How to Maintain the Efficiency of your Water Heater if you have Hard Water

Hard water can cause serious problems for appliances, especially your home's water heater. Mineral buildup inside your water heater tank consisting of calcium, magnesium, and other deposits can greatly reduce its lifespan. Luckily, you can prevent unexpected troubles – and the untimely demise of this often overlooked but frequently used appliance - with a little bit of routine maintenance.

Sneaky sediment
Just as your HVAC system needs maintenance, so too does your water heater to keep mineral sediment from building up and clogging fixtures. Its mere operation – heating water – produces the sediment that lines your tank. The hotter the water, the greater the sediment buildup, making turning down the temperature a smart move not only to prevent burns and over-inflated utility bills, but to protect the efficiency and lifespan of this appliance.  

Flushing – It’s not just for the toilet
You can rid your water heater of sediment much the same as you would rid waste in the bathroom – with a simple flush. How can you accomplish this?

• Turn off the power and/or the gas.
• Close the shutoff valve on the cold water supply pipe.
• Release pressure in the tank by turning on a hot water faucet anywhere in the house.
• Drain the water, taking care to remember it is scalding hot, and must be handled carefully. Two-to-three gallons should be sufficient.
• Close the drain valve. If it won’t close completely after the flush, you may need a replacement.
• Restore water supply so your tank can fill.
• Note noises indicate air in the system, and are not harmful.
• Red alert! Turning on your water heater before it has refilled with water could permanently damage the heater – or create a dangerous situation.
• Turn on a faucet in your home to purge air in the system.
• Turn the power back on/re-light the pilot.
• Repeat this flushing process every four-to-six months.
• If you are unsure of your ability to complete any of the tasks above, enlist the help of a dependable service and maintenance heating repair professional.

De-liming: Not a DIY endeavor
Notice a hard buildup on the surface of your tank’s interior during flushing? This hard lime or scale buildup results from tanks that go too long between flushing or cleaning, or in systems heating extremely hard water. As with scale, it can also cause operational issues, reduced efficiency, and shortened system life. Flushing will not clear it. Removing it requires the use of strong chemicals which, if used improperly, could create dangerous conditions including etching and damage to your tank, exposure to acid burns during cleanout, water contamination, and even explosion. Do not try this at home. Reducing lime scale buildup in your tank is better and more safely managed by turning down the temperature of the heater (120 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended), flushing your tank if you are capable, and calling a pro for regular professional maintenance including a more thorough cleaning and inspection of essential components such as electrodes and pressure relief valve. 

Hot water heater left you high and dry? H&H Heating & Air can help, with after-hours and emergency services to get your life back afloat. Contact us today.

Things to Consider when Installing a New Hot Water Heater

Cold shower? Emergency repair may not be enough. You may need a new water heater.  In high-demand, your average tank-style water heater is only designed to last 8-12 years, putting water heater replacement at the top of the list of common home improvements.

What things should you consider before installing a new water heater?

• Water heater type
  Water heaters come in many different types, including gas and electric water heaters such as American-made Bradford White water heaters, and tankless and tank-style models:
  
• Tankless
  Ninenty-nine percent efficient, tankless systems use a heat exchanger rather than a storage tank, taking up far less space and boosting efficiency with on-demand access. Though they last longer and have more extensive warranties, they also require increased maintenance and additional installation costs.
• Tank-style
  Tankless not in the budget? No worries. Traditional models still offer at least 93% efficiency, with those featuring new heat-pump technology to boost efficiency (like your HVAC system) offering even more.
• Hybrid
  Hybrid systems combine the best of both conventional and tankless elements.
• Water heater size
  Water heater size is not the only thing that matters – you must also consider “first hour ratings” – how many gallons the heater can supply (and replace) per hour. U.S. News reports a new 50-gallong tank with a first hour rating of 35 only yields enough hot water for two 8 minute showers. If that’s not sufficient, you’re going to have to think bigger – or go tankless for constant, on-demand hot water access.
• Timespan
  Upgrading to a tankless system from a tank-style water heater takes much longer – 10-12 hours versus the 2-3 our installation time of traditional systems.
• Installation cost
  The cost of professional water heater installation from even the best heating and air conditioning companies is widely variable by project. Cost can vary greatly based on factors such as replacement type (will your new system be the same style and size as your previous water heater – or will retrofitting be necessary?), the installation site, and changes necessary to bring the installation up to code (venting, electrical and gas supplies, and more). Over-the-phone estimates are not possible. The site must first be surveyed and you must know what type of water heater you’d prefer to replace your existing one with to ensure an accurate installation quote.
• Safety
  While saving a buck map prompt you to attempt a DIY installation, you will be far safer going with a pro hvac technician. This will not only ensure proper permits and a system safely installed to current local plumbing codes, but prevent related dangers such as gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning risks, electrical risks (electric heaters require 240 volts), clearance headaches, water damage and possible mold issues from improperly installed systems.

Information overload cause your brain to spring a leak? The professionals at H&H Heating & Air Conditioning are here to guide you through the water heater purchasing process so you can make the right choice for your home, family, and budget. Contact us today to learn more about our extensive array of efficient, high-performance water heating systems.

Help your Heater run Efficiently this Season: Fall Heating Maintenance Checklist

Tired of over-the-top winter fuel bills? Putting a little effort into fall hvac maintenance could help you reap big rewards – and prevent the need for unexpected repair calls after winter weather sets in.

Never neglect annual pre-season furnace maintenance
Annual service is inexpensive – and always cheaper than waiting until your system breaks down to call for repair. You can attempt to do it yourself, but the difficulty level is high, and for those unfamiliar or uncomfortable with the territory, calling in a professional hvac expert is highly recommended.

What’s involved with annual fall furnace maintenance?
Basic fall furnace maintenance involves:

1. Cutting the power supply.
   Turning off power to the system, including electrical and fuel supply, is essential to furnace maintenance safety. The power switch is usually identifiable by a bright red switch plate near your heating unit, the fuel shutoff valve located near the oil tank or incoming gas pipe.
2. Cleaning the combustion chamber.
   The place where fuel and air mix and are ignited, buildup in the combustion chamber can cause your furnace walls to corrode. Loose buildup must be scraped out with a small wire brush, small bits with a shop vacuum, and chamber holes inspected for corrosion before replacing the cover.
3. Flue pipe inspection.
   Holes in the exhaust flue could result in carbon monoxide leaks, and damper adjustments effect efficiency. Patch small holes with foil tape – but if your pipe is corroded, it must be replaced for the safety of your family. Barometric damper adjustments are where a pro’s tools come in handy, as measurements can be taken and adjustments made to those dampers compromising efficiency due to excess draw.
4. Changing the air filter.
   The air your family breathes in the winter comes through your furnace filter. It is easily changed and should be – often.
5. Oil filter replacement.
   Oil filters remove small impurities that could result in misfires and system shut downs. Always remember to close the oil valve before removing and replacing the old filter, disposing of it according to local hazardous waste regulations.
6. Component inspection and adjustments.
   Belt wear and tension can affect the blower – and efficiency. Belts deflating more than 3/4inch when pressed firmly should be adjusted by sliding the blower motor slightly backward.
7. Burner adjustment.
   Burner tubes (in gas systems) must be vacuumed cleaned and air gates adjusted for the proper air to fuel ratio. A combustion analyzer, used by professional technicians, can measure this. Also, to properly burn fuel before it goes up the chimney, the oil nozzle, which atomizes fuel, should be checked and replaced if necessary. Flame color and shape at the igniter is a key indicator of proper combustion.
8. Vent cleaning.
   Pet hair, small toys, dirt and debris in floor vents ruin air quality and efficiency.

Feeling overwhelmed?
A clean, well-maintained heating system can save you money on fuel – and prolong furnace life. If you’re in over your head when it comes to meeting these fall furnace maintenance tasks, contact the furnace contractors at H&H Heating & Air Conditioning today.

Allergy season is here again: How to Allergy Proof your Home

Cool, crisp fall breezes have many Americans opening up their doors and windows after a stifling summer. Though the temperature may feel great on the skin, however, all that cool, dry air makes for an convenient transportation mechanism for airborne allergens that can wreak havoc on your sinuses. Is there any way to enjoy the best of both worlds?

Reduce the effects of allergens in your home with these effective air quality solutions:

• Time it.
  Opening up windows to boost air quality, especially in today’s tight homes, is a great idea. However if you or a family member is an allergy sufferer, do it by the clock – and by the weather. Check your local pollen and mold forecast, keeping windows closed when counts are high, especially between 10am and 3pm, and on dry, windy days.

• Leave it at the door.
  When you come in from enjoying a little time outdoors, ditch outer garments on the porch or in your laundry/mudroom – then take a shower. This keeps mold and pollen that have settled on clothing out of your home.

• Be average.
  Average humidity levels – around 50% - are optimal inside your home to keep mold (which likes moisture) and dust (which likes dryness) at bay.

• Keep it contained.
  An essential line of defense against bringing allergens into your living space is tightly sealed ductwork. When was the last time you inspected yours?

• Use your filter.
  Installing compatible HEPA filters on your existing HVAC system with the help of a hvac repair technician can help remove millions of particulates like mold spores, dust mites, pollen, and other harmful airborne contaminants. Just remember to clean them regularly, as dirty filters can do more harm than good – to sinuses as well as your HVAC system.

• Light it up.
  Used in conjunction with your heating and cooling system, an ultra-violet air purification system can further help eliminate mold, as well as harmful viruses and bacteria that can make you and your family sick throughout the cooler weather season.

• Focus your cleaning efforts.
  Though keeping your entire home as clean as possible is recommended, today’s busy lives may make finding time tough. If this is the case, concentrate efforts on bedrooms (dust mite heaven) and bathrooms (mold Xanadu). Proper moisture levels (ventilation fans, de/humidifiers) and careful cleaning are key. Consider upgrading to a vacuum with a HEPA filter, and don’t forget to damp mop shelving and floors regularly.

• Cut the clutter.
  The less stuff clogging up surfaces in your home, the fewer places for allergens to hide – and the easier it is to clean. This includes nick knacks on shelves as well as curtains, and high-pile wall-to-wall carpeting.

• Love Fido in the living room.
  Reduce bedroom dust mites and dander allergens by making your bedroom a no-fly zone for pets, washing bedding regularly to cut down on the buildup of substances you inadvertently track into your room.

Burnt out on sneezing your way through the season? Take a load off your sinuses (and loads of tissues off your tables) with the help of indoor air quality services from H & H. Contact us today.