Category: Uncategorized

Tips to Cut Back on Costs While Using Your Water Heater

Have you ever thought about how much you use hot water in your home? Every time you wash your dishes, take a shower, or throw a load of laundry in the washer, you’re using hot water. You may not think about it, but the more hot water you use, the more it will show in your utilities. If you have an old, outdated hot water heater, it can cause your bill to skyrocket. Here are a few tips to help you save money while using your water heater:

Use Less Water

This is the most obvious way to save money. People use a great amount hot water when they shower. By tweaking your shower habits a little, you can save a good amount of money. Try taking warm showers instead of cranking the heat all the time. You can also use cold water to wash your clothes. Not only does it help to preserve your clothing, so they last longer – it cleans just as well as hot water!

Turn Down the Temperature

Your hot water stays the same temperature 24/7. That means that the water is constantly hot and ready to be delivered to you through your pipes. As you can probably imagine, this requires a lot of energy. By turning down the set temperature on your water heater, you can save. This cuts energy usage drastically and can help you save on your utilities. If you’re unsure about how to go about setting the temperature, as a professional for assistance.

Switch it Off When Appropriate

If you’re going on a trip or you know that you will be away from your home for a lengthy period of time, its perfectly find to switch off your water heater. Most models only take an hour to reheat after cooling completely, so be sure to give it time before hopping into the shower. If you’re not around to use the hot water, why should it have to stay hot?

Insulation

Your tank should be insulated! Any tank that isn’t can suffer massive heat loss which is a major waste of energy. Insulation is inexpensive and can save you on your utilities. Try touching your tank – if it’s warm to the touch it means you’re losing heat.

Set a Timer

Programmable timers on electric models can shut the heat off when you don’t need it. You don’t need hot water while you’re asleep in bed or away at work for the day. Again, it’s important to remember that it does take a while to heat back up. Just be sure that your timing is thought out and you won’t even notice that its off!

Switch to Tankless With Rebmann!

Most water heaters with tanks work well, but in reality, their design is antiquated. A tankless model is the newest, most effective technology in the world of water heating that give you the following benefits:

  • They provide an endless supply of hot water
  • They provide cleaner water than conventional tank heaters
  • Less likely to leak than conventional tank heaters
  • Less wasted energy and higher efficiency
  • Manufacturer’s warranty of 12 years
  • Lifespan of over 20 years

Here at Rebmann, we want you to be comfortable in your home and have access to hot water when you need it. To learn more about tankless water heaters, or to have one installed into your home today, give us a call. We’ve got you covered!

Service Plans Click Here
Schedule Service Click Here
Read Our Reviews Click Here

Four Ways to Prevent Frozen Piping This Winter

Frozen piping. Two words that have the power to keep homeowners up at night. Why? Because one single occurrence of frozen pipes has the potential to do a lot of damage to your home — and your wallet.

The Dangers of Frozen Pipes

When you think of frozen pipes, the first thing you might think of is the inconvenience of not having any water. And it’s true: Until the water in the pipes has thawed again, you won’t be able to get water from your faucets, your toilets won’t flush and you won’t be able to run your washing machine or dishwasher.

However, frozen pipes are much more than inconvenient. They can damage your home. The reason for this is that when the water in the pipes freezes, it expands because ice has a greater volume than water. This expansion can cause the pipes to crack and burst. And when the water thaws out again, those cracks become leaks. Sometimes they’re invisible parts of the piping system; more often, they’re behind walls, under floors or in the slab, which means you won’t initially see them. Of course, once water starts seeping through the ceiling, you’ll know you have a leak, but by that time, the water damage can be extensive. In the worst case scenario, it can lead to mold growth — and that can affect the structure of your home, not to mention your family’s health.

Four Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes

Fortunately, there are a number of simple ways you can prevent the pipes in your home from freezing, even during the coldest time of year. Keep the following tips in mind:

  1. Always maintain an indoor temperature of at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure the air around the pipes is warm enough to prevent the water inside them from freezing. Bear in mind that you need to maintain this minimum temperature even at night, as well as when you’re away during the day or on vacation.
  2. Keep the kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors open. Piping typically runs along the bottom of walls. If you keep the doors of your bottom kitchen and bathroom cabinets open, warm air keeps circulating closer to the pipes in the walls, as well as to the plumbing that’s exposed.
  3. Keep a faucet open. Running water doesn’t freeze. By keeping just one faucet open, water will keep moving through the pipes, which will prevent them from freezing. You don’t have to keep the faucet open all the way; a steady drip is all it takes.
  4. Insulate the pipes, as well as your attic, basement, and all crawlspaces. You can purchase insulation sleeves to quickly and easily insulate the pipes, which keeps the water a few degrees warmer. In addition, insulating the attic, basement and any crawlspaces where pipes might be exposed can help prevent the pipes from freezing.

Frozen pipes can destroy your home and your budget. So, keep these tips in mind, and you won’t have to worry about frozen pipes during the holiday season!

Carbon Monoxide & Heating System Safety Alert!

Recently, Rebmann received an emergency call at 7 pm from a homeowner saying that the fire department was in their home due to their carbon monoxide detectors going off. The local fire department measured an extremely dangerous level of 80ppm of “CO” in their home.

All the windows were opened and the heating system was shut down as a possible source of elevated CO levels. Rebmann responded that evening and performed a draft test, visual inspection of the Gas Boiler and Surrounding gas-fired appliances. The system was left off – pending further inspection by Rebmann the following day.

Rebmann both recommended and installed additional makeup air to the mechanical room. This lessened the possibility of carbon monoxide production by the boiler and support draft in the chimney. Our meters indicated that the boiler had carbon monoxide gas leaking from the top and into the home.

We disassembled the boiler which revealed gaps around the gas flu box ( Can cause high CO levels in and around the boiler). The box was resealed and the boiler was reassembled. Mysteriously, our CO meters still indicated high CO levels outside the boiler room in another part of the home, not near the boiler room.

Great detective work by a Rebmann technician revealed an Acytelene bottle used for making Jewelry had a small leak that was spewing gas. As the forced air system was running it was spreading the gas thru out the house setting off all the Carbon Monoxide detectors.

The most important points of this warning are:

  • Acetylene, propane or any combustible container should always be stored in a well ventilated (vented to the outside) space outside of your home. Combustible gases leaking into a home are extremely dangerous and will set off CO detectors.
  • Have your heating system inspected and tested by a trained professional yearly.
  • Maintain and check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors as per local codes.
  • Make sure your heating equipment room is properly vented with outside air.

Scott Ambrosio
Rebmann Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning

Three Ways Plumbing Affects Health

Plumbing affects health? Linking your house’s plumbing to your personal health may not be what comes to most homeowners’ minds, but it should. The quality of your plumbing affects the quality of your health. Over time your plumbing can wear down due to use and weather conditions, which require watching out for potential problems, or replacing a few pipes if necessary. If you have some damaged plumbing, it’s important to have a plumber fix the problem right away as your health is at stake.

How Your Plumbing Affects Health

Homeowners use plumbing on a regular basis, whether it’s to cook, wash, or bathe. The quality of your plumbing affects health. The quality of your plumbing affects your water quality. A damaged water heater, for example, can rust on the inside, and that rust can leak into your drinking water. Damaged pipes or sewer lines can result in backed up sewage which is toxic to touch and spread diseases. Leaky pipes or roofs can create tripping hazards. There are several hazards that are caused by damaged plumbing. Here are three ways in which your home’s plumbing directly affects your health.

  • Leaks create mold. One of the most common problems with damaged plumbing is a water leak. A leaking pipe cause more problems than just unseemly water damage, but the growth of mold. Mold and mildew grow when there is enough humidity and excess moisture, and they are toxic to breathe in. Health problems caused by mold can start off irritating, such as nasal congestion or a few sneezing fits. If any mold in your house is left untreated, however, it can lead to some serious health problems, especially for people with compromised immune systems or a chronic lung illness. If you smell something foul or musty, it could be mold and should be treated right away. Always inspect your home for any potential leaks as that can lead to mold growth. Check your floors, walls, and ceilings for any warped, bubbled, or discolored spots.
  • Toxins can leak into your drinking water. Your plumbing affects your water, including the water you use to drink and cook. Your local municipality treats your water well enough, but they don’t prevent every contaminant from leaking into your tap water such as chlorine and lead. Installing a water filtration system to your plumbing ensures you’re drinking cleaner, healthier water, without the harmful contaminants. The chemicals, minerals, and heavy metals found in your houses tap water can also cause damage to your plumbing over time. Installing a water filtration system protects your health and plumbing. Damaged plumbing can also leak things like sediment, rust, and sewage into your drinking water, none of which are healthy to consume.
  • Hard water can irritate the skin. Depending on where you live, your house may run on hard water, which not only takes a toll on your water heater but your skin. Hard water contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which make it difficult for the running water to form a solution with the soap, leaving behind a soapy, scummy residue on your skin. Instead of enjoying a nice lather, hard water causes soap scum to build upon your skin and clog pores, causing blemishes and zits. Hard water can also strip the moisture out of your skin and prevent the natural oils from retaining moisture in your skin. Luckily you can prevent dry and irritated skin by installing a water softener, which works by replacing the harmful minerals inside your water with something else, usually sodium.

How You Can Protect Yourself and Your Plumbing

Fixing an issue early is the best way to keep your plumbing working as it should be and that means a healthier lifestyle. Your plumbing, however, is complicated, and if it needs a repair, that’s best to be left for a licensed plumber. Luckily there are plenty of tricks that should be up every homeowner’s sleeve to ensure your house has functioning plumbing. Here’s what you can do.

  • Avoid pouring greases, oils, and fats down your drain.
  • Routinely clean and clear your sewer line.
  • Use drain strainers to catch food waste, hair, and soap scum.
  • Avoid using chemical drain cleaners.
  • Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper down the toilet.
  • Annually flush your water heater.

Take Care of Yourself by Protecting Your Plumbing

Your health is important, but so is your plumbing, and that means routine care and maintenance. Damaged plumbing causes much more problems than expensive repairs and higher utility bills, such as dangerous safety and health hazards. Take care of yourself by taking care of your plumbing. Don’t wait until the pipes burst, schedule an inspection with a licensed plumber today.

Call Rebmann Plumbing today for more information on how plumbing affects health!

Heating System Tune-Ups: 21 Things to Check for Peace of Mind This Winter

Heating system tune-ups should be on your mind with the cooler weather on its way. You should have your heating system routinely checked and tuned up, preferably before this time comes. It may be hard to remember to do so when summer is winding down, but thinking ahead can prevent a system failure and an HVAC emergency in the future.
Can you imagine losing your heat in the middle of winter, when it’s more necessary than ever? Heating system failure in the colder months can result in frozen pipes among other damages, as well as leaving you and your family in the cold. Even if you call for professional maintenance right away, the heat will still be off until it’s fixed. This happens to anyone, but routine maintenance can certainly help to prevent it.

Benefits of Routine Maintenance

If your heating system is compromised, your safety and wellbeing can be at risk. Along with the temperature drop, poor air quality and carbon monoxide are a potentially hazardous possibility. A regular tune-up will improve your energy efficiency and reduce your monthly bills. Average maintenance once or twice a year is certainly cheaper than having to unexpectedly replace your entire system.
More importantly, you will be protected from harmful or toxic emissions and contaminates. Your system will have a longer lifetime, and there will be a uniform heat flow throughout your entire home. Imagine the peace of mind you’ll have after hearing that your heating system is working perfectly!
Now that you know what a tune-up can do to benefit you and your home, it’s time to become familiar with the steps included in a routine inspection. Here are 21 steps that professional heating system tune-ups will include.

Inspections

1. Burner: The burner on your system should be void of contaminants and structured to code to work as it is intended to.
2. Inspect the combustion chamber: Just like the burner, any contaminants or structural faults in the combustion chamber will prevent it from working properly.
3. Inspect heat exchangers: Consistent heating can only be accomplished if the heat exchangers are working properly. The heat is created by a medium that can be distributed throughout the entire house, so this is necessary for efficient heating.
4. Inspect the flue: The flue is essential for proper ventilation. If there is a blockage, a buildup can occur.
5. Inspect belts for cracks: Average wear and tear will eventually cause cracks in the belts. However, they may not be immediately noticeable. A professional will be able to determine if they need to be replaced.
6. Inspect belts for tension and alignment: Belts loosen and can shift over time, and if they aren’t fixed as soon as possible, their lifetime will diminish.
7. Check gas line for leaks: In the event of a leak, a professional will be able to detect and fix it immediately. This is a serious issue and should be treated as such.
8. Check safety controls: Safety is of the utmost importance, so regular maintenance is necessary.

Adjustments

9. Fan control: Adjusting the fan will set your system up for better airflow. Efficiency will increase, as will the quality of your heating.
10. Calibrate thermostats: Your thermostats will need to be adjusted frequently in order to reach the exact right temperature. Your desired temperature is set through the thermostat, so it’s important that it functions properly.
11. Adjust the pilot light: To properly turn off the system, the pilot light is essential.
12. Tighten electrical connections: Connections can loosen due to age or wear and tear, and it can happen often in any large electromechanical system. Tightening them regularly prevents problems that would otherwise occur.

Heating System Tune-Ups Maintenance and Testing

13. Lubrication: Lubrication of all moving parts is essential for efficiency.
14. Replace thermocouple: this measures the temperature within the system. It’s a common way to identify early failure and should be replaced and checked as needed.
15. Air Filters: These should be replaced routinely to keep air quality at its best.
16. Clean blower components: This system moves the air, so it’s imperative that they stay clean.
17. Test combustion air openings: Airflow that is stifled will affect the performance of your system. Air flows to the combustion area through these openings, so functioning openings are essential.
18. Manifold gas pressures: In this area, gas travels to the main burners. Any pressure abnormalities can indicate an issue.
19. Check noise and vibration levels: More noise or vibration than usual is a sign that something isn’t working right and should be addressed immediately.
20. Interior of the vestibule: This creates an air lock between the inside of the furnace and the outer door. Cleanliness of the area is necessary.

Operational test

21. At the end of your tune-up, the  HVAC professional should perform an operational test. This will ensure that steps 1 through 20 were serviced properly. If anything is still off, they should be able to tell during the test. They want to be sure, as your safety and well-being are at stake.

Call the HVAC specialists at Rebmann Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn more about heating system tune-ups!

3 Different Types of Heating Options

Heating options are plentiful in the world of heating. For most American homeowners, keeping interior spaces comfortable is the single largest energy expense for their home. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for 48% of a typical home energy budget. If your present heating system is more than 20 years old, you are probably spending a significant amount to keep it running – funds that could be better spent on a new, more energy-efficient system.

Understanding Heating Options

Selecting an appropriate heating system that is best-suited for your geographical location and needs requires a basic understanding of the differences between different heating systems, including their efficiency ratings as well as long-term operating costs. Installing the wrong system for your climate or heating requirements could end up costing more in the long run. Knowing the difference between furnaces, ductless heating, and heat pumps can help you avoid issues such as:

  • Lack of heat
  • Reduced efficiency
  • Frequent system failures
  • Not enough space for proper installation
  • Increased repair and maintenance costs

On the other hand, selecting the right heating system for your home has many benefits. Choosing the best type of system is an investment that will pay for itself and will bring you peace of mind due to:

  • Reduced energy costs
  • A long-lasting, durable system
  • Reliable heating
  • Increased home value
  • Reduced carbon footprint

Types of Heating Systems

Knowing the differences between the different heating options,  gas furnaces, ductless systems and heat pumps will help you determine which system is the perfect match for your family’s needs. When shopping for a new heating system, look for a high Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. This rating measures how efficiently your heater utilizes its fuel. The more efficient your furnace is, the more heat it will return per unit of fuel.

Gas Furnaces

Gas furnaces are fueled by either propane or natural gas, and typically cost less to install than heat pumps. A new high-efficiency furnace consumes more than 30% less fuel than less efficient, outdated furnaces. Due to rising oil and natural gas costs, it is important to select a system that helps you reduce your heating energy consumption.

Newer gas furnaces aren’t just more efficient – they are much quieter than older models, provide more even heating, and maintain more constant temperature levels. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, high-efficiency gas furnaces feature a second heat exchange, sealed combustion and a 90% to 98.5% AFUE.

Ductless systems

Ductless heating systems move air through different areas or ‘zones’ in your home. They are easy to install, but typically cost more to install than a furnace. Ductless systems, also called split-systems, multi-split systems, and split-ductless systems, offer highly flexible solutions for a range of home comfort issues. While heat pumps force heated and cooled air through ducts, a ductless system delivers air directly to a specific zone.

Ductless systems are smaller than comparable forced-air systems, meaning they operate on less power, and are more efficient since the temperature-controlled air is delivered directly where desired. Ductless systems allow homeowners to only heat specific occupied rooms or zones within the home. Because they don’t have ducts that can attract dust and allergens, and they offer multi-stage filtration, they can increase indoor air quality by reducing dust, pollen, bacteria, and allergens in the home.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps operate by using electricity to heat and cool indoor spaces. Heat pumps are the best heating options for temperate climates, though they typically cost more to install than furnaces. Electric heat pumps are one of the most efficient heating systems available. They operate as a furnace during chilly weather, absorbing warmth from the ground or atmosphere, multiplying it, and delivering it to the home. Conversely, it works as an air conditioner during hotter months, transferring heat from the home. Heat pumps can be operated on gas or electricity.

Heat pumps don’t generate dry heat, so there’s no need to use a humidifier during operation. Heat pump systems are less expensive to use than systems fueled by natural gas and don’t experience the fluctuations in temperature commonly seen in other types of systems. While the initial installation may cost more than other systems, and they require more maintenance, they are more environmentally friendly.

If you are considering purchasing a new heating system or replacing an existing one, scheduling an energy audit can help you make the right decision. An energy audit measures a variety of factors, including heat loss through doors and windows, the integrity of existing ductwork, the overall efficiency of your present heating system, and insulation levels. Also take into account any federal or state tax credits or utility rebates offered by Energy Star partners for installing a new, energy efficient heating system.

Possible Results For Not Maintaining Your Heating System

As the weather turns colder, you’ll come to rely on your home is heated quickly and efficiently. Properly maintaining it now can ensure that you have heat all fall and winter and make it less likely that you’ll need to have your heating system repaired. An improperly maintained heating system results in a decrease in its energy efficiency which means you’ll see an increase in your utility bills. In addition, you’ll have an increased chance of fire as well as a higher likelihood of exposure to carbon dioxide

Homeowner Tips for Your Heating System

There are simple and effective tips that homeowners can take advantage of to improve their heating system.

  1. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on a monthly basis by following the testing method for each device. Put a reminder on your phone and have it repeat each month so you don’t forget.
  2. change and replace your air filters on a regular basis to improve the efficiency of your heating system
  3. keep all your belongings at least three feet away from your heating system to reduce the chances of them catching on fire
  4. always turn off any portable heaters when you leave the room or go to bed for the night to prevent them from accidentally overheating or falling over and causing a fire
  5. install a metal or glass fire screen in front of your fireplace to reduce the chances of a stray spark catching your floor or the surrounding area on fire

Call Rebmann Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn more about your heating options!

Drain Clearing as a Home Owner Essential

Drain Clearing as a Home Owner Essential

 

Most homeowners are probably familiar with drain clearing, which is the act of preventing grease, soap, hair, and food residue from clogging your drains. Drain clearing fully clears the entire lining of your pipe, keeping your drains clog-free for much longer periods of time. Unfortunately keeping your drains clear can be a costly task, costing hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the clog. By clearing your drains, you not only save the money and effort of unclogging your drains repeatedly, clearing your drains can also prevent other major sewer problems from happening.

 

When Is It Time for A Drain Clearing?

 

Preventing a plumbing catastrophe whether it’s a broken sewer line or clogged drain, includes knowing what to look for. Luckily your home has many ways to telling you when there’s a potential clogged drain or sewer problem. Sometimes you can avoid a costly clearing or repair, but the most effective way to help with stubborn clogs is a drain clearing. Here’s what to look for to get started.

 

  • Slow drains. Toilets, sinks, and tubs that slowly drain usually mean that there’s something clogged in the drain. Depending on how many drains have a slow drain indicates how severe the clog is. If multiple sinks and toilets are slow to drain, that typically means the clog is in the sewer line and requires a professional plumber to properly identify and clear the clog.
  • Toilets backing up. If flushing your toilet results in water backing up or coming up in the bathtub or shower stall, that’s a good sign for a clogged sewer line. Toilets that don’t work properly are another key indicator of a clogged drain or sewer line, especially since toilets have the most direct path to the sewer and biggest drain line in the house.
  • Sewer odors and gurgling sounds. Clogs that buildup inside your sewer and drain lines can force sewer gases back up the pipes and through the drains. On top of a nasty smell, you may also hear some gurgling noises coming from the sewer gas pushing up through the water. It’s important to contact a plumber immediately if something stinks, as there could be a problem with the sewer line.

 

What Type of Drain Clearing Works Best for You

 

If your home is in need of a drain clearing, the next step is then determining what type of drain clearing your plumbing or sewer line needs. A professional plumber will have the right tools to access your sewer line and help you determine what would best clear your drains. Different methods of drain clearing will vary in cost, the most expensive cost being if your plumber decides your sewer line needs to be replaced. When deciding to have your drains cleared, here are a few different methods to consider.

 

  • By using a powerful stream of water to fully clear and remove all clogs and waste from inside your piping, hydrojetting is an economical and long-term solution. For more extreme blockages such as tree root incursion, hydrojetting is the best method to break and remove tree roots which if left untreated, can cause your sewer line to break or collapse over time.
  • Cable auger. For smaller clogs that can’t be reached with a plunger, it’s best to use a cable auger or plumbing snake. Using a flexible steel cable with a corkscrew or blades attached, a cable auger can dislodge clogs up to 100 feet deep. There are several different types of augers depending on the clog. An electric power auger is powered by an electric motor and also has the power to cut through tree roots.
  • Pipe bursting. Another effective, long-term solution for sewer backups is a pipe bursting. Treating a sewer blockage with pipe bursting entails hydraulically breaking apart the old pipe while seaming in a new one. Since pipe bursting replaces your old sewer line, it is one of the most expensive options of drain clearing.

 

Don’t Let Your Drains Suffer

 

Clogged drains are a frustration all homeowners have to face, but constantly clearing your drains can wear out your pipes and cost you some expensive repairs. Clearing your drains is a cost-effective solution that saves you the time and trouble of constantly maintaining your drains. It’s not easy keeping tabs on everything inside your home, so if it’s time for a drain clearing, call a professional plumber. Not only will a professional plumber be quick to identify what and where the problem is within your drain lines, they can offer you the best, cost-effective solution.

The professionals at Rebmann Plumbing have the experience you need to help you with your homes drain clearing!

 

A Heating Contractor Shares To-Do List To Eliminate Heat Loss

With over 70 years of experience, Rebmann’s veteran heating contractor team has compiled a to-do list of the most important places to check for heating loss in your home or office. Heat loss can contribute to soaring energy bills, chilly nights, and appliances that work overtime to keep you from shivering.

Rebmann = Heating Contractor Expertise

Commercial and residential heating is the name of the game at Rebmann. Our company offers plumbing, cooling, and heating services with 24-hour on call service for emergencies. We stress preventative maintenance to save you extraneous costs. For homes and offices of any shape and size, your heating costs may be influenced by areas of your home that need inspection or repair. Calling Rebmann ensures your heating contractor will be ready to tackle any problems with efficiency and professionalism.

A Heating Contractor’s To Do List

You can check out your home for heat loss before you have to call a professional to get an idea of some of the changes you can make to improve the efficiency of your home or office.

Check Windows and Doors

  • Seals and cracks can deplete heat around doorframes and windows. Checking around crown molding to make sure it lies flush with the walls.
  • Caulking can disintegrate with age and leave you susceptible to heat loss from windows.
  • Secure glass and tight screens make sure that air isn’t leaking in or out. Make sure that glass is not loose or broken in the window.
  • Weather stripping makes sure that no matter the condition, your heat stays in and the weather stays out. Replace your weather stripping if it is falling away from the building or has the potential to let cold weather in.

 Basement

  • Vents are a common source of heat loss to the lowest level of your house. Vents may be directed improperly, lowering your efficiency. They can also become clogged, so cleaning vents regularly is important.
  • Fans that direct your air around your home can become tilted, blocked, or slow. Older homes may have fans in discrete locations in the basement, so having a trained technician may be necessary to find or reach a fan for servicing. Older homes may need more efficient fans or work to secure them properly.
  • Ducting can become disconnected, leaking your heat before it ever reaches your rooms. Ducting in the lower levels of your home is just as important as in the attic. Making sure that your duct work is safe and secure will make sure that you know all of your heat is making it where it should go and not leaking before it even makes it to your rooms.

Electrical Outlets

  • Any unused/open electrical outlets should have foam gaskets to prevent air movement through the plate.
  • Secure and fasten plates firmly to the wall – replace if cracked or fitting improperly, as any opening or crevice allows for air flow.

Air Conditioner

  • Once your heat is turned on for the season, store your window AC unit in a cool, dry place during the winter.
  • This eliminates air travel around the sides of the unit as temporary structures are hard to completely secure.
  • Save money by only running one system at a time
  • Raise your efficiency by keeping your heat in and the cold out!

Ceiling Openings

  • Cracks in your walls and floors, missing or loose ceiling tiles, and insulation need to be checked.
  • Heat rises, so cracks or openings may be unintentionally heating another room or structure.
  • Replacing ceiling tiles is an important task if necessary to trap heat below the ceiling.
  • Cracks that are not intended for hot and cold air can develop allergens like mold and mildew from constricted space and vast temperature differences.

Fireplaces

  • Install and properly fit damper to ensure ventilation and effective heat saving.
  • Close damper when not in use so as not to allow cold air in when there’s no fire.
  • Check if chimney is clear and safe before using each year for the safety and comfort of your home.

Recessed Lighting

  • Cans used for recessed lighting make up an average of 13% of heat loss in the home!
  • Weather stripping needs to be installed/repaired to keep heat from traveling through the ceiling
  • Older homes were not installed with insulation like they are today so you may need to have a technician measure for heat loss from your recessed lighting

An experienced technician can help you reach hard-to-fit places and identify even the most invisible of heating leaks. Routine inspections will help you save money and keep your appliances lasting longer by eliminating strain on your struggling thermostat. Evaluating your home regularly as preventative maintenance can save you from missing small signs that may point to a problem.

Call Rebmann today to have an expert heating contractor help you evaluate your home or business today!

5 Tips To Help You Avoid Carbon Exposure from Heating Contractor

A heating contractor at Rebmann should be your main point of contact this winter if you expect to enjoy a steady flow of heat in your home. While you may think staying comfortable during the season is just a matter of turning on that heating system and that’s that, you also need to be aware of the various heating hazards you may encounter this season.

The most obvious hazard is a home heating fire, which become much more common during the winter. If have personal belongings crowding around the system, a few sparks for your furnace may be enough to set your home ablaze. You need to take the steps necessary to avoid this problem.

However, there is another hazard you should also be aware of: carbon monoxide, a deadly yet odorless gas that will leak out of a malfunctioning furnace. The terrifying thing about a carbon monoxide leak is that it can seep into your home without even realizing it, which will be even worse if your home isn’t equipped with a carbon monoxide detector. You may begin notice it when your family begins to fall ill. Symptoms of CO exposure include: dizziness, headache, nausea, shortness of breath, loss of consciousness, etc. If you notice any of these physical symptoms, or avoid ever experiencing them in the first place, you need to take action immediately.

Calling Rebmann for High-Quality Heating Service

At Rebmann, we have a team of heating contractors ready to meet any of your needs. We want to see homeowners across the local area with safe, effective heating this season, so that’s why we’ll be available at any time to help make that possible. Though carbon monoxide may be invisible, there are still ways to stop it and our heating services provide the perfect solution. Think about it: how comfortable would you actually be during the winter with a heating system that could leak out harmful gases at any given moment? Probably not at all. Our work will ensure you instead enjoy the season without worry so you’ll be able to relax so much more in your home, even during the roughest winter weather. You will also save up to thousands of dollars on furnace replacement since you’ll have a heating system that works safely. Best of all, with our help, you will stay at a better peace of mind knowing your family is kept far away from harm. Their comfort at this time of year should your first priority, and you can count on us to guarantee their 100% satisfaction.

5 Tips From a Heating Contractor to Keep Your Home Safe

Before you cozy up with a reliable source of heating this winter, please take note of these 5 helpful tips to guarantee the threat of carbon monoxide is the least of our troubles throughout the season:

  1. Calling for gas furnace maintenance once a year. You should call Rebmann to book a furnace maintenance check once a year. During our maintenance check, a heating contractor from Rebmann Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning will inspect all areas of your furnace, even down to the last detail. Even just one quick look you’re your system will extend the lifespan of your system, reduce the amount of dust circulating through your home, and improve system efficiency so you save money on bills.
  2. Installing a modern carbon monoxide detector. Every home should be equipped with a working carbon monoxide detector. There’s simply no reason for you to not own one. It can save lives and ensure you have enough time to lead your family to safety. The device is plugged into an electrical outlet and makes a loud noise once it detects the presence of carbon monoxide.
  3. Only buy gas equipment from with the seal of an approval from a national testing agency. Any gas appliance has the potential to leak carbon monoxide, but you need to make sure you are installing a heating system approved by a government testing agency. The Consumer Product Safety Commission, for example, is one of the most trustworthy resources in determining if your gas heating equipment is safe enough to use.
  4. Make sure gas appliances are properly vented and clean: If you add a new gas appliance in your home, ask the installer to show you how the appliance is vented. If vents are fastened or cleaned out properly, it can damage the system’s efficiency and make you spend more on energy bills. Vents can also become blocked by dirt, dust, and debris. If not cleaned out, this can both block air flow and further damage the efficiency of the system.
  5. Avoid heating your home with an oven. You should only be using your oven to heat up food. Some homeowners will make the mistake of trying to heat their home with it, which will only greater the chances of gas leaks or a home heating fire.

Don’t Put Yourself In A Hazardous Situation – Let One Of Our Heating Technicians Help Make Your Heating System As Safe As Possible

Contact Rebmann today if you want to avoid exposure to any harmful gases thanks to our dependable heating contractor!