Summer HVAC and Plumbing Tips for Your Home!
Summer is here, and the heat is on! Severe weather doesn’t have to make a severe impact on your wallet. With these simple tips and guide, you can maximize energy efficiency, minimize costs, and cool your worries.
HVAC
1. Secure your heating/cooling ducts and any open spaces. Did you know that about 40% of your home’s unwanted heat absorption comes through your windows? So better sure that windows and doors are closed, also if the sun is out, close all your shades, drapes, and blinds. The less cold air that escapes your home, the less energy you’ll waste.
2. Use Thermostat Settings for maximum A/C Savings. We advise that you set your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher while at home and about 85 degrees while away. We don’t recommend turning off your air conditioner completely since you will use more energy getting the temperature back down when you come back home.
3. Maintain Your Air Conditioner.
- Check and clean your outside heat pump’s evaporator coil.
- Clean (if it’s reusable) or replace the air filter at least once a month.
- Having your outdoor heat pump in the shade can reduce your cooling costs by around 5-10%.
- At least once, schedule professional HVAC maintenance. Maintainance service can prolong the lifespan of your system and ensure that all your warranties remain in effect.
Plumbing
1. Check your washing machine hose. Summer involved more outdoor fun thus more dirty clothes and increased in washer usage, elevating the strain on your hoses. Be sure to check all your washing machine hoses for bulges, cracks, or leaks, also ensure to tighten any loose fittings.
2. Don’t overuse your garbage disposal. Picnics and get together usually happen in summer but don’t forget to care for your drains. Most disposals can’t handle corn husks, celery, banana peels, and other fibrous foods. Also, don’t pour grease down the drain, as it hardens and can cause major clogs over time.
3. Be careful with the Tree roots. If your tree roots start to disturb your sewer lines & main lines, leading to backups, call your plumber immediately. Better yet, take preventative procedure by having your sewer line inspected and cleaned before major issues occur.
4. Finally, fix broken faucets, and toilets. Have a plumbing professional examine all your plumbing fixtures — from toilets to showerheads — and make any needed repairs.
One of the best steps to ensure your heating & cooling and plumbing is ready for the summer is to contact a professional. To increase your home’s comfort, efficiency, and safeguard against potential problems, be sure to contact Einstein Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling at 888-671-7767 or email us at [email protected].
Our service areas are Oregon: Bend, Eugene, Portland, and Salem; Washington: Bellevue, Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Vancouver; and Las Vegas, Nevada.