Helpful Tips from Ace Plumbing, Heating and Air and Appliance Repair

5 Tips to Prevent Future Appliance Breakdowns

aceplumbingtopeka@gmail.com (Dave Cobler) — Mon, 29 May 2023 23:07:51 GMT

Home appliances are essential for our daily lives. Fortunately, there are prevention steps you can take to improve the life of your appliance and help stop future breakdowns and keep your appliances running smoothly and efficiently.

Conduct Regular Maintenance

Most appliances require regular maintenance to keep them working properly. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, which usually involves cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting various parts of the appliance. Regular maintenance can help prevent wear and tear, improve performance, and extend the lifespan of your appliances . Appliance Repair companies like Ace Appliance Repair can help with proper lubrication and inspection.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning of appliances can help prevent breakdowns. Removing any dirt, dust, or debris that may have accumulated on the appliance is important for appliances with fans or vents, as blockages can cause the appliance to overheat. For example, you should vacuum the condenser coils on the back of your refrigerator every six months, or wipe down the door seal of your dishwasher regularly. Regular cleaning can help prevent damage, improve efficiency, and prevent odors.

Proper Usage

Appliances are designed to be used in a certain way. Improper use can cause them to break down. Be sure to follow the instructions and guidelines in the owner’s manual for each appliance. For example, you should not overload your washing machine or dishwasher with too many clothes or dishes, as this can strain the motor and cause leaks. You should also use the right amount and type of detergent for each appliance, as too much or too little can damage the appliance or leave a residue. Proper usage can help prevent malfunctions, improve results, and save energy.

Turn Off and Unplug

Believe it or not, turning your appliance off and unplugging it will conserve energy and preserve the appliance. This action can also help prevent power surges, overheating, and fire hazards. Turning off and unplugging your appliances can also save you money on your utility bills and reduce your environmental impact.

Get Professional Help

If you notice any signs of trouble with your appliances, such as strange noises, leaks, sparks, or errors, do not ignore them. Contact a professional service company like Ace Appliance Repair as soon as possible to diagnose and repair the problem. Delaying or attempting DIY repairs (without proper training) can worsen the situation and lead to more costly and complicated repairs or replacements. Getting professional help can ensure that your appliances are fixed properly and safely.

Essentials to Know About Appliance Repair or Replacement.

aceplumbingtopeka@gmail.com (Dave Cobler) — Mon, 29 May 2023 22:39:14 GMT

The following is a list of factors and information to consider when your home appliance is not working or is starting to malfunction.

Warranty

The first thing to check is whether your appliance is still under warranty, either by the original manufacturer or under one of the extended warranty options by the retail seller or programs like American Home Shield, and others. If it is, you may be able to get the replacement of major parts or the entire unit covered by the manufacturer or the retailer.

Cost vs. Repair

Another important factor is the cost of repair versus the cost of buying a new appliance. A general rule of thumb is: If an appliance is more than halfway through its lifespan and the repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new one, you should consider replacing it. But if fixing it is less than half the cost of buying something new—and it’s not that close to the end of its life, a repair is probably the better option.

Below is a list of common appliances and their average lifespan.

Dishwasher: 9 years
Refrigerator: 13 years
Range: 13 to 15 years
Cooktop: 13 to 15 years
Wall oven: 14 years
Over-the-range microwave: 10 years
Washing machine: 10 years
Clothes dryer: 13 years

Energy Efficiency

Another factor to consider is the energy efficiency of your appliance. Many of today’s models are more energy efficient than older models, which means they can save you money on your utility bills and help the environment. You might also receive a tax credit for purchasing an energy-efficient appliance.

You can compare the energy efficiency of different appliances by looking at their Energy Star ratings, which indicate how much energy they use compared to standard models. The higher the rating, the more efficient the appliance.

Personal Preference

You may also want to consider your personal preference and needs when deciding whether to repair or replace your appliance. For example, you may want to upgrade your appliance if you are remodeling your kitchen or laundry room, or if you want to have more features or capacity. Or you may want to keep your appliance if you are attached to it or if it matches your decor.

If after conducting the research noted above you decide to repair your appliance, you will be better prepared when talking to an appliance repair company. It should be noted that some appliance repair companies are quick to recommend replacement. Be aware and be prepared.

Tips for Selecting a New Water Heater

aceplumbingtopeka@gmail.com (Dave Cobler) — Sun, 21 May 2023 00:35:56 GMT

Types of Water Heaters - Factors to Consider

When it comes to being a homeowner, selecting the right water heater for your household is very important. After all, who wants to run out of hot water in the middle of a shower?

With the vast array of options available in today's market, the task can feel quite daunting. This article will provide you with a useful guide to help you navigate the process and make an informed choice.

Different Types of Water Heaters

In today’s market, here are the most common types of water heaters:

A Storage Tank Water Heater consists of a tank that stores a predetermined amount of hot water. As you use the hot water, it is replenished with cold water, which is then heated. Storage tank water heaters are widely prevalent and come in options powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane.

Tankless Water Heaters very different than their storage tank counterparts. Tankless water heaters heat water on demand. So there is no need for a large storage tank. This gives you a continuous supply of hot water and are more energy-efficient. The one drawback is the initial purchase and installation costs of tankless water heaters tend to be higher.

The innovative Heat Pump Water Heaters utilize electricity to transfer heat from the air or ground to warm the water. This results in exceptional energy efficiency. The Heat Pump Water Heater does come with a higher price tag for both the purchase and installation.

Factors to Consider in order to fit your household needs.

The size of the water heater is crucial. It must be able to meet your household's hot water demands. Take into consideration the number of occupants, daily water usage, and peak hot water usage periods.
Opting for an energy-efficient water heater can significantly reduce your utility bills over time. Look for models with high Energy Factor (EF) ratings. The higher the rating number, the more energy efficiency you will earn.
The type of fuel you choose can be higher in some areas depending on the availability and cost of different fuel types. Electric water heaters are widely accessible, while natural gas or propane options may require specific connections.
Installation Costs: Make sure you understand and fully evaluate the installation requirements and the cost associated with each type of water heater. Tankless and heat pump water heaters often necessitate specialized installation, which can increase the cost over traditional tank installations.
Lifespan and necessary maintenance can be another hidden cost. Some models may need regular servicing, while others are more hands-off. Obviously, cheaper models of any water heater type can reduce the lifespan of the unit. Reading reviews can be very informative.

Ace Plumbing offers many options for your water heating needs. Some plumbers are quick to recommend a new water heater vs. repair. Professional, trustworthy and experienced companies like Ace will first look at repair options.

Top 5 Misunderstandings about air conditioning your home

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 20:08:55 GMT

Misunderstanding: Ceiling Fans add more cooling power to a room

Reality: Fans move air around, they do not cool the air. If you are going to be out of the room or your home for an extended period of time, save money on your electric bill and turn off your fans.

Misunderstanding: Turning off your Air Conditioning when you’re not at home saves energy.

Reality: If you are going to be gone for an extended period of time (days and weeks), then you will save some energy. Turning it off while you are going to work or school and turning it back on when you get home is not advisable if you want to save money. This is especially true on a really hot day. Your air conditioner has to work twice as hard to cool your home again. It has to cool your carpet, furniture, bed, etc. Turn it down a little, not off.

Misunderstanding: Topping off your Air conditioner refrigerant keeps your system running cooler.

Reality: If your air conditioner leaking refrigerant, then you may need to “recharge” your system. Otherwise, you should be good throughout the life of your unit. Adding more refrigerant to a normal system could actually cause a breakdown. Not sure, give us a call.

Misunderstanding: Changing your air conditioner and furnace filter is not required if the air seems fine.

Reality: Your filter is in place to keep the interior of your air conditioner protected. It’s not for cleaning household air. You should change your filter at least seasonally or two times a year depending on your level of dust and dirt or pet hair.

Download Your FREE Air Filter Tracking Sign

Misunderstanding: Your thermostat location doesn’t matter when it comes to cooling and heating your home.

Reality: Your thermostat should be installed on an interior wall so it is not exposed to sunlight, cool drafts or windows.

Give us a call at 785-234-3384 in Topeka, Shawnee County area or 785-843-9559 in the Lawrence area if you need help or have a question.

FREE Air Filter Replacement Tracking Sign

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 16:38:24 GMT

When was the last time you changed the Air Filter on your furnace?

Air Filters should be ideally be replaced 4 times a year or seasonally (twice a year) at a minimum. Be mindful of the signs you need to replace your air filter.

If dirt and dust are accumulating around your air vents
It's Taking Longer for Your House to Heat Up or you experiecne higher electric bills.
If your filter looks dirty or damaged.
If your allergies get worse.
If you own a dog or cat the sheds. Filters can clog much faster.

Ace Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning is offering you a FREE tracking form or sign that you can tape right next to your furnace. As you change filters over the coming months and years, you'll have a record of the date each time you change your filter. It can also serve as a gental reminder to change your filter.

Ace wants you to make sure you change your filter and keep your furnace or air conditioner in top running condition.

Give us a call at 785-234-3384 in Topeka, Shawnee County area or 785-843-9559 in the Lawrence area if you need help or have a question.

Download Your FREE Air Filter Tracking Sign

FREE Emergency Water Shut-Off Valve Signs

Wed, 27 Jun 2018 14:58:49 GMT

Knowing Where Your Water Shut-Off Valve is in your home could save you hundreds of dollars in damages in the case of an emergency issue.

Every year, bursts water pipes or leaking water pipes cause hundreds, even thousands of dollars in damage to floors, walls, furniture, storage boxes and other valuable possessions. When water is pouring out fast and furious and you're in a state of panic, knowing where your water shut-off valve is located is critical for limiting damage to your home. Instead of trying to remember in a panic, make sure you and everyone residing in your home knows exactly where the valve is located.

This shut-off valve is usually located in the basement or on an outside wall in a utility area of your house. Turning off the main valve (turn Clockwise) cuts off the main water supply to your entire home. It's the fastest way to neutralize a water issue, big or small.

Ace Plumbing offers a FREE set of signs to help you clearly mark the location and how to get to your water shut-off valve. You can choose from directional signs to signs demonstrating how to shut off the water. Ace wants you to be prepared in case of a water emergency.

Give us a call at 785-234-3384 in Topeka, Shawnee County area or 785-843-9559 in the Lawrence areaif you need help or have a question.

Download Your FREE signs

Roots can block or severely damage your drainage pipes.

albonnerdigital@gmail.com (Al Bonner) — Tue, 14 Nov 2017 16:33:03 GMT

Act now to prevent serious problems down the road.

A healthy root system for your trees and shrubs is a good thing, for the tree or shrub. Unfortunately, if your drain lines are near any trees, they can completely fill a pipe with hair-like roots. In some cases, larger roots can crack or crush a pipe and block it. These root masses can quickly become clogged with toilet tissue, grease and other debris flowing from your home to the main sewer.

The result at first is reduced flow or slow running drains. Shortly after, you can experience completed complete blockage. Once roots enter your pipe, they will continue to grow and reach further up or down the pipe. This adds pressure to the pipe which can crack or collapse. Fixing this type of destruction requires major repair or replacement.

The age and type of pipe can determine how likely you are to already have a problem or develop one n the future. If you have an older clay pipe system, be aware that roots can easily find their way into your system or more easily crush or crack your pipes. If you have concrete or PVC pipe, the roots will have a harder time penetrating this material. Generally, PVC pipe has fewer joints or connections, and fit more tightly together and are less likely to leak or crack as a result of settlement or pressure from larger roots.

Call Ace to schedule a pipe or system inspection if you think you are at risk of blockage or damage. We can set you mind at ease or attack a partial blockage before it becomes a major issue.

Quick Guide on How to Sterilize the Dishwasher

albonnerdigital@gmail.com (Al Bonner) — Wed, 11 Oct 2017 14:33:29 GMT

First, plug your drain and fill your kitchen sink with warm water and some dish soap. Find and remove the filter from your dishwasher. Use the water and soap in your sink to clean the filter.
Take our any removable pieces or attachments such as a utensil or silverware holder. These parts are easier to clean if you hand wash them.
Remove the bottom dish rack and look for any food debris on the bottom of the dishwasher including the drain. Remove any debris. Then put the lower dish rack back in the dishwasher.
Turn your dishwasher to the hottest, longest setting. Once water begins filling up on the bottom, open up the dishwasher, and add in two cups of white vinegar. Allow the vinegar to sit for 30 minutes or so.
Begin scrubbing with a small brush. Use an old toothbrush to get into the corners and small places. Be sure to scrub the soap dispenser, gaskets, drain and surrounding ares and other small corners and crevices.
Then close the door and allow the cycle to finish. If you have never cleaned your dishwasher before, or it's been a while since your last cleaning, run the dishwasher empty again.
Good luck.