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The Dangers of a Poorly Maintained Gas Furnace

Here at Rebmann Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we want your home to be as safe as possible year-round. Here are some things to be aware of in your home when it comes to using your gas furnace:

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that’s a byproduct of burning carbon-based fuel. It can make humans and animals very sick, causing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, respiratory problems, and confusion. In high concentrations, it can be fatal.

While all gas furnaces produce a small amount of carbon monoxide, this is usually expelled from the home through the vent system. However, a gas furnace that’s not maintained can produce high levels of carbon monoxide because of the buildup of dirt in the filter or combustion chamber. This can release carbon monoxide into the air supply. At the same time, fractures in the heat exchanger can release the gas. In addition, if the furnace door is damaged and doesn’t close properly, it can cause more carbon monoxide to escape.

Gas Line Leaks

Because gas is combustible, gas line leaks are extremely dangerous. They’re the cause of many home fires and can even cause explosions.

An unmaintained gas furnace might have cracks or holes in the gas lines, and the gas valve might be broken or connections might be loose. Any of these vulnerabilities can be places where gas can escape into your home.

If you smell a bad odor — usually like rotten eggs — and/or hear a hissing sound, you’ve got a gas leak. Evacuate your home immediately, and call the fire department.

Fire Hazard

In addition to gas line leaks, a gas furnace can be a fire hazard for several other reasons. If there are broken parts, the furnace won’t function properly, which could pose a fire risk. Dust and dirt can build up, and when they get hot, they can catch fire. In addition, if there’s clutter within two feet of the furnace, this could be a fire hazard too as it can overheat and ignite.

Always Maintain Your Gas Furnace

Fortunately, you can avoid all of these dangers by properly maintaining your gas furnace. You should regularly — about once a month — inspect it for any visual signs of damage such as dents, cracks, or loose valves. Make sure that the ignition light is burning blue. If it’s yellow or some other color, then there’s a problem with the combustion and you need to have a technician take a look right away. You should also listen for unusual sounds, as they can also indicate damage. Refer to the manual to determine whether the filters need to be replaced or cleaned and how often. For the best and safest results, follow these instructions to the letter.

If you need furnace maintenance, call Rebmann today to schedule your service! 

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Benefits of Whole Home Humidification

Did you know that dry air can negatively affect your home? To bring some of the moisture back into your air and protect your air quality, you may want to consider a whole-home humidification system. Not only does it help you maintain home comfort, there are many other benefits to home humidification. Here are some ways it can benefit you:

Benefits of Whole-Home Humidification

  • Better air quality.  Adding a humidifier to your home may help to reduce the spread of most airborne contaminants in your home. Moisture can prevent the movement of debris as they combine. They become too heavy and drop.
  • Better sleep. Removing the dryness in your home can help you sleep. A humidifier can add enough moisture into the air to soothe the tissues at the back of your throat, making for more comfortable sleep and cutting down on any snoring.
  • Decreased allergy symptoms. Adding enough moisture in the air can help soothe your throat and nasal passages, preventing them from getting irritated which can result in coughing and sneezing. Whole-home humidification is also beneficial to those who suffer from asthma and other breathing-related illnesses.
  • Better skin. Dry air can cause your skin to become dry. With whole-home humidification, your skin, hair, and nails will be protected.
  • Protection for wood furniture. The longer your wood furniture is subjected to extremely dry air, the more susceptible it is to cracks and damages. While excessive moisture can harm wood, the right amount benefits it greatly.
  • Keep your houseplants healthy.  Houseplants, which can filter out toxins in the air, are a nice addition to any home, but they will suffer in a dry environment. Keeping your home at a comfortable humidity with a humidifier not only keeps you comfortable and happy but your plants as well!

Why Choose Rebmann?

The heating and cooling professionals at Rebmann are frequently trained in the latest humidifier technology.  They use only industry-leading equipment and are always prompt and prepared.  Warranties are available on all products and services as are various rebates for Long Island heating and cooling installations.

Call today to schedule your whole-home humidification installation!

4 Tips for Leak Detection in Oyster Bay, NY

As a homeowner, you want to take good care of your property and protect it from things like water damage. That’s why it’s good to know the basics of leak detection in Oyster Bay, NY. Armed with this information, you’re more likely to recognize when you’ve got a leak, which means you can take action and try to contain the damage.

What You Need to Know About Leak Detection in Oyster Bay, NY

The trouble with leaks in your plumbing system is that unless you’re facing a big leak in the main, it can literally take days before you become aware that anything is wrong. With the large part of your plumbing system being hidden behind walls and under the floor, a small leak can go unnoticed for a long time. But that doesn’t mean it won’t do any damage! Unfortunately, it will. It can cause the structure of your home to rot; plus, it can cause black mold, which can be extremely dangerous to your health.

Now you know the risks of undetected leaks, what can you do to detect them? Keep the following tips in mind:

  1. If the water pressure drops, you probably have a leak somewhere. Dropping water pressure means water is leaving the plumbing system somewhere other than the faucets— usually a leak.
  2. If you hear the sound of trickling or running water when all of the faucets are closed, you have a leak.
  3. A hot or cold spot on the floor can indicate an area that’s being heated or cooled due to a leak in one of the pipes.

As soon as you see evidence of a leak, close your water main and call your plumber right away!

Call Rebmann Plumbing for Leak Detection Services

Instead of trying to fix a leaking pipe yourself, it’s always better to call your local plumber. The team here at Rebmann Plumbing uses non-invasive methods to detect exactly where the leak is, plus we can fix most leaks without having to expose the pipes. For quick, cost-effective leak detection in Oyster Bay, NY, call Rebmann Plumbing!

Signs You Need AC Repair

As the weather heats up, you’ll be spending more time indoors to beat the heat. If your AC is experiencing problems, you should have it repaired before summer heat rolls in. Small problems can escalate quickly, causing an uncomfortable disruption in your home. If it does need repairs, your AC may be sending you warning signals. If you are experiencing any of the following problems in your home, call Rebmann today.

No Power or Start-up Issues

This the most obvious sign that you have a problem with your air conditioning system. Whatever temperature you set your thermostat to, your cooling system should be able to reach it with ease. Turning it on should never be an issue either. If temperatures are high outside, your safety could be affected by a broken air conditioner. If it doesn’t turn on at all or it switches often, you should start looking for a replacement.

Excess Moisture

Do you have wet spots or condensation on your unit? Pooling water should be addressed as soon as possible as it can cause mold or mildew. Not only do they grow and spread at a rapid rate, they can harm your air quality as well.

Inadequate Cooling

Your cooling system should be able to cool your whole home or a designated area within it. If you start to notice that some rooms or areas aren’t being cooled properly, it’s a sign that your system is no longer capable of cooling your whole home. A Rebmann professional can give you more insight into the cause, but if your model is outdated or failing, it may be in your best interest to have it replaced.

Weird Sounds

Your AC shouldn’t be too noisy. Any loud bangs or groans from your unit or duct system should be checked out. It could be that a piece has detached or that debris has built up in your ducts. On the other hand, it could also be a sign of motor failure.

Warm Air

Your AC should blow cool air only. While you use it, air should be cool and spread out evenly into your home. you may have a lack of refrigeration, which can be replenished. If you have a leak, it may be much harder to fix. This should be addressed by a professional immediately, as it can cause other problems throughout your home. If you’ve already spent money on repairs in the past, it’s in your best interest to replace your AC.

To get your AC ready for the heat, call Rebmann today! 

 

Signs You Need Heat Pump Repair

Do You Need Heat Pump Repair in Your Home?

Do you want to save energy while cleaning your home? Heat pumps can help! Instead of burning fuel to create heat, it transfers it from a heat source, like the ground, into your home. If you are interested, give us a call! If you already have one installed, here are some common issues that may signal you need heat pump repair.

Common Problems You May Experience

If you are experiencing these issues in your home, it’s time to call Rebmann!

  1. Frozen: It’s possible for the heat pump to freeze and, if this is the problem you’re experiencing, check the air filter. Clogged air filters can cause the pump to frost over. Before calling us, try changing the filter and if that doesn’t work we’ll come to help!
  2. Wrong temperature: If you set the thermostat for a certain temperature, but it never actually reaches that point with the system running, then you may have a problem with the sensor. The problem could lie in the thermostat or the heat pump itself. But, before freaking out, note that if it’s below freezing ou may need to add a supplemental heat source to properly heat your home. To be sure, give Rebmann a call!
  3. Noisy operation: A properly working heat pump operates quietly, so if you’re hearing abnormally loud sounds it’s time to get it fixed.
  4. Inconsistent temperatures, or no heat at all: If your heat pump doesn’t generate any heat, that’s a sure sign that something is wrong. You can try resetting the system, but don’t play around with it too much. You definitely want to have it looked at by a licensed contractor just to be sure.

No matter what type of problem you’re having, though, don’t wait to call Rebmann Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning. We’re always here to help!

Preventing Frozen Pipes This Winter

Preventing Frozen Pipes in Your Long Island Home

Nothing puts a damper on your holiday season like a plumbing emergency! Frozen pipes fall into that category. Here’s what you need to know about frozen pipes and how you can help prevent them on even the coldest of days!

Common Reasons for Frozen Pipes

  1. Openings or cracks: This will allow cold outside air to get near your water meter or pipes.
  2. Unheated basement: This is a problem if the water meter or pipes are located down there.
  3. Uninsulated pipes: Pipes that aren’t insulated become especially problematic if they are located against outside walls.
  4. Boxed-in pipes: Enclosed pipes against an outside wall is troublesome because they are not receiving any inside heat.
  5. Open windows: If they are open near water meters or pipes, it will make them even colder.

Here’s How Rebmann Ccan help prevent your pipes from freezing this winter!

Frozen Pipe Prevention

Rebman has been in business for nearly a century, so it’s safe to say our team has the knowledge and experience to deal with your frozen or burst water pipes. We also know the
ways these plumbing disasters can be avoided, and want to share them with you.

  • Proper insulation: This is essential to preventing pipes from freezing.
  • Heat cables, heat tape or heat wraps: Apply any one of these to your pipes for more extensive protection.
  • Winteriziation: The best way to weatherproof your plumbing is to make sure that garden hoses and other outdoor spigots that are vulnerable to the cold outside air are completed drained. This way, there is no water flowing through them that can turn to ice.

How To Prep Your HVAC System For Spring and Summer

We’re all familiar with that first break of winter. You know, you walk outside to get into your car and you can smell the snow melting? It can only mean one thing; spring is upon us. As an Albertson homeowner, there are many first steps to take as far as prepping your home for the warmer seasons. Some of these tasks are more simple such as removing left over leaves from the yard, and other tasks require a little more attention. Such as prepping your HVAC system for those blistering July nights. We know, it seems like we still have a ways to go before we get there; however, the sooner you spring into action, the sooner you’ll be stress free and ready to break out your patriotic swim trunks and fire up the grill for Memorial Day weekend.

At Rebmann Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning we take pride in our commercial AC and heating unit installation. We provide professional and timely expertise in all areas of heating and cooling. So, if you’re here, you’ve most likely already taken the first and most important step, installing an HVAC system. The upcoming season switch serves as the perfect time to spring into action and prepare to turn off the heat and turn on the cool air. Rebmann has you covered this year, schedule an appointment with one of our HVAC professionals. We have our spring cleaning routine down to a science, we’ll tune up your system quickly and efficiently and have you on your way to a long and sunny summer season.

 

HVAC Spring Cleaning Checklist

Change air filters

The first and probably most important task on our list is changing your air filters. The change in seasons is the perfect time to take care of this sometimes tedious task. Air filters should be replaced every 30-90 days. They are the key to maintaining healthy indoor air quality. If your filter is dirty, the air is dirty. As we all know, pollen is at an all time high during the spring. Be sure to have your air filter replaced before the pollen season hits. Finally, if your air filter dirty, it makes it harder for your system to do its job. This will result in poor air flow and run a high risk of wear and tear and additional expenses.

Duct cleaning

Duct cleaning is not required as often as replacing your air filters, although its equally as important for clean air quality. A professional duct cleaning must take place at least every 5-7 years. During your professional tune up with a Rebmann team member, your HVAC expert will examine the state of your air ducts and assess whether yours require a cleaning this season.

Duct sealing

We understand central air conditioning is a luxury, an expensive one at that. And for that reason we’d hate to see precious cool air escaping out of your home through cracks or poorly insulated spaces in the duct work. In addition to keeping your system clean, it’s equally as important to have your ducts professionally sealed at the beginning of the spring season. This will ensure no air is escaping and in turn will lower energy bills. Keeping your family cooler, and your wallet happier!

Clean your outdoor unit

Sometimes we may neglect the outdoor unit because it’s out of sight, especially after a long winter spent inside. The beginning of the spring season serves as the perfect time have your outdoor unit examined and cleaned. A Rebmann professional will assess your unit and ensure there is no overgrown foliage or other debris that may get in the way of your system running smoothly.

In the case that you notice a pest that made its way inside the unit, turn off your system immediately and contact a Rebmann technician right away.

Test the thermostat

The final step on your HVAC spring maintenance checklist will include testing your system. You’ll want to have this done early to ensure you’re ready for the first heat wave of the season. The last thing you’ want is to neglect this step until the first 80 degree day or night of the summer and be without cool air. During your appointment, we’ll check your thermostat controls and recalibrate the unit if need be.

You should also consider making an upgrade to a programmable thermostat if you don’t already have one. As described by the U.S. Department of Energy, “Using a programmable thermostat, you can adjust the times you turn on the heating or air-conditioning according to a pre-set schedule. Programmable thermostats can store and repeat multiple daily settings (six or more temperature settings a day) that you can manually override without affecting the rest of the daily or weekly program.” Learn more about the benefits of a programmable thermostat here.

Why Choose Rebmann Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for your HVAC needs?

A thorough HVAC spring cleaning is crucial in ensuring your system keeps its longevity and stays at the peak of its performance level. Schedule your appointment with Rebmann Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning ahead of time. We offer a wide range of services to help keep things running smoothly in your home. Our comprehensive checklists leaves no area of your HVAC system unchecked! Our meticulously trained experts will guide you through any and all of your HVAC servicing needs. At Rebmann Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning we are prompt, timely, and successful in getting the job done right.

 

Don’t wait, call us today to schedule your appointment!

Top Plumbing Tips to Save Money in the New Year

Are you looking for ways to help protect your plumbing this winter? Harsh weather and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. Here are a few plumbing tips from Rebmann that can help:

Repair Leaks

As the cold weather really sets in around Nassau County, it is best to check for any leaks around your home. It is easier to fix a small leak before it turns into a full-blown burst pipe. When you find a leaking pipe or unexplained puddle around the house, call your trusted plumbers at Rebmann to handle the repairs. These small leaks left unchecked can cause water damage to your home and leave you scrambling to fix them. Repairing leaks the moment you notice them, instead of waiting for warm weather, will save you from the dangers of water damage, burst pipes, and destroyed equipment.

Drain Your Water Heater

A simple money saving tip for Nassau County homeowners is to drain your water heater at least once a year. Sediment builds up in your water heater throughout the year which affects its efficiency and lifespan. The sediment causes uneven heat transfer and can corrode heating elements inside the hot water tank. Regular draining is a part of all water heater maintenance to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. If you live in an area with “hard” or mineral-heavy water, it can be beneficial to schedule a water heater draining more often than once a year. When you do this regular upkeep, it extends the life of your water heater and saves you money. Start your year on the right foot by scheduling a water heater maintenance appointment with Rebmann!

Disconnect Hoses and Shut Down Exterior Faucets

This is a very important plumbing tip for when it gets cold outside! The last thing you want to come home to is a frozen or burst pipe caused by an outdoor faucet. It is easy to go around your home and disconnect any outdoor hoses and shut off water exterior faucets. This simple step will prevent any chance of ruining the hoses or developing a frozen pipe in that part of your home. 

Set Your Thermostat to 55 Degrees When Leaving Town

This plumbing tip is especially important during the holiday season, or any time you may be traveling. It may be tempting to completely shut your heat off while escaping the frigid Nassau County winter. But it will save you money in the long run to resist that temptation. Imagine coming home from a warm, relaxing vacation to find your basement or attic has flooded. By keeping your heat on a low setting while you are away, it will prevent frozen pipes from bursting in your home. You can rest easy while away knowing that your home has a layer of defense against frozen pipes. 

Wrap Exposed and Vulnerable Pipes

Even with the heat running in your home, you may have pipes that are still at risk. Leaving cabinet doors open under faucets will prevent freezing in those pipes, but there are others in your home that do not have such an easy fix. Pipes in exterior walls with no insulation, typically those in your attic or basement, can still freeze if left unprotected. By calling the professionals at Rebmann, you can know that the utmost precautions have been taken to protect your pipes.

Check Sump Pump

If you have an exterior sump pump hose, it may be best to disconnect it for the winter. This will prevent the hose from freezing and bursting open, which will save you during the rainy months. The last thing you want to discover after a spring downpour is that the sump drain hose is not functioning. If you do not want to disconnect your sump for the winter, then checking the drainage area will be key. Do not let snow and ice block where the water comes out and check for frozen hoses. By maintaining your sump pump, you can prevent a costly flooding accident from striking your home.

By following these simple plumbing tips from Rebmann, you can save money all year.

Start off on the right foot by booking maintenance with Rebmann and replacing out of date equipment!

Seven Signs That You Need a Holiday Drain Cleaning

Clogged drains can be a frustrating nuisance, but having a dirty drain during the holidays could mean bursting pipes in your home. The winter season already puts enough strain on your plumbing, freezing your pipes and wearing down your water heater. No homeowner wants a home flooded from a burst pipe, which is why it’s important to keep your drains clear this holiday season.

When You Should Clean Your Drains

  • Water starts to back up. When using the faucet, bathtub, or shower, the water should always drain. Water should never go up your drains, but if you notice after flushing a toilet or running the faucet that water starts to back up versus drain down, it could be a clogged drain.
  • Foul odors. One of the most unpleasant warning signs of a clogged drain is the foul odor of sewage. A drain that’s clogged accumulates all the waste that’s flushed down the drains until the odors come back out the drains. Kitchens with garbage disposal can also be notorious for foul sewage odors, especially when enough food particles build up inside your drains.
  • Odd sounds. Listen carefully to your drains. When a drain is blocked, water is then forced through small spaces or to change course which can result in bubbling or gurgling sounds. If you start to hear odd gurgling sounds from your drain, it’s time to clean your drains.
  • Frequent clogs. Clogs can be a common plumbing problem, but if they happen often enough, it could be caused by a clogged drain. Some clogs can be resolved with a plunger or drain cleaner, but if you notice the same fixture keeps clogging regardless, you’ll need a plumber to professionally clean your drains.
  • Multiple clogs at the same time. Not all clogs require calling in a plumber, but multiple clogs at once are problematic. If you notice multiple different fixtures have clogged all at once, it means there is a clog deeper inside your sewer line and requires a professional drain cleaning.
  • Slow drains. A slow drain is one of the most common signs of a clogged drain, as no water fixture should have a slow drain. Watch your sinks and water appliances. If you notice it takes more time than usual to drain the sink or your washer or dishwasher is still full after the cycle, it’s time to clean your drains.
  • Fruit or drain flies. Any buildup of food or waste inside your drains will attract flies. Tiny fruit flies are more than just an annoying pest; they can become a health risk, and are usually attracted to the scent of a clogged drain. Drains flies are another pest to watch out for, as they like to breed in drains and sewer lines. If your home has some clogged drains, you might start to notice drain flies buzzing in your bathroom.

How to Clean Your Drains and Keep Them Clogged Free

 Knowing when to clean your drains is a good place to start, but it’s best to start habits that keep your drains clean and prevent future clogs. A clogged drain left untreated can result in costly plumbing problems, but luckily they can be avoided with proper care and cleaning practices. Here’s what you can do to keep your drains clean this holiday season.

  • Avoid chemical drain cleaners. Although chemical drain cleaners can be an easy and instant fix for some clogs, they’re incredibly toxic and eat at your pipes over time. There are several non-toxic drain cleaners available such as vinegar and baking soda, which work naturally well to eliminate odors and flush down any stuck waste.
  • Avoid flushing down food waste. Garbage disposals are great if you have them, but contrary to what you might think, it’s to flush down as little food waste as possible. Most foods will clog your drains and break down the blades. Kitchen sinks without a garbage disposal are even less equipped to handle any food waste that goes down the drain. Do your best to avoid flushing food down by scraping and rinsing your plates. Avoid flushing down fats, greases, and oils, as well as starchy foods.
  • Use drain strainers. It’s not just food waste that clogs your drains, but hair, soap scum, and other random debris, which is why it helps to place drain strainers on top of your drains. Make sure to periodically clean out your drain strainers so that your drains can drain properly.

If you need drain cleaning services this holiday season, call Rebmann! 

Heat Pump 101: Maintaining Your Unit

In essence, a heat pump is an all in one heating and air-conditioning unit. It extracts heat from inside the home and transfers it to the outdoor air. In colder weather, however, the process reverses—the unit collects heat from the outdoor air and transfers it inside your home. Much like every other piece of equipment in your home, there are certain maintenance practices that should be practiced. Consider the information below a crash course in Heat Pump 101.

Changing the Filters

If you use your heat pump on a regular basis, you should change the filter about once a month. You could probably get away with only changing the filter once every three months if you only run the unit periodically. Keep fans and coils clean and free from debris, and have your heat pump inspected by a professional once every year or two.

Common Problems with the Unit

There are a number of problems that can face a heat pump. These include:

  • Low Airflow
  • Leaky or noisy ducts
  • Temperature problems
  • Squeaking or grinding noises

If you can, try to isolate the location of the problem. Is the airflow only low coming out of one register, or do all registers have low airflow? Is the offending noise coming from the air ducts or within the heat pump unit itself?

There are a few things you can do to identify and possibly fix a heat pump problem before calling for professional help. First, if the unit isn’t working, try resetting its motor. Check the pump ignition system for problems, and make sure you don’t have a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. Check the thermostat to make sure it’s working properly.

Change the filter if it’s dirty, and make sure there are no airflow blockages. If the air ducts are making noise when they expand and contract, you could try putting a dent in the side of the duct to make the surface more rigid. Rattles may be fixed by fastening loose parts. If you hear these squeaks, you should strongly consider replacing or adjusting the fan belt. A grinding noise may indicate that the bearings on the motor are worn out, which will require the help of a professional to fix.

Keep in mind that if you aren’t mechanically inclined then you probably shouldn’t attempt to do this kind of repair work. And because heat pumps can contain hazardous materials, that’s another good reason to get some professional assistance. A chemical leak is bad news and you can easily injure yourself handling a broken device. If you notice a leak, be certain to call a professional as soon as possible.

Unit Lifespan

A heat pump should last between 10 and 30 years, with geothermal units leading the way in longevity. In fact, some components of ground-source heat pumps can last even longer. Keep in mind that technology may change before your heat pump has worn out, so you may find your heat pump outlasts a technician’s ability to service it. New technologies may make heat pumps safer or more efficient, so you may wish to keep an eye out for new kinds of heat pumps.

Cleaning the Outdoor Unit

During the summer, it is common for many of these units to attract dirt and other grime. Consider cleaning the outdoor unit in order to prevent the buildup of dirt. If the unit is in a spot where there is little interaction, make sure that there is no grass, weeds or other detritus. If the debris is cleared, the unit can run to its maximum capacity.

Call the professionals at Rebmann Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule your heat pump service today!