Archives: Press Releases

Keep the Hot Water Flowing Through the Winter Months

Losing a water heater during the winter is a frustrating experience. Hot water becomes essential for daily comfort when the temperature drops, from warm showers to washing dishes and clothes. Without it, simple tasks feel unbearable, especially when dealing with freezing cold water. Bathing or cleaning in icy temperatures can become a daily ordeal, and the chill seems to seep into every part of a homeowner’s routine. Avoid the hassle by noticing the signs that the water heater is failing.

Temperature issues, leaks, and old age are all signs that water heater replacement may be necessary. If these are noticeable this early in the season, it may be best to start thinking ahead.

Signs of Temperature Issues

A water heater’s only job is to heat water for use. When it fails to do this, it is a major sign that repairs or replacement will be necessary. Water heaters can manifest temperature issues in a variety of ways:

Loss of Volume: The longer a water heater is in service, the more likely it will fail to provide the same amount of hot water as it has in the past. This is likely due to the tank’s heating element issues or mineral scale.
Inadequate Temperature: The heating elements in the water heater can start to fail. The first sign of this is warm but not fully heated water. A professional can determine whether repairs or replacements are the best action.
Water is Too Hot: Water heaters can make water dangerously hot. If the water temperature is too hot, stay away and call for professionals immediately before someone gets burned.
No Hot Water: The easiest sign of temperature issues is a total lack of hot water, which a tripped breaker or safety device may cause. Plumbers can quickly determine the cause and recommend a course of action.

Leaks

Leaks are a serious problem in a water heater. When leaks occur, they cause the unit to wastewater, which can raise water and utility bills. Leaks can form in the plumbing near the water heater or develop inside the water heater. In general, leaks indicate that a water heater replacement is needed because they represent a tank lining failure or anode rod failure. A plumber should be called to inspect the problem whenever leaks are spotted.

An Old Water Tank and Visible Corrosion

water heater corrosion Most water heaters are designed to last for about a decade. Between the 7-10-year mark, they will likely develop serious issues that require hefty repair bills. If a problem is spotted in the water heater and the unit is around this age, water heater replacement may be the most sensible option.

Corrosion is a good indicator of the water heater’s age. If corrosion is present on the tank’s outer jacket or the water seems discolored, corrosion is attacking the tank. Once the tank’s defenses are depleted, it will quickly fail. Always be preemptive when dealing with leaks to prevent further complications.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family business that offers fast, on-time plumbing solutions. Their teams can accommodate various plumbing and HVAC needs with high customer satisfaction. Call today for a water heater replacement in Walla Walla, WA.

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Air Conditioning Basics

Not all air conditioning systems are designed for all households. If an air conditioner provides the maximum amount of cool air for a one-person household, bills can be unnecessarily high. Still, if the air conditioner is too small for a family household, homeowners must spend more to keep the AC running. Homeowners are encouraged to learn the basics and find the best summer air conditioner.

The #1 Best Air Conditioner

home ac The best air conditioner will be different for each household. Although the priorities may change depending on how old or big the home is, most households want consistent comfort that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. This air conditioner can be found for any type of dwelling.

Central air conditioning is a common choice for two-story homes. Cool air reaches every room in the home so that all household members can stay cool simultaneously. A central AC uses air ducts to force cool air throughout the vents. Smart thermostats are an option for more modern units. The typical central AC unit can cost anywhere from $3000 to $10,000.

Ductless mini-split systems, also called ductless air conditioners, are another option to provide crisp air indoors. This air conditioning method is used in large and small homes but especially benefits smaller households. This is because ductless mini-splits can be turned on or off in each room. If only one person is home, they can save money by using only the mini-split in the room they are occupying. Ductless mini-split air conditioners are easy to install and range from $1000 to $3000.

How Often Is Air Conditioner Repair Necessary?

hot at home Depending on the unit, air conditioners can break down multiple times yearly. The best way to avoid AC repair is by scheduling annual maintenance inspections. Most central AC systems last approximately 10 to 15 years, while mini splits can last up to 20 years.

Neglecting air conditioning repair may seem like it saves money, but this is not a cost-effective strategy in the long run. When an AC is no longer energy efficient, it must work harder to pump the same amount of cool air into the home. Poor airflow is only one way to tell if an AC is malfunctioning.

High energy bills and insufficient cooling can point to a problem with the HVAC unit. A faulty thermostat is more difficult to interpret. If the indoor air feels warmer than the reading on the thermostat, a mercury thermometer can help. By putting the thermometer next to the thermostat, homeowners can definitively tell whether it feels hotter or the AC is broken. A mercury thermometer will always give a correct reading.

Air conditioners should run quietly in the background. They should never be loud enough to interfere with reading or conversation. If a unit is squealing, scraping, or grinding, homeowners should call a professional technician as soon as possible.

Which Unit Does Not Require AC Maintenance?

Whether homeowners use ceiling fans or central air conditioning, all units need regular maintenance to avoid damage. Experienced HVAC technicians advise homeowners to get an AC tune-up during the springtime. This gives technicians enough time to order parts before the hottest days of the year.

Air conditioner maintenance involves a full inspection of the system. This includes the ductwork. Trained technicians need to be hired for safety purposes while checking electrical connections. They will also keep all moving parts of the system clean and lubricated. While a professional is necessary to inspect the refrigerant charge and coolant levels, there are maintenance jobs that homeowners can do on their own.

Air filter replacement is an important part of directing airflow throughout the home. The air conditioning system will work harder if the filters collect too much dust. On average, air conditioner filters should be changed once every two or three months, depending on the household. Large households or households with pets may need to change their filters more frequently. Professional air conditioning maintenance can also help replace filters.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions offers a free installation estimate, straightforward pricing, and on-time services for Walla Walla, WA residents. Call them today for air conditioner installation and repairs in Walla Walla, WA!

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The Important Things to Know about Slab Leaks

Slab leaks can be a very big deal if left over time, so it is equally important that homeowners know what to expect and what to look out for. Slab leaks often will cause extensive damage if they are not handled promptly and by professionals. The important things to do are understand slab leaks, recognize their signs, and how professionals can fix them to protect the home and ensure it can withstand the entire family. Read on to fully understand slab leaks and how to handle the unfortunate reality of a slab leak.

First Things First: What Is a Slab Leak?

A slab leak happens when there is a leak in the water pipes beneath the concrete foundation, often called the “slab” of the home. They can be caused by a variety of things, some of which might be:

Pipe Corrosion: As time passes, metal pipes beneath the home will corrode as the chemicals in the soil, water, and metal interact. These chemical reactions create corrosion, creating small holes and cracks that cause leaks.
Poor Construction: When pipes aren’t properly installed at the beginning, as the home is getting built, they can cause issues down the line, including more frequent leaks. This is especially true where poor-quality materials or shoddy craftsmanship are used.
Ground Shifting: The ground is always moving. Some natural ground will shift underneath the home due to things outside human control, like soil expansion or contraction, earthquakes, tremors, or other geological factors. These natural phenomena can put more pressure on the pipes and even make them crack or break.
Abrasion: Continuous friction between pipes and the concrete or rocks surrounding them can wear the pipe material over time, potentially causing leaks.

What to Look Out for With Slab Leaks and Why You Need to Be On Top of It

Early detection is the name of the game regarding slab leaks. The earlier the detection, the more extensive damage is prevented and the less likely it is to wreak havoc on the home. Some common things to be looking out for as a homeowner are:

Unusually High Water Bills: If there have been no new overnight guests or increased dog baths but a sudden increase in water bills, it could indicate a hidden leak.
Damp or Wet Floors: If there is water or dewiness on the floor, but nothing in the house could cause the apparent pool, it might be due to a slab leak.
Low Water Pressure: When water escapes from water fixtures, less water is left, and less pressure builds up to push the water through the pipes in the switched-on fixture. If this happens in the home, it’s good to check it out to see if there could be a leak.
Warm Spots on the Floor: When a hot water line leaks, hot water can be sent throughout the house, meaning parts of the floor might be unexpectedly warm.
Sound of Running Water: Hearing water running or dripping when all taps are turned off could indicate a possible slab leak as the water continues to flow.

However, slab leaks mean more than a bad spot for the environment and higher water bills. If left, slab leaks can cause significant damage to the home, including:

Foundation Damage: Continuous water leakage will erode the soil beneath the home, making foundation cracks and structural instability more likely.
Mold and Mildew Growth: The moisture from the leaks will likely become a great growing spot for mold and mildew, which can have bigger-picture health implications for the family.
Flooring Damage: Water left unattended underneath the home will begin to move upwards, meaning that the floors might need to be completely renovated.
Increased Repair Costs: When the slab leak grows, so do the damages. The longer they’re left unattended, the more expensive it will be to fix everything.

Plumbing Professionals Will Be the Heroes of This Story

slab leak detection Addressing slab leaks requires special attention and experience, meaning that professional expertise and specialized equipment will be necessary to handle the situation completely. Here’s what professionals can do to detect and repair slab leaks:

Leak Detection: Plumbing professionals have advanced technology, such as electronic listening devices and thermal imaging, and they can perform pressure testing to locate the leak accurately without causing unnecessary damage to the home or its foundation.
Pipe Repair or Replacement: If the leak is really bad, the affected section of the piping might need to be repaired or even replaced. This could involve accessing the pipe through the impacted slab. Professionals can do this by tunneling underneath the foundation or breaking through the concrete of the foundation.
Epoxy Pipe Coating: For less severe leaks, professionals could use epoxy pipe coating to seal the leak without requiring extensive excavation. The process involves coating the inside of the pipe with epoxy, which seals any cracks or holes.
Re-Routing Pipes: If the plumbing system is severely damaged or is very old, plumbing professionals could re-route the pipes above the slab, preventing future leaks and making it easier to make repairs in the long term.

About Total Comfort Solutions

With on-time service and straightforward pricing, Total Comfort Solutions is the obvious choice for plumbing needs in the Walla Walla Valley. They offer worry-free service with prompt, on-time service. Call Total Comfort Solutions today for plumbing needs in and around the Walla Walla Valley in Washington.

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Spotting Air Duct Problems

The air duct systems in a home do so much more than just cool or heat the home. Ductwork is responsible for controlling airflow, maintaining comfort, and contributing to air quality in the home. Spotting the signs of damaged ductwork is one of the most essential things a homeowner can do to protect their HVAC system and ensure it functions essentially. Take a look at these three common air duct problems.

1. Excess Dust Around the Home or Air Vents

dusty vent Excessive dust around the home is a common sign that ductwork repair is needed. A homeowner might notice dust compiling near or on the air duct vents, but it can also be excessive dust throughout the home.

When air duct repair is needed, the air duct may be allowing dust or debris to get into the duct and circulate throughout the home. This can happen from small holes and air leaks in the ductwork. The excessive dust will impact indoor air quality and make a home extra dusty.

A great test of this is to dust throughout the home and then see how quickly dust reappears. Excessive dust within a few hours or a few days may be a sign that a home needs air duct repair.

2. Inconsistent Airflow in the Home

When working properly, ductwork should consistently push air out throughout the entire home. If it appears that one air or one vent is not getting the same airflow, this could be a sign that ductwork repair is needed.

There are two common causes of inconsistent airflow that a homeowner can monitor.

Air Leaks: Holes or gaps in the air ductwork allow air to escape, resulting in uneven air distribution throughout the home. Some rooms or areas may feel an imbalance in temperature or airflow.
Ductwork Blockages: Debris and dust can build up in ductwork and cause a blockage. Closed dampers may also cause a blockage, which is often noted by weakened airflow in a specific area.

Either of these signs needs professional attention for air duct repair to improve airflow within the home.

3. Increasing Energy Bills

bills If a homeowner notices that their utility bill is increasing unexpectedly, this is a good sign that something is not right. Yes, energy costs have been rising, but these are not usually significant jumps. When a new energy bill shows an unexpected rise in costs, consider calling a professional to assess the ductwork and determine if cleaning or repair may be needed.

The increase in bills comes from two main things:

Energy Loss: Leaks and holes from damaged air ducts allow the air from the HVAC system to escape, leading to energy loss within the system, increasing consumption and utility bills
Reduce Efficiency: An HVAC system struggling to keep up may be trying to compensate for the loss of air in the ductwork system. If pushed too hard, this leads to decreased efficiency and may cause system malfunction.

Awareness of these signs may help homeowners identify necessary air duct repair and take action before they lead to bigger issues.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions has been serving the HVAC industry since 2008. They provide fast and reliable solutions to bring homeowners the peace of mind they deserve. The team is dedicated to ensuring that HVAC needs are met in every home. Contact them today for air conditioner repair and service in Walla Walla, WA!

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How to Tell if the Water Heater Needs Attention

Owning a home requires a lot of learning. Many components need periodic attention, and a homeowner has to know how to spot the signs that things are failing so they can schedule service. When it comes to the water heater in a home or business, most people understand that leaks and a loss of hot water are clear signs that a water heater is faulty and service is needed.

However, there are plenty of other signs that can indicate a faulty water heater that people may not be aware of. This article will share some more signs indicating water heater repair, maintenance, or replacement is needed.

Spikes in the Utility Bill

bills Several issues with a water heater can cause inefficiency, leading to higher utility bills. Neglected maintenance, for example, can cause sediment buildup in the tank, reducing efficiency and increasing the energy required to heat water. Similarly, a malfunctioning unit may struggle to maintain consistent water temperatures, using more energy overall. Older and inefficient units are also prone to excessive energy consumption due to outdated technology and worn components.

So, homeowners should call for water heater service if they notice an unexpectedly high utility bill. Depending on the cause of inefficiency, water heater maintenance, repair, or replacement can be done by a plumber to ensure the home’s water heater is energy efficient and to keep operating costs low.

Unusual Sounds

sounds Different noises emanating from a water heater are also indicators of potential problems that require attention. A banging, popping, sizzling, or hissing sound can suggest that sediment has built up in the tank and that maintenance is needed, including draining and flushing sediment from the water heater.

Other sounds like ticking and whistling could be due to a problem with the pressure in the water heater’s tank while humming and vibrating could be because of a loose part in the water heater. Recognizing unusual sounds from the water heater and quickly calling for service can help diagnose and fix issues early, potentially saving on costly repairs or replacements and ensuring the efficient operation of the water heater.

Discoloration or Strange Odors

A few more signs that can indicate a faulty water heater are when hot water comes out of the plumbing fixtures discolored, like a brown or rust color, or smells unusual, like having a metallic smell. These can both be signs of a corroded water heater in need of a water heater replacement.

When water heaters experience rust and corrosion, it causes damage and deterioration that can lead to leaks and other problems, which is why it often requires replacing the water heater. It’s important to help prevent water heater corrosion with routine maintenance. Not only does flushing sediment from the tank during maintenance help avoid corrosion, but replacing the anode rod when necessary is also an essential step to avoid corrosion.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a plumbing, heating, and air conditioning company serving the Walla Walla area. They provide straightforward pricing, on-time service, and 100% customer satisfaction. Call them for water heater services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Advantages of Annual Air Conditioning Tune-Ups and Maintenance

Annual air conditioning maintenance offers great benefits for homeowners, including energy efficiency and energy bills, reliability, and the lifespan of an AC unit. The best time to schedule AC maintenance is in the spring because technicians won’t be as busy as they are in the summer and to prepare the air conditioner to work at its best in the summer when it’s used the most. This post will further explain the benefits of scheduling routine air conditioner maintenance.

Boost Energy Efficiency

filter Professional air conditioning maintenance is the best way to keep an air conditioner energy efficient. During a maintenance visit, a technician will perform tasks to keep the air conditioner working efficiently and inspect the system to ensure that all components, including coils, compressors, and other vital parts, are in good working order to minimize energy waste.

An air conditioner’s energy efficiency is crucial because when the unit is operating at peak performance it will keep energy bills low and prevent high costs since inefficiencies with the AC unit can result in higher energy consumption and more costly utility bills. Air filter replacements are also crucial for efficiency but are needed more often than professional maintenance, typically every three months.

Improve Reliability and Reduce the Risk of Breakdowns

hvac repair Spring AC maintenance will also help ensure reliability when the air conditioner is needed the most in the summer and hotter months. During maintenance, potential issues can be prevented or addressed before they become bigger problems that can cause a loss of cooling or require repairs.

By performing maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the AC coils, future problems can be avoided. Then, by performing a thorough inspection of the system, including checking refrigerant levels, any problems in the system can be found and fixed, making the air conditioner more reliable and preventing unexpected breakdowns and AC repair.

Extend the AC Unit’s Lifespan

Air conditioning maintenance is also beneficial, as it helps extend the lifespan of an air conditioner, preventing the need for an early AC replacement. Besides proper installation, routine maintenance is one of the most important ways to help an air conditioner last longer, being able to extend the life of an air conditioner by several years.

AC units can be expensive to install and replace, so an extended lifespan maximizes a homeowner’s initial investment and prevents them from having to pay for replacements too frequently. All the benefits mentioned in this post, including less frequent AC replacements, fewer repairs, and improved efficiency, save homeowners money, making maintenance extremely advantageous.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated business serving the Walla Walla Valley. They offer straightforward pricing, 24/7 live answers, and a worry-free process. Call them for AC maintenance and repair services in Walla Walla, WA.

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What Are Sump Pumps?

With improvements in building techniques, humans are more able to live in places that were previously inhospitable. Even in modern times, low-lying properties can be difficult to protect from nature, especially rain and flooding. To protect these structures, people should install sump pumps.

Sump pumps are necessary in many homes because they remove water to protect them from flooding and water damage. Here is a quick guide to sump pumps to help homeowners understand their importance and how to make sure they are working.

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

Sump pumps are installed at the lowest part of a home, such as basements and crawl spaces, to collect water and pump it safely away from the home and its structure to protect it from flooding and costly water damage. They collect water in a sump pump basin or pit, and once the water reaches a certain level inside, the sump pump turns on automatically.

The part responsible for detecting when water reaches the level to make the sump pump work is a float switch. Sump pump float switches sit in the sump pump basin and float with the water level present. When the level reaches a certain point, the float switch tells the pump to turn on and remove water until it drops to a set point.

Main Types of Sump Pumps

For homes that need protection from flooding, such as those in low-lying areas or homes with basements or crawl spaces, there are two main options for sump pumps. The first option is a submersible sump pump. This type of sump pump sits in a sump pump basin. The motor and pump are encased together so that water is never in contact with electrical components. Submersible pumps are more powerful and quiet than the alternative but are the more costly of the two options.

Pedestal sump pumps are a budget-friendly choice because they are less expensive. These pumps have a motor that doesn’t enter the water or basin, allowing for easy inspection and maintenance. However, this makes the pump’s operation louder, which can be undesirable if the pump is in a finished basement.

Checking Sump Pumps for Spring

Spring is the rainy season, so homeowners with sump pumps must ensure their home is ready. Luckily, testing a sump pump is easy, even for those with little knowledge. To test the sump pump, pour enough water into the basin to trigger the sump pump to turn on. Once the unit is on, it should drain away the water and then turn off automatically. If this doesn’t occur, a plumber should be called to inspect the sump pump and repair it if necessary.

Besides routine testing, sump pumps should also be routinely maintained by professionals to ensure their proper operation. Sump pumps that are well maintained and routinely tested are less likely to experience problems when they are needed the most to protect the home from flooding and water damage.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions offers free estimates on plumbing installations and promises an on-time guarantee for service. Their teams handle residential and commercial plumbing repairs and installations. Call them for sump pump services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Controlling Humidity at Home With Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers

Anyone who’s ever complained about the air being too dry in the winter or damp and sticky in the summer has experienced the unfortunate effects of too little or too much humidity. Humidity is the measure of water vapor in the air and is one factor that can affect health and comfort at home.

During the summer, when the weather is warm, water evaporates and becomes vapor easily, making the air feel extremely wet and humid. The opposite is true during the cold winter months. Frigid temperatures make the air feel dry. But when there is too much or too little humidity at home, it can have many other negative effects that can be fixed by installing humidifiers or dehumidifiers. This article will share the effects of indoor humidity and the benefits of installing dehumidifiers and humidifiers.

The Impacts of Humidity at Home

Humidity plays a crucial role in the comfort of a home’s indoor environment and the health of its residents. Optimal humidity levels typically range from 30% to 50%, providing a balance that helps to prevent the problems associated with too much or too little moisture in the air. Excessive humidity can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which are harmful to health and can cause allergic reactions and other respiratory issues. Furthermore, high humidity can make the air feel warmer than it is, leading to discomfort and increased use of air conditioning, thereby raising energy costs.

On the other hand, too little humidity can cause discomfort by drying out the skin and mucous membranes, leading to irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. It can also exacerbate conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Low humidity levels at home can also cause wooden furniture and flooring to shrink and crack, adversely affecting their durability and appearance. Maintaining proper indoor humidity levels is essential for safeguarding the health and comfort of the home’s occupants and ensuring the longevity of the home’s contents.

What a Humidifier Is For

Homeowners might realize the need for a humidifier installation when the air inside homes becomes uncomfortably dry. Telltale signs a humidifier is needed include frequent static shocks, dry skin, irritated sinuses, and a persistent cough, all of which suggest that the indoor air lacks sufficient moisture. Installing a humidifier can vastly improve home comfort by maintaining optimal humidity levels, which not only alleviates these physical discomforts but also helps preserve the health of wooden furniture and floors, which can crack or warp in dry conditions.

Furthermore, maintaining a healthy humidity level with a humidifier can also reduce the likelihood of airborne viruses, offering an additional health benefit to household members. Installing a humidifier at home can also reduce energy costs by optimizing the indoor climate. During the colder months, humid air feels warmer than dry air at the same temperature, allowing the thermostat to be set at a lower temperature while still maintaining a comfortable environment, which can lead to considerable savings on heating bills.

What a Dehumidifier Is For

Dehumidifiers can also play a pivotal role in maintaining good indoor air quality by removing excess moisture from the air. Homeowners can tell they need a dehumidifier installation if they start noticing condensation on windows, a musty odor in parts of their home, or if they are experiencing frequent allergic reactions, which could be worsened by mold and dust mites thriving in high humidity. Additionally, visible mold spots on walls or ceilings and peeling paint or wallpaper indicate that the indoor air contains too much moisture and could benefit from a dehumidifier.

Installing a dehumidifier also comes with many benefits. Firstly, it makes the home less hospitable to allergens such as dust mites, mold, and mildew, improving respiratory health and reducing irritation. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma and allergies. Also, by maintaining an optimal humidity level, dehumidifiers protect a home’s structural integrity and preserve wooden furniture and electronics from the adverse effects of excess moisture. They can also make the home feel cooler and more comfortable during hot, sticky months, potentially reducing the need for air conditioning and, thus, saving on energy costs.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated plumbing, heating, and air conditioning business serving Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas since 2008. They provide straightforward pricing, 24/7 live answers, and on-time service. Call them today for dehumidifier and humidifier services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Is 2024 the Year to Install a Tankless Water Heater?

Homeowners spend a lot of time making decisions about investing in the home. Every year, a big ticket item may need to be planned for, whether it’s a new roof or major AC repairs. The benefit of planning is that the associated cost and loss of amenities can be prepared for instead of reacted to in the case of an emergency.

When it comes to the water heater, this year may be the best year to make an upgrade. Conventional water tanks are bulky and expensive, with some serious shortcomings. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, have gained a lot of attention for their benefits. Here is a quick list of benefits that can be realized by installing a tankless water heater in 2024.

Take Advantage of Energy Efficiency

save money Conventional water tanks are very wasteful. Despite thick insulation and strides in efficiency, by their nature, they have to waste energy all day long, keeping a tank full of water hot in the event it is needed. The simple answer to reducing the energy usage of the water heater is only to turn it on when water is needed. However, water tanks can’t heat water that fast.

Tankless water heaters save massive amounts of energy by only heating water when needed. This can significantly reduce monthly energy bills and contribute to a more eco-friendly household. Invest in a tankless water heater this year for lower bills for years to come.

Instantaneous and Endless Hot Water

Tankless water heaters use powerful burners to heat incoming water in seconds. As soon as the flow is sensed in piping, which results from a valve in the plumbing system being opened, the burners kick on to heat water to a set point. This means that instantaneous hot water is always available.

Instantaneous water heaters provide hot water fast, but another great feature of tankless water heaters is that they continue providing hot water for as long as needed. Gone are the days of waiting for the hot water to recover. Hot water will always flow and will still be cheaper than heating a massive tank of water.

Longer Life Expectancy Than Water Tanks

The final reason many people are switching to tankless water heaters is another facet of cost reduction. Not only do tankless water heaters use less energy, but they also generally require fewer repairs and maintenance. Consequently, they tend to last much longer than hot water tanks.

A typical hot water tank lasts around ten years. The main point of failure in most water heaters is the tank itself. With repeated expansion and contraction, the tank’s inner lining wears away, exposing the steel in the tank to water.

It sets off a corrosion cascade that leads to rust and, ultimately, irreparable leaks. Tankless water heaters have no such vulnerability, generally lasting around 20 years.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions has free estimates for new tankless water heaters. Their prices are straightforward, and they are always on time. Call today for exceptional plumbing service in Walla Walla, WA.

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Hazardous Heating Problems

As winter approaches, it is important to ensure the heater is in good working condition to keep homeowners and their loved ones warm during the colder months. However, a faulty or malfunctioning heater can pose serious risks to health and safety if not properly maintained or repaired. This blog will discuss the potential dangers of a faulty heater and the warning signs to look out for to help homeowners keep their homes safe and warm during winter.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a dangerous issue for households, and since it is an odorless, colorless gas, spotting a carbon monoxide leak can be difficult. The health effects of carbon monoxide exposure can include disorientation, headaches, nausea, and loss of consciousness.

Carbon monoxide detectors are crucial for the safety of a household to help alert families of the danger before health problems arise. A carbon monoxide leak can happen when the heat exchanger is damaged or too old to function properly. Annual heating maintenance is recommended to help prevent problems like this from leading to hazardous gas exposure.

Mold

bad smell Mold thrives in moist and warm environments, making heating systems an ideal breeding ground. This is because these systems are often dark and damp from condensation and have limited air circulation. Additionally, if there are leaks or cracks in the system, water can seep in and lead to mold. Since mold is not always visible, homeowners should pay attention to household smells. Mold has a musty odor that can alert households to the issue.

Mold can grow in various parts of a heating system, from the furnace to the air ducts and vents. This can not only affect the performance and efficiency of the system but also pose potential health risks to occupants. Common health issues associated with mold exposure include similar symptoms to allergies, like sneezing, runny nose and congestion, coughing, sore throat, headaches, and eye and lung irritation.

Overheating

filter Overheating furnaces or heaters can also pose serious risks, including the threat of fires or carbon monoxide poisoning, so detecting the signs of overheating, such as a distinct burning smell or an unusual humming noise, is crucial to ensure safety.

On the prevention front, regular maintenance is vital in avoiding overheating. This involves routine air filter changes and scheduling routine inspections and maintenance with a professional to ensure that the heater or furnace works well, preventing potential overheating and extending the unit’s lifespan. By taking these preventive measures, homeowners can help their heaters operate safely and efficiently throughout the colder months.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated company serving Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, 24/7 live answers, and fast, reliable solutions. Call them today for heater repair in Walla Walla, WA.

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“Just recently had our final parts come in to complete the install of our mini split heating/cooling system.

Mark Allen has been great from the beginning, he helped us figure out the most cost-effective heating for our home would be, was upfront about costs and warned us of future costs that may pop up (which wasn’t a concern), has always been available to contact, and has gone above and beyond by making arrangements to get us temporary heat in our home during a product shortage.

Installation was quick and easy, the installers were very friendly and accommodating according to some of our needs concerning our cats and dogs. After installation, the inspector even ordered a new fan for one of our outdoor units and replaced it promptly. This company truly knows how to take care of their customers.”

Press Releases Archive

Archives: Press Releases

Keep the Hot Water Flowing Through the Winter Months

Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaks

An Old Water Tank and Visible Corrosion

About Total Comfort Solutions

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Air Conditioning Basics

The #1 Best Air Conditioner

How Often Is Air Conditioner Repair Necessary?

Which Unit Does Not Require AC Maintenance?

About Total Comfort Solutions

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The Important Things to Know about Slab Leaks

First Things First: What Is a Slab Leak?

What to Look Out for With Slab Leaks and Why You Need to Be On Top of It

Plumbing Professionals Will Be the Heroes of This Story

About Total Comfort Solutions

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Spotting Air Duct Problems

1. Excess Dust Around the Home or Air Vents

2. Inconsistent Airflow in the Home

3. Increasing Energy Bills

About Total Comfort Solutions

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How to Tell if the Water Heater Needs Attention

Spikes in the Utility Bill

Unusual Sounds

Discoloration or Strange Odors

About Total Comfort Solutions

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Advantages of Annual Air Conditioning Tune-Ups and Maintenance

Boost Energy Efficiency

Improve Reliability and Reduce the Risk of Breakdowns

Extend the AC Unit’s Lifespan

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What Are Sump Pumps?

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

Main Types of Sump Pumps

Checking Sump Pumps for Spring

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Controlling Humidity at Home With Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers

The Impacts of Humidity at Home

What a Humidifier Is For

What a Dehumidifier Is For

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Is 2024 the Year to Install a Tankless Water Heater?

Take Advantage of Energy Efficiency

Instantaneous and Endless Hot Water

Longer Life Expectancy Than Water Tanks

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Hazardous Heating Problems

Carbon Monoxide

Mold

Overheating

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