significant factor in determining when you should replace it. Most hot water heaters have a lifespan of around a decade, although this can vary depending on the make and model, among other factors. If your water heater is reaching or exceeding this age, it's a good idea to start considering a replacement, even if everything appears to be working correctly. An old water heater is more prone to leaks, corrosion, and other issues that could cause major damage to your home.

Rusty or Discolored Water

If you're noticing that your hot water is rusty or discolored, it's a sign that your water heater is corroding on the inside. Corrosion occurs as a result of old age, minerals in your water, and other factors. While rusty water doesn't necessarily indicate an immediate need for replacement, it's essential to address the issue to avoid further damage to your hot water heater and plumbing system.

Strange Noises

Your hot water heater should operate fairly quietly, and strange noises can be a sign of trouble. If you hear banging, popping, or other unusual sounds coming from your hot water heater, it could mean that there's built-up sediment inside the tank, which can cause damage to the heating elements and decrease the unit's overall efficiency. In some cases, these noises could also indicate that your hot water heater is on the brink of failure, so it's essential to have a professional inspect it.

Leaks or Moisture

Leaking or excess moisture around your hot water heater is a sign that something isn't right. In most cases, leaks are caused by corrosion, which can occur over time as the tank begins to deteriorate. Leaking water can cause significant damage to your home, including mold growth, water damage, and structural issues, making it crucial to address the issue as soon as possible.

Inadequate Hot Water

If you're consistently running out of hot water, you may need to replace your hot water heater. Inadequate hot water can be caused by an undersized unit or one that's not functioning correctly. If you're experiencing this issue, it's essential to have a professional evaluate your hot water heater to determine the best course of action.

Your hot water heater plays a crucial role in your home's daily operations, and when it fails, it can be a major inconvenience. By knowing the signs that it's time to replace your hot water heater, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns, expensive repairs, and potentially costly damage to your home. If you're experiencing any of the issues outlined in this blog post, don't hesitate to contact a professional to evaluate your hot water heater. A licensed plumber can help you determine the best course of action, whether that's a repair, replacement, or maintenance plan to extend the life of your current unit. Don't wait until it's too late - contact our office today. We can help ensure that your current water heater continues to provide you with reliable and efficient service or aid you in selecting a great replacement option.

Balancing Humidity for a Cozy Home and Efficient HVAC

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 23:31:31 GMT

When we talk about a comfortable home, temperature often comes to mind first. But there's another key player in the game of comfort: humidity. This is not just about how hot or cold our rooms are—this is also about how moist or dry the air feels. This unsung hero of home comfort can greatly affect our overall well-being. Dive into the world of humidity and learn how to strike the perfect balance for a comfy, cozy home.

The Impact of Humidity on Comfort and Health

Humidity levels in our homes can make a big difference in how we feel. When the air is too damp, our homes can feel stuffy and warmer than they actually are. This extra moisture can also encourage mold growth, which isn't good for our health. Air that's too dry can cause problems like dry skin, irritated eyes, and even nosebleeds. This can make our homes feel cooler and less comfortable in winter months, too.

Keeping the right balance is key. Too much moisture can make us feel hot and sticky in summer, while too little can leave us feeling cold and dried out in winter. By managing humidity, we can make our homes feel just right, all year round.

The Importance of Humidity in HVAC Efficiency

Your HVAC system works hard to keep your home comfortable, and humidity levels play a big role in how well it can do its job. When humidity levels are too high, your air conditioning has to work overtime to remove the excess moisture, which can wear it out faster and hike up your energy bills. When the air is too dry, your heating system has to work harder to warm up your home.

Maintaining the right humidity level helps your HVAC system run more efficiently. It won't have to struggle against extreme moisture levels, saving you money on energy costs and extending the life of your system.

The Role of Dehumidifiers and Humidifiers

Dehumidifiers and humidifiers are essential tools in maintaining ideal humidity levels in your home. They work opposite to each other but towards the same goal: balanced humidity for optimum comfort and HVAC efficiency.

Dehumidifiers are heroes in environments where moisture levels are high. They operate by pulling in air and removing all the excess moisture. Then they release the drier air throughout your entire home. This process is particularly helpful during hot and humid summer months or in naturally damp areas of your home, like basements. By reducing moisture, dehumidifiers help prevent mold growth, reduce allergens, and make your air conditioning system more efficient.

Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which is especially helpful in very dry climates or throughout the cold months in the winter when your indoor air quality becomes dry due to heating systems. By emitting water vapor or mist into the air, humidifiers alleviate issues from dry air, such as irritated respiratory tracts, dry skin, and static electricity. They can make heated air feel warmer, allowing for potentially lower heating settings and saving on energy costs.

Both these devices play a critical role in not just maintaining comfort but also in protecting the integrity of your home and health. While dehumidifiers ward off moisture-related problems, humidifiers bring relief from the dryness, making them indispensable in their respective roles for a balanced home environment.

The Perfect Balance for Comfort and Efficiency

If you're looking to optimize your home's humidity levels for better comfort and HVAC performance, consider reaching out to a professional at Henry's Service All for advice and assistance. We can help you find the perfect balance for your home, making it the cozy retreat you deserve.

HVAC Noises You Shouldn't Ignore

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 15:01:20 GMT

Your HVAC system is crucial in maintaining comfort and air quality in your home. However, like any mechanical system, HVAC systems can develop problems over time. One of the telltale signs of trouble is unusual noises emanating from your HVAC unit. While some HVAC sounds are normal, others can be indicative of underlying issues that require immediate attention. This blog will explore HVAC noises you shouldn't ignore and what they might mean.

Hissing Sound

Have you ever noticed a hissing sound coming from your HVAC system? This noise is often a sign of a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is a vital component of your air conditioner, responsible for cooling the air that circulates through your home. A hissing noise typically occurs when there's a crack or hole in the refrigerant lines, causing the refrigerant to escape.

Ignoring a refrigerant leak can lead to several issues, including reduced cooling efficiency, increased energy bills, and even compressor damage. Moreover, refrigerants can be harmful to the environment, so addressing this issue is essential for your system's health.

Buzzing

While a slight humming is normal, a loud and persistent buzzing can indicate various problems. One of the potential issues is an electrical problem within the system. Loose or damaged electrical components can generate buzzing sounds, which may pose a safety hazard.

Buzzing noises could also be a sign of debris or foreign objects lodged in the fan or ductwork. These obstructions can disrupt the airflow, reduce system efficiency, and cause additional wear and tear on your HVAC unit. To prevent further damage and ensure your safety, consult an HVAC professional when you hear buzzing noises.

Clicking

Clicking sounds are often associated with the HVAC system's startup and shutdown sequences. However, if you notice an unusual pattern of clicking noises or they become more frequent, it may indicate a malfunction in the system. Potential causes of clicking noises include faulty electrical components, damaged relay switches, or worn-out fan blades.

Clicking sounds can be especially problematic in furnaces. In gas furnaces, for instance, clicking noises might be linked to ignition problems or issues with the gas valve. Ignoring such sounds can lead to a lack of heating during cold weather, posing health and safety risks. To prevent a breakdown and ensure your HVAC system operates smoothly, contact an HVAC technician to diagnose and resolve the issue.

Rattling Sounds

Rattling sounds are often the result of loose or displaced parts within the HVAC system. These parts can include screws, nuts, or even debris that has found its way into the unit. While rattling may not always indicate a severe issue, it can lead to reduced system efficiency and potentially costly repairs if left unaddressed.

Rattling noises can be a symptom of an imbalanced fan or motor. An imbalanced fan can cause excessive wear on the bearings and lead to premature motor failure. Addressing rattling sounds can help extend the lifespan of your HVAC system and prevent costly repairs down the road.

Clanking

Clanking sounds are among the most alarming noises your HVAC system can produce. These loud, metallic noises often indicate severe issues within the unit. One common cause of clanking is a broken or loose component, such as a fan blade or motor mount. If not promptly addressed, a loose or damaged component can lead to more extensive damage and a complete system breakdown.

Clanking sounds can also be a sign of a failing compressor, which is a vital part of your air conditioner. A malfunctioning compressor can be expensive to repair or replace, making it essential to address clanking noises as soon as possible.

Don't wait until a minor issue becomes a major problem. Contact Henry's Service All today to ensure the continued performance of your HVAC system. We are ready to address any concerns you may have and keep your home comfortable year-round.

Signs That You Should Replace Your Home's HVAC System

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:45:15 GMT

Your home's HVAC system plays a vital role in maintaining your indoor comfort and air quality. However, like any other mechanical system, HVAC systems have a finite lifespan. Over time, they can become less efficient, leading to increased energy bills and discomfort. Discover some key signs that indicate you should replace your home's HVAC system.

Strange Sounds

If you hear loud clanging, banging, hissing, or screeching noises coming from your HVAC unit, pay attention. These sounds often point to various problems, such as a malfunctioning compressor, worn-out parts, or even a failing motor.

If you ignore these signs, you may have worse problems down the road and potentially costly repairs. Instead of trying to muffle the noise, have a professional HVAC technician inspect your system to determine if replacement is necessary.

Increased Running Time

A well-functioning HVAC system should efficiently heat or cool your home within a reasonable time frame. If you have noticed that your system runs continuously but struggles to reach the desired temperature, this is a red flag. Increased running time can be a sign of aging components, reduced efficiency, or inadequate performance.

Older HVAC units may struggle to maintain the desired temperature due to wear and tear on critical parts, such as the compressor and evaporator coil. A replacement system with modern technology can provide better efficiency and faster temperature control.

Rising Energy Bills

Have you noticed a suspicious rise in your energy costs despite maintaining the same level of comfort in your home? Rising energy costs can be indicative of an inefficient HVAC system. As heating and cooling systems age, they often become less energy-efficient, causing them to consume more electricity or gas to achieve the same results.

Replacing your outdated HVAC system with a newer, energy-efficient model can lead to substantial long-term savings on your utility bills. Look for systems with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings for cooling and AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings for heating to ensure maximum energy efficiency.

No Cool or Warm Air When Expected

Your HVAC system's primary job is to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. If it starts blowing warm air when you are expecting cooling or vice versa, this is a clear sign that something is amiss. This could be due to several issues, including refrigerant leaks, faulty compressors, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

Continuing to use an HVAC system that does not provide the desired temperature can lead to discomfort and inefficient operation. In some cases, the cost of repairs to address these issues may be comparable to investing in a new, more reliable system.

Climbing Utility Bills

A sudden spike in your utility bills can be a strong indicator that your HVAC system is no longer performing at its best. As HVAC units age, their efficiency decreases, causing them to consume more energy to maintain the same level of comfort. Consequently, your utility bills may steadily climb over time.

Before you assume that your increased energy costs are solely due to rising energy prices, consider having an HVAC technician assess your system's condition. Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient HVAC system can lead to significant savings over the long run, offsetting the initial investment.

If you notice any of these signs, consult with Henry's Service All to evaluate your system's condition and discuss the benefits of upgrading to a more efficient and reliable model. Contact us to have peace of mind knowing that your home's HVAC system is operating at its best. We will be happy to go over any questions or concerns you may have so that you can enjoy an HVAC system that works well for years to come.

Signs You May Have a Slab Leak

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 20:53:30 GMT

Your home is a haven of comfort and security, but lurking beneath your feet, a slab leak could be causing silent damage. These leaks occur when water pipes beneath the foundation of your home develop cracks or holes. Detecting slab leaks early is crucial to prevent extensive damage and costly repairs.

Read on to learn more about the signs that may indicate a slab leak is present, empowering you to take timely action to safeguard your home.

Unexplained Spike in Water Bills

A sudden jump in water costs could be a red flag for a potential slab leak. Even small leaks can lead to significant water wastage over time, causing your bills to skyrocket. If you haven't noticed any other changes in water usage patterns, it's wise to investigate further and rule out the possibility of a slab leak.

Turn off your water any incoming water to your home and check your water meter. If it's running, despite the water being shut off, you have a water leak.

Persistent Sound of Running Water

Silence may be golden, but if you're hearing the sound of running water when all taps are turned off, it's time to pay attention. If you hear continuous water flow beneath your feet, it could indicate a slab leak. This auditory clue often signals that water is escaping from your pipes and making its way into the foundation or surrounding soil.

Warm Spots on the Floor

Walking around your home shouldn't feel like a game of hot and cold. If you notice warm spots on your floors, particularly on tiles or concrete surfaces, it's a clear indication of a potential slab leak. Leaking hot water pipes can cause localized heating, leading to temperature anomalies that are perceptible to the touch.

Visible Moisture or Mildew

While your floors shouldn't be wet without reason, the presence of moisture, dampness, or mildew could be indicative of a slab leak. Check for unexplained wet patches, puddles, or areas with persistent mildew growth. These signs signal that water is escaping and accumulating where it shouldn't be, potentially causing damage to your home's foundation.

Low Water Pressure

Has your water pressure suddenly dropped? While various factors can contribute to low water pressure, a slab leak might be one of them. Leaking pipes can affect the water pressure throughout your home, making showers, washing dishes, and performing everyday tasks a frustrating ordeal.

Cracks in Walls or Foundation

Keep a vigilant eye on the structural integrity of your home. Cracks that appear suddenly in walls, floors, or even the foundation itself may be linked to a slab leak. As water seeps into the soil due to the leak, it can cause the ground to shift, leading to structural damage.

Pooling Water Around the Exterior Base of Your Home

Slab leaks don't always cause water to pool or puddle in your home. Some of the water can make its way outside. When this happens, you may notice puddles of water around the base or foundation of your home. If you see puddles outside your home, and it hasn't rained, you may have a slab leak.

Being attuned to the signs of a slab leak is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your home. Timely detection and repair of slab leaks can prevent extensive damage to your home's foundation, save you money on repairs, and ensure the safety and comfort of your living space.

If you have a slab leak, you need a professional who can detect and repair the problem. Henry's Service All is here for you. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment to find and repair leaks that may be present in your home.

Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 20:35:21 GMT

As a homeowner, you likely depend on hot water for everyday tasks like washing dishes and laundry or taking a hot shower. As such, having an energy-efficient and reliable water heater is essential to your home's infrastructure. This is where the innovative tankless water heater comes in handy. Learn the advantages of a tankless water heater.

Energy-Efficient

A tankless water heater is a great option for those looking to increase their energy efficiency. The U.S. Department of Energy states that tankless water heaters can be anywhere from 8% to 34% more energy-efficient, depending on your hot water usage, compared to traditional water heaters.

Unlike traditional models that use a large amount of energy to keep a large reservoir of water hot and ready for use, tankless water heaters only heat water as it's used. This on-demand heating system eliminates the need for energy to keep a large amount of water hot at all times, resulting in substantial energy savings.

Additionally, the lack of a storage tank eliminates standby heat loss, which is common with traditional water heaters, further reducing energy consumption.

Space Saver

Today, almost everyone wants to make the most of their living space, and installing a tankless water heater can be one of the best ways to achieve that goal. Tankless water heaters save space, as they're significantly smaller than traditional tank models.

With these units, you don't need to dedicate a large space to a storage tank, which can be especially helpful if you live in a smaller home or apartment. The unit's compact design also makes it less obtrusive so it won't detract from the aesthetics of your home.

Overall, a tankless water heater can be an excellent choice for anyone who wants to save space and simplify their living environment.

Endless Hot Water Supply

Unlike conventional water heaters that require constant heating to keep water in the tank hot, tankless water heaters heat water on demand as it flows through the unit. As a result, you never have to worry about running out of hot water in the middle of a shower or when doing laundry. This makes them ideal for large households where multiple people need hot water at once.

With a tankless water heater, you can enjoy the ease and comfort of having a continuous hot water supply without waiting for the tank to refill.

Longer Lifespan

Tankless models do not have a storage tank constantly filled with water, leading to rust, corrosion, and sediment buildup that can shorten the unit's lifespan. This means tankless water heaters experience less wear and tear over time, resulting in a longer lifespan and fewer repairs. Additionally, tankless heaters are typically made with high-quality materials and parts that can withstand constant use.

With proper maintenance and care, a tankless water heater can last for 20 years or more. The longer lifespan can save you considerable money in the long run by reducing the need for replacement and repair costs.

Safer

Tankless water heaters eliminate the risk of leaking or bursting. With no water in a tank, there is no worry of the tank corroding over time, which can lead to dangerous leaks or bursts. Additionally, tankless water heaters have safety features like freeze protection, a Hi-Limit switch, an overheat cutoff switch, and an air-fuel ratio sensor. Such guarantees that your family is safe and your property is protected.

A tankless water heater can be a worthy investment to enhance the comfort and functionality of your home. Whether you want to install or repair your water heater, Henry's Service All has you covered. Contact us today for professional water heater services.

Types of Residential AC Systems

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 19:16:56 GMT

Summertime can be sweltering without a dependable air conditioning system in your home. Whether you're building a new home, replacing an existing AC unit, or shopping for the most efficient system, understanding the different types of AC systems is critical to making an informed decision. Read on to learn the different types of AC systems out there.

Central Air Conditioner

A central air conditioner or ducted system utilizes a network of ducts circulating cool air throughout the building, providing a consistent and even temperature. A central air conditioner consists of two main components: an outdoor unit that houses the compressor and condenser coil and an indoor unit that contains the evaporator coil and air handling system.

One of the main advantages of a central air conditioning system is its ability to regulate temperature from a single, centralized source. These systems also offer quiet operation, improved air quality due to the use of filters, and increased energy efficiency. With proper installation, maintenance, and operation, a central air conditioner can provide a comfortable environment for your home.

Ductless Mini-Split System

Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Unlike ducted air conditioning units, ductless mini-splits do not require ductwork installation. Instead, they consist of an indoor air-handling unit and an outdoor compressor. The two are connected by a conduit containing refrigerant lines, a power cable, and a condensate drain.

Also, as the name suggests, ductless units do not use ducts to distribute cool air throughout a home. They pump cooled refrigerant directly into the indoor unit, blowing the cool air into the room. With their flexibility, relatively easy installation process, and energy efficiency, ductless mini-splits are an excellent option if you want to upgrade your home's air conditioning system.

Portable Air Conditioner

Portable air conditioners are designed to provide easy and efficient cooling for rooms and spaces. Unlike traditional units, portable ACs are mobile and can be easily moved from room to room as needed. They can be ideal if you're looking for temporary space cooling or when it's not practical to install other units.

Additionally, modern portable air conditioners offer a range of features, including adjustable temperature settings, built-in air purifiers, and remote control operation, making them versatile and effective coolers for various needs and environments.

Window Air Conditioner

Window air conditioning units are designed to fit into a window frame or in a hole in an exterior wall. The unit has all the components enclosed inside and features two basic parts: the evaporator and the condenser.

Window air conditioning units are an affordable and convenient option for those looking to cool smaller spaces without requiring extensive ductwork or installation. They are also easy to use with a simple on/off switch and temperature control settings. While window air conditioning units may not provide ample cooling for larger areas, they are an effective solution for those seeking comfort in a specific room.

Smart Air Conditioner

Smart air conditioners are one of the latest types of air conditioning systems designed to adapt to users' needs and the environment around them. These AC units are internet enabled and can connect to your home's WIFI. They can be controlled remotely via an app, smartphone, or tablet. Accessing the device remotely allows you to adjust the temperature, turn the system on or off, and set schedules from anywhere, making it easy to save energy and money.

Along with their convenient remote control options, smart air conditioners also use sensors and algorithms to adjust the temperature based on factors such as occupancy, humidity, and outdoor temperature. This technology delivers more efficient cooling, making it an attractive option for homeowners who prioritize energy savings and convenience.

After purchasing the ideal AC unit for your home, you'll need to partner with a reliable HVAC company for proper installation and optimal operation. At Henry's Service All , we offer professional HVAC services for residential and commercial properties. Contact us today to get a free estimate.

7 Signs Your Bathroom Is Due for an Upgrade

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 22:38:35 GMT

The bathroom is a great place to unwind after a busy day. However, the bathroom can only offer relaxation if you keep upgrading it. A bathroom renovation can solve or minimize most shortcomings. You can tell if your bathroom is due for an upgrade by paying attention to the following warning signs.

1. Poor Lighting

Lighting is an essential element of a bathroom. You must use proper lighting to make your bathroom stand out. The bathroom should have balanced lighting to avoid messing with the ambiance.

If you no longer love the lighting in your bathroom, you can request a remodel. Remodeling experts can devise a good lighting plan whether you depend on natural or artificial light. The remodeler will combine accent, decorative, and ambient lighting to achieve proper bathroom lighting.

2. Outdated Design

Bathroom designs change frequently. Therefore, a bathroom design that was trendy five years ago might now be outdated. You should update the bathroom design often to keep up with emerging trends.

A bathroom remodeling project allows you to modernize your space. You can upgrade the cabinetry, change the lighting, update the colors, and change the décor. These changes can help modernize your bathroom and keep it trendy.

3. Cramped Layout

Odd and cramped layouts can affect your bathroom's looks and functionality. Therefore, if your current bathroom layout feels dysfunctional, consider a remodel.

Remodelers can dismantle your bathroom and incorporate a new layout. The new bathroom layout should facilitate better organization and increase space. You'll no longer squeeze past the sink or stumble over the bathtub when moving around.

Choose a layout that will optimize the available space and still offer a feeling of luxury. You don't have to expand the dimensions of your bathroom to increase space. A space-saving layout is the best answer to your problems.

4. Insufficient Storage

A bathroom looks much better when all the bathroom necessities are in the right place. Your bathroom needs sufficient storage to make organization easier and to reduce clutter. So, if you often run low on storage, don't hesitate to schedule a bathroom remodeling project.

A bathroom renovation can help create more storage without taking up much space. Remodelers have plenty of storage ideas to help kick the clutter. The remodeling team can add more cabinets, carve out recessed shelves, or incorporate floating shelves.

5. You Want To Sell the House

Consider updating your bathroom if you wish to sell your home soon. Many homebuyers prefer to purchase a home with a gorgeous bathroom. As a result, you can remodel your bathroom and kitchen instead of doing an entire home renovation.

As you remodel the bathroom, focus on what's trending to appeal to homebuyers. A bathroom remodeler can help you make the right updates if selling the house is your goal.

6. Major Bathroom Repairs

Some major repairs may require removing the bathroom floor or most tiles. So, instead of tearing apart your bathroom to do some repairs, why don't you use the opportunity to remodel the bathroom? At least your bathroom will look good after the repairs and upgrades.

7. Leaky Fixtures

As your bathroom fixtures and pipes age, they may start to leak. While a plumber can repair the fixtures, such as a leaking valve, worn toilet flapper, and dripping faucets, you're much better off installing modern fixtures and updating your bathroom design. The new, modern fixtures will make your bathroom look luxurious.

If the above signs sound familiar, you should consider updating your bathroom. Henry's Service All has dependable remodeling experts to help you modernize your bathroom. Contact us today to help you reach your home improvement goals.

Common HVAC Myths

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 19:09:45 GMT

Most homeowners are familiar with the basics of their home's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, but there are a lot of myths and misconceptions that surround the technology. Let's debunk some of the most common HVAC myths and help set the record straight.

The Larger the Unit the Better

The size of the system varies based on the needs of the space, and a larger unit is not necessarily preferable. While it may appear that a larger system might offer more effective cooling or heating, this is not always the case.

If a system is too huge for the space it must cool, it will ultimately end up cycling on and off excessively, which can waste energy and prematurely wear out the system. On the other hand, if it is too tiny, it will be unable to maintain a steady temperature in the building.

Contact an HVAC consultant to ensure that the system size is adequate for the area it heats and cools. Essential factors you can consider include the age of the home, the temperature zone, the number of people who reside in the house, and the square footage if you want to select the right system for the home.

Higher or Lower Thermostat Settings Warm or Cool Your Home Faster

HVAC systems have no speed settings and are simply on or off. Setting the temperature significantly lower or higher than you wish will not cause the system to cool or heat faster. Instead, the higher or lower settings will force the system to cycle on and off more frequently, which can cause greater wear and tear on the internal components.

The best technique to achieve the desired outcome is to set the thermostat to a realistic temperature and let the system do its thing. Furthermore, you can program many thermostat models to attain a specific temperature by the moment you enter the house.

Once-a-year Filter Changes Are Enough

Airborne particles such as dust, grime, and debris accumulate in the filters on a daily basis, so if you wait a year to replace them, the filters will be filthy. This limits air flow, making your system work harder and decreasing machine efficiency.

A dirty filter can restrict airflow, which can lower system efficiency and lead to blower motor failure, compressor failure, insufficient cooling, and even an overheated furnace overheating and frequent system shutdowns. Do not double up filters, it does not help filter the air and restricts airflow as well. If you have a return air grill that takes a filter and one on the main system, pick one and use it only.

As a general rule of thumb, change 1" filters every month, 2" filters every other month and large filters such as 4 3/8" or 5" every 4-6 months. It is a good idea to change more frequently if your environment is especially dusty or smoky. Different systems require specific types of filters, so do some research to determine which type is ideal for your system.

Sealed Vents and Doors in Unused Rooms Saves Energy

Closing vents in empty rooms might have the opposite of an energy-saving effect, as it can interfere with air flow and obstruct your vents. Furthermore, if you seal your ducts incorrectly, the blocked vents will allow air to seep through them.

Closing doors to empty rooms has a similar effect since it restricts airflow and causes your furnace to work harder in other areas. These activities will not help you save energy, and you should look for other ways to save energy.

No Need for a Pro if It's Functional

HVAC systems are complicated and require specific knowledge and experience to operate and repair efficiently. Work on these systems with an experienced and certified specialist because mistakes can be costly and deadly. Professionals have adequate experience to detect and diagnose problems and perform the necessary repairs or replacements to keep your HVAC system functioning safely and efficiently. A system should be given a "physical" twice a year, once in the spring when you start running the AC and once in the fall when you fire up the heat.

Furthermore, professionals will be up to date on the newest technological breakthroughs and can assist you in selecting the best system for your house or business. They may also advise you on energy efficiency and safety precautions to ensure that your system runs as efficiently as possible.

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4 Common Types of HVAC Filters

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 20:36:27 GMT

An HVAC system comprises several elements that work together to improve indoor air quality. One of the most crucial components of HVAC equipment is the air filter. Air filters remove airborne contaminants such as pet dander, pollen, and dust from the air that enters your home. Moreover, air filters prevent large particles from entering your system, protecting it from damage.

You can install different types of filters in your HVAC system depending on your needs. This article highlights four common types of HVAC filters you can use.

1. HEPA Filters

HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are made of tiny filaments that trap small particles. The US Health Department highly recommends this type of filter due to its ability to trap even the tiniest particles, like mold spores.

The filter removes about 99.97% of airborne pollutants from the air that passes through the HVAC equipment. Therefore, if any of your family members suffer from allergies or respiratory issues, consider installing HEPA filters in your system. Hospitals and high-tech industries can also use this type of filter in their air conditioning systems.

Nevertheless, the filters are relatively expensive. The filters' powerful filtering capabilities may also restrict airflow, reducing the efficiency of your system.

2. UV Filters

UV filters are HVAC filters that kill bacteria and viruses in the air that pass through your system using short-wave ultraviolet light. The filters also remove other contaminants from the air through germicidal radiation. For best results, use the proper UV spectrum.

Despite the numerous advantages the filters offer, they can cause health effects. The filters can convert oxygen into ozone molecules, causing chest pains or even aggravating respiratory issues like asthma when produced in high amounts.

Also, these filters are less effective at blocking out pollutants like dust. For this reason, use UV filters as a component of a larger filtration system that also contains HEPA air filters.

3. Pleated Filters

Pleated filters are the most popular type of HVAC filters made from polyester and cotton folded to form pleats. The pleats improve the filters' density, enhancing their ability to capture dust and other smaller particles like pollen and mold spores.

Additionally, pleats increase the filters' surface area allowing them to trap more dust. Choose pleated filters with more pleats to enhance performance. However, you need to be extra careful since a filter with too many pleats can restrict airflow.

The main disadvantage of using pleated filters is that they need regular replacement. You can often only use the filters for three months before replacing them. Buying an HVAC filter after such a short time can inconvenience you, given the high cost of pleated filters. As a result, the filters can increase your HVAC operation costs in the long run.

4. Fiberglass Filters

Fiberglass, also known as spun glass filters, are HVAC air filters made by spinning glass strands together and reinforcing them with a cardboard frame or metal grate.

If you are on a tight budget, fiberglass air filters are the best option since they are cost-effective.

However, the air filters are not as effective in trapping tiny particles. Therefore, do not use fiberglass filters if any of your family members suffer from respiratory conditions. Finally, the filters require regular replacement. If you leave a clogged filter on your system for too long, it may force the equipment to work extra hard to pull in the air, increasing your energy bills.

To avoid making mistakes with your HVAC filters, consult a professional for guidance on the best air filter. If you are looking for more information on HVAC filters, contact Henry's Service All today.

7 Adverse Effects of Hard Water | Henry's Service All

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 15:54:38 GMT

Rainwater falls from the sky in pure form, but it absorbs minerals upon contact with the soil. Water with high concentrations of minerals, primarily magnesium and calcium, is referred to as hard water, and it isn't kind to your home or your skin. Discover some hard water effects below.

1. Dry and Irritated Skin

Cleaning away debris is a vital step in any skincare routine. However, if you struggle with dry skin despite using good skincare products, the water from your tap may be the culprit.

The minerals in hard water leave a buildup of product residue on your skin, which disrupts your skin's healthy barrier over time and clogs your pores, resulting in acne. Hard water is especially harsh on people with skin conditions, who report worsening symptoms like skin itching and rashes.

2. Dull and Brittle Hair

Hard water also has adverse effects on hair. The minerals in the water bond to hair strands and produce a film that prevents shampoos and treatments from cleaning and nourishing your hair. You will likely end up with frizzy, lackluster, and stiff hair, especially if you wash it with hard water for a long time. If you have dyed hair, the color may fade over time.

3. Clogged Pipes

The mineral deposits in hard water line the interiors of plumbing pipes, just like cholesterol accumulates in a person's arteries.

This buildup of minerals reduces water flow over time and creates blockages that can result in leaks. If you don't address the blockages promptly, the mineral buildup can cut the water supply to some areas of your home. Repairs can also get expensive, particularly if a plumber has to replace some water supply lines.

4. Inefficient Appliances

Hard water affects water-using appliances in your home just as it clogs your pipes. The mineral deposits accumulate in the moving parts of dishwashers, heaters, coffee makers, ice machines, and kettles, resulting in premature failure and the replacement of expensive parts.

If you buy energy-efficiency appliances, hard water prevents you from enjoying energy savings. Your washing machine works harder and consumes more energy to clean your clothes, while sediments in the water heater reduce its ability to heat water effectively.

5. Scale Buildup on Plumbing Fixtures

If you often scrub your sinks, faucets, and bathtubs to remove scum buildup, blame hard water. The mineral deposits in hard water leave behind this unsightly, chalky white scale on plumbing fixtures and appliances that heat water. You can remove this buildup with household items like baking soda, white vinegar, and lemon.

6. Ruined Laundry

The minerals in hard water mix with detergent and form a residue that prevents the cleaning agent from cleaning your clothes. This soap scum also attracts dirt, and you may notice gray or white-colored streaks on your colored clothes and the yellowing of your white clothes. You may use more detergent than usual to combat these issues, but you spend more on cleaning soaps and energy bills.

Stiff rather than fluffy fabrics is another laundry problem associated with hard water. Also, your clothes become more susceptible to wear and tear over time.

7. Stained Kitchenware

Hard water isn't kind to cookware and glasses as it leaves a white buildup that you cannot ignore. As water evaporates from your pans and pots, the minerals linger and accumulate over time. If you have a prized stainless steel kitchenware collection, the appearance of scum rings is incredibly frustrating.

Hard water has far-reaching effects on your home, from dry skin, brittle hair, stiff clothes, and damaged plumbing. Thankfully, water softeners reduce the mineral content in hard water and make your water supply more suitable for your family. Contact us today at Henry's Service All to discover the benefits of water softeners.

8 Signs You Need to Call a Plumber

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 15:54:12 GMT

Water and drainage systems are usually behind walls and ceilings, so you often will not notice any problems with the pipes easily. However, consistent inspections can help you troubleshoot issues before they become a nuisance. But if you notice the following eight signs, call your plumber and have them check out your plumbing system.

1. Sewer Backup

A sewer backup is likely one of the worst plumbing emergencies you can ever have. Sewer backups are when the sewers clog or become overloaded so the sewer water comes up to your sinks and toilets. In most cases, sewer backups have high pressure and could easily damage your entire plumbing system.

If you ever become a sewer backup victim, an immediate response is necessary. The longer you wait, the more damage the sewer water can do and the more the damage will cost to clean it up.

2. No Water

If your taps run dry, and this happens only in your house, your plumbing system needs attention. Water tends to freeze in the winter or if you live in icy places. Deposition of minerals to your pipes could also lead to clogs that, in turn, lead to your lines running dry.

Do not attempt DIY if you do not trust your plumbing skills, as you could make the situation worse.

3. Leaks in the Walls and Ceilings

Most building designs will have pipes in the walls or running through the ceilings. If leaks happen in the lines, you can often only tell by damp patches on the walls and ceilings. These spots usually indicate water leaking and need quick addressing. If you ignore these water leaks, they could undermine the integrity of your home structure.

4. Flooding

Flooding in your house means something is seriously wrong, and the consequences could be dire. Shut down the water from the main valve as soon as your home starts to flood, and call your plumber. A professional plumber will have the right expertise and tools.

5. Receding Water Pressure

Water pressure tends to decrease when water levels go down. If your shower does not you a steady water flow, check the showerhead for clogs. If unclogging your shower head does not help, the water might leak or be lost elsewhere.

Low water pressure could result from water leaks or clogs in the pipes. Determining the cause of the low water pressure could be difficult, so seeking expert services is advisable.

6. Colored Water

If your taps give you colored water and you see nothing normal about the discoloration, then you could have a possible crack in your lines that you need to fix.

7. Dripping Faucets

Dripping taps and showerheads gradually add to the water bill. The more dripping faucets you have in your house, the more money you will likely pay. Have a professional tighten or replace the taps, as well as fix the showerheads to save water costs.

8. Poor Drainage

Water failing to drain is a common problem that you can often solve using a plunger. However, special skills and tools are necessary when the plunger does not work and your wastewater slowly drains or does not drain at all.

A special camera can inspect your drainage system and spot clogs. A plumber then works on unclogging the pipes, solving the drainage problem.

Contact us if you find yourself in a plumbing emergency and need a professional to respond without delay. We will be happy to look over the problem to provide a professional diagnosis and take care of all your plumbing dilemmas. Please let us know of any questions or concerns you may have.

5 Benefits Of Kitchen Remodeling

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 19:00:19 GMT

If your kitchen is old-fashioned, has unrepairable damages, has appliances that have reached the end of useful life, or needs larger storage space, a kitchen remodel can be a great investment. Also, a kitchen remodel is feasible if you plan to sell your home or if you just bought a house but don't like the kitchen.

Apart from breathing new life into your cooking space, a kitchen remodel will transform your entire home. You can reap numerous benefits from this project. Learn five key benefits of a kitchen remodel.

1. Improve Energy Efficiency

Most old kitchens have inefficient appliances, fixtures, and lighting, increasing utility bills. When remodeling your kitchen, get appliances and lighting fixtures with a good Energy Star rating. Also, install water-efficient appliances and fixtures such as dishwashers, faucets, and flow-controlled aerators. The remodeling contractor will also install new electronic circuits and repair or replace leaking water pipes.

In the long run, all these steps can help save water and electricity, reducing your utility bills significantly. And to maintain cozy temperatures in the kitchen and lower your heating and cooling costs, upgrade your kitchen windows and insulation.

2. Enhance Functionality

When renovating your kitchen, you'll have multiple ways to tweak your space to meet your specific needs and improve overall function. For instance, if you want more natural lighting in the kitchen, you can install a new window or change the positioning of the current window. Also, you can optimize your kitchen layout for a new worktop, task lighting, or appliances with more features.

A kitchen renovation will help you make additions, reductions, or improvements to achieve a more practical space. Apart from looking stylish, your new kitchen will be properly planned out and furnished for optimal efficiency.

3. Boost Curb Appeal

If your kitchen looks outdated, a kitchen remodel can help revitalize the look. A simple task such as repainting the walls or cabinets can help update your kitchen's appearance. Also, you can install new flooring, countertops, and cabinets for a complete new look.

If you've never liked how your kitchen looks since you moved in, remodeling offers the opportunity to create the cooking space of your dreams. Pick your ideal color, texture, and style to create your next favorite room in your home.

4. Increase Storage Space

Some homeowners will have a kitchen renovation for the sole purpose of increasing their storage space. This move shows how effective kitchen remodeling can be to achieve more storage space. You can install more cabinets, pantry space, and open shelves for additional storage.

Also, experienced remodelers can utilize any space in your kitchen for extra storage. These professionals will offer numerous storage solutions such as pull-out cabinet organizers, wall shelves, under-counter cabinets, windowsills, fold-down tables, or sliding storage. These additions will offer much-needed space for a clean, organized, and clutter-free kitchen.

5. Improve Comfort and Safety

A kitchen renovation offers multiple ways to make your cooking space safer and comfier. For instance, you can work with experts to install slip-resistant flooring, a safe cooktop, and slide-out trays. Also, to prevent a fire or shock hazard, install electrical plugs, switches, and fixtures away from water sources. In addition, a range hood can help maintain quality kitchen air free of toxic pollutants.

To enhance comfort, you can add a variety of features to your kitchens, such as additional seats or a small dining area. Improving ventilation could also help to reduce smells and heat from the kitchen.

Remember, you're not limited to only these additions to make your kitchen space safer and more comfortable. Consult your contractor for guidance on the best comfort and safety features you can install.

If you want your kitchen remodeling to deliver all these benefits and more, work with a reputable contractor. Contact us at Henry's Service All for professional HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and remodeling services.

Examples and Dangers of Shared Chimney Flue

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 19:55:09 GMT

An Overview of HVAC Performance Testing

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 19:12:12 GMT

HVAC performance testing reveals the current operation and capacity of the tested system. The exact testing procedure depends on the system's age, type, and contractor, among other factors. Below is an overview of the service.

Examples of Individual Tests

A complete HVAC performance test includes multiple smaller tests. Below are some of the tests your contractor might perform.

Airflow Test

Good airflow is the backbone of efficient HVAC operations since the heated or cooled air must reach all parts of the house, and stale air must get back to the HVAC. The contractor will test your HVAC system and house for its airflow quality. The contractor will test airflow for all supply and return registers in the house and then consider the results holistically.

Energy-Efficiency Test

An energy-efficiency test measures how much energy the HVAC system consumes to heat or cool the house. Energy efficiency affects HVAC energy consumption, which affects your utility bills. The contractor will compare the results against the manufacturer's energy efficiency claims.

IAQ Test

Your HVAC affects your indoor air quality (IAQ). Ideally, the HVAC should clean the air and allow you to breathe clean air. Poor IAQ can trigger multiple health problems, including respiratory health problems and allergy reactions. The IAQ tests detect the level of different contaminants inside your house, including biological, chemical, and combustion pollutants.

Benefits of Performance Testing

HVAC performance testing has multiple benefits. Below are some of them.

Identify Potential Issues

You can use the tests to determine potential or emerging issues with your HVAC system. That way, you can solve the problems before they worsen or trigger dangerous effects.

Consider a case where an energy-effeminacy test reveals that your HVAC's energy efficiency is way below the manufacturer's claims. You can use the information to inspect the HVAC's design and parts to diagnose the low efficiency. That way, you can tune the HVAC for improved efficiency.

Meet Regulatory Requirements

The government regulates the HVAC industry for public health safety, among other reasons. HVAC performance tests help you determine whether your system meets the applicable regulations.

For example, many jurisdictions regulate:

Ventilation capacities
Placement of carbon monoxide detectors
The efficiency of HVAC systems

HVAC performance testing will help you determine whether a system is compliant. That way, you can make the necessary adjustments to satisfy the authorities' requirements.

Plan Modifications or Adjustments

Lastly, you can use HVAC performance testing to plan for your house's renovation. Say you plan to finish your basement, add a bedroom, or knock down a wall to get an open plan kitchen. You need to know the HVAC's current performance and consider it during the renovation. For example, you can use the performance tests results to modify the HVAC during the renovation.

Tips for HVAC Performance Testing

Get your HVAC's performance testing right to enjoy the benefits. Below are some useful tips.

Test Before Adjustments

A good performance test should reveal the true condition of the HVAC system. Adjustments, such as air filter changes, thermostat resets, and system cleaning, can temporarily affect the system's performance. Let the contractor test the system before such adjustments.

Use a Professional

The above HVAC tests are just a few examples. Your contractor will discuss with you all the necessary tests depending on your system. Professional HVAC contractors also have the right tools and equipment for the test. Forgo DIY testing and let a professional handle it if you want accurate results.

Hopefully, your system's performance test won't reveal serious issues. Henry's Service All has decades of experience in the HVAC industry. We offer both commercial and residential HVAC services. Contact us for quotes on HVAC services as the first step to our professional offers.

Factors to Consider in Custom HVAC Installation

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 15:50:22 GMT

Professional HVAC contractors understand the need for customization during installation. The level of customization depends on the individual and their heating and cooling needs. Below are factors your contractor will use to customize your system as much as possible.

Capacity

HVAC capacity depends on different factors, including the property's size. The property's size determines the volume of air that you want to heat, cool, and circulate since those are the primary roles of HVAC systems. The air volume depends on the square footage of the building, plus its ceiling height.

Compare a residential house and a restaurant, each with 700 square feet of usable space. The two properties have different heating and cooling requirements if the restaurant has a 12-foot ceiling and the residential property has a 9-foot ceiling. The restaurant's unusually high ceiling increases its air volume and heating and cooling capacity.

Installation Area

An HVAC's placement determines its performance and longevity. Learn some placement guidelines:

Install the outside unit in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight that might overheat the unit and shorten its lifespan.
Leave adequate clearance around the unit to facilitate air circulation critical for efficient heat exchange.
Choose a placement area that will not direct most of the system's noise inside the house.
Install the system in an accessible area where repair or service technicians can easily access it.

These factors mean that the same placement area cannot fit HVACs in different houses. For example, a neighborhood will not necessarily have its HVAC units on the same side of the house.

Users' Health

Your indoor air quality (IAQ) affects your health. For example:

Mold and dust can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions
Pet dander can trigger allergic reactions
Smoke can irritate your eyes
Dry air can irritate your airways and eyes

Long-term exposure to poor IAQ can even trigger cardiovascular health effects. The risks are even higher for those who already deal with health problems or compromised immune systems. Such people may need cleaner air than the average person does. For example, a person with allergies may need a high-efficiency filter to enjoy high IAQ.

Desired Convenience

The thermostat determines how conveniently you use the HVAC system. For example, you can program a programmable thermostat to control your heating and cooling automatically. You can use a smart thermostat to control your HVAC system remotely. The level of convenience you need for our HVAC usage determines the thermostat to install.

Consider a variable speed furnace if you value heating comfort. Such a furnace has a motor that speeds up or slows down according to the desired heating and air circulation. That way, you remain comfortable, irrespective of the temperature or prevailing circumstances. For example, the furnace will ramp up the heat production and air circulation if something clogs the air filter.

Versatility

Consider whether your heating and cooling needs are likely to change in the future. Consider a modular HVAC if that is the case. Modular HVAC comprises individual units that the contractor harnesses together to work together to heat or cool your property. However, an HVAC contractor can increase or decrease the number of units with ease at any time.

Module HVACs are useful for commercial properties with unpredictable needs. With a modular system, you don't have to replace the entire HVAC system when you partition an open office or extend a restaurant's sitting area. The contractor will evaluate the new heating and cooling demands and configure the necessary modules.

Henry's Service All has decades of experience in the heating and cooling industry. Discuss your HVAC needs with us; we will give you the most suitable system. Contact us for a quote as the first step to a professional working relationship.

Furnace Safety Tips | Henry's Service All

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 20:35:45 GMT

Do you use your furnace safely? Your home's HVAC system isn't something you likely think of often - especially if it heats the interior area evenly. But this doesn't mean a working heater can't pose a potential risk if you don't maintain it properly. As the weather goes from warm to wild, take a look at what you need to know about furnace safety.

1. Keep Your Furnace Clean

While you don't need to detail your HVAC system daily, you should schedule a pre-season check-up and cleaning service and learn how to maintain the unit during the winter months. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), failure to properly clean heating equipment is the main cause of heating system-related fires.

An air filter change is one of the easiest ways you can keep your furnace clean. Removal and replacement of the air filter (or cleaning it, if you have the reusable type) can stop dirt, dust, pet fur, and other debris from circulating through the system. This can limit the wear and tear on the furnace and help to keep the unit clean.

Not only can this potentially reduce the fire hazards a dirty furnace can cause, but this can also improve the quality of the indoor air. Clean indoor air can lower the likelihood of allergic reactions and some respiratory illnesses.

Along with the main heating unit, make sure the chimney or vent is also clean. This is a job for a professional. Schedule a pre-season or a mid-season maintenance service for a deep system clean that includes more than just the filter.

2. Move Flammables Away From the Furnace

Dirt, dust, and debris aren't the only safety issues. The NFPA recommends maintaining a three-foot or more border around all heating equipment. Even though your child's old artwork, boxes of holiday decor, and everything else you store in the basement or utility room may not seem like a hazard, when placed close to a furnace, these items do pose a fire risk.

Create a safer space near your HVAC system and move anything combustible (such as chemical cleaners, paint products, or other similar items) farther away from the furnace. Consider storing these types of items in another room.

3. Use a Carbon Monoxide Detector

A professional pre-season inspection can help you to spot a potential problem. But what happens if the furnace malfunctions during the winter months? Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas. If you have a natural gas furnace, you could have a carbon monoxide leak.

Undetected, carbon monoxide can leak into your home and cause serious illness or death.

To reduce this furnace-related risk, install carbon monoxide detectors on each floor and in each area of your home. Follow the manufacturer's directions for installation. If you're not sure where to place the detectors, talk to an HVAC professional. A technician can show you where you need detectors and make sure they aren't too close to the furnace.

4. Call If You Have Questions

An HVAC contractor can do much more than inspect and clean a furnace or help you to place carbon monoxide detectors. This professional is your first line of defense against furnace mishaps and safety issues. Whether you smell an odd scent coming from your furnace, don't feel warm air, or notice another issue, call the contractor as soon as possible. The contractor can inspect and assess your system and repair potential problems.

If your carbon monoxide detector sounds an alarm, you smell smoke, you see smoke, or you smell natural gas (a sulfur-like or rotten egg odor), contact your local emergency service authority immediately.

Do you need a mid-season maintenance check, cleaning, or furnace repair or replacement? Contact Henry's Service All for more information.

4 Possible Causes of Furnace Short Cycling

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 15:32:32 GMT

Furnace short cycling is a problem that occurs when your furnace starts up and shuts down too frequently. Short cycling can raise your energy bill, increase wear and tear on your furnace, and prevent your home from heating to a comfortable temperature.

A variety of furnace issues can lead to short cycling, and pinpointing the cause in your own HVAC system isn't always easy. Discover four possible causes of short cycling that you may want to investigate in your furnace.

1. An Overheating Furnace

Furnaces can quickly overheat without a careful balance of airflow. Several places in your system can form airflow bottlenecks and increase the risk of your furnace overheating.

A dirty furnace filter is one of the most common culprits, so be sure to clean your furnace filter monthly to keep air moving smoothly. Crimps and blockages in your ductwork are another source of blocked airflow that can cause overheating, so inspect your ducts each year.

An alternative cause of furnace overheating is dust buildup inside the furnace itself. Dust creates an insulating layer that traps heat, but you can avoid this problem by cleaning your furnace filter and scheduling regular duct cleanings. Your furnace filter is the most important element in your HVAC system to protect your furnace from dust.

Overheating is related to short cycling because your furnace will shut off as a safety measure when overheating is detected. Failure to address the problems causing overheating will lead to continual short cycling and may potentially pose a fire hazard for your home.

2. A Faulty Thermostat

Sometimes, the problem causing your furnace to short cycle isn't in the furnace at all. A faulty thermostat could send the wrong signals to your furnace, causing it to cycle in incorrect intervals. Mechanical thermostats may fail due to rust, while digital thermostats sometimes suffer from faulty circuit boards after years of use. Both types of thermostats can malfunction and cause short cycling if you have a problem with the wiring leading to the thermostat.

An HVAC technician can determine if your thermostat is faulty or if a simpler solution like relocating the thermostat may be appropriate. Thermostats can send incorrect signals if they are too close to vent registers, fireplaces, drafty windows and doors, or other sources of temperature fluctuations.

3. A Malfunctioning Flame Sensor

The flame sensor is a key safety component inside your furnace that detects that a flame is present when your furnace turns on and the gas valves open. If the flame sensor doesn't detect a flame, the valves will close to prevent a dangerous gas leak and your furnace will shut down.

Your flame sensor can fail and force your furnace to shut down if it has corrosion or other damage. Fortunately, you can often simply replace the flame sensor to restore your furnace to normal function. An HVAC technician can confirm that the sensor has failed and replace it with an identical model.

4. An Oversized Furnace
If you have always had problems with your furnace short cycling, you may not have the right size furnace for your home. An oversized furnace will often heat your home too quickly, and your thermostat will shut your system off before it has time to distribute heat evenly through every room.

The optimal furnace size to heat your home evenly and prevent short cycling will depend on your climate region and the square footage of your home. You can use an online calculator tool to estimate the correct furnace size in BTUs, or you can hire an HVAC contractor to size a furnace for your home.

Short cycling can have a major impact on comfort in your home, but it's not a problem you have to live with. Call the professional team at Henry's Service All so we can help with all your HVAC needs.

Texas Weather and Heaters: What You Need to Know

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 21:27:14 GMT

Do you need a home heating system in Texas? In 2020 the average fall temperature in Fort Worth hovered above or well above 60 degrees Fahrenheit , according to the National Weather Service. If your new home doesn't have central heating, take a look at what you need to know about the HVAC system, the local climate, and your options.

Is the Weather Always Warm In Texas?

Even though the fall in many parts of Texas is warm and comfortable, the winter temperatures may dip into the 40s or lower. A 40-degree day (or night) can quickly cool a home, making it uncomfortably chilly indoors.

Beyond the month-by-month temperature changes, Texas residents may also notice annual differences during both the fall and winter. While recent temperatures have stayed towards the warmer side of the spectrum, it is possible to have extreme cold in Texas.

According to the National Weather Service's historical statistics, Abilene set a record of nine below zero in 1947 and Austin hit two below in 1949. If the temperature should drop to anywhere near these record lows, you will need heat in your home.

Why Is Cold Weather a Problem?

A temporary cold snap may not seem like a big deal. But it can cause problems inside of your home. Without adequate heating, some of your home systems (or items inside of your home) are at risk. Frozen uninsulated pipes can burst, leaving your home flooded and subject to water and mold damage.

Along with frozen pipes, consistently cold temperatures can cause wooden, leather, and other sensitive materials to warp, splinter, or crack.
Cold indoor air temperatures pose more than a risk to your home. An unheated indoor environment is a health hazard. According to the University of Michigan, your body temperature can drop (hypothermia) when the temperature reaches 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If left untreated, hypothermia can cause loss of consciousness or serious medical problems.

Does Your Home Need a Central System?

How can you avoid cold-related home and health issues in Texas? The first step is to install a heating system. If you don't already have a heater, you need to contact an HVAC contractor. While space heaters and other similar portable options are affordable and don't require installation, these devices won't evenly heat your home and may pose fire risks.

Instead of a portable heater, talk to the contractor about the permanent options. The most common types of heating choices include forced air heaters, ductless mini-split heat pumps, radiant under-the-floor heating, and boiler systems.

If your home has an existing heater, make sure the system is in working order - especially if you've never used it or haven't used it in years. The technician can inspect the heater and related parts, such as ducts, air handlers, or a thermostat.

Which System Is Right for Your Texas Home?

There's no universal answer to this question. The type of heater you choose depends on several factors. These include:

Air ducts. Does your home already have AC air ducts? An existing network of ducts makes it easy to install a forced-air heater. But if your home doesn't have ducts, you may need to explore other options (such as a mini-split system).
Areas to heat. Do you use your entire home throughout the colder months? If there are rooms or spaces you won't use, consider the zoned heating of a mini-split system.
Other heating accessories. Does your home have radiant pipes under the floors or radiators in the rooms? Even though you may not have used this equipment, the contractor can install a new system that relies on this type of water heating.

If cost is an issue, talk to the contractor about your options. Heaters are available at a variety of price points and can fit into many different budget ranges.

Do you need a new home heater? Contact Henry's Service All for more information.

Common Plumbing Problems for Homeowners

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 21:23:23 GMT

Plumbing plays an essential role in every home, from distributing water to removing waste and promoting health and safety. However, plumbing systems can become problematic due to normal wear, lack of maintenance, and misuse with time. Learn common home plumbing issues and how to fix them.

Water Heater Issues

From discolored water to gurgling noises in the water heater and lack of hot water, water heater issues can run rampant in homes. For instance, your water heater may not discharge adequate hot water for household chores like bathing and washing.

The most probable culprits are sediment buildup in the tank, leaks, low pressure, incorrect temperature settings, or a faulty heater. While you can flush the tank to get rid of the sediment or adjust the temperature settings accordingly, other problems like faulty heaters and leaks require professional attention.

Clogged Drains and Toilets

Clogged drains and toilets mainly emanate from a blockage in the drain. You may notice that your toilet doesn't flush well and water either back up in the bowl or even overflows. Similarly, water may back up when you take a shower or use a utility sink.

In toilets, items such as wipes, cigarette butts, feminine hygiene products, and diapers cause clogs. You can utilize a plunger to unclog a toilet or drain by leveraging air pressure. If this does not work, call a plumber to handle the clogged drains.

Faulty Faucets and Pipes
Leaky faucets are not only annoying but also waste water and money. A drip can waste thousands of gallons of water annually, and you can save on your water bill by fixing it. Common causes of a leaky faucet include improper installation, corrosion, high water pressure, or a damaged washer and valve seat. If the washer is the problem, replacing it can resolve the leak.

Leaky pipes emanate from clogs, pipe corrosion, excess water pressure, cracked pipes, and natural wear. Older homes are vulnerable to pipe leaks since they often use copper pipes, which are vulnerable to corrosion and bursts due to extreme temperatures. A plumber can determine the cause of a leaky pipe and remedy it as necessary.

Sewer Issues

From clogged toilets to sewer odors in the house and sewer backup, sewer problems are among the most undesirable plumbing issues homeowners encounter. A majority of sewer issues emanate from sewer lines or septic systems and are best left to plumbers. Perhaps your septic tank is full, trees have damaged your pipes, or you have drain field problems.

Running Toilet

Although a running toilet does not mess up your floor, it does your pocket. A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water daily, resulting in high water bills. Among the reasons your toilet is running is a faulty rubber flapper, corroded toilet handle, loose refill tube, or worn-out flush valve. You can remedy this problem by ensuring all the inner toilet components function properly.

Worn-Out Hose Bib

Hose bibs provide easy water access outdoors so you can water your yard, clean your driveway, and wash your car. Over time, especially during cold winters, your hose bib can crack or fail. Also, it may leak due to age, resulting in costly water wastage.

Your best bet is to replace the hose bib with a heavy-duty and frost-proof one that will withstand harsh winters and heavy use. Before starting the replacement process, remember to shut off the water supply to the bib.

While numerous plumbing issues affect homes, they are easily preventable or fixable before they wreak havoc on your home. Contact Henry's Service All for plumbing repair and maintenance in Hurst, Euless, and Bedford, TX. We offer excellent plumbing services, exceptional customer care, and high-quality work.

4 Major AC Parts: An Overview

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 21:18:06 GMT

Understanding your air conditioner (AC) will help you use it efficiently and care for it. That way, your AC will serve you efficiently, and you will only have to call a technician for major issues. Below is a brief overview of the critical parts of a typical AC.

1. Thermostat

The thermostat reads your indoor temperature and sends the information to the AC's mainboard. The mainboard uses the feedback to adjust the temperature as necessary. You may also use the thermostat to:

Set the temperature
Read the set temperature
Program future temperature settings
Set the AC fan

Some of the settings depend on the type of thermostat.

Location

Locate the thermostat where it can read the accurate ambient temperature of the house. An interior wall, away from direct sources of heat or air (such as vents), makes a good location.

Care

A typical thermostat doesn't need much care. Just ensure that:

The thermostat is clean since dirt can interfere with its functions
The thermostat has batteries with power
The thermostat's wires are not loose or damaged

Thermostats tend to last a long time before malfunctioning.

2. Evaporator

The evaporator absorbs heat from the air. That is the way the AC gets cold air to circulate and cool your house. The evaporator has series of tubes through which refrigerant flows. Warm air blows over the evaporator coil as it loses its heat to the refrigerant within the tubes.

Location

The evaporator sits inside the house near or on the air handler. That location allows the blower fan to blow hot air through the evaporator.

Care

The main care is to keep the evaporator clean. Debris buildup can insulate the coils and affect heat exchange, leading to impaired cooling. You should also prevent evaporator coil damage, for example, by limiting chemical exposure (such as cleaning chemicals) that can corrode the coils and cause a refrigerant leak.

3. Condenser

The condenser helps the refrigerant lose its heat. That way, the refrigerant can recirculate back into the house for further cooling. Just like the evaporator, the condenser also has a coil to facilitate heat exchange. The hot refrigerant flows through the coil as the air moves over it and absorbs the heat.

Location

The condenser sits in the outside AC unit. The outside AC unit is usually to the side or rear of the house. The location allows the condenser to dispose of your house into the atmosphere.

Care

Like the evaporator, the condenser needs to be clean to facilitate its main function - heat exchange. Gentle cleaning of the condenser is necessary since rough cleaning might damage its delicate fins.

Similarly, physical damage to the condenser coil can leak refrigerant and impair heat exchange. Flying debris and chemical exposure can cause such damage, so you should avoid them.

4. Compressor

The refrigerant leaves the evaporator coil as a vapor. The vapor then enters the compressor, which pressurizes and raises its temperature. The pressure and temperature increase are necessary to create a pressure difference between the compressor and evaporator refrigerant. The pressure difference facilitates refrigerant flow since fluids flow from high-pressure to low-pressure regions.

Location

Like the condenser, the compressor also sits in the outside AC unit.

Care
The compressor is one of the most critical parts of the AC. Use these tips to care for it:

Keep the compressor clean.
Ensure the refrigerant pressure is always adequate (that is, avoid refrigerant leakage and fix leaks as soon as they occur).
Ensure the outside AC unit has adequate clearance for airflow.

Your HVAC technician will inspect the compressor during regular maintenance.

Henry's Service All has been in the heating and cooling industry for years. Contact us for all your HVAC needs and benefit from our professionalism and experience.

AC Problems That Cause High Utility Bills

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 03:50:26 GMT

An air conditioner is among the most valuable appliances for Texas homeowners, especially during the hot and humid summers. Although your utility bills increase during summer due to continual AC use, a drastic increase for no reason signifies something is wrong. Learn why your utility bills may have skyrocketed if your AC has become too expensive to operate.

Leaky Ducts

Your ducts distribute cooled air throughout your home. When they leak, most of the cooled air escapes before it can get to your entire home. In fact, leaks and holes in the duct system account for 20-30 percent of cooled air loss. Consequently, your AC works harder and longer to attain the desired temperature.

When you notice high utility bills together with uneven cooling in your home, high dust levels, and recurrent AC repairs, contact an HVAC professional to check and fix duct leaks. Keep in mind that ducts located in the crawl space or attic have a high probability of leaks.

Poor Workmanship

A common reason for high AC costs is poor installation. For instance, your contractor may have installed an AC that's the wrong size for your house. A small AC may strain and use more energy to cool your home. On the other hand, an oversized AC is too powerful and short cycles, resulting in more energy consumption. In both scenarios, your energy bills skyrocket, and your unit wears out faster.

An Outdated AC

An old AC is costly in two ways; it spikes your utility bills and may require recurrent and expensive repairs. Typically, old ACs have lower SEER ratings - below 10 , which means they use more energy to cool your home. Also, after years of use, ACs tend to decrease in efficiency and increase energy consumption.

Opting for a new and modern AC with a high SEER rating can significantly reduce energy bills. Also, you enjoy a longer unit lifespan, increased indoor comfort, and numerous innovative features such as smart connectivity, zoning, and a programmable thermostat.

Dirty Filters

After continual use, your AC's filters become clogged with dirt that restricts normal airflow. Subsequently, your unit takes longer to cool your home and achieve the set temperature, leading to increased energy use.

Depending on the manufacturer's recommendation, change or clean your filters as needed. While some AC's require changing the filter monthly, others require filter replacement every three months. According to Energy.gov, replacing a dirty filter can reduce AC energy consumption by 5-15 percent, resulting in lower energy bills.

Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat is your AC's brain and determines when the unit turns on, how long it runs, and the temperature to which it should cool your home. When the thermostat is faulty, it does not communicate these instructions to your AC. As a result, the AC may not get the right cues on when to turn on or off, which can cause bills to skyrocket. Luckily, repairing or replacing a faulty thermostat restores its function while saving you money.

Leaking Refrigerant

Among the most common AC problems is a leaking refrigerant. Apart from increasing energy bills, a refrigerant leak causes poor airflow, and your AC fails to generate cool air. Also, the unit runs longer cycles to attain the desired temperature.

A refrigerant-related issue should never be a DIY task. A trained HVAC professional should handle it for safety purposes and to prevent damage. In case of a refrigerant leak, the professional first fixes the leak before they recharge the refrigerant.

Ignoring Maintenance

Scheduling regular maintenance goes a long way in preserving your unit's functionality while reducing utility bills. An AC technician examines your unit to detect any problems and ensure optimal performance. They may recommend that you seal your ducts, change the filter, or install a programmable thermostat to increase AC efficiency and prevent breakdown.

If your AC bills have skyrocketed for no apparent reason, contact Henry's Service All . We can do an AC checkup to identify the issue and solve it. We also install new energy-efficient ACs to enhance your savings further.

4 Reasons to Install a Variable Speed HVAC Blower

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 14:09:00 GMT

Advances in HVAC technology continue to make our daily lives more comfortable and convenient. If your home still uses a traditional on-off blower motor, you are missing out on the benefits of a newer variable speed blower. Here are four reasons you should consider installing an HVAC system with a variable speed blower.

1. Improved Air Quality

Still air is the bane of indoor air quality. Even if your HVAC system features a whole-house air purifier, it can only clean the air while it's moving through your home. Variable speed blowers allow air purifiers to work constantly because they circulate air at all times. When heating or cooling demand is low, variable speed blowers run at a slow speed to save energy and reduce noise.

Another common whole-house air quality device is a humidifier. Like air purifiers, humidifiers only work while air is moving through them. Variable speed blowers allow humidifiers to run continuously so that your air isn't dry and stale when your HVAC system isn't running. Humidifiers and air purifiers also work more effectively on air that moves through them slowly.

2. Enhanced Comfort

Since traditional HVAC blowers are limited to running at full speed or not at all, there are limits to the level of comfort they can create. An on-off style blower will cycle frequently and introduce a significant temperature differential each time it starts up. These factors lead to poor air mixing and may cause hot and cold spots in certain rooms.

Variable speed blowers have much more precise control over the air mixture in your home. A good air mixture creates a more consistent temperature in your home and allows you to be comfortable in every room. With more even temperatures, better air filtration, and enhanced humidity control, variable speed blowers improve every aspect of indoor air quality.

3. Greater Energy Efficiency

As you might imagine, an HVAC blower that runs at lower speeds will use less energy than one that can only run at full capacity. Traditional blowers also cycle on and off much more frequently than variable-speed blowers. These factors combine to make the energy use of an on-off blower much higher than should be necessary to heat and cool your home.

A variable-speed blower can help you save on energy costs by changing your usage habits. A more consistent air temperature means you're less likely to adjust the thermostat to stay comfortable. Even a difference of a few degrees can cause a noticeable difference in your energy bill.

4. Longer HVAC System Life

Energy savings are an immediate benefit of a variable speed blower motor, but these systems are also a more valuable investment than those with conventional blowers. Variable speed blowers are rarely pushed to running at full speed, so they take longer to build up wear and tear. As a result, you are likely to get more years of service out of a variable speed blower compared to a conventional system.

Another thing to consider is that a new HVAC air handler with a variable speed blower will come with a warranty. If your current system is out of warranty, upgrading to a variable speed system with a strong manufacturer warranty will give you peace of mind that you're covered if repairs are needed.

Variable speed blowers are just one example of the ways that modern HVAC systems have improved over the years and provide convenience to our lives. If you're ready to take advantage of variable speed blowers and other advanced features, call Henry's Service All . Our friendly and experienced team can find the perfect HVAC system for your home!

Understand What the HVAC Technician Says: AC Terms to Learn

Mon, 10 May 2021 12:40:30 GMT

How much do you know about your home's AC system? Whether this is your first home or your first air conditioner, or you just want to know more about how your cooling system works, take a look at what AC knowledge and terms you should learn.

What Are the Basic Components of a Central AC System?

The more you know about your AC system, the easier communicating with the HVAC technician will be when a problem arises. Before you can understand how your air conditioner works, you need to know more about the basic components. This means learning the technical terminology or names of the primary parts.

While dozens of individual pieces are part of your home's central AC system, the main components homeowners should know are the:

Compressor . The compressor pressurizes (or compresses, as the name implies) the refrigerant. This gets it ready for the next step in the cooling process. This part of the system is outside of the home.
Condenser coil . In the compressor unit, the condenser coil changes hot refrigerant (in a gas form) into a cooler liquid. After leaving the condenser coil, the liquid refrigerant moves on to the expansion valve (to further cool the liquid) and to the evaporator.
Evaporator . The evaporator is inside of your house, near the main central unit. The evaporator coil carries cooled refrigerant into your home. This allows it to absorb heat from your home and continue the cooling process.
Air handler and blower . The air handler and blower help the system to pull in warm air from the interior space and push out cool air.

Along with these primary parts, your AC system also includes ducts, vents, and a thermostat.

How Do Home Cooling Systems Work?

Now that you know the basic components of the AC system, you have a better understanding of how home cooling works.

Even though knowledge of parts terminology gives you a general idea of how home cooling works, what else do you need to know? To better understand the HVAC technician's diagnosis of a failing system or their inspection report, you may want to learn more about the specifics of home cooling. These include the:

Refrigerant . The compressor, condenser, and evaporator all change refrigerant. But what is this substance? Refrigerant is a chemical compound that can change from liquid to gas states and back again. It can absorb and release heat, cooling your home. Without refrigerant, your AC system will not work.
Air ducts and vents . How does the air the main indoor and outdoor parts of the system cool get into your home's spaces? The air handler and blower draw air in and force it out. But that is not where the cooling ends. The ducts carry cooled air around your house, and the vents allow it to enter each room.
Thermostat . Is it too warm inside? The compressor, condenser, and refrigerant do not know that you are uncomfortable. This means you need to change the temperature somehow. A thermostat allows you to control the interior air temperature, raising or lowering it to fit your needs.

A few different thermostat options are available. Older homes or systems may have a manual thermostat you set and change as needed. A programmable thermostat allows you to change the settings for different times of the day once. A smart thermostat works like a programmable thermostat - but lets you monitor or change the temperature remotely from an app on your phone.

Does your AC system need an upgrade, repair, or overhaul? Contact Henry's Service All for more information. We look forward to helping with all your cooling needs.

A Homeowner's Guide to Whole-House Air Purifier Options

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 18:42:57 GMT

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans spend an average of 90 percent of their time indoors where the level of some air pollutants can be a much as 2 to 5 times higher than outdoors. For this reason, all homeowners should consider installation of whole-house air purifier systems.

These systems remove more pollutants from home air than traditional HVAC filters can, and some even kill potentially deadly viruses and bacteria that can linger in the air.

Read on to learn about your whole-house air purifier options and the benefits of each of these devices.

Extended Media Filter

An extended media HVAC filter is a great option if you want an affordable air purifier that will remove more contaminants from your home air than a traditional 1-inch HVAC air filter can. While extended media filters vary in width, most are about 8-inches thick and housed in metal cabinets. This filter is typically placed inside of the return air duct of an HVAC system where air can flow through it before it circulates back into your home.

The average extended media filter traps more contaminants than a standard filter can. However, be sure to choose a filter with a high Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating to ensure your new filter removes as many contaminant particles from your home air as possible. Filters with higher MERV ratings can trap much smaller contaminant particles than those with lower MERV ratings.

For example, while a filter with a MERV rating of 1 to 4 will remove dust mites, pollen spores, and sanding dust from the air, a filter with a MERV rating of 13 to 16 can remove bacteria, smoke particles, and even tiny lead particles from your home air.

While standard HVAC filters must be changed at least every few months (due to weather in Texas, it is recommended to change every month every month) , extended media filters often stay in good shape for as long as one to two years before needing replacement (due to weather in Texas, it is recommended to change every six months)

Electronic Filters

Electronic filters, also called electrostatic precipitators, are additional affordable whole-house air purifier options.

Instead of simply filtering contaminant particles from the air with a regular filter, these filters use an electric wire to charge airborne contaminants passing through the filters. The electrically charged particles then cling to special aluminum contaminant collector plates where they remain until they are removed from these plates during regular cleaning sessions.

These filters can remove about 60 to 95 percent of all small particles from the air flowing through them, although their efficiency decreases as collection plates become covered in particles.

Electronic filters are known to remove even very small particles from the air that are will not cling to most media filter surfaces. However, these filters do have trouble removing some airborne contaminants that do not hold an electrical charge well.

Ion Generatorsv

Ion generators, or ionizers, are similar to electronic filters. However, instead of charging just contaminant particles, these air purifiers use electrically charged carbon fiber brushes to charge the air molecules surrounding these particles. These charged air molecules then release negative ions that attach to airborne contaminants and remove them from the air.

Like electronic filters, ionizers often remove tiny particles that are difficult to remove with traditional filters.

Ultraviolet Filters

Ultraviolet filters, also called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) air cleaners, do not remove all airborne contaminants from the air, but instead kill only airborne bacteria, viruses, fungal spores, and other microorganisms. These filters contain special lamps that project germ-killing UV rays at the microorganisms flowing through them to kill them.

Ultraviolet air cleaners are commonly used in hospitals to help keep the air in the building as germ-free as possible. However, UVGI air cleaner effectiveness can vary greatly based on air cleaner design and how long microorganisms are exposed to the UV lights in the air cleaner units. A unit with a longer UV-light exposure time kills more germs than one with a shorter exposure time.

While typical HVAC air filters help keep dust particles out of an HVAC system to help maintain its efficiency, whole-home air purifiers remove more contaminants from home air to make it healthier for your family to breathe. Contact the HVAC experts at Henry's Service All to discuss whole-house air purifier installation today.

Bathroom Renovation? Why You Need to Invest in an HVAC System

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 17:00:27 GMT

Are you ready to renovate your home's master bath? While a spa-like tub and frameless shower enclosure may top your list of Reno must-haves, these aren't the only things to consider. Before your bathroom remodel gets underway, take a look at what you need to know about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (or HVAC) issues.

Do You Need Heat in a Bathroom?

A steamy shower heats up a master bath. Does this mean you don't need HVAC ducts leading into this space? Even though a hot shower will provide temporary warmth, it won't heat the bathroom 24-7. An unheated bathroom is less than desirable for several reasons, including:

The pipes could freeze . Without adequate insulation and heat, pipes can freeze in the chilly winter or early-spring weather. Whether you have a central system or a ductless option, a heated bathroom can stop a potential plumbing problem before it starts—especially if your pipes are on/near an exterior wall.
You want added comfort . Do you want to step out of a steaming hot bathtub and into a cold bathroom space? A permanent heat source adds comfort to your remodeled master bath.
You use the space for more than a shower . Even though the shower might keep the master bath steamy, your renovation project may only include a tub—or you may use the room for other activities. Whether you have a shower or not, a heat source keeps the room warm for every type of use.
Resale options . Is your renovation part of the sales process? If you plan to sell your home, potential buyers may not want to invest in a property with a chilly master bath.

If the bathroom doesn't already have ducts, you have heating options. Talk to an HVAC specialist about the ways to add ductwork as part of the renovation or a ductless heating system.

Do You Need Air Conditioning in a Bathroom?

Like heat, cooling is part of interior home comfort. If your bathroom doesn't have ducts/vents or any other type of cooling system, you may need to add this option before starting the other renovations.

Why do you need an air conditioning source in a bathroom? Even though you won't spend the bulk of your day in this space, AC can help to:

Reduce humidity levels . An air conditioner does more than just cool your home. This interior home comfort system also helps to reduce humidity levels. This AC function is important in all areas of the home—especially humidity-prone spaces, such as the bathroom.
Ventilate the space . The fan in your bathroom can ventilate the area. But it's not the only way to increase the airflow. Properly installed HVAC ductwork can increase the overall ventilation of the bathroom space.
Control comfort . While heat is crucial in the colder months, you'll want a way to cool down the bathroom in the summer. Your hot hairdryer, a steamy shower, or a warm day can all add unnecessary heat to this room.

Should you consider central cooling if you don't already have ductwork or a main unit? Again, you have options. The HVAC contractor can do more than install new ducts for heating. The ducts that carry warm air to the bathroom can also bring cold air there in the summer. If you want to both heat and cool the room, consider a new central system with duct additions. But if you don't want to invest in new ductwork, talk to the contractor about a ductless mini-split air conditioner.

Do you want to plan a new heating, ventilation, or air conditioning system for your bathroom renovation project? Contact Henry's Service All for more information.

4 Key Benefits of Preventive HVAC Maintenance

Sat, 30 Jan 2021 15:24:15 GMT

For a healthy and comfortable home, you need a functional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The appliance maintains optimal temperatures and improves the quality of indoor air. For the HVAC unit to work optimally, preventive maintenance is essential.

Professional HVAC maintenance offers the exceptional benefits highlighted in this post.

1. Reduce the Utility Bill

Poor maintenance of an HVAC unit reduces its efficiency. Heating and cooling make up one of the largest percentages of your home's electricity consumption. An inefficient HVAC unit increases energy consumption and raises your utility bill.

Preventive maintenance identifies faulty parts for repairs or replacement. When all components of the HVAC systems are in good shape, the unit consumes less energy. The improved energy efficiency translates to lower energy consumption and increased cost savings.

2. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air pollutants such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, radon gas, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), lead, and secondhand smoke pose a big risk to your family's health. One of the major functions of an HVAC system is to remove such pollutants from the air to protect your family. The unit also regulates humidity levels in the house and reduces odors.

A poorly maintained HVAC system blows lower levels of clean air into the house and doesn't remove the pollutants. Preventive maintenance from a heating and AC professional remedies the situation through diagnostic tests and repairs.

Some problems that affect the rate of airflow include dirty filters, mechanical wear and tear, duct leaks, blocked vents, and other issues. When your unit is not in perfect shape, your indoor space suffers from high humidity levels, odors, and pollutants. All these are safety hazards that cause health complications and discomfort.

An HVAC expert can recommend repairs or replacement for the affected parts to improve indoor air quality. Your family enjoys a more comfortable living space devoid of odors and air pollutants.

3. Reduce HVAC Breakdowns

Regular HVAC breakdowns inconvenience property users and make the indoor space uncomfortable. The home appliance works throughout the year and with age, some parts might fail because of wear and tear.

Preventive maintenance identifies any issues before they emerge, and this prevents regular breakdowns. Your family can enjoy more comfort in the house and you also save on repair costs. Your HVAC technician writes a report of parts that are likely to fail and recommends repairs or replacement. Such thorough maintenance guarantees the system is always in tip-top shape.

4. Extend Your HVAC's Lifespan

An HVAC unit is a major investment in your house, and preventive maintenance protects this asset. The average cost of replacement for this unit ranges between $5,000 and $10,000 but can go higher depending on the brand you choose. Preventive maintenance can extend the life of your unit as the HVAC contractor troubleshoots and identifies any problems early. Early detection of HVAC issues allows for effective repairs to prevent further damage.

A heating and AC professional identifies common HVAC issues such as thermostat malfunction, ignition problems, evaporator coil problems, leaks, heat pump issues, and unusual noises. The professional has the expertise and tools to carry out comprehensive tests before repairs. If the system needs replacement parts, your contractor can recommend the best brand.

If you want the best service from your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, have it serviced twice a year. Preventive maintenance of the unit boosts its energy efficiency, extends its life, and lowers the cost of repairs. You enjoy more peace of mind when you know your home is safe and the HVAC unit is in perfect shape.

If you need any HVAC services in Irving, TX, and the larger Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) area, contact our team at Henry's Service All for a free estimate. We are the premier heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical contractors around here since 1978, and our experience helps us deliver exceptional services.

4 Easy Ways to Avoid Fried Electronics and Appliances

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 18:25:12 GMT

Many Americans are in love with electrical devices, gadgets, and appliances because they're handy and convenient. In fact, our desire for electrical power has increased dramatically since 1978 , from only 17 percent of our total home power use to over 30 percent.

This increase demonstrates our reliance on electric appliances as well as our need to protect them from surges in power. If you want to protect your devices, look at these four easy ways to avoid fried electronics and appliances.

1. Invest in Multiple Power Strip Surge Protectors

Those power strips with a row of outlets are more than just glorified power adaptors. Make sure your power strips are equipped with a surge protector to protect whatever is plugged in. Check on the box for a rating in Joules of energy and how many voltages it can withstand. That power strip is not a surge protector if this vital information is missing.

That living room corner with great power needs from a TV, DVD player, floor lamp, and phone charging station needs a power strip with surge suppression to accommodate several plugs. So too do other areas of your home.

Use a strip at your home office for your computer, printer, and charging stations. You can even find models designed for a nightstand or other small tables for your phone charger, CPAP machine, and reading light.

2. Use Single-Use Surge Protectors for Large Appliances

Much like power strip surge protectors, single-use models protect appliances and electronics from power spikes and fluctuations. However, they are smaller and more convenient to dedicate for large, expensive appliances.

Modern dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators are in greater need than ever of protection from power surges. Newer models are WiFi-equipped and contain delicate electronic circuity. Fortunately, you can avoid a fried control board during an electrical event when you plug each appliance into its own single-use surge protector.

3. Upgrade to a Whole-House Surge Protector

A whole-house surge protector is the workhorse of home surge protection, capable of stopping a minimum of 40,000 amps of voltage. Installed right at the electrical service panel, these surge protectors can halt surges from fluctuations caused by:

Nearby downed power lines
Extremely high and sudden power use at nearby factories
Normal on and off cycling of large electronics in your home

A whole-house protector can protect all things electrical under your roof that power strips cannot cover, like expensive LED light fixtures or your HVAC unit.

Not every homeowner is aware of this surge protection option. Fortunately, most electricians can install this unit in your home as a first line of defense against power fluctuations.

4. Replace an Old Breaker Panel

If your older home still has original electrical components, chances are the breaker panel needs to be replaced with a newer, more modern counterpart. Not only does a new panel provide extra space to add additional circuits, but it's a lot safer.

Older panels might not be capable of routing your home's electrical supply to all the outlets. Also, greater electrical demands mean that old panel simply cannot keep up. You might notice events like:

Flickering lights
Overheated appliances
Burning smells or melted wires

These signs typically mean circuits are overloaded and the risk for fire is real.

Now that you realize you can do more to protect your electronics and appliances from being fried, take steps to add the right surge protectors now. You need a professional to take care of changes like a whole house surge protector and an updated breaker panel. Contact the experts at Henry’s Service All to learn about more ways to protect your electronic investments.

3 Advantages of Radiant Floor Heating

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 21:50:53 GMT

If your current home furnace is reaching the end of its lifespan or you are building a new home, then you should consider all your home heating options before installing a new heating system. While forced-air heating systems are popular in the United States, radiant floor heating systems also have their unique advantages.

The most popular type of radiant floor heating system, hydronic radiant floors, works by heating up water in a boiler and then sending this water to radiant heating loops located inside a home's floors. This heat radiates up from the floors and into the air of the home.

Read on to learn about three advantages of radiant floor heating systems when compared to forced-air systems.

1. Consistent, Evenly Distributed Heat

Radiant floor heating systems tend to keep homes more consistently warm than forced-air systems.

A forced-air system blows warm air into the home until the air surrounding the thermostat reaches a desired temperature setting. The system then shuts off until the temperature in the room drops below this temperature and it starts up again.

On the contrary, a radiant floor heating system passes heat into the home's subfloor, and the floor holds onto this heat and continuously radiates it into the rooms of a home. This constant heating of the room eliminates the slight temperature fluctuation that occur with forced-air heating.

In addition, homes equipped with radiant floor heating tend to heat up more evenly than those heated with forced-air systems. The warm air blown into a home by a forced-air system quickly rises, often leaving the air just below the ceiling much warmer than the air in the rest of the room.

However, rooms with radiant floor heating maintain a more consistent temperature from ceiling to floor, which eliminates cool spots.

2. Energy Efficiency

There are three main types of radiant floor heating systems: air-heated, electric, and hydronic systems. While air-heated systems are not energy-efficient, and electric systems can be relatively energy-efficient if they are designed properly, hydronic systems rival forced-air heating systems in energy efficiency for several reasons.

First, forced-air heating systems are prone to heat loss that occurs before heated air reaches the rooms of your homes. Heat loss occurs when ducts are not properly insulated, allowing them to heat up and pass this heat into the air surrounding them. Warm air can also leak out of any holes or gaps present in the ducts.

Since hydronic radiant heating systems do not send heated air through ducts, all duct heat loss problems are eliminated. In addition, since radiant heating systems heat rooms more evenly, less energy goes to waste heating the air directly below the ceiling to a higher temperature than necessary to keep the air below it warm.

Finally, hydronic radiant heating system boilers can be powered with a variety of low-cost energy sources, such as natural gas, oil, and even solar energy.

3. Low Maintenance

While no home-heating system is maintenance-free, radiant floor heating systems require less maintenance than forced-air systems. You need to inspect and clean the furnaces that power forced-air systems annually and change their filters as often as every month.

However, the boiler that powers a radiant floor heating system has no filter to change, so they need only an annual inspection and tune-up.

In addition, since radiant heating systems are not attached to ducts, no inspection of home heating ducts to locate leaks or damage is ever necessary when you rely on this heating system type.

If you plan to replace the heating system in your home or add a heating system to a home you are building, then consider these advantages to radiant floor heating systems before you choose your new heating system type. Contact the HVAC experts at Henry's Service All for all your residential heating system needs today.

Habits That Affect the Supply Side of YourPlumbing System

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 19:52:11 GMT

You may have heard that your water use habits, and sometimes even your use of seemingly unrelated systems, can affect your plumbing drains. But did you know that these types of habits can affect the supply side of your plumbing system as well?

Here are a few ways that your habits and how you use your home systems can affect the plumbing system on the supply side.

Following Bad Heating Use Habits

If you regularly turn your home's heating system off while you're at work every day, you may leave your plumbing pipes more susceptible to freezing in the winter. As you can imagine, this can cause all kinds of damage to both the plumbing system and your home.

You may have heard you can simply leave the faucet dripping to avoid burst pipes. However, this trick won't avoid a burst pipe unless you leave the hot water dripping as well as the cold water; hot water pipes are more likely to burst when they freeze. According to experts, the hot water lines account for around 70 percent of burst pipes.

Keeping the Water Pressure too High

High water pressure can affect your supply lines by causing a phenomenon called water hammer. Typically, the first symptom of water hammer is an annoying banging sound. However, water hammer isn't just an annoyance. If it is severe and unchecked, water hammer can damage pipes by rattling them loose and banging them against things.

If your water pressure is high enough to cause water hammer, have your plumber install a pressure regulator. If you like having high water pressure, you can compensate for the lowered overall pressure with a high-pressure showerhead and kitchen sprayer so you can still get that good cleaning power.

Overly high water pressure can also be detrimental to parts of your plumbing supply system such as your water heater.

Overusing the Hot Water Heater

Whether you bought a too-small water heater, added to your house without increasing the water heater size, or simply have very high hot-water needs, your water heater may be affected. For example, your hot water tank could wear out faster due to overuse if you frequently overtax its abilities.

The more often the tank empties of hot water and refills with cold water, the more often it has to work to heat up water, and the more often it has to expand and contract due to temperature changes. So check your hot water use habits against your tank size, and consider getting a larger heater (or a supplemental one) if necessary.

Avoiding Water Treatment

If your home has hard water, the minerals in the water can start to build up in supply lines over time. If you have a habit of neglecting to treat hard water, or even if you simply don't know that your water is hard, your water lines could start to suffer. The buildup can cause narrowing of the lines, which can lead to lowered water pressure.

A whole-house water softener can protect the lines from these issues. If you choose to only treat your drinking water where it comes out of the faucet, your supply lines will still lack protection and may eventually become constricted due to excessive buildup.

Not Following Good Maintenance Habits

Finally, don't forget that your maintenance habits can have an impact on every part of your plumbing system, including the supply lines. For the best results, find a reliable service provider, and then schedule regular maintenance service for your water heater, appliances, and plumbing system.

If you're still in the market for a plumbing contractor, give Henry's Service All a call for honest, expert care of all the elements of your plumbing system.

Beyond Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations: Can an HVAC Upgrade Add Value to Your Home?

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 22:51:02 GMT

How can an HVAC upgrade increase your home's value? While you might think of kitchen remodels, additions, and similar projects as the mainstay of value-adding options, take a look at what you need to know about heating, cooling, and home improvement.

Do Only Kitchens and Bathroom Upgrades Sell Homes?

If only kitchens and bathrooms sell houses, what about the HVAC system? Are you ready to sell your home and want to boost its value? According to Remodeling's 2019 Cost vs. Value Report, a major kitchen remodel can add over $41,000 in value to your home and a bath renovation can add $20,868. Where does an HVAC replacement fall in this investment range?

The National Association of Realtors ranked the percentage of value recovered from the overall costs of top home remodeling projects. Even though kitchens and bathrooms can add significant value to your home, these upgrades have a 67 (kitchen upgrade), 58 (bathroom renovation), 52 (new bathroom) percent recoup value. In comparison, a full HVAC replacement has a 71 percent project cost recoup value.

A new HVAC system may not get you tens of thousands of additional sales dollars. But this upgrade can bring in more money than other home projects when compared to the initial investment cost. This means kitchens and bathrooms are not always the improvements to consider if you want to sell your home — or you want to sell your home for a higher price.

What Heating and Cooling Upgrades Can Increase Your Home's Value?

Now that you have reviewed the home improvement potential cost recoup and are ready to upgrade the HVAC system, take the next step. The best way to increase your home's value is with a full system replacement. Not only does this give the next owner a fresh start, but a new heating and cooling system can save them money over time.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a new high-efficiency cooling system uses 20 to 50 percent less energy than an older model. Likewise, a new furnace, boiler, or other type of heater can also decrease the amount of energy used. These types of energy reductions also decrease electricity, natural gas, or other HVAC-related costs.

Even though a full replacement may maximize your home's value, this is not the only upgrade to consider. If you do not have the home improvement budget to replace the entire system, you can make smaller investments.

A programmable thermostat can save the homeowner 10 percent annually, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This upgrade is a lower cost option that may appeal to a home buyer's eco, energy, and financial needs. Add to the HVAC appeal and consider a smart thermostat. This integrated option offers a tech-savvy way to save money and control the system.

Other less costly (in comparison to a full replacement) HVAC options include filter upgrades, air filtration add-ons, a whole-home humidifier or de-humidifier, duct repairs, and an eco-friendly AC refrigerant retrofit.

Who Should Upgrade Your Home's HVAC System?

Whether you want to replace the entire system or make smaller value-adding improvements, these projects are all jobs for a professional. Failure to correctly install any component of the HVAC system could lead to a safety hazard, inefficiency, or premature wear. Add the most value to your home and choose a licensed, qualified HVAC contractor for the job.

Beyond the quality of the job, a DIY HVAC installation may invalidate a warranty. This can reduce the expected added value of the project.

Do you want to boost your home's value with an HVAC upgrade? Contact Henry's Service All today for more information.

Does Your Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner Need a Replacement?

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 20:15:18 GMT

Does your mini split ductless air conditioner need professional help? With the summer in full-swing, cooling loss could leave your home without the interior comfort you expect. Take a look at the top signs your ductless system is ready for a repair or a replacement.

Is Your Home Warm?
Warm spots can point to an AC issue in any type of system. But if you have a ductless air conditioner, this potential problem may take some sleuthing. Unlike central air conditioners, ductless systems cool the interior space in zones. This means one warm room doesn't necessarily signal AC failure.

Before you assume the air conditioner requires a repair:

Check each cooled room. Only assess the rooms with air handlers. Rooms without air handlers will naturally feel warmer.
Compare rooms versus the whole home. One warm room may indicate an air handler issue. But consistent warmth across your home is likely a system failure or a refrigerant leak.
Look for an electrical issue. While you should leave the serious electrical investigation to a professional, you can make sure the system didn't trip a breaker or blow a fuse. Without electricity, your mini split system won't cool your home.

Unlike central air conditioners, clogged, leaky, or damaged ducts won't pose a problem for mini split systems. This eliminates one possible repair issue — but does leave other potential problems. Whether your whole home feels warm or one room seems hotter than normal, you need a professional to assess and repair the unit.

Is Your Air Conditioner Noisy?
Some noise is normal for any type of air conditioner. Window units and central AC systems are typically noisier than ductless models. A mini split air conditioner that sounds like a window or central model may have an operational issue.

If your ductless mini split air conditioner is loud:

Compare the sounds to its previous noise level. If you have a new system, it may have unexpected noises. Even though a ductless system is typically quiet (in comparison to other air conditioners), it isn't completely silent.
Inspect the air handlers for mounting issues. Is the air handler properly mounted on the wall? A loose mount could cause noise.
Call a professional. If there isn't an obvious issue, contact an HVAC technician. The technician will listen to the noise, inspect the air handlers (and the rest of the system), and recommend a repair.

Never attempt to fix a poorly mounted or damaged air handler yourself. Failure to properly correct the issue could result in additional problems.

Do You Have Suddenly High Energy Bills?
A sudden spike in electricity bills could indicate an AC issue that requires a repair or replacement. Without ducts, your mini split system won't suffer costly air leaks. Along with the money you'll save on duct-related cooling loss, the zoned structure of this system allows you to only cool some areas of your home. This means you won't pay to cool unused rooms or areas. But it doesn't mean you won't have electricity costs.

You may not know how much you'll pay monthly to cool your home with a new system. Discuss the average costs with the contractor before installation. This can give you a general idea of what to expect. If your electrical bills are high, consider:

The size. Bigger isn't always better. An oversized unit (for the space) could force the air conditioner to work harder. This can result in high energy bills.
The placement. Incorrect air handle placement can also result in increased electricity costs.
The cooling. How long does it take to cool your home? Long cooling times will increase energy costs.

Size, installation, and time issues are all problems a qualified professional should evaluate. If another contractor failed to install the air handlers in your home correctly, you need to find a new AC company to correct the issue.

Do you need a mini split AC repair? Contact Henry's Service All for more information.

A Guide to Indoor Humidity

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 13:51:04 GMT

The humidity level of your home's air is one of the most important factors in keeping your home comfortable. The ideal indoor humidity level is between 30 and 50 percent , but problems with your HVAC system or certain environmental conditions can leave your home's humidity too high or too low. This guide will cover the problems caused by incorrect indoor humidity and what you can do to fix it.

Signs of High Indoor Humidity

High indoor humidity is a more common problem in the summer months when heat causes a greater amount of moisture to evaporate and hang in the air. High humidity leaves your home feeling stuffy and warmer than it should, and you may notice that the air feels "sticky" on your skin. In addition to uncomfortable air, there are several characteristic signs that your home's humidity is too high.

One of the easiest symptoms of high humidity to spot is an unusual amount of condensation on your windows. Window glass typically stays cooler than other surfaces in your home. This temperature difference makes your windows an easy place for condensation to develop due to moisture in the air. You may also see water stains around your windows as water pools at the bottom and drips onto your walls.

Mold growth is another risk to keep in mind if your home's humidity is too high. Mold thrives in moist, dark places, so condensation occurring inside your ductwork, in your attic, and behind your walls can easily promote mold growth. A lingering musty odor could mean that mold is flourishing somewhere in your home even if you aren't able to see it.

Signs of Low Indoor Humidity

Aside from making your air uncomfortable, the symptoms of high humidity mostly affect the surfaces in your home. Low humidity, on the other hand, is more likely to cause health effects in yourself and other members of your family.

Dry air is prone to drawing moisture out of anything that it touches, including people. Dry, irritated eyes are one telltale sign of low humidity caused by evaporation of the tear film on the surface of the eyes. Dry, itchy, and cracked skin is another potential side effect, and it is so common during the winter months when the air is dry that the term "winter eczema" is often used to describe it.

The most significant risk of low humidity is the effect it can have on the respiratory system. Dry, cool air will dry out the sinuses, increasing the occurrence of nasal congestion and making infection from airborne pathogens much easier. Viruses and bacteria are also able to survive for longer in less humid air, further increasing the risk of respiratory illness.

How to Correct Your Home's Humidity Level

Modern HVAC systems are very good at managing indoor humidity. If your home has a whole-house dehumidifier installed, you will rarely have to worry about your indoor air becoming too humid. Running your air conditioner in the summer will remove heat and moisture from the air as well. However, sometimes taking a few extra steps to manage humidity can greatly improve your comfort.

If your indoor humidity is too low, the easiest way to solve the problem is to place portable humidifiers in your most-used rooms. Tasks as simple as boiling water, leaving the door open when you shower, and opening your dishwasher door to air-dry your dishes can increase humidity as well.

To reduce indoor humidity, consider moving houseplants outside, ensure your bathroom and clothes dryer are properly ventilated, and run your ceiling fans to circulate moisture. You can also purchase portable dehumidifiers or hire an HVAC technician to install a whole-house dehumidifier.

Humidity is an essential aspect of indoor comfort that many homeowners overlook. If you are having humidity problems in your home, call Henry's Service All so our experienced technicians can help you!

Possible Causes of Flickering Lights

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 18:15:22 GMT

A flickering light in your house can be a minor electrical issue or a dangerous malfunction, and you won't know how serious the problem is without a diagnosis. Below are some of the common reasons lights sometimes flicker.

Loose Connections

A good electrical connection maximizes contact between two electrical conductors. A loosening of the connection reduces the area in contact. The reduced contact increases electrical resistance, which means reduced current flow. Here are some of the connections that usually loosen and make lights flicker:

The connection between the bulb and its socket
The connection between the plug and its socket (for a plugged-in lamp, such as a desk lamp)
The connection between circuit wires and the light switch
The connection between the supply lines and the electrical panel
Connections outside the home (for example, if a storm downs the power line)

In case the problem is in a single circuit, then only the affected light will flicker. Problems at the panel or outside the home can affect all the lights in the house.

Faulty Switch

A light switch consists of an electrical contact that opens to cut off electrical current or closes to allow electricity to flow. The contact won't open or close like normal if it sticks, bends, or experiences damage. If that happens, the electrical current that passes through the switch will reduce, and the light will flicker. In this case, only the light that the switch controls will flicker.

Faulty Panel

The electricity that powers your house must pass through the main electrical panel. Thus, a malfunction at the panel can affect any part of your house, including the lights. For example, if water gets into the panel, it can cause a short circuit that might cause some of the bulbs to flicker.

Corrosion

Corrosion restricts the flow of electricity in two main ways. First, corrosion eats into metal and reduces its effective size — the size reduction translates to higher resistance (which means reduced current flow). Secondly, corrosion can insulate the surfaces of electrical contacts at connection points.

Water exposure, physical damage, and aging increase the risk of corrosion. The light switch, electrical panel, and light sockets are parts of the light circuit that are susceptible to corrosion. The corroded point determines which lights are affected.

Supply Fluctuation

A problem in the utility company can also cause lights to flicker in the house. For example, utility companies sometimes intentionally reduce electricity supply if the demand exceeds supply; this is called a brownout. Your lights might flicker if the brownout targets your area. The risk of flickering lights is even higher if you have multiple electrical appliances plugged in during the brownout.

Electrical Overload

Light bulbs require a certain amount of electricity to operate. The lights will flicker if they only get the required power intermittently. A circuit overload can reduce electricity flowing to the bulb, causing it to flicker. Here are some examples of electrical overloading:

A neighborhood-wide overload that occurs during peak demand when most of your neighbors have plugged in heavy loads.
An internal overload that occurs when you run a heavy electrical load, such as a dishwasher.
An internal overload that occurs if a malfunctioning appliance, such as a washing machine, draws more electricity than usual.

Occasional flickers that occur due to high electrical demand are normal. You should only worry if the flickers become common or don't go away with time.

As you can see, you should not ignore flickering lights in your house — the flicker might be a sign of deeper problems. Henry's Service All can diagnose and fix any electrical problem you might have. Talk to us about your electrical needs, and we will be glad to offer you professional solutions.

4 Ways to Successfully Maintain Your AC Unit

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 17:10:47 GMT

Generally, a central air conditioning unit lasts anywhere between 12 to 15 years . However, proper maintenance is often necessary to achieve this longevity. In some instances, you may even extend the lifespan of your system even longer than average. Discover four ways to successfully maintain your AC unit.

1. Change Your Filter Regularly

Your HVAC unit, especially your unit’s fan, must work harder to disperse air throughout your home when you have a dirty filter, especially with when it has clogged dirt. For this reason, you should change your filter on a regular schedule , usually every 30 to 90 days, depending on the type of filter you have as well as its minimum energy efficiency value (MERV).

Filters with a MERV rating of between 6 to 12 are most common in residential homes. Generally, you want to change a filter with a MERV of between 6 to 9 every 90 days. If the MERV of your filter is between 10 to 12, you will need to change it every 60 days. This is due to the higher efficiency trapping more debris.

Another way to plan when to change your filter is to use the general rule of 1” filters are changed once month and specialty filters such as Honeywell 4” and Aprilaire Expand-a-pack should be changed every 6 months. They are thicker and are able to work efficiently for a longer period of time.

If you have a reusable filter, you will need to clean it this frequently as well.

A pleated filter clogs more than a flat one due to the pleats adding additional surface area. You will also want to clean the filter more frequently if you have pets.

2. Use Your Fan's Auto Setting

Your central air conditioning uses a fan that works separately from the rest of your unit. Its purpose is to dispense the air throughout your home. On most units, you have the option to choose between either the auto or on settings.

You should leave the fan on auto at all times. When your fan is on auto, the fan only runs when your unit cools your home. The rest of the time, your fan does not run. On the other hand, if you leave the fan set to on, it continuously runs and does not shut off. The needless running makes your fan work harder than needed.

3. Schedule Seasonal Inspections

Generally, you need to schedule two maintenance appointments for your central air conditioning unit per year. Typically, you want to schedule your routine AC maintenance visit in the spring before you start running your air conditioning for the summer and your HEAT maintenance visit in the fall before you start running your heat for the winter.

During your appointment for your air conditioning, an HVAC specialist inspects your system on the AC side. The technician will evaluate your refrigerant levels. If your levels are low, you may have a leak in your system — an aspect of your system a specialist can repair.

Your routine visit also includes the tech checking your electrical components. Other parts of a routine maintenance call include the following:

Calibrate the thermostat
Clean condenser coils and evaporator
Wash condenser with water
Evaluate the condenser for problems

If you did not change your filter before the season, a service professional can insert a new one for you or clean yours.

4. Clean Around Your Air Condenser

Outside of your home, you have a unit known as your condenser. Inside the condenser is a compressor, and it has a fan and is responsible for converting warm air into cool air and then circulating it into your home.

Although your condenser has a design that allows it to withstand the elements, leaves and other debris may compile around the unit and possibly inside of it. While the technician is inspecting the unit, they will wash condenser with water to rid the debris, but throughout the season, if you notice any leaves on top of the unit, you will want to remove those as well.

Schedule an appointment for routine maintenance for your central air conditioning by contacting Henry's Service All, serving Irving, TX, and the nearby region, by calling us today .

Electrical Considerations for Your Kitchen Remodel Project

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 19:13:12 GMT

Many components go into a major kitchen remodel project. As you undertake the planning phase, some decisions you make will affect how your contractors wire your kitchen. Electrical work is very important to how your new kitchen will function. Below are some considerations to keep in mind.

Electrical Circuits

With some older homes, you have to upgrade your circuit system because the original plan obviously didn't take into account modern appliances. However, even in a newer home you may need added electrical circuits. Generally speaking, you need a minimum of seven circuits in the kitchen — typically one for each appliance with a motor.

The two biggest appliances in your kitchen that need their own circuits are the electric range and the refrigerator. In fact, an electric range requires its own range outlet with a 240-volt circuit and receptacle. The next appliance with big energy needs is the microwave. In some instances, you can wire a microwave and garbage disposal on the same circuit, but it's better to use two.

After those four circuits, you need one for the dishwasher and at least an additional two for small appliances. They don't need individual circuits on their own. Instead, the contractors will wire at least two near the countertop where you'll use them. List all of your small appliances before the remodel so you can request more circuits if necessary.

Kitchen Rewire

Another specialized consideration for older homes is the necessity to rewire your kitchen. As noted, older homes weren't wired for modern appliances, so their circuit breakers might not be set up to handle the load. You may even have a fuse box instead of a circuit breaker. The electricians may have to rewire your kitchen to make the electricity safe.

Electrical Outlets

A big factor for you is the location of the electrical outlets. Code requires an outlet at least every six feet, but four feet is better for the kitchen. Your first consideration will be where the big appliances will go. The electric range and refrigerator need special outlets that are only for their use.

Smaller appliances don't need their own outlets. However, small permanent appliances such as the dishwasher, garbage disposal, and even microwave can benefit from outlets at their bases.

Some outlets will require ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs. These types of outlets are required near water, so around kitchen and bathroom sinks, for instance. GFCIs monitor the flow of electricity and protect you from the risk of electrocution by detecting the current and cutting the power if necessary.

Finally, make a mental plan for where the small appliances will go. Many small appliances, such as food processors and can openers, don't have long cords because it's thought they'll be near a handy outlet. Imagine the best operational flow of your countertop in relation to these small appliances.

Lighting Plan

An essential aspect of any kitchen remodel job is a lighting plan, which naturally works within your electrical plan. The main light source will probably be an overhead fixture for general illumination. This typically goes right in the center of the room or above a kitchen island.

Modern kitchens feature task lighting, too. These fixtures are much smaller, but the electrical contractors have to wire for them, too. Task lights typically go above sinks and food preparation areas. You can have your entire countertop area wired for lighting or choose specific areas for food prep.

Most modern kitchens also favor LED lights over fluorescents, which are less efficient. A lighting plan will account for the move from fluorescents to LED lights, a change that will end up saving you money in the long run.

With your lighting plan goes switch placement for all the fixtures. Think about where you want to turn on the overhead light from. Likewise, do you want all your countertop lights to go on at the same time, or do you want them to be individualized?

Permits and Inspections

Very small electrical jobs don't require permits or inspections. However, electrical work for a major kitchen remodel will require both. The inspection will ensure the work was done to local codes. Reputable electricians will acquire the permits and call for the inspections when they're done. However, since they're working on your house, consider inquiring about both ahead of time.

Talk to your contractors about the best approach for your electrical plan. Henry's Service All can provide you with several aspects of your kitchen remodel project.

Are HVAC Inefficiencies Costing You Money?

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 22:11:38 GMT

You've worked hard to create a comfortable and inviting home for your family. A clean, efficient air conditioning system is a core part of creating that environment, especially during sweltering Texas summers. Even if your air conditioner is keeping you cool and comfortable, it can still be frustrating to know that you're wasting money on inefficiencies.

Unfortunately, homeowners often pay more for their utility bills than they need to without even realizing it. A variety of maintenance or repair issues can lead to your air conditioner working harder than it needs to, ultimately sapping money from your wallet. Below you will find four common inefficiencies that might drive your energy costs through the roof.

1. Inefficient Ductwork

If your home uses a traditional ducted system, then your ducts are one of the largest potential sources of inefficiencies. As air passes through your ductwork, leaks may allow conditioned air to escape into unconditioned sections of your home. Air that escapes into your attic or crawlspace wastes that energy that could instead cool the occupied portions of your home.

In addition to leaks, you may lose energy because of poor installation. Installers sometimes attempt to route flexible ductwork around sharp bends, which can result in an overall reduction in airflow. Reduced airflow forces your blower to work harder, wasting energy and putting more strain on wear components. Over time, this can even result in unnecessary repairs.

2. Old Air Filters

Are you sick of HVAC technicians telling you to change your air filter? It's standard advice and for a good reason. Just like bends and kinks in your flexible ductwork, a dirty air filter can impede the flow of air through your system. Depending on the location of your system's air filter, it can even cause your evaporator to freeze over by restricting airflow away from it.

While there is no shortage of filter replacement advice, the best thing you can do is to check it regularly. If your filter seems dirty, you should consider changing it. Otherwise, you can extend or shorten your replacement intervals based on its condition. Under typical circumstances, you can expect to get around three months use of a filter.

3. HVAC Envelope Problems

The walls, insulation, windows, and doors in your home work together to create an envelope that keeps cold air in and warm air out. While these elements make up your first line of defense against losses, they can also be a significant source of inefficiencies. Insufficient insulation or drafty doors or windows can all provide an avenue for conditioned air to escape into the outside world.

Unfortunately, these problems may continue to cost you money, no matter how often you change your filter or check your ducts. If you are concerned that your home may be leaking cooled air, then a home energy audit may be the best option. This service will help you to track down and address HVAC envelope problems.

4. Old, Inefficient Equipment

Dealing with the above issues won't do much to help if your AC equipment is the ultimate source of the problem. Outdated condenser units may have SEER ratings as low as 9 or 10, while some states now dictate SEER 14 as the minimum acceptable efficiency rating. The overall efficiency of your system may degrade as it ages, as well.

Upgrading your condenser unit can be expensive, but it is also a worthwhile improvement for older equipment. For example, upgrading a 3-ton 9 SEER unit to an equivalent 20 SEER unit can potentially cut your annual AC costs by a significant amount. These savings can easily offset the cost of the unit over its lifespan.

Whatever your efficiency problems are, Henry's Service All can give you a helping hand. We'll work with you to provide a customized plan of action to get your HVAC system running efficiently again. Give us a call to schedule an appointment today!

Do You Know These HVAC Terms?

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 19:20:43 GMT

When you speak with a heating, ventilation and air conditioning technician about your home's HVAC system, they might use some words and phrases that you're unfamiliar with. Here are some terms you might hear and what each one means.

Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency

An annual fuel utilization efficiency ratio, which is commonly abbreviated AFUE, offers a measurement of how efficient a furnace is. The ratio is expressed as a percentage, and it measures what percent of the energy that enters a furnace actually gets turned into heat.

For example, a furnace that has an AFUE of 85 percent turns 85 percent of the energy it consumes into heat for your house. The other 15 percent is lost due to inefficiencies in the furnace.

For new modern furnaces, the minimum standard AFUE is 78 percent  and many models have ratios that are much higher. High-efficiency furnaces offer AFUE ratios that range from 90 to 97 percent.

When you consider the efficiency of your home's current furnace, keep in mind that most types of furnaces become less efficient over time. Everything from minor dust issues to serious malfunctions can reduce efficiency as a furnace is used. Whatever issues are impacting your system, the system probably isn't as efficient as the day you bought it.

Because furnaces become less efficient with time, you may want to replace your older unit with a system that has a higher AFUE ratio. An HVAC technician can help you assess the condition and relative efficiency of your current furnace, and help you calculate how much less energy a new model with a better AFUE would use.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio

Instead of an AFUE, air conditioners have a seasonal energy efficiency ratio, which is commonly abbreviated SEER. The SEER of an air conditioner shows you how efficient the unit is, much like an AFUE does for a furnace, but SEER is calculated in a different way. To figure out the SEER of a particular air conditioner, follow these steps:

Divide the system’s output of British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour by the watts used per hour.
Multiply the BTUs per hour by 1,000 hours, which is approximately four months of cooling.
Multiple the watt-hours used by 1,000 hours as well.
Divide the number from Step 2 by the number from Step 3 to get the SEER rating.

You can find an air conditioner's BTUs per hour and watts used per hour in the model's owner's manual.

Since SEER ratings are calculated differently from AFUE ratios, the scale used to rank air conditioners is also different. In general, a SEER rating of 13 or 14  is good for most regions and climates. If you want an especially efficient unit, however, SEER numbers go up to 25. The higher the number, the more efficient an air conditioner is.

Variable Air Volume Ventilation

HVAC systems are designed as either constant air volume (CAV) systems or variable air volume (VAV) systems. 

CAV systems work by providing a constant stream of air that's heated to a variable temperature when they run. These systems have only one fan setting that sends air through the ductwork at a consistent speed, but they can vary how hot the air inside the furnace gets.

In contrast, VAV systems vary the speed of airflow rather than its temperature. These systems heat the air in a furnace to a constant temperature, but they have fans that run faster or slower as necessary to provide the right amount of heat to a space.

VAV systems tend to offer excellent energy efficiency in larger spaces. They're common in commercial buildings, and you may want one if you have a big home.

If you need a furnace or  air conditioner  for your home, contact Henry's Service All.

5 Advantages of Mini-Split Air Conditioners

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 01:42:49 GMT

While ducted central air conditioners are still the most popular home cooling option, these are not the only systems you should consider. Ductless mini-split air conditioners offer several advantages for homes of any size. Here is an overview of five reasons to install a mini-split air conditioner.

1. Zone Cooling

Central air conditioners are designed to balance the flow of cooled air throughout your home so that every room is cooled evenly. While this ensures that your entire home stays comfortable, some energy is wasted in cooling parts of your home that aren't in use. Even if you close vents in unused rooms, the system will simply work harder to deliver the same amount of air, which will potentially shorten the life of the unit.

Mini-split air conditioners are designed for a concept known as zone cooling. Every room to be cooled is equipped with its own air handler and thermostat. This allows you to control the temperature of each room individually and turn off cooling for rooms that aren't occupied.

2. Versatile Installation

There is a wide variety of designs for the air handlers of a mini-split air conditioner that can match the interior of any room. Air handlers can be wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, and free-standing in any part of most rooms so that cooled air can be directed exactly where it's needed. Most air handlers are low-profile so they do not stand out compared to any other fixtures in the room.

3. Less Energy Loss From Leaks

Leaky ducts are one of the main causes of poor energy efficiency in ducted air conditioners. In a typical central air conditioner installation, 20 to 30 percent of conditioned air is lost due to duct leaks. These leaks can result in hundreds of dollars in extra energy costs per year without providing any benefit to your home.

Instead of ductwork, mini-split air conditioners use copper tubing to transfer cooled air from the condenser to the air handlers. Copper tubing is much harder than ductwork and is unsegmented, allowing it to be much more resistant to leaks and tears than ducts.

4. Improved Air Quality

In addition to lost energy efficiency, poorly maintained ductwork can pose another problem for your home: reduced indoor air quality. The inside of your ductwork is dark and often damp, creating a perfect environment for mold growth. Dust and dirt will also accumulate in your ducts over time. Unless your ducts are regularly cleaned, these contaminants will find their way into your home's air.

Mini-split air conditioners provide a level of indoor air quality that is unmatched by duct systems. Outdoor air is drawn into the condenser, immediately filtered, and then sent directly to the air handlers. The copper tubing involved inhibits mold growth and contaminant buildup, so you can expect less frequent allergy flare-ups and respiratory problems after installing a mini-split system.

5. Silent Operation

You will likely hear your central air conditioner when it turns on, no matter how well insulated the blower is. Window air conditioners are even louder because the blower is located in the room with you, and many homeowners cannot stand to have these units installed in bedrooms due to the distraction they cause.

A mini-split air conditioner is the quietest type of air conditioner you can install today. The blower is located outside in the same package as the condenser, so you are not likely to hear it unless you are in the adjacent room. The copper tubing that transfers air in a mini-split system eliminates the banging, whooshing sounds that ducts will often create. There are no moving parts in the air handlers themselves, so these systems are whisper-quiet.

If you are looking for a new air conditioning solution for your home, ductless mini-split air conditioners are one of the first options you should consider. Contact us at Henry's Service All to work with experienced HVAC professionals who can help you find the perfect air conditioner for your home!

Tankless Water Heaters: The 411

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 19:59:19 GMT

When most people think about hot water heaters, an image of a large, round, white tank probably comes to mind. A newer and more innovative way to heat water for your home, however, does not require the use of a tank.

Tankless water heaters are an excellent way for homeowners to obtain hot water for their daily use. Here is a look at this intriguing water-heating system, including a look at how it works, the benefits of the system, the different types of fuel used to power the heaters, and how to get the correct sized unit for your home.

Understand the System

Tankless water heaters are rectangular metal devices that contain a variety of components for heating water coming into the house. The unit has a burner or heating element that heats cold water as it passes through the device. The heated water is then sent on its way to the faucet that was turned on.

Most devices will provide about 2 to 5 gallons of hot water per minute, according to the United States Department of Energy. Additionally, the units have an average lifespan of more than 20 years , but can last even longer if you have key components replaced when they start to fail.

Learn About the Benefits of the System

Tankless systems have several important benefits that every homeowner should consider when deciding what kind of water heater to use. For instance, with a tankless system you do not need to store large amounts of water because the unit heats the water as it comes into the house, which saves you money on your monthly utility bills.

Energy Efficient

The Department of Energy states that in homes that use 41 gallons of hot water daily or less, using a tankless water heater is 24 to 34 percent more energy efficient than a hot water tank. The increased efficiency is not quite as high in homes that use more water than this, but it can still be significant.

Compact

Another advantage concerns the physical size of tankless water heaters. The units are much smaller than hot water tanks, which saves space in your home that you can put to other purposes. Tankless water heaters are compact and can even be mounted on a wall.

Fuel the System

Tankless water heater systems uses several different fuels as a power source, with the main ones being propane, natural gas, and electricity. As a rule, gas units are less expensive than those that use electricity and are also often able to provide more hot water than electric units and therefore more recommended.

Size the System

A key aspect of any successful tankless water heater system is making certain that the unit has the capacity to provide enough hot water for your household. Determining what model will give you enough hot water to meet your household's daily needs is called sizing the water heater.

Sizing, in this context, refers not to the unit's physical dimensions, but to how much hot water the heater is able to provide. You must make certain that the unit has the ability to meet your family's requirements. Sizing a water heater is a rather complex job, so you will need the advice of a professional plumbing service to assist you in this matter.

For households that use a lot of hot water, installing multiple units is sometimes an effective way to ensure that their needs are met without having to depend on a single device.

It's obvious that tankless water heater systems are a great way for homeowners to meet their hot water requirements. If you decide that a tankless unit might be right for your home, consult with the water heater experts at Henry's Service All. We can answer all of your questions regarding tankless water heaters. Contact us to learn more.

3 Signs of a Hidden Water Leak in Your Home

Sat, 02 Nov 2019 16:17:49 GMT

Water leaks can lead to mold growth, water damage and rot, and higher water bills. Often, these leaks hide inside your walls so you may not be aware of them until the damage has already occurred. It's a good idea to learn the signs of a potential leak so you can catch a problem earlier, before the leak has caused too much damage.

1. Water Usage

Water usage can vary seasonally in a household, but there are some methods you can use to determine whether the rise in usage is legitimate or the sign of a hidden water leak somewhere along the supply lines in your home.

High Bills

Your water bill is the first place you need to look. Examine the usage data from your current and past bills. In most homes, you will see a pattern with higher usage during the daytime and summer months. If the high usage seems to start in winter, when less water is typically used outdoors, or if you see usage at times when water should not be running, such as overnight, then you may have a hidden leak.

Meter Checks

A nearly foolproof way to spot a leak in a supply line is to perform a simple meter check. Turn off all water in your home, and then go check the meter dial. Some meters have a small flow indicator on the dial, which typically looks like a small red triangle. If the triangle is moving, you have a leak.

For meters without indicator, write down the numbers from the dial. Leave the water off for one hour then check the reading again. If it has increased, then there is a leak somewhere in your home.

2. Mold Damage

Mold damage is nothing to ignore because it can cause upper respiratory issues, affect allergies, and irritate asthma sufferers. Hidden leaks, from both drain lines and supply lines, can often lead to hidden mold problems, as well.

Musty Odors

Often the nose is the first way to recognize a potential mold problem. Musty odors, especially those that bring to mind wet cardboard or dirty socks, generally means there is a moisture leak somewhere in the home and that mold has begun to grow. Open cabinets and closets with known plumbing lines behind them and give a strong sniff, since leaks often hide in areas that are rarely accessed.

Visible Growth

Sometimes the mold growth shows in areas that are visible, but which you might not automatically associate with a water leak. For example, if a leak is in an upstairs bathroom, you may see a dark stain on the ceiling in the room below. Mold may even start to grow on the inside of a cabinet door, even though the leak is behind the cabinet wall, simply because of the increased moisture in the enclosed space.

If you find mold growing anywhere other than areas exposed to moisture, like shower walls, a leak check is needed to make sure there isn't a worse problem lurking in your walls.

3. Moisture Damage

Moisture damage can often hide in plain sight since it may not look like how you expect it to or it may appear in areas that are rarely inspected.

Under the Sink

The most common place for visible moisture damage to hide is beneath the sink or in a closet behind where a water line runs. Check inside closets and cabinets at least once a month. Look for damp wallboard or cabinet backings, warped wood, and water stains. Use your fingers as well as your eyes so you can feel for dampness as well as look for it.

Wallboard Issues

Whether you have plaster or sheetrock, moisture will cause damage. Sometimes the walls feel soft or water stains form. Often, the paint first begins to bubble. This bubbling is caused when moisture accumulates behind latex paint, which is the type of paint typically used on home interiors.

Wet wallboard must be removed and replaced, but only after the leak has been addressed.

Contact Henry's Service All for more help with your plumbing and HVAC needs.

Remodeling Your Home? 3 Reasons to Upgrade Your HVAC At the Same Time

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 19:01:38 GMT

A home remodel can be fun and interesting, especially if you add upgrades such as quartz counters, intricate crown molding, and high-end technology. However, you should also consider updating your HVAC system before you finish the project.

Here are three reasons to get an estimate for a new air conditioner and furnace alongside your other home improvement bids.

1. The System May Be Improperly Sized Now

When you add an extra teen room or a space for grandma, you create a great way to bring more beloved family members into your home. But additional space could also place a new burden on your air conditioning system. Since HVAC systems are sized and installed based on the square footage and location of the home, home improvements like additions could mean your old air conditioner won't be able to keep up.

For instance, if you live in a Zone 3 climate like the central Texas, your 1,200 square foot home will need about 3 tons of cooling power to manage the heat inside of your home. However, if you renovate your space to add a large family room and your square footage increases to 1,800 square feet, you will need at least a -ton system to manage the load.

Likewise, if you transition a space from a heated and cooled area to an outdoor space, your air conditioner could then be too large for your space. Although it may seem like a benefit to have an oversized unit, when you use a larger AC unit than you need, your system can strain since the number of times the unit cycles off increases.

To stay on the safe side, ask an HVAC professional to come size your home for an air conditioner after your renovations are complete.

2. The Use of Space Impacts HVAC

When you alter the way you use your spaces, you can also cause a dramatic impact on the heating load of your home, since things like heat-generating appliances and new windows can change the temperature of a room.

For instance, if you add more west-facing windows to a large room, the incoming light can increase unwanted heat gain, and your air conditioner could struggle to keep up. Likewise, if you close off windows or add shaded valances during your renovation, you could curb incoming heat gain, and your home would stay cooler.

If you add another kitchen or a kitchenette with heat-generating appliances like an oven or a dishwasher, you should add 4,000 BTUs to the amount of cooling power your air conditioner needs to function.

As you start your remodel, think about how you want to change the space, and how you will use each room. Talk about how different spaces will function, and don't be afraid to share your plans with your contracting team.

3. The HVAC Upgrade Can Be Included In Your Bigger Project

Nobody likes the idea of tearing their home apart more than once, so implement your HVAC upgrades while you already have other builds underway. While HVAC improvements may draw out the overall timeline, when you complete multiple projects at once, you reduce the strain on your family, especially if you stay elsewhere during the renovation.

If you complete multiple upgrades at once, you can roll your HVAC improvements into the total project cost to help yourself financially. Additionally, moving forward, you will remember when you changed out your HVAC system, which will help you plan for things like maintenance service calls and future replacements.

A functional, beautiful home starts with using the right contractors, so reach out to Henry's Service All . In addition to helping homeowners tackle a long list of HVAC, plumbing, and electrical issues, we also offer free estimates and convenient financing.

5 Important HVAC Tips for Pet Owners

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 02:15:41 GMT

Furry pets and HVAC systems don't always make for a good mix. However, you can do a lot to keep your pets comfortable and safe while also keeping your HVAC system functional and free of problems. Here are some HVAC tips for pet owners.

1. Groom Your Pets and Keep Them Clean

Your pet's hair can easily block your filters, clog your air ducts, and generally become a detriment to the entirety of your HVAC system. An easy way to keep pet hair out of your HVAC system is to keep your pets clean and groomed.

The more shedding your pet does, the more likely your HVAC system will suffer from it. Keep the shedding to a minimum to ensure your HVAC system doesn't suffer and your air quality remains good.

2. Change Your Filters More Often

Despite your best efforts, your pets will still do some shedding. Pet hair can become a nuisance, but pet hair also means pet dander. When pet dander spreads through the air, it can create several problems.

The dander can end up clogging air filters, which is one concern. However, a larger concern from dander comes from the fact it's an allergen and can become a health concern if too much of it builds up.

When your air filters clog, your HVAC equipment will work harder than it should, which will turn into premature wear and higher bills. You should routinely swap your air filters in general, but you may need to do it more often if you have pets.

3. Clean Out Vents and Air Ducts

Pet hair and dander can clog vents, ducts, registers, and grilles. You can deal with this simply by making sure you keep those places clean. You can vacuum them with a hose, and wipe them down with a damp, soft cloth if they're looking a little dirty.

Hair buildup clogs will negatively affect your HVAC system. In addition, these types of clogs can also give bacteria and viruses a good place to grow, invade your ducts, and pollute your indoor air.

4. Invest in an Indoor Air Quality System

Air purifiers and cleaners can help keep a lot of the dander from reaching your HVAC system's filters and vents. These products and devices also help improve overall air quality by removing other airborne bacteria and allergens, which would also plague your home and your HVAC system. Bad indoor air quality also affects pets.

5. Keep Your Pets Away From HVAC Components

Some pets like to lay on vents to soak up some of the warm or cool air coming out of them. This can introduce hair and dander directly into your ducts and onto your air filters.

In addition, pets can close vents when they should remain open, and vice versa. Some smaller pets may literally fall into an open vent. Pet owners should invest in vent covers to prevent all these issues.

You should also keep your pets away from any of your HVAC equipment as the equipment can become a hazard for them, or they can accidentally damage the equipment. This includes:

HVAC appliances in the basement
Outside central air units
Wiring or tubing for your HVAC system

If you cannot train your pets to keep away from these things, you should make sure to fence, block, or lock these areas.

A preventive maintenance program will help to keep your HVAC system free of issues and performing at peak efficiency for years. If you're a pet owner in need of HVAC maintenance or an air purification solution, contact Henry's Service All today. We can make sure your HVAC system operates for a long time to come.

Why Does Your Air Conditioner Smell?

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 07:50:13 GMT

Have you noticed a strange smell emanating from your air conditioning system? Take a look at the top reasons why your air conditioner smells unpleasant and what you can do about it.

Mildew and Mold

A musty smell may indicate mildew or mold growth. Moisture from a leak or excess humidity provides the perfect environment for spores to germinate and grow. This can result in an unseen (or sometimes visible) growth that makes your whole home stink.

While most central air conditioning systems are made to filter air and remove humidity, it's still possible for dampness to get through. How can you determine if mold or mildew is a problem and what can you do to stop the growth—and the smell? If you suspect this issue:

Visually inspect the exterior area. Don't remove parts or pieces of your home's AC system. This is a job for the pros. Instead, look at the easily accessible areas. If you see black, grey, white, or greenish fuzzy growth, you have a problem.
Remove the filter. A dirty air filter can allow spores to get into your HVAC system's ducts or can restrict air flow and create a humid, mold-breeding environment. Replace your filter regularly to prevent this problem before it happens.
Check the dehumidifier. Does your system have a dehumidifier? If it does, make sure this add-on works properly. Clogs, wear and tear, and other types of damage can result in failure to remove excess moisture from the air. This increases the risks of mildew and mold growth.
Call an HVAC professional. If you can't see the mildew or mold, but can small it, contact an expert. It's possible the growth is inside the unit, on the evaporator coil or the blower.

Regular maintenance services can help to prevent a mildew or mold problem before the smell takes over your home. The technician can inspect the system for signs of growth, clean mildew/mold properly, replace the filter, and recommend additional treatment if needed.

Overheating Issues

Does it smell like your AC system is burning? An overheating issue can cause a distinct burnt odor that may stay near the system or waft through your home through the ducts.

What can cause an air conditioner to overheat? The most common causes include:

Clogged air filter. This is an easy-to-fix problem that, if left untreated, can result in major AC issues. A clogged filter forces the system to work harder. The added workload and longer run times (to cool your home) can cause your air conditioner to overheat.
Dirty condenser coils. Like a clogged filter, dirty coils also force the AC system to work harder and for longer periods of times. Contact a professional to inspect, clean, or repair coils.
Low refrigerant. Without an adequate amount of refrigerant your system can overheat. Again, you'll need a professional to repair this issue.
Compressor wear or damage. When the compressor doesn't work correctly, your home's AC system can overheat. Compressors can overheat for many different reasons. Only a qualified professional should evaluate and diagnose the problem.

Regular maintenance can also help to reduce the risk of overheating. Schedule pre- and post-season appointments with a technician to inspect, clean, and repair your AC system.

Pest Problems

A rotten smell may point to a pest problem. Mice, rats, and other small-sized critters may crawl into your air conditioning system to nest. If the animal gets stuck or dies inside your air conditioner or ducts, the smell will carry through your home.

The scent of animal decomposition is strong and won't go away on its own. An HVAC professional can inspect the system, find the cause of the odor, and remove it.

Does your air conditioner smell? Contact Henry's Service All for more information.

5 HVAC Tips to Keep Your Home Cool This Summer

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 06:35:41 GMT

Summer means fun in the sun — but when your home is too hot for comfort, summertime is anything but fun. Your AC and other aspects of your home affect its internal temperature. Follow these five HVAC tips to keep your AC working and keep your home cool during the dog days.

1. Put the Thermostat on the Right Wall
How your thermostat reads the temperature in your home depends on where it’s placed. The thermostat takes readings of your home’s temperature and then activates or deactivates the air conditioner based on the temperature. If your thermostat is in a colder area of your home, like in the basement or next to the fridge, it might erroneously think your interior is cooler than it is.

Speak to an HVAC professional about moving your thermostat to a better location. The more accurate the readings it takes, the cooler your home will be.

2. Check Your Air Filters
If your home isn’t as cool as you like, try checking the air filters. These filters keep dust, allergens, and particulates from circulating through your air. If the filters become too clogged with particulates, cool air won’t circulate as well. Your AC will run longer, but your home won’t get any cooler.

Homeowners can easily forget to check air filters, even though air filter condition is important to the overall efficiency of your HVAC system. HVAC professionals make checking filters part of their regular service, so schedule a periodic visit from one to make sure your filters are fresh.

3. Install a Ceiling Fan
Heat rises, and cool air sinks. If your home has high, vaulted ceilings, the temperature in these large rooms might feel uneven or generally warmer than usual. Cold air will remain close to the ground, while warm air will rise up around you, making your home uncomfortable to be in.

You can better circulate the cool air with ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can either direct air downwards from the ceiling or draw it up from the floor. If you have a ceiling fan, make sure to switch its direction in the summer to ensure cool air flows upward and cools the temperature.

4. Tint Your Windows
Direct sunlight drastically affects your home’s interior temperature. Without proper insulation and window coverings, sunlight can penetrate your windows and heat your home to an uncomfortable degree. Keep unwanted warmth from your home with window tinting. Special UV window tints block UV rays and lessen the amount of heat that pours into your home through the windows.

You can buy special windows with window tinting already applied, or you can opt for easy-to-install films. Place these films on your east- and west-facing windows, and you’ll see a noticeable difference in your home’s temperature.

5. Upgrade Your System
Sometimes, your AC is just worn out. No manner of repairs or additional home improvements can make your home a refuge from the summer heat, which means that you should upgrade your system. New ENERGY STAR-certified air conditioners work efficiently, so they can cool larger spaces more quickly, without wreaking havoc on your utility bill.

Before you get a new AC, talk to a professional. Not all air conditioners are suited for all houses, and an HVAC technician will be able to help you choose a size that will suit your needs.

At Henry’s Service All, we can help you select an air conditioner that will keep the heat at bay. Our experienced professionals have working knowledge of all the best brands, so contact us today to learn more about how you can keep your home cool this summer.

Household Humidity and Your Air Conditioning Unit

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 02:09:30 GMT

North Texas gets quite humid at times, especially during the spring and summer storm months. This means that your air conditioning system is working overtime to not only cool your home but also draw out the humidity. If you aren't up to date on your maintenance, or if you engage in household activities that raise the humidity levels, then you may need help.

Here is more information on how your activities increase the humidity in your home, possible reasons why your air conditioning unit is struggling to keep up, and things you can do to remedy a high-humidity problem.

How Do Air Conditioners Remove Humidity?

Among the many parts of your air conditioning unit, the one that directly helps to reduce humidity is the evaporator coil. This evaporator coil extracts moisture from your home's air as it circulates through the system and condenses it into water that drains out into a drain pan.

What Are the Signs of High Household Humidity?

Fogged-up windows indicate too much household humidity, especially if your windows are fogged up most or all of the time even when the home has been empty for a while. Other ways to tell are if you can visibly see mold and mildew, or you have a musty smell that doesn't seem to go away.

In severe cases, you might even notice paint and wallpaper peeling away from your walls and the photos on your wall are aging quickly.

What Household Activities Raise Humidity?

Generally, activities that involve using hot water, such as cooking on the stove or showering, will raise the humidity high enough to cause problems. The same goes for using a washing machine, especially with hot water. A lot of residents can also cause your home's humidity to a high level. However, if you have the right type of air conditioning system, then these activities shouldn't be a problem.

Why Is Too Much Humidity Harmful?

Humidity causes mold and mildew, which are extremely damaging and harmful to your health, especially if you have allergies or asthma. These substances can get deep into your walls and often can only be removed by completely tearing down and replacing all affected parts.

Hardwood floors and wooden doors can warp as well. In addition, many types of insects and rodents are attracted to the added moisture.

What Air Conditioner Problems Contribute to High Humidity?

If your air conditioner is not kept in good condition, then your evaporator coil may not work or drain properly. You should be changing your filter frequently as a clogged filter greatly reduces your air conditioner's efficiency. Make sure that you have your unit serviced every year to clear out debris and check the evaporator drains for clogs.

What Are Some Other Ways to Lower Household Humidity?

If your unit is old and worn out, or if your household activities have increased greatly, then you may want to consider upgrading your unit.

Another tip is to try and keep your fan in the auto setting to let it cycle in and out with the cooling cycle. If the problem is that your home is humid all the time all year round, then consider a dehumidifying system. Many of these systems are available in a room-only or whole-house versions to fit your needs.

While temporary episodes of high humidity are usually not detrimental, a consistent problem is a sign of a problem that needs fixing. If you have already taken the steps to reduce your home's humidity, yet your current air conditioning system is not keeping up, then you may need maintenance or an upgrade.

Henry's Service All can help you pinpoint your humidity and air conditioning problems and make sure your unit is running properly. Contact us today for an appointment.

Tips for Preventing Slab Leaks

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 20:36:32 GMT

Your home's concrete foundation sits atop a series of copper pipes. Minor leaks in these pipes can become major problems over time, and, unfortunately, these leaks are often unnoticed until damage to your home's foundation has occurred. Understanding how slab leaks occur can help you be proactive and prevent a plumbing disaster.

Here are a few ways you can prevent a slab leak from occurring.

Learn the Warning Signs of a Slab Leak

Unfortunately, many homeowners don't realize they have a slab leak until it is too late. Understanding the early signs of a slab leak can help you contact a plumber in time to prevent any more damage from occurring. Here are a few of the most common early warning signs of a slab leak:

• Higher-than-normal water bills
• Sudden decrease in water pressure
• Continually running water heater
• Wet carpets and damaged hardwood floors

Contact your plumber right away if you notice any or a combination of the above-mentioned signs. The sooner you address the cause of the slab leak, the more quickly your plumber can repair the damage and prevent another leak in the future.

Schedule a Plumbing Inspection

Whether you've noticed any of the warning signs of a slab leak or everything seems normal, scheduling a plumbing inspection now can help your plumber find any minor leaks before they become a major plumbing disaster. For example, some plumbers use a specialized microphone that allows them to hear the sound of water leaking from the copper pipes under your slab.

Some plumbers will use a fiber optic-mounted camera that goes through the plumbing to detect any leaks.

If your plumber detects a leak, your plumber will provide you with options to repair the damage to your plumbing and let you know if your foundation requires any work.

Maintain Proper Water Pressure

High water pressure can wreak havoc on your home's plumbing and lead to a slab leak. The first step to determining if your water pressure is too high is to understand the signs. For example, one of the most common signs is a banging or clanking noise when the water is turned on or running. Leaking faucets while someone takes a shower or does a load of laundry is another sign.

Talk to your plumber about how to test your home's water pressure. The easiest way to check the water pressure is with a water pressure gauge, which measures the pounds per square inch, or psi, of your home's water lines. The gauge is on a spigot inside or outside of your home closely connected to the main water line.

Typically, this is an outdoor spigot or the washing machine's water supply. If your plumber determines your water pressure is too high, you may need a pressure-reducing valve, which allows you to manually maintain your home's water pressure.

Your plumber may recommend having the plumbing inspection to determine if your home's high water pressure caused damage to the pipes under your home's slab as well.

Pay Attention to the Trees Around Your House

The trees surrounding your house provide shade and a beautiful view, but they can also cause a slab leak if not properly maintained. If any damage exists to the plumbing beneath your slab, the root systems of the trees near your house will begin growing toward this constant source of water. Tree roots are strong and can eventually break through the pipe damage and create a major plumbing disaster.

Regularly prune the trees near your house, or if they have become too large and pose a serious threat to your plumbing, consider professionally removing any potentially dangerous trees.

From understanding the early warning signs to maintaining your home's water pressure, you can help prevent a slab leak. If you have any further questions, contact Henry's Service All .

4 Parts of Your AC Condenser Unit That Can Affect Efficiency

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 04:26:13 GMT

A residential air conditioning system typically has several major components such as the outdoor condenser unit and the system of ductwork connecting each room of your house to the cooled air. The condenser unit is where most of the action takes place; it houses the compressor, a fan, and the condenser and evaporator coils.

A lot can go wrong with your system's efficiency if the condenser unit isn't well-kept. Here are four parts of the condenser unit that can lower efficiency and start costing you money in increased energy bills when they suffer maintenance problems or breakdowns.

1. Condenser Coil

The condenser coil is what dispels heat into the air after the system collects this excess heat from inside your house. A number of issues can arise with the condenser coil that may hinder efficient operation, such as:

Bent or flattened fins
Coolant leak from the coil pipes
Fins clogged with dust or lint from nearby dryer exhaust
Nearby bushes or weeds preventing rapid flow of air over fins

Fortunately most of these issues can be resolved with a quick cleaning or combing of the fins or some weed whacking (just be careful not to get too close to the fins with the weed whacker). A leak may mean that you need a new condenser coil or even a new unit, though.

2. Fan Blades

Some potential issues with fan blades include loose fan blades, cracked or broken-off blades, or bent-up blades that can't drive air like they should. Because the fan is responsible for providing a continuous airflow to the unit, these issues can lead to overheating and an overworked system as well as reduced efficiency.

So in a best-case scenario with a fan issue, you're just going to have slightly higher AC bills until the fan gets fixed. But with severe fan issues or a fan problem that doesn't get fixed or that's worsened by another issue, you could end up having to complete major AC repair work as well.

3. Run Capacitor

The AC typically has two types of capacitors: the start capacitor and the run capacitor. (Sometimes these are combined in what's known as a dual capacitor.) If the start capacitor fails, the associated motor, whether that's the fan motor or the compressor motor, simply won't be able to start. It's the run capacitor that you have to worry about if you have efficiency problems.

The run capacitor is designed to help the motor stay efficient while running and not have to work as hard. So if the run capacitor goes out, the motor may still start but may then run very hot and overheat. Or the motor will work harder than usual (decreasing its life expectancy) and use more electricity than it was designed to. Installing the wrong size of capacitor can have similar effects.

4. Evaporator Coil

If you want to decrease the efficiency of your unit, just let the evaporator coil get dirty and freeze up. If you notice higher energy bills or a system that constantly runs, this could easily be the reason why.

The evaporator coil should be cleaned on a regular basis, but this isn't a DIY job; you'll need to have a professional maintenance visit. This is partly because getting to the evaporator coil is much more difficult than getting to the condenser coil. But keeping your air filters clean and changing them often can also help by reducing the amount of dirt that gets to the coil.

These are four parts of your AC condenser unit that can lower your AC system's overall efficiency if not kept in great condition. Some of the issues mentioned here are just maintenance issues, while others may require major repairs. But whichever one your unit needs, Henry's Service All can get it done. Give us a call today to learn more about our extensive services.

How Air Filter Issues Can Affect Your AC Efficiency

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 04:19:18 GMT

The air filter is a critical part of your air conditioner (AC). This component cleans the air so that the AC doesn't get clogged and you don't breathe in polluted air. However, some things can interfere with your filter's operations, including the following issues.

Wrong Filter

Most ACs use standard-sized filters, which means that you don't have to worry about size when you buy filters. However, some ACs use customized filters that cannot fit in other models. You need to know which filters your AC requires so that you can get them during the replacement.

Otherwise, you might install filters that don’t fit perfectly into their allotted slot. Here is what happens if you use an air filter that is too small for your AC:

The filter may move and make noise when your AC runs.
The filter will leave some spaces at the sides that debris can flow through.
The filter can get sucked into the vent and cause blockage.
The AC can get clogged and suffer frequent breakdowns and energy-efficiency issues.
Your indoor air quality can suffer, and you may suffer respiratory problems.

If you are in doubt, talk to your AC company or an AC technician to figure out the right filter for your AC.

Improper Installation

Even with the right filter, your AC’s performance may still suffer if the filter is inserted the wrong way. Air filters are unidirectional in their operations, and the AC will have inefficient airflow and debris clogs if the filter is inserted the wrong way.

Note that air flows from the return air duct into the main AC unit and out of the main unit through the supply air ducts. This knowledge, together with the directional arrows on the air filter, should guide you to insert the air filter in the right way and avoid the above consequences.

Wrong Efficiency Filter

The AC filters come in different efficiencies, with the efficiency being the size of the particles the filter can trap. A high-efficiency filter has tiny holes that not only trap tiny air particles but also restrict airflow more than low-quality filters. Thus, your AC will experience restricted airflow if you opt for the highest quality filter on the market.

Only opt for the high-quality filters if you have unusually small particles in your indoor air or want the cleanest air possible in your house (say, for health reasons). Otherwise, opt for moderate filter efficiency so as not to deal with restricted airflow issues.

Dirty Filter

Once you have the right filter and you have inserted it the right way, you need to replace the filter once it gets dirty. Most 1” filters need to be changed at least once a month, thicker filters, such as 4” filters may last up to 6 months. The filters trap debris in the air so that your AC doesn't chock in dust and you don't breathe in dirty air. With time, the trapped debris clogs the surface of the filter and prevents efficient air flow.

Below are some of the things that may happen if you continue to run an AC with dirty filters:

The AC may overheat and break down due to overuse.
The AC will experience energy efficiency due to impaired airflow.
You may experience reduced cooling or uneven cooling in your house due to impaired airflow.

How frequently you need to replace your air filter depends on multiple factors. Change the filters frequently if your house is unusually dusty, you have a pet, or you run your AC for long periods. Anything that sends more dust into the AC filter calls for more frequent filter replacements.

Contact Henry's Service All if your AC has malfunctioned. We will diagnose and correct the issue, whether it has to do with the filter or any other part of the AC.

Common Plumbing Mistakes That Could Be Disastrous

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 02:48:48 GMT

As a homeowner, you've become accustomed to your house's quirks, including your plumbing. With time and a few mishaps, you've gotten good at fixing any clogged toilets and other minor plumbing issues. Unfortunately, you might also be making some major plumbing mistakes that could prove disastrous and costly.

Here are a few common plumbing mistakes that are doing serious harm to your pipes and what to do instead to take care of your plumbing system.

Misusing Your Garbage Disposal

Many homeowners overuse and abuse their garbage disposal, which is hard on your plumbing. You should decide how you want to use your garbage disposal and make sure that you have the correct one installed. If you use your garbage disposal frequently, you need to get a heavy duty one. A generic garbage disposal should be used properly and only as needed, which helps protect your pipes from unnecessary corrosion or damage. Follow a few simple tips to help you correctly operate and care for your garbage disposal.

Run Your Garbage Disposal Often

Even if you rarely use your garbage disposal, you should run it several times a week. This will help break up and remove any leftover foods, which will prevent odors, damage, and corrosion.

Use Only Cold Water

You should use cold water when running your garbage disposal. Hot or warm water will cause the food debris to melt or soften and stick to the disposal blades. Cold water will harden the food debris, which will help it dislodge and safely head down your plumbing.

Know What Not to Put Down the Disposal

Several items should never be put down your garbage disposal, including grease, oil, plastic, metal, and pasta. Only put bones, corn cobs and other items of that nature if it is a heavy duty one.

Clean the Disposal Frequently

Periodically cleaning your garbage disposal will help remove the food debris that can clog and damage your plumbing. The easiest way to do this is with baking soda and white vinegar. The chemical reaction that occurs between the products will safely and effectively remove food debris from the garbage disposal blades.

Relying on Chemical Drain Cleaners

Clogs happen and when they do, the easiest method to clear them out is with a store-bought drain cleaner. Unfortunately, these cleaners contain caustic chemicals that can damage your plumbing, and these cleaners often aren't effective. This means that the drain cleaner will sit on top of the clog, causing even more damage.

Instead, you can choose safer ways to clean your drains. The best option is to contact your plumber. A plumber will have the skills to not only clear the clogs, but a professional will also provide you with tips to help prevent clogs from forming in the future.

Overlooking Small Leaks

If you've noticed a small leak in one of your pipes you might think it's not a big deal. Because the leak is not causing obvious damage, you might ignore it. Over time, that small hole or damage can turn into a huge disaster that will be difficult and costly to repair.

Instead, if you notice a leak or hole in your pipes, have it repaired by a professional right away. Even a small amount of damage can be difficult to repair and should be handled by a licensed plumber.

Not Knowing How to Handle a Plumbing Emergency

From a burst pipe to an overflowing toilet, plumbing emergencies need to be handled quickly and correctly. If you are prepared, the situation will be dealt with and any damage will be minimized. Unfortunately, if you aren't ready to handle the emergency, it could cost you a lot of time and money to correct the issue.

The first step to handling any plumbing emergency is to learn how to turn off your water. If the issue is isolated to a toilet or sink, locate the stop valve, which will be found right under the fixture. In situations where you need to turn off the water to the rest of the house, you must locate the main shutoff valve.

Typically, the valve will be located at the point where the cold water pipe enters your house. Another spot you might find the shutoff valve is near the water heater. Once the water is shut off, contact a plumber right away. The cause of the emergency and the repair should both be handled by a professional.

Skipping a Yearly Plumbing Inspection

Finally, one of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make when it comes to their plumbing is skipping a yearly inspection. During this inspection, a plumber will not only pinpoint and repair any minor problems, but the plumber will also look over your sinks, drains, fixtures, and appliances, including your water heater.

This annual inspection is an inexpensive and easy way to ensure your plumbing works properly, and you avoid any minor issues or major disasters.

From misusing and abusing your garbage disposal to skipping a yearly inspection, several common plumbing mistakes could lead to avoidable disasters. If you have any further questions about how to prevent future plumbing issues or tackle your current plumbing problems, contact the professionals at Henry’s Service All .

4 Good Reasons To Invest In A Modulating Furnace

Tue, 08 Jan 2019 03:58:04 GMT

Picking the perfect furnace is a tough task even for the savviest of homeowners. The HVAC market is full of furnaces that offer their own unique benefits and drawbacks. Some offer budget-minded shoppers an affordable way to upgrade their aging furnace, while others offer cost-no-object comfort with the latest features.

When choosing the most efficient furnace on the market, however, the modulating furnace stands alone. Sometimes known as condensing furnaces due to their most unique feature, modulating furnaces maximize every bit of their fuel source to provide efficient heat. The end result is an energy-efficient furnace that satisfies your home's heating needs.

Wondering if you should invest in a modulating furnace for your home? Take a moment to consider what these furnaces have to offer over their conventional counterparts.

1. Newer Furnace Features

Modulating furnaces have many features that not only provide excellent comfort to your home but also improve its overall energy efficiency. When you purchase a modulating furnace, you will benefit from the following features.

Modulating Gas Valve

The modulating gas valve lies at the heart of the modulating furnace. This feature adjusts the incoming gas supply, which in turn adjusts the burner flame's intensity. These valves often go with electronic controls that allow for fine adjustments according to thermostat demand.

With a modulating gas valve, modulating furnaces can stick closely to their target temperatures, putting an end to wild temperature swings.

Variable-Speed Blower Motor

Like the modulating gas valve, the variable-speed blower motor allows for fine-tuned control of the furnace's blower fan. Instead of operating at 100 percent of its rated speed, a variable-speed blower motor can ramp down to a fraction of that speed after the furnace meets its heating demand.

With this feature, condensing furnaces can offer continuous airflow for effective air filtration and comfort while reducing overall noise.

Secondary Heat Exchanger

For greater energy efficiency, most modulating furnaces come equipped with a primary and secondary heat exchanger. The secondary heat exchanger scavenges whatever heat energy is left from the combustion gases after they pass through the primary heat exchanger. With this feature, modulating furnaces can turn more of their fuel into usable energy for your home.

2. Lower Operating Costs

At an average cost of $5, 00 0 to $7,500 for purchase and installation, modulating furnaces do not come cheap. However, a modulating furnace can quickly pay for itself thanks to its reduced operating costs. For starters, upgrading to a modulating furnace means you will not have to struggle to maintain an aging furnace, knocking those maintenance costs out of the box.

Modulating furnaces also operate more efficiently than their single-stage and two-stage counterparts do. To get a sense of a furnace's efficiency, look at its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, or AFUE, rating. AFUE ratings go off the amount of energy a furnace successfully converts into heat.

A standard single-stage furnace with an AFUE of 85 percent can turn 85 percent of the energy it consumes into usable heat for your home.

Most modulating furnaces carry AFUE ratings between 90 and 95 percent, with some furnaces capable of achieving a 98-percent AFUE rating. Not only do you use less energy to operate a modulating furnace but you will also reduce your annual heating costs by a significant amount.

3. Improved Overall Comfort

Modulating furnaces also excel at creating a comfortable environment for you and others in your home. With its variable-speed controls and modulating gas valve, a modulating furnace can keep your home's temperatures within one to two degrees of your desired thermostat set point. The even heating these furnaces provide helps eliminate cold spots as well as extreme temperature swings.

Effective air filtration is also possible thanks to the variable-speed controls that modulating furnaces offer. Thanks to longer and more consistent run times, a modulating furnace's air filter can capture and remove a greater amount of airborne pollutants than other furnaces.

4. Quieter Operation

Modulating furnaces are capable of more than just improving your home's overall comfort. These furnaces also offer relatively quiet operation when compared to standard single-stage and two-stage furnaces. Single-stage furnaces are only capable of running at full tilt when active, resulting in a relatively noisy furnace for the time it heats your home.

Modulating furnaces use their variable-speed motor technology to ramp down fan speeds whenever possible, resulting in less noise and more consistent operation. Keep in mind that you will not get completely silent operation from your modulating furnace.

A modulating furnace makes a great replacement for your current single-stage or two-stage furnace. If you are ready to make the switch for your Hurst, Euless, or Bedford home, give the experts at Henry's Service All a call today. We specialize in residential heating installation and repair for a broad range of popular furnace brands. We are happy to answer all your questions about our furnace services.

An In-Depth Guide to Slab Leaks

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 01:34:19 GMT

Plumbing leaks range from very simple fixes that can be done within minutes to labor-intensive affairs that take time, effort, and money to correctly repair. So when faced with a mysterious leak that seems to be coming from your home's very foundation, you're probably wondering how much time and effort is needed to fix it.

Unfortunately, slab leaks rank as one of the most troublesome plumbing problems a homeowner can encounter throughout their ownership. An ongoing slab leak can cause major damage to your home if left unchecked. Read on to learn what causes slab leaks and how to spot them before they wreck your home. You'll also learn how your plumbing contractor will handle the repairs.

What Are Slab Leaks?

Most modern homes are built on top of a concrete foundation, also known as a slab. What you probably don't know is that much of your home's plumbing is routed underneath the slab. Before pouring the slab, homebuilders lay out the plumbing and sewer runs in the dirt. Once the plumbing is in place, it's effectively covered over by the slab.

Slab leaks happen when the plumbing under the concrete foundation suddenly springs a leak. Left to its own devices, a slab leak can cause structural damage to your home.

What Causes Slab Leaks?

Slab leaks can happen for a number of reasons, but here are the three most common problems that can eventually lead to leaky pipes underneath your foundation:

Corrosion . Your home's metal pipework can experience galvanic corrosion due to prolonged contact with the dissimilar metals commonly found in soil. Galvanic corrosion can leave behind holes in your plumbing pipes, resulting in a slab leak.
Pressure . Underground pipes can experience extreme pressure, especially when surrounded by soils that expand and contract depending on their moisture content. The pipes may eventually fracture or tear if the foundation shifts far enough.
Abrasion . Constant vibrations caused by flowing water can cause pipes to rub against hard surfaces, such as steel rebar, gravel, or even another pipe. The resulting abrasion can cause holes to form in the pipe.

Ground disturbances caused by earthquakes or landslides can also damage pipes and cause slab leaks. However, such seismic activity is rare in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

How Can You Identify a Slab Leak?

Unlike that leaky pipe in your basement or underneath your kitchen sink, a slab leak isn't always obvious. The very nature of a slab leak makes it difficult to detect. Slab leaks are commonly mistaken for other plumbing issues, so it pays to be careful when diagnosing a leak.

Most slab leaks are accompanied by the following symptoms:

Running water . If you can still hear running water after turning off all of your taps and water-consuming appliances, then chances are you're dealing with a slab leak.
Warm flooring . Unless you've recently invested in a radiant floor heating system, an abnormally warm floor could be the result of a leaking hot water line underneath the slab.
Mysterious puddles . Slab leaks can cause water to emerge in strange places, including underneath cabinets and near common bathroom or kitchen fixtures.
Abnormal water use . An abnormally high water bill or a water meter that's spinning faster than usual — even when your water-consuming appliances are turned off — is a likely sign of a slab leak in progress.
Mold and mildew growth . The appearance of mold or mildew underneath your carpeting can also indicate moisture problems caused by slab leaks.
Cracked foundation . A cracked foundation can be a surefire sign of a slab leak. Cracks in walls, as well as cracks and buckling in hardwood flooring, can also signal a slab leak.

If you notice any of these signs of a slab leak, you’ll want to have a plumber check out the situation right away.

How Are Slab Leaks Fixed?

Time is always of the essence when it comes to slab leak repairs. The longer you wait to fix a slab leak, the more damage it'll do to your home. Before attempting any repairs, your plumbing contractor will use a variety of methods and tools to identify the source of the leak.

After spotting the precise location of the leak, your plumbing contractor may choose to eliminate the leaking line by rerouting it through an above-ground location. Your contractor can also attempt to repair the leak using a minimally invasive means, such as an epoxy pipe liner.

Your plumbing contractor may recommend a complete repiping of your home if the damage is widespread or if a permanent fix is needed. In most cases, your contractor will replace much of your home's original pipes with those made from more durable materials. Repiping can be a sizable investment and a labor-intensive process that requires careful consideration.

Dealing with a slab leak can be a headache-inducing experience without the right contractor by your side. Henry's Service All will handle your slab leak repair and take steps to prevent future leaks from happening. Contact us if your DFW-area home needs effective slab leak repair.

6 Furnace Odors and Their Possible Causes

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 19:16:34 GMT

The temperatures for Northern Texas are headed in the 40-degree territory, and furnaces across the Dallas–Fort Worth region will warm hands and hearths once again.

Some furnace smells are normal after you turn your furnace on after its long summer rest. Other furnace smells are signs of furnace trouble. When you turn on the heat this autumn, keep your nose alert for these six furnace odors.

1. Rotten Egg or Gas Smell

If your furnace operates with propane, natural gas, or LP gas, there may be a slight odor of gas as you open the fuel line to your furnace for the first time. If the gassy or rotten-egg odor lingers, shut off both your gas supply and your furnace right away.

Remove people from any rooms that have gas odors. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working so you’ll know if the air is too dangerous to breathe in adjacent rooms.

If you're able to do so, check the connections and lines leading from your furnace to the gas fuel source. A fitting may have come loose, or a gas line may have been damaged and sprung a leak. If you can't find the source of the gas smell, call your gas provider or your HVAC repair service to isolate the leak.

In some cases, the gas smell problem requires only a simple adjustment. Your gas pilot light may not be lit properly, or the burners may need a good cleaning.

2. Dusty, Acrid Smells

It's normal for your furnace to smell a bit dusty when you first turn it on for the cold-weather season. During the spring and summer, dust blows around inside the furnace and settles on various components.

When the furnace is fired up for the first time in a long time, the dust particles heat up and give off a slight burning smell. As long as no smoke is coming out of the furnace — and the dusty burning smell goes away after a short time — the acrid smell is harmless.

3. Sharp Mildew and Mold Smells

Like dust, mold and mildew can collect on unused furnace components. A small amount of mold or mildew may dissipate on its own after a few cycles of the heating unit. If you smell a strong mold or mildew odor, the mildew or mold is entrenched. Your furnace needs a deep clean.

A cleaning solution like bleach may be necessary to remove the mold and mildew from furnace parts. You can clean your furnace yourself, but you need to shut off the power to the appliance and be very careful around some of the furnace components.

You should wear a mask and gloves when cleaning the furnace, and be extremely careful with any liquids around wires, switches, outlets, and other sensitive components. Let your HVAC professional tackle the furnace-cleaning job if you aren't confident about working around your furnace.

4. Formaldehyde or Chemical Smells

If you smell a chemical odor coming from your ducts or your furnace, suspect a cracked heat exchanger. When a heat exchanger develops cracks or corroded spots, they allow gases from the furnace to mix with the blower-forced air.

Some people say a cracked heat exchanger emits an odor similar to the smell of formaldehyde. If you catch a whiff of this chemical odor when your heat is running, shut off your heat pump or furnace immediately.

Running a furnace or other heating unit with a cracked heat exchanger is dangerous for everyone in your household. Around 1,500 people die in the U.S. each year because they're exposed to broken heat exchangers that spew out toxic gas.

Call your HVAC professional to replace your heat exchanger as soon as possible. You can't tell if your heat exchanger is compromised by looks and smell alone. Your HVAC expert will conduct tests of your furnace to make sure that's where the chemical smell originates.

5. Metal, Plastic, or Rubber Smells

Your furnace is made up of a wide variety of interconnected parts. Any one of those components can overheat and cause a burning smell.

Do you notice a hot plastic smell? An electrical short, wire damage, or an incomplete wiring connection could be causing the burning smell. Wires may have fallen out of place and into contact with a hot part of the furnace.

A metallic or rubber smell can indicate that a blower motor, belt, or other mechanical part is worn. A wobbly fan may scrape and leave a faint metallic or singed-wire smell.

6. Smoke and Visible Fumes

Whenever you see smoke or visible fumes coming out of your furnace, shut off the power to the HVAC system immediately. Contact your HVAC repair specialist as soon as possible.

A serious furnace fire can result from a number of factors, but smoke from the furnace can also be caused by less dire situations. A small bit of debris or a rubber component may be smoking but not actually on fire. The only way to know for sure is to call in the experts.

If your furnace smells weird or like it's burning, contact Henry's Service All today to schedule a complete inspection of your HVAC system. We diagnose and repair strange smells in furnaces throughout the Irving and Dallas-Fort Worth areas.

3 Toilet Troubles and How Your Plumber Resolves Them

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 04:05:22 GMT

How can you tell when your toilet should be replaced? Some toilet problems aren't the toilet's fault at all, while other toilet problems indicate that your toilet has seen its last useful days. Here's a quick guide to three toilet problems and how your plumber resolves them.

1. Your Toilet Won't Flush Properly

Do you engage the handle on your toilet and hear a gurgling or sucking sound? Does the toilet flush slowly or not at all? Your toilet may have a clog. If you have kids, they may have dropped something in the toilet.

Your plumber can find the clog, which could be anything from a bar of soap to a toy. In some cases, animals like rats and frogs can make their way up your drain and enter the S-trap in the toilet. Your plumber can help you with that, too. The plumber will also show you ways to keep unwanted critters out of the drains.

A backed-up septic tank or sewer line can cause a toilet to flush sluggishly. If your septic tank is backed up, you'll need to have it pumped. If the sewer lines are clogged due to recent flooding or another issue, you'll need to contact the utility in charge of your street's sewer system.

One more cause of a slow-flushing toilet is a clogged vent stack. The vent stack is a vertical pipe that allows gas to exit your drainage lines. Water sits in the drain traps between your water fixtures and your main stack.

When the vent stack is clogged, it siphons the water that sits in the traps. Stinky, rotten-egg odors can fill your home when you have a vent-stack issue. Your plumber can clear the vent stack of leaves, animal nests, and other debris to get your toilet flowing freely again.

2. You Have to Use Your Plunger Frequently

Your toilet may flush all the way without gurgling or making other noises, but you may often have to use a plunger to convince the toilet to completely do its job. This issue is usually a toilet problem.

Older low-flush toilets are not as well-designed as newer low-flush versions. Many older low-flush toilets require several flushes to send waste down the drain lines. If your toilet is an older low-flush toilet, it's time to invest in a new, more reliable fixture.

Mineral deposits can also plague older toilets. If your well water or municipal water is full of minerals, the particulates collect wherever water passes in the toilet.

Corrosion builds up on:

• Inlet holes along bowl rim
• Siphon tube above flapper
• P-trap or S-trap in toilet

The flapper won't seal properly when there's heavy mineral buildup on the siphon tube. When the bowl-rim inlets are clogged with corrosion, inadequate water flow into the bowl can cause incomplete flushing. Replace a heavily corroded toilet tank with a new toilet that looks and performs better.

3. Your Toilet Leaks

Leaking toilets don't simply make messes on your bathroom floor. They can also waste up to 4,000 gallons of water per day. If you have a serious leak in your toilet, you'll suffer increased water and sewer bills. You may have to repair damage to your home's bathroom floor and any ceiling below the leaking fixture.

Some toilet leaks are easy to fix. In these simple cases, water is leaking from the tank into the bowl without affecting any surfaces outside of the toilet.

An easy-to-fix internal toilet leak is often caused by a defective flapper assembly or fill valve inside the toilet tank. If you use chlorine-based cleaning tablets in your toilet tank or bowl, you could be inadvertently eroding the rubber flapper and other components inside your tank. An eroded flapper won't seal the tank.

Your plumber can replace your toilet tank components, including:

• Flapper
• Trip lever
• Broken flapper chain

If water pressure fluctuates in your home, excess water will flow into an overflow tube and cause the fill valve to stay in the open position. Your plumber can replace your float-ball fill valve with a piston-operated fill valve. Piston-style fill valves guard against constant overfilling and leaking in your toilet tank from changes in water pressure.

Cracks in the porcelain of your toilet cause external toilet leaks. Cracks may occur in the bowl or the tank. The first sign of a cracked toilet is leaking on the surface of the tank and the floor around the tank. However, toilet-surface wetness and floor leakage can be caused by condensation forming on the porcelain.

Inspect your toilet for hairline fractures inside and outside of the tank. A tiny fracture or crack can cause the entire tank to break suddenly and spill water everywhere. Replace a toilet with a cracked tank as soon as possible to avoid this disaster.

Cracks can form anywhere in the bowl area of your toilet. A tiny bowl crack is not as urgent an issue as a tank crack, but you should have a toilet with a bowl crack replaced just to be on the safe side.

If you're having toilet troubles , contact Henry's Service All today for a complete toilet inspection. We have been repairing and replacing Texas toilets since 1978.

A Short Guide to Home Water Filtration Systems

Thu, 30 Aug 2018 06:35:47 GMT

Reports have surfaced about untested municipal water in some Texas towns, prompting parents and caregivers to worry about lead, copper, and chemical levels in their household water. If you want to improve your water quality, here are a few facts about water filtration systems and your water supply to get you started.

Household Water Can Contain a Variety of Contaminants

The quality of your household water depends on a variety of factors. The original source of your water supply, the treatment methods used by your utility, and the material in your water supply lines all have an effect on contaminants in your tap water.

Some harmful contaminants that may be present in tap water include:

• Giardia lamblia
• Cryptosporidium parvum
• E. coli
• Salmonella
• Arsenic
• Lead
• Byproducts of disinfection
• Nitrates
• Pesticides

Flooding of municipal and well-water supplies — like the flooding that occurred as a result of Hurricane Harvey — can cause leaching of contaminants into water supplies, too. After floods, your water may be tainted with toxins including industrial chemicals, algae, and motor oil.

Before you order a filter for your home, have your water tested by a certified lab. When you know the specific contaminants in your water, you'll choose the correct type of filter to remove the bad stuff.

Water Filters Clean Up Well and Municipal Water

Your local water utility may do a fine job of treating your household water so that it's safe for drinking and bathing. However, your water supply lines may be corroded or full of sediment.

Wells can become contaminated from local drilling, construction, and industrial spills. Untreated wells may harbor bacteria and viruses as well as heavy mineral loads.

Water filtration systems filter both municipal and well water. Costs range from under $50 for a pitcher-type filter to over $1,200 for a whole-house filtration system.

Water Filters Use Four Methods to Filter Water

Water filters remove contaminants from water using one of four methods. Each type of filtration method is used to screen water for specific contaminants. No system can take all of the contaminants out of water.

Filtration methods are:

• Microfiltration
• Distillation
• Reverse osmosis
• Ultraviolet treatment

Distillation and ultraviolet systems are effective at removing viruses and bacteria. Distillation systems also remove chemical contaminants, while ultraviolet filtration systems are not effective at removing chemicals in water.

Microfiltration removes protozoa and bacteria but provides less effective filtration for viruses and chemicals. Reverse osmosis filtration removes chemicals, metals, minerals, bacteria, and protozoa.

Be aware that some point-of-entry water filtration methods remove chlorine from treated municipal water. The lack of chlorine in the water supply can lead to germ growth inside your water-supply pipes. Your plumber will advise you on methods to sanitize pipes that carry dechlorinated water supplies.

Water Filtration Systems Come in Seven Types

Some water filtration systems can be used and installed without professional assistance. Other water filters must be professionally installed to ensure their safety and efficacy.

Water filtration systems are available in seven various styles. Filtration-system choices include:

• Water-filter pitchers
• Refrigerator water-supply filters
• Faucet-mounted filters
• Built-in faucet filters
• Top-of-counter filters
• Under-sink filters
• Point-of-entry (whole-house) filters

If you only want filtered water for cooking, drinking water, and beverages, a pitcher or faucet-mounted water filtration system is an easy, budget-friendly option.

However, the pitcher and faucet-mounted strategies are less convenient than other filtration methods. Filters must be changed often, pitchers filter slowly, and faucet-mounted systems may slow your water flow. Some faucet-mounted systems require clumsily switching the fixture off each time you need to use the hot water tap.

On-counter, under-sink, and built-in faucet filters provide filtered water faster and are easy to switch between filtered and nonfiltered water flow. On-counter, under-sink, and built-in faucet filters require professional installation by a licensed plumber. Your pipes and fixtures may need to be modified to accommodate the filter.

Whole-house or point-of-entry filtration systems remove contaminants from the entire home's water supply. The whole-house system is the most expensive to install and may require ongoing professional maintenance to keep the system running smoothly.

Advanced Water Filters Protect Vulnerable Household Members

A whole-house filtration system is beneficial when people with compromised immune systems live in your home. Vulnerable household members can include:

• Infants and young children
• Older adults
• Chemotherapy and radiation patients
• Allergic household members
• Immunocompromised individuals

Common protozoa, bacteria, and viruses can seriously and negatively affect people who are medically fragile. Bathing and brushing their teeth with germ-laden water can be just as harmful to physically vulnerable people as drinking contaminated water straight from the tap.

Hire your plumbing service to install a whole-house filtration system to protect your medically fragile loved ones from water-borne illnesses. You may need to use several types of filtration systems to remove all of the contaminants from heavily-tainted water.

Install or upgrade your water filtration system in Irving, Dallas, or Fort Worth, Texas by contacting Henry's Service All today. Since 1978, we've provided expert, courteous, and professional plumbing services to residents throughout the DFW metroplex.

Dealing With Frost and Ice on Your Air Conditioner

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 20:23:01 GMT

Your air conditioner is one of the hardest working appliances in your home, tasked as it is with keeping your home comfortable in the face of brutal Texas summer weather. Your AC system's tireless efforts can take a toll on its performance and longevity with time — sometimes in ways that might cause concern. For instance, frost and ice can build up on your AC unit after a demanding time spent cooling your home.

Seeing a light coating of frost on your AC system's outdoor cabinet shouldn't be a cause for concern. It's only when large sheets of ice form on the evaporator and condenser coils that heavy frost and ice buildup becomes a concern. Heavy frost and ice growth can stymie your AC system in many ways, from a noticeable drop in cooling performance to emergency repairs and a severely shortened lifespan.

Read on to learn how ice and frost form on your air conditioning system, along with a few ways you can mitigate and even prevent the problem from occurring.

How Does It Happen?

Just like your refrigerator, your air conditioner relies on the basic refrigeration process. This process entails the removal and transfer of latent heat from one place to another, making the conditioned space cooler in the process. But while your refrigerator only has a couple of small, sealed chambers to keep cool, your air conditioner has your entire home to deal with.

The evaporator and condenser coils play a major role in the refrigeration process. As cooled refrigerant passes through the former, it absorbs latent heat in the surrounding air that passes over the coil. This steady flow of air also keeps temperatures on the coil's surface from dipping below freezing. A sudden drop in coil temperatures can cause nearby moisture to freeze and stick on the surface, creating a sheet of frost or ice.

What Causes It?

When it comes to frost and ice buildup on your air conditioner, there are plenty of possible causes to explore. Light frost buildup can happen when your air conditioner is working harder than usual to cool your home. However, extreme examples of ice buildup can happen thanks to the following issues:

Clogged air filter — A complete blockage can stop air from being drawn into the AC system, causing temperatures at the coil's surface to drop and nearby moisture to freeze into ice.
Malfunctioning blower fan — A blower fan that's on the fritz can also stop airflow in its tracks, making your evaporator coil more vulnerable to frost and ice.
Improper refrigerant charge — Having too much refrigerant due to overcharging or too little refrigerant due to pinhole leaks can lead to ice buildup on your AC system.
Improper equipment size — Having A/C equipment that's too large or too small for your home can lead to a number of problems, including heavy frost and ice formation.
Malfunctioning expansion valve — This crucial valve meters the amount of refrigerant that passes through it. A faulty expansion valve can
Blocked supply registers — Closing off various registers and grilles in areas where cooling isn't needed can also affect airflow throughout the rest of the duct system. Sometimes this can be enough to trigger severe frost and ice buildup.

In addition to leaving your AC system entombed in ice, the above issues can also cause permanent damage to your unit.

What Can Be Done About It?

The best way to handle a frozen air conditioner is to give it a well-deserved break. Leaving your AC system off for a couple of hours can help unthaw most, if not all, of the ice buildup. Afterwards, your HVAC technician will need to diagnose the underlying causes behind the ice buildup and take measures to correct the problem.

In some cases, the solution is as simple as replacing an air filter or giving the evaporator and condenser coils a thorough cleaning, but other instances might require freon to be added to the system for it to function properly. Chronic cases of ice buildup may only be solved by replacing your entire AC system.

How Can You Prevent It From Happening?

Prevention is always the best policy when it comes to any air conditioning issue. Regularly scheduled maintenance performed by your trusted HVAC technician offers the best way to prevent ice buildup from taking over your AC system. You should have your HVAC technician check the AC system at the start of the cooling season every year.

Also, make sure your air conditioner isn't under too much stress during operation. If the AC system is too small for your home, for instance, it'll need to run harder and longer to deliver the equivalent cooling comfort of a properly sized system. Replacing your undersized AC unit with one matching your home's true cooling needs can help prevent frost and ice buildup.

Don't let ice buildup stand in the way of your home's cooling comfort this summer. The experts at Henry's Service All can help you get your air conditioning system back in order. Contact us today to receive a free estimate.

6 Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Service

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 15:59:40 GMT

You may see several symptoms when an air conditioning system is in trouble. Here are six signs of air conditioning trouble and advice on how to handle air conditioning problems.

1. System Fan Works but Nothing Else Does

If your central air conditioning stops working altogether, turn the controls to the fan-only position. If the fan doesn't work, check your breaker box for a blown fuse.

If your fan works, that's a good sign that power is getting to the heating, cooling, and ventilation (HVAC) system. However, the fan alone can't cool the house.

Your cooling system may not be working, even when the fan works, due to:

• Compressor problem
• Automatic shutoff due to a drain issue
• Internal switch problem
• Loose wiring

Modern HVAC systems have many parts that break down over time. When only your fan is working on your HVAC system, call in experts to inspect your air conditioning components. A small adjustment or repair may be all that's needed to get your air conditioning back on track.

2. No Response to the Thermostat

Do you change the thermostat settings, but nothing happens? If your air conditioning continues to run even when you raise the thermostat settings, check to ensure that the thermostat is set to the automatic mode. If the thermostat is set to the on mode, the thermostat will not shut off unless you turn the entire unit to the off or auto setting.

If your air conditioning unit won't click on after lowering a modern thermostat, check to ensure the batteries are fresh in the thermostat itself. Older thermostats don't have batteries, but they do have sensors that can wear out and fail to send a signal to the main HVAC unit. A failed sensor may cause your unit to continue cycling rapidly no matter how you set the thermostat.

3. Air Conditioning Is Too Cold

If your thermostat is located in a sunny or warm part of a wall, it can send false readings to your HVAC system. The thermostat is registering the temperature as much higher than it is, so the air conditioning cycles too often.

If a thermostat is located in an overly warm room where people don't normally spend time, the air conditioning may be too cold in the rooms where people do congregate. If the air conditioning is running full blast to cool upstairs rooms, the downstairs rooms may have more of a chill than desirable.

Your HVAC repair professionals can move your thermostat to a more suitable location out of the sun and not close to any ovens, clothes dryers, or warm electronic devices. HVAC experts can also install an attic fan to pull cool air upstairs and circulate it throughout the warmer upper floors.

4. Condenser Coils Keep Freezing

If your air conditioning is running, but only warm air is coming out, you may decide to investigate the guts of your central HVAC system. Call in the experts before you remove the panel on your main unit.

If you do remove the panel, you might notice that the copper coils inside the evaporator are covered in ice. If so, your air conditioning system has a problem.

The coils become ice-covered when the refrigerant temperature in the air conditioning lines falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit — the freezing point of water. The frozen refrigerant causes humidity on the coils to freeze and coat the surface of the copper.

Coils may freeze due to:

• AC units running continuously
• Dirty filters
• Clogged cooling fins
• Inadequate system ventilation
• Blown fuse

In some cases, frozen coils are the result of low refrigerant levels in the system. Regardless of the cause of coil freeze-ups, have your system checked out by professionals if it continues occurring.

5. Screeches or High-Pitched Noises

When you hear a whistling or high-pitched sound while your air conditioning is running, you may have a lack of return air. Your air conditioning system needs fresh air to keep functioning properly, so any return-air issues need to be solved right away.

Check the grill over your return air duct and clear away excess dust and debris buildup. An object may be blocking the return air vent, or your air filter may be clogged. Correct these issues.

A screeching sound may come from a loose fan belt or a worn motor. If a new filter and clean up don't solve the noise issue, call your air conditioning repair service for a full inspection of your system.

6. Thumps and Rattles

Some crinkling and banging are normal in an HVAC system. If your ductwork is damaged, undersized, or weak, you may hear strange sounds including thumps and rattles. Undersized ductwork increases wear on your system, so have it replaced with ductwork that's the proper diameter for your HVAC system.

Humming and scraping sounds may indicate worn components in your air conditioning system. Your fan, switches, wiring, and mechanical parts may need tightening up or replacement.

Contact the HVAC experts at Henry's Service All to schedule an inspection of your air conditioning system problem . We repair, adjust, and replace air conditioning systems throughout the Greater Irving and Dallas-Ft.Worth, Texas, areas.

Manage Your AC System to Reduce North Texas Pollen Allergies

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 03:55:48 GMT

Pollen is no joke in Texas. In fact, one Texas town has been designated the most challenging place for spring allergies in the nation for the year 2018. The list of most challenging cities is released every year by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, who placed another Texas town in the fifth most challenging spot this year.

Your air conditioning (AC) system can help limit your exposure to pollen with proper maintenance and add-ons. Here's what you should know about North Texas allergies and your AC system.

Pollen Is a Year-Round Challenge in North Texas

Many areas of the nation only face pollen-related allergies in the spring and autumn seasons. In Texas, the pollen swirls in the air all year. A basic calendar of pollen release shows only brief periods of low pollen activity.

Winter

Mountain cedar is a problem from December through February. Cedar fever is pollen-related but can make people believe they have the flue. In late February, elm pollen becomes problematic.

Spring

Pecan, walnut and oak pollens are active until late spring. Cottonwood and ash trees are also problematic. From early April until late June, pollen loads from grasses cause the most allergic reactions. Bermuda, orchard, and Timothy grasses are some of the pollen-producing culprits of late spring and early summer.

Summer and Autumn

Late June through August are relatively pollen-free weeks. In late August, short ragweed and cedar elm allergies can make sufferers feel as if they are seriously ill. While the cedar elm pollen tapers off by September, the ragweed pollen may persist until November along with other weed pollens.

The year-round exposure to pollen in North Texas makes it a wise call to invest in extra AC components, especially if you have highly allergic people living in your household.

Filtration Can Reduce Indoor Pollen Problems

You can't seal out all pollen from your home. Some pollen will be brought inside on your clothes, your hair, and your dog. However, a heavy-duty filtration system can keep pollen from entering the ductwork of your home and contaminating your indoor air.

There are several types of filters that work harder than standard filters. Add-on filtration systems must be plumbed into your existing ductwork, so you need a professional to install them and ensure they're working correctly. The filters listed here can help people with allergies in many cases.

Electronic Filter

Also called electrostatic filters, these systems work by exposing air to a high-voltage current. Particles in the air stick to an oppositely charged collector and are kept out of ductwork. Tests have shown an electrostatic filter works up to 30 times better than a conventional filter.

Extended Media Filters

These bulky filters look similar to a bundle of plain filters stacked together. Extended media filters may be as thick as eight inches and fit in a special holder. Filters only need to be changed once a year.

Ultraviolet Filters

These filters add an extra layer of protection against germs. Some people with allergies also have compromised immune systems, so they can get sick easier from bacteria and viruses. The UV light in the filter kills airborne germs so your AC unit delivered sanitized air to the rooms in your home.

HEPA Filters

HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air filtration. HEPA filter makers claim the filters remove nearly all small particles, but the numbers reflect laboratory conditions.

If you use a HEPA filter in place of your standard fiberglass filter, expect a reduction of fine particulates in the 80% range. You can use HEPA filters without upgrading your AC system.

Your AC professional is the best source of information about the filtration systems and other add-ons that will work with your particular HVAC unit. A mini-split or independent AC system may be a solution for a household member with severe allergies.

Pollen Can Be Reduced With Proper AC Maintenance

Schedule routine maintenance of your AC system to keep the unit at peak performance levels. The HVAC techs who service your AC system check an array of components in your system.

A maintenance service call involves inspection and repair of:

• Thermostat issues
• Electrical connections
• Voltage issues
• Condenser and motor function
• Drainage issues
• Cycling and system controls

To ensure your system is operating efficiently, the HVAC tech will lubricate any moving parts that need it, inspect the blowers to ensure that fans are operating at the right speed, and check the refrigerant level. For an additional charge, he or she will also clean the coils on your condenser and evaporator, and recharge or flush the system with an updated refrigerant.

You can help your AC repair company by checking and changing out your standard filters before they become clogged and dirty. During peak pollen seasons, check and change out your filters more often.

If you have filtration add-ons installed onto your AC system, ask your installation professional to explain the maintenance and service schedule recommended for the new equipment. Ask your HVAC company for more tips on how to reduce allergy symptoms using your particular system and home arrangement.

Contact the experts at Henry's Service All to schedule spring maintenance of your AC system. Ask us about add-ons and special filtration systems that work with your home HVAC equipment for increased comfort during pollen seasons.

3 Tricks to Cut Your Cooling Costs This Summer

Fri, 25 May 2018 15:11:50 GMT

Nearly everyone in Texas appreciates air conditioning (AC) in summer, but few people enjoy opening their electric bills during the hottest months. How can you keep cool without blowing your budget? Follow the three tips listed here if you want to stay comfortable and keep more of your hard-earned resources.

1. Use the Thermostat

Learn how your thermostat works so you can set the AC unit to the right temperature and fan settings. Be careful not to inadvertently set the fan to run continuously. If the fan or fans run continuously while the AC unit is turned on, your power bills will be higher. Fans can also pull hot air through your ducts when the compressor is cycled off, defeating the work of your AC unit.

If you have a variable-speed fan, set it on high when the outdoor humidity is at a low or average level. When the humidity is high, set the fan on a slower speed setting to help evaporate the moisture.

When it comes to temperature settings, experts claim you save two to three percent on your electric bill for each degree that you raise your AC thermostat in summer. If you normally keep your thermostat at 70 degrees Fahrenheit, a bump up to 74 degrees Fahrenheit can slash up to 12 percent off your summer energy costs.

An economical and recommended setting for your thermostat is 78 degrees Fahrenheit. If you wish to further limit your power costs using the thermostat, turn up or turn off the AC settings when you leave the home. Invest in a programmable thermostat that you can set on a timer or manage remotely for even more control.

2. Shade Your World

Do you feel hotter standing in direct sunlight than you do standing under a tree in the shade? Your home feels the same way. If you have bare windows facing a western or southern view, the afternoon sun enters the glass panes. Your AC unit struggles to keep the chill going in the sun-flooded room, while other rooms in the house end up over-chilled from the constant AC cycling.

According to the US Department of Energy, up to 76 percent of the sun's rays enter your home and create heat indoors, so you aren't imagining things if you feel warmer in sunny rooms. To reduce the heating effects of the sun on exposed rooms, seek out attractive and shade-producing window coverings.

Sun-blocking window treatments are available for any home décor. Insulated, light-blocking drapery is available in a variety of colors and patterns to coordinate with room furnishings. Other shade-making choices include:

• Window and door awnings
• Solar window screens
• Roman shades
• Cellular shades
• Exterior and interior shutters

Your outdoor AC compressor could use some shade, too. Install a decorative vinyl or wooden fence panel that blocks the sun from your compressor. Alternatively, plant shrubs and trees to shade the compressor. The U.S. Department of Energy advises that you can increase your AC system's efficiency by 10 percent simply by shading the exterior unit.

3. Change Your Habits

Perform outdoor chores and activities in the early morning whenever possible. You won't get as hot and sticky as you would if you mowed the lawn or jogged in the heat of the day. By limiting your outside exertion to the cooler hours of the day, you're also less likely lower the thermostat as soon as you come back indoors.

Switch all of your light bulbs over to cool, energy-efficient products to reduce excess heat emitted by lamps and light fixtures.

Unplug heat-generating electronics that aren't in use including computers and stereos. Run your dishwasher and clothes dryer during the cooler, off-peak nighttime hours. Alternatively, hang clothes in the sun and use disposable dinnerware to keep energy costs low.

Cool down indoors on blistering days by wearing lighter clothing. If you're still too hot after changing into shorts and a sleeveless shirt, take a quick, cool shower. At night, sleep on cotton sheets and use oscillating fans to gently circulate air in bedrooms.

Cooking heat increases the temperature inside your home and raises your cooling costs. Enjoy no-cook meals including sandwiches, salads, and wraps to keep the oven and stove out of commission during the high heat of summer. Use the grill outdoors for hot meals, or eat at your favorite restaurants on the most sweltering days.

If your home has a finished basement or a garage that stays cool, create a cozy hang-out spot in the space for the hottest part of the day. Close the registers in rooms that aren't in use to reduce cooling demands. Do run fans or circulate the AC in unused rooms from time to time, so humidity is evaporated in these mostly unconditioned rooms.

Contact the AC experts at Henry's Service All right away to schedule a spring inspection of your AC system . We can tune up your cooling system or install a brand new, high-efficiency AC unit for your summer comfort.

What the End of R-22 Refrigerant Means for Your AC

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

If you purchased your air conditioner prior to 2010, then chances are it uses R-22, an older refrigerant that's currently at the heart of a planned phase-out. Introduced in the 1950s, R-22 was well-known for its effective cooling performance, making it the refrigerant of choice throughout the HVAC industry. However, it's also one of several compounds responsible for depleting the ozone layer.

In the 1980s, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency joined other agencies in a worldwide effort to phase out ozone-depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and other potentially harmful compounds. This eventually led to a ban on R-22 production in the United States, with the goal of a complete phase-out of R-22 usage by 2020.

The R-22 phase-out will obviously have an impact on your older air conditioning equipment. The HVAC industry has already shifted to newer and more eco-friendly refrigerants such as R-410A — the standard for new HVAC equipment currently on the market. The following provides a preview of what you can expect for your current HVAC system between now and 2020.

Your Maintenance Costs Will Increase

Like most homeowners, you want to get the most out of your current air conditioning system, even if it means keeping it around for a few more years. However, maintaining an older A/C system can be costly — and that's before factoring in the effects of the ongoing R-22 phase-out campaign.

Since production of new R-22 refrigerant ended in 2010, there's been a steady increase in the costs of both existing stocks of virgin R-22 and used stocks reclaimed from retired HVAC equipment. In anticipation of coming shortages, many HVAC technicians have started stockpiling supplies of R-22 to service existing HVAC equipment.

If your air conditioner suddenly springs a leak and needs service right now, a refrigerant recharge could cost you hundreds of dollars in new refrigerant alone. Now imagine how much that same service could cost after 2020 when R-22 supplies are expected to dry up.

Needless to say, keeping your air conditioner in its current form will become increasingly expensive as time goes on, especially after the phase-out is completed in 2020. If you want to keep your current A/C system beyond 2020 or you were one of the few who purchased a dry-shipped R-22 air conditioner within the past few years, you should carefully consider your options going forward.

Drop-In Replacements Become an Attractive Option

As R-22 becomes harder to find and more expensive to use, you may find yourself searching for a replacement that doesn't require major changes to your current air conditioning equipment. In response to the R-22 phase-out, refrigerant manufacturers have introduced non-ozone depleting alternatives that mimic R-22 in performance while offering better energy efficiency.

Alternatives like R-438A (also known as Freon MO99) and R-424A offer so-called drop-in capability, meaning these refrigerants can be added to your existing system with little to no modifications needed. As a result, drop-in refrigerants offer the most straightforward option for extending the life of your current A/C equipment.

While some refrigerants can be dropped into your R-22-based A/C system with minimal prep work, others require a bit more work before they can be successfully used. Refrigerants like R-407C and R-421A use different lubricants that aren't compatible with the lubricant used in conjunction with R-22. This means you'll need to purge the entire A/C system of its old refrigerant and lubricant before adding the new alternative.

You'll Eventually Need to Convert or Replace Your Air Conditioner

By the time the year 2020 rolls around, you may be considering a complete replacement of your current air conditioner with one that uses the latest in non-ozone depleting refrigerant. The vast majority of air conditioners currently on the market use R-410A, the refrigerant of choice for most HVAC manufacturers. Upgrading to a new A/C system also means you'll have access to the latest features and advances in HVAC technology.

If you plan on keeping your current air conditioner beyond 2020, you may be able to convert your equipment to use R-410A and other refrigerants that aren't currently compatible with R-22. A typical conversion requires the replacement of the coils and compressor with components that can withstand the higher pressure requirements of the new refrigerant.

Converting your current air conditioner to R-410A is the cheaper option if you've recently invested in new R-22-based A/C equipment. However, you may only have a few short years before a complete A/C replacement becomes a necessity. Replacing your entire A/C system offers more upfront expense, but you'll save more money and enjoy better performance and efficiency in the long run.

The clock is ticking and it won't be long before the R-22 phase-out is complete. The seasoned technicians at Henry's Service All can help you make the right choices when it comes to your heating and cooling system. Contact us today for your free estimate.

8 Signs You Need a New Water Heater

Wed, 04 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Water heaters don't get much in the way of accolades when they operate properly, but an ailing water heater gets noticed. After all, there's no way you can ignore a bone-chilling blast of cold water when you're ready to take a long, hot shower. Here are a few signs that it may be time for a brand-new water heater.

1. Lukewarm Water Temperature

A lack of hot water may be one of the first problems you'll notice with your water heater. An ailing water heater may have trouble bringing its water supply up to the desired temperature, resulting in water that feels lukewarm. Sediment buildup can prevent the burner or heating element from heating the water effectively. A complete burner or heating element failure can also lead to lukewarm water.

Lukewarm water temperatures can also be caused by an incorrect setting. Check the water heater temperature valve and make sure it's set to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a cooking thermometer to verify the water temperature. If water temperatures are still lukewarm even at the correct settings, you need to replace your water heater.

2. Exterior Rust and Corrosion

If you can see visible signs of rust and corrosion on the exterior of your water heater, have it replaced. Exterior rust and corrosion can weaken the water heater's structural integrity, making it more likely to leak or otherwise fail catastrophically.

3. Muddy or Rust-Colored Water

Take a look at the water that comes out of your hot water tap. Muddy, silt-filled water is usually a sign of excess sediment buildup, while rust-tinged water is a sign of serious rust and corrosion buildup inside of the water heater tank.

4. Metallic Odor and Taste

Notice something different about the way your water tastes? A noticeable change in water taste is another telltale sign that your water heater may need replacement in the near future. An ailing water heater can cause rust and other metallic debris to mingle with your water supply as it deteriorates. Unless you're using a water filter, you may notice your water suddenly has a metallic taste and odor to it.

5. Burn Marks

On standard atmospheric water heaters, burn marks along the bottom of the water heater or near the exhaust flue can indicate a serious issue. Improper venting can cause hot exhaust gases to backdraft or flow backward and vent into the room instead of leaving through the exhaust flue.

Backdrafting not only causes performance issues for your water heater, but it also places your home at serious risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. If you're experiencing these issues, it may be time to have your water heater replaced.

6. Popping or Banging Noises

Although you can expect your water heater to make a little noise during operation, unusually loud noises may be an indicator of its impending demise. A failing water heater may make loud popping, rattling, or banging noises as it heats up. These noises are commonly referred to as kettling because the phenomenon is similar to a tea kettle heating up.

These noises are often caused by years of sediment and mineral buildup. Unchecked sediment buildup can cause hot spots throughout the water heater that allow water to boil and flash into steam. These actions produce the telltale popping and banging noises that are often associated with a failing water heater.

7. Constant Water Leaks

A constant puddle of water around your water heater can be a cause for concern. Corrosion around sealed pipe fittings can lead to a slow, continuous leak that gets worse over time. The constant expansion and contraction of the water heater's inner tank can also cause hairline cracks to form, allowing water to leak out of the inner tank.

8. Old Age

Even if your water heater does not display any of the above-mentioned signs of impending failure, you should consider its age. Your water heater's projected longevity depends on the type of water heater you have and how well it was maintained throughout its life.

You can expect a conventional water heater to last for 8 to 12 years before it needs replacement. Tankless water heaters can last nearly twice as long, with most models offering up to 20 years of reliable service. You may be able to squeeze a few more years out of your water heater through meticulous maintenance and upkeep.

The more your water heater ages, the less efficient and reliable it eventually becomes. Instead of hanging on to an aging water heater, you're better off having it replaced soon, especially if the following apply to you:

• You haven’t replaced your water in heater in 10 years or more.

• You can't remember when you had your current water heater replaced.

• You purchased your home years ago and the previous owner did not replace the water heater.

The experts at Henry's Service All can take care of a wide variety of HVAC and plumbing tasks, including water heater installation and service. Contact us to get your free estimate today.

6 Things to Consider When Shopping for a New HVAC System

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For years, your HVAC system has enjoyed a quiet presence in your home, keeping it comfortable through all types of weather. But all good things must come to an end. No matter how reliable your HVAC system is, it will need replacement eventually.

In today's market, there's no shortage of HVAC systems to choose from. The key is choosing a heating and cooling solution that works best for your home's unique climate control needs. When choosing a new HVAC system, there are several issues that can ultimately impact your purchasing decision.

1. System Size

Size definitely matters when it comes to your HVAC system. Your home's size and the amount of cooling and heating power it requires will determine your new system's size. Contractors use certain calculations to figure out an HVAC system's optimal size, but if your circumstances require more or less air flow, talking with a licensed experienced Contractor will help customize a more appropriate fit.

Oversized HVAC systems can cause unbalanced indoor temperatures and suffer from short cycling issues. Meanwhile, undersized HVAC systems must run for longer periods to achieve the same performance as a properly sized system, resulting in increased wear and tear.

Accuracy is the key when it comes to properly sizing HVAC equipment. Your contractor should use the Manual J load calculation and Manual S equipment selection process to determine exactly how big your next HVAC system should be without robbing your home of its comfort and efficiency.

2. Efficiency Ratings

Nearly half of your home's energy consumption is devoted to keeping your home warm and cool throughout the year. This fact makes choosing an energy-efficient HVAC system one of the best ways to save electricity and significantly reduce energy costs.

HVAC systems use a variety of ratings to showcase their energy efficiency and make comparisons among similar units possible. For instance, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is used to measure the energy efficiency of air conditioners. Heat pumps are rated on their efficiency based on the Heating Season Performance Factor (HSPF) while furnaces use Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings.

The higher the SEER, HSPF, or AFUE rating, the less energy the rated system is likely to consume throughout its lifespan. You should consider these ratings when choosing your next HVAC system.

3. Special Features

Your new HVAC system will likely come with a variety of unique features that aren't present in your old unit. These features include variable-speed fan motors that offer better airflow control, improved sound absorbing materials that reduce noise, and automatic reminders to change or clean your air filter.

Programmable thermostats are also a popular special feature on new HVAC equipment. With these thermostats, you can schedule your HVAC system's operation based on the time of day for up to seven days each week. Some programmable thermostats even feature Wi-Fi connectivity for updates and weather alerts.

4. Air Quality

A larger filter base, such as a HoneyWell or Perfect Fit Filtration System, allows for larger filters that only have to be changed twice per year, vs the traditional filters that are changed monthly. This allows for better filtration in your house as it catches 80-90% of air particles in your house.

You can also opt for an air purifier, such as a Reme, this is great for reducing allergens in the home and increasing air quality.

5. Purchase and Installation Costs

The average purchase and installation price of your new HVAC system can vary depending on a variety of factors, including its size, number of features, and energy efficiency. A typical HVAC system for a 1,000-square foot home can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $9,000, according to recent estimates from CostOwl . You can expect to pay more if your home poses any unique issues during installation.

You should consider your budget when choosing a new HVAC system. Talk to a licensed expert who can give you advice specific to your home and situation to include the items needed and not include unnecessary purchases.

6. Warranties

If anything ever goes wrong with your HVAC system, you'll rest easier knowing the manufacturer stands behind its product. Most HVAC manufacturers offer a 10-year warranty on their equipment, if it is registered. Ask the installing company if they register the unit on your behalf, if not make sure to do it or the warranty will only be for 5 years. Keep in mind that some warranties apply to specific components while others cover new parts and not installation. Most manufacturers also offer extended warranty coverage at an additional cost.

When the time comes to choose a new heating and cooling system for your home, you can rest easy knowing the professionals at Henry's Service All can help. Contact us today to schedule your new HVAC system installation. And don't forget that we offer annual HVAC service contracts that cover fall and spring service for your HVAC unit, plus we also offer a 90-day warranty on our labor for repair and 1-year labor on a new install.

The 5 Main Reasons to Replace Your Home's Thermostat

Mon, 12 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Sometimes you need a new thermostat for your home's HVAC system. Here's the list of five thermostat-busting problems that require a thermostat replacement.

1. Your Thermostat Is Damaged

Thermostats are damaged by a number of destructive forces. Flood waters and high humidity corrode the components of thermostats. Fire and smoke damage controls, sensors, and displays. Rats and rodents chew wires and cause electrical shorts and other problems. Blunt-force trauma can break the face or mechanical parts of thermostats.

If your thermostat is seriously damaged, it must be replaced with a new model. A broken or compromised thermostat can cause serious problems with your home's wiring and your HVAC unit.

2. You Replace the Furnace or AC Unit

When your HVAC professionals install a new furnace or AC unit, have your thermostat upgraded too. In some cases, you'll need a fresh, updated thermostat to handle a more energy-efficient HVAC unit.

There are three different types of thermostats in use in most of the US. The type of thermostat you need depends on the type of system you have.

The three types of thermostats are:

1. Low-voltage
2. Line-voltage
3. Millivolt

Low-voltage thermostats are used most often with conventional forced-air furnaces using gas or electric heat. They're also commonly used with heat pumps, boilers, and electric AC systems. Low-voltage thermostats are acceptable for use with single-stage and multiple-stage HVAC appliances.

Line-voltage thermostats control baseboard heaters, wall heaters, and heating systems in individual rooms. They’re also used to regulate temperatures when you use oil-fired boilers with baseboards and radiant heating systems.

Millivolt thermostats are self-powered and not used for most residential applications. The millivolt system is used with gravity-wall heating systems, top-vent heating systems, and direct-vent heating systems used in manufactured housing.

3. Your Present Thermostat and HVAC System Are Mismatched

Dirty air filters, improper settings, and loose connections can cause your heating and cooling system to perform poorly. When you've checked out all of the possible problems, yet your HVAC system is still not responding, you may have a mismatch of your HVAC system and your thermostat.

A contractor in the past may have installed a new furnace without replacing the old thermostat. A DIYer may have installed the wrong thermostat on the home's HVAC setup. Whatever the reason for the mismatch, the problem must be addressed.

HVAC professionals must take apart your thermostat to check the wiring of the system. That's the only way to know for sure that the HVAC system and the thermostat are not compatible. After your new thermostat is installed, your furnace and AC units will run properly.

4. The Thermostat Is in the Wrong Place

If your HVAC system isn't heating or cooling rooms as much as you think it should, your thermostat may be sending the wrong signals to your furnace or AC unit. At the same time, your thermostat may be in perfect working order. The problem isn't with the mechanics or settings of the thermostat in some cases.

The problem may be caused by the location of your thermostat. If direct sunlight warms up the sensors of your thermostat, the thermostat will think everything is within the set range. There's no way for the thermostat to let the furnace know that the rest of the house is freezing cold.

Likewise, if the thermostat is located next to a drafty spot, it may tell the furnace to kick on more often than is needed for household comfort. The same problem may occur with your AC unit if the thermostat is located near a stove in your home.

Have your HVAC tech move the thermostat to a location that reflects the temperatures in the main living area of the house. Your heating and air conditioning specialist knows the best spots for the thermostat relocation.

Sometimes, small children and pets can access the thermostat — with less-than-happy results for the home climate and the power bills. Instead of moving the thermostat, have your HVAC repair company install a locking cover for your thermostat. The safe, see-through covers are a cheaper option than removing and rewiring the thermostat in a new location.

5. The Thermostat Is Old

When your thermostat reaches the 35-year mark, it's time to have it replaced with a newer unit. Modern digital thermostats are more reliable than old units. Manual units in older houses operate with mercury-filled tubes, so your HVAC technicians will take extra care when disposing of an older thermostat.

Digital thermostats provide many benefits. For example, they:

• Keep temperatures within a comfortable range
• Are compatible with split systems
• Are programmable for optimum efficiency

Some versions of digital thermostats are compatible with smart home systems. With a thermostat hooked up to a whole-home smart system, you can use your phone, laptop, or other device to change the thermostat setting whenever you like. Set the thermostat to be toasty warm or refreshingly cool as soon as you or the kids walk through the front door.

Schedule an inspection of your thermostat and your entire HVAC system by calling Henry's Service All today. We keep families comfortable year-round by delivering reliable heating and air conditioning services throughout Irving and the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex.

13 Essential Components of a Heating System Checkup

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Nobody enjoys having their heat fail in the middle of winter. Thankfully, having your HVAC
system looked over every fall or early winter can ensure problems are detected and dealt with
before they leave you shivering in a 40-degree home. But not all HVAC checkups are created
equal. A good HVAC checkup, like those completed by Henry's Service All, should include
these 13 components.

1. Inspect the Pilot Light or Ignitor

Most modern furnaces have an electric ignitor that starts the burner. Older models have a
standing pilot light that always stays lit. Whichever one your furnace has, your HVAC technician
will check it over to ensure it is working properly. Failing ignitors and pilot lights are one of the most common reasons why furnaces stop working, but luckily, problems with these components
are easy and inexpensive to fix.

2. Check the Safety Limits

Your furnace has a number of safety features for your own safety. For instance, the air pressure
switch blows extra combustion gasses out of the burn chamber so you don't get an explosion, and
a thermocouple shuts off the gas flow if the pilot light or ignitor fails. Your HVAC technician
should check over these safety features to ensure they are triggered when they should be.

3. Test the Gas Connection

A gas leak can be deadly. Natural gas that has accumulated in a home may explode when
exposed to the smallest spark, and inhaling the gas is not safe, either. Your HVAC technician
will make sure your gas lines are in good shape so they don't develop any leaks in the coming
months. If needed, they may work with your gas company to make repairs or replace
questionable pipes.

4. Check the Gas Valve Operation

If there is ever a gas leak, the ability to turn the gas valve off will be paramount. So your furnace
technician will try turning the gas valve and will apply lubrication, if needed, to ensure it opens
and closes easily.

5. Test the Thermostat

Many heating problems, such as short-cycling and a lack of heat, can be traced back to your
thermostat. Your HVAC contractor will ensure the wiring between your furnace and thermostat
is secure. They'll also check your thermostat batteries and change them if needed.

6. Inspect the Motor

Your furnace's blower has a motor that drives the fan that propels air through your home's ducts.
A failing motor will result in weak air flow, strange noises, or a complete lack of heat. But
before this stage, it will just cause your furnace to operate efficiently. So having your HVAC
contractor diagnose any motor problems early on will save you a bundle on energy.

7. Examine the Heat Exchanger

If the heat exchanger cracks, you may be subject to carbon monoxide leaks. Your HVAC
technician can easily detect cracks or damage before your family is put at risk.
8. Change the Air Filter
In most cases, you should change your HVAC filter every one to two months. You can skip the
month you have your HVAC system checked over since Henry's Service All will supply a new
one for you.

8. Change the Air Filter
In most cases, you should change your HVAC filter every one to two months. You can skip the
month you have your HVAC system checked over since Henry's Service All will supply a new
one for you.

9. Test for Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous, odorless gas that might accumulate if your furnace is not
ventilated properly. It claims lives every year in the United States. Your HVAC technician
should check the air around your furnace for carbon monoxide while the system is running, and they will also make sure you have working and properly placed carbon monoxide detectors
throughout your home.

10. Test Smoke Detectors

The risk of fire is very minimal if your furnace is well-maintained, but there is always a small
chance. To keep your family safe, the HVAC company will make sure your smoke detectors
work. You should also remember to test your smoke detectors on your own each month and
change the batteries yearly.

11. Record Model and Serial Numbers

If something does go wrong with your furnace in the winter, your HVAC contractor will be able
to address the problem more easily if they have a record of your furnace model and serial
numbers. They will also need this information to submit to the furnace manufacturer if a repair
or part is under warranty.

12. Write Down Filter Size

Your HVAC contractor should also record the filter size your furnace demands. You can use this
for your records when you shop for filters, and your contractor can reference it when they come
back to service your furnace again next year.

13. Note the Overall Performance

A record of overall performance, as recorded once a year, allows your HVAC technician to
monitor how your system is working overtime. A drop in performance may indicate the need for
repairs or a tuneup. And when performance drops too low, it might be time to replace your
furnace completely.
By completing these 13 tasks, your furnace contractor makes sure your heating system is safe,
functional, and efficient. Contact us today if you still need to schedule your annual furnace
inspection.

5 Benefits of Scheduling a Last-Minute Checkup for Your A/C System

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

After an entire summer of hard, grueling work, your air conditioner deserves a well-earned rest. But before you retire your A/C system for the season, you should have your HVAC technician give it a last-minute checkup .
By letting a seasoned professional take one last look at your HVAC equipment, you'll be able to keep it in great shape throughout the rest of the year and have it ready to tackle next year's heat. If you're still not convinced, here are five in-depth benefits to consider.

1. You'll Get Better Performance
No matter how much or how often you use your A/C system, you'll always appreciate an extra bump in cooling performance. A last-minute checkup can help maintain or even improve your A/C system's overall performance by focusing on a variety of common and not-so-common maintenance tasks.
These include changing the air filter, checking electrical wiring and connections, cleaning the air conditioning coils and checking refrigerant levels.

2. It'll Extend Your Unit's Lifespan
The average air conditioning unit is capable of offering 12 to 15 years of reliable service. With the right amount of care and maintenance, you might be able to extend that lifespan by an additional 5 to 10 years. Regular maintenance is the key to giving your A/C system a long lasting life and an A/C checkup may be able to help your unit last longer.

3. You'll Save Money on Energy Costs
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling make up the largest energy expense in your home, with nearly half the energy used devoted towards keeping it cool and comfortable throughout the summer. With this in mind, even a minor reduction in your A/C system's energy usage can represent significant savings.
By having your A/C system checked out by a professional, you'll be able to take advantage of energy-saving maintenance, as well as improvements that can help reduce the amount of energy needed to maintain cool temperatures. For instance, upgrading to a programmable thermostat can help reduce your A/C system's energy consumption and lower your energy costs while putting more money in your pocket.

4. It'll Help You Identify and Address Potential Problems
Your A/C system may seem healthy at first glance, but it could hide a number of problematic conditions that could easily sideline it when they emerge. In some cases, it's a matter of when — not if — a problem suddenly turns up with your A/C system, whether it's due to ordinary wear and tear or deferred maintenance. It's not out of the ordinary to miss these issues when conducting your own cursory checkup.
A thorough last-minute checkup gives your HVAC technician a golden opportunity to take a closer look at your A/C system. Your technician will conduct a thorough inspection and spot potential problems before they have a chance to spiral into even bigger issues later on. After spotting these problems, your technician will use the latest tools and techniques to bring your A/C system back to peak form.

5. You'll Be Ready for Next Summer
The best part about having your A/C system checked out now is that you won't have to worry about checking it out later. You'll have peace of mind knowing that your A/C system is ready to tackle the first heat of spring or summer.
However, that doesn't mean you should skip out on a pre-summer HVAC checkup because your HVAC technician can pick up any issues that may have developed between your last A/C checkup and the next.
When it comes to keeping your A/C system in the best possible shape, one call does it all. If you need yours checked out before the end of summer, contact the pros at Henry's Service All today.

Summer's Almost Over: Time to Clean Your Air Conditioner Condenser!

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Purpose of Cleaning Your Air Conditioner Condenser

Your air conditioner works by absorbing hot air in your home and then releasing that hot air into the yard through the condenser. To encourage air flow and maintain efficiency, the condenser is protected by a delicate grate with "fins" that allows air to blow out of the unit and into the open.

If the airflow around the condenser becomes blocked by debris, this can reduce the efficiency of your unit and could potentially lead to a breakdown. Because the air conditioner condenser is located outdoors, leaves and twigs can easily become caught inside the unit. Over time, this debris can start to build up on the coils, slowing the release of hot air into the yard.

Cleaning your unit on a regular basis can help protect your air conditioner from debris and can keep the air conditioner running efficiently.

How to Clean Your A/C Condenser

To clean your air conditioner condenser, start by cutting the power to the unit. Many homeowners aren't sure how to do this. If need be, you can turn off the circuit breaker. Once this is done, unscrew the top of the unit and pull it off. Use a wet-dry vacuum to suck the leaves and other debris from the air conditioner.

Once the air conditioner condenser is completely cleaned out, use a strong jet of water from a hose to spray the inside of the condenser. Use the strong jet of water to clear off the debris from the coils and to wash away any remaining dirt inside the condenser.

If your air conditioner condenser is very dirty, or if it hasn't been cleaned in a long time, buy coil cleaner from your local home improvement store. Use a soft-bristled brush and coil cleaner to remove any stuck-on dirt. Rinse the coil cleaner out of the unit, then put the lid back on the air conditioner. Once this is done, restore power.

When Cleaning Should Occur

Air conditioner condensers need to be cleaned at least once annually. Clean your condenser either after the debris has accumulated at the end of the summer or in the spring just before the cooling season begins.

Other Ways to Ma intain Your Condenser

You can help prevent debris from building up in your condenser by keeping weeds, leaves and stray organic material away from the unit. Keep all plants at least 2 feet away from your condenser. Avoid planting anything that sheds leaves or petals in the vicinity around your air conditioner.

To prevent weeds from growing up around your condenser, consider mulching the area with heavy rock mulch. Do not use small rocks or lightweight pieces of bark that might become stuck in the fins. Homeowners who want to install a fence around the condenser to protect it can do so, but it's important to keep the fence at least 2 feet away from the unit to ensure good air flow.

Contact Your HVAC Professional for More Tips

If you take good care of your air conditioner, it will take good care of you. To find out more information about how to maintain your air conditioner condenser this fall, contact Henry's Service All . We're your source for HVAC maintenance and repair in Irving, TX.