Category: Uncategorized

What is a Water Softener, and How Does it Work? 

A water softener is installed into a plumbing system to combat the effects of hard water. Hard water contains high levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, that can cause issues for a household and its inhabitants. Water softeners generally rely on a resin bed made of small beads. These beads are charged with sodium ions that draw magnesium, calcium, and other chemicals from the water to soften it. This blog will discuss the benefits of installing a water softener.

More Effective Cleaning 

The presence of these minerals in hard water makes it more difficult for soap to form a lather and harder for detergents to dissolve. It can also leave behind scale deposits in and on plumbing fixtures and pipes. Hard water is not necessarily harmful but can cause problems when cleaning. Spotted glasses after washing dishes, stains and deposits on bathroom fixtures, and faded clothes after washing are common occurrences due to hard water.

Fortunately, there is a solution: installing a water softener. Water softeners use ion exchange technology to remove the minerals in hard water, which reduces the hardness of water and makes it easier to clean dishes, bathrooms, and clothes. Using soft water for cleaning can reduce the time spent scrubbing scale buildup off fixtures and surfaces. Clothes can also stay brighter and last longer when washed in soft water because detergents dissolve better. Furthermore, dishes will be spot-free without needing to rewash after running them through a dishwasher. Overall, water softeners are an effective solution for those fed up with dealing with the effects of hard water on their cleaning efforts.

Protection for Their Plumbing System 

Hard water minerals can also build up over time within the plumbing system, in pipes, fixtures, and water heaters. This scale buildup reduces water flow through pipes as the mineral deposits narrow the opening for the water to move through. This buildup can result in clogged pipes, slower-draining sinks and tubs, and reduced water pressure. In addition, scale buildup can lead to the corrosion of pipes and water heaters. Water softeners are an effective way to help prevent the damage caused by hard water. Installing a water softener can help reduce wear and tear on plumbing systems, fixtures, and water heaters, extending their life expectancy and helping to keep them in good working order for longer.

Hard water can also be problematic for any water heater. It strains the system as minerals stick to the tank’s walls and other components. This build-up makes heat transfer harder, causing the system to work harder and use more energy, impairing the water heater’s energy efficiency. Water softeners remove these minerals, allowing water heaters to operate more efficiently, which can improve the water heater’s lifespan and decrease energy bills.

Better Skin and Hair Health 

Hard water can be hard on the skin and hair. It is known to strip away natural oils, leaving people with dry, brittle strands of hair and tight, irritated skin. The minerals in hard water can cause damage to the cuticle layer of hair follicles leading to split ends. Hard water also affects the outermost layer of skin, causing it to become dry and scaly, leading to increased sensitivity and discomfort. 

Fortunately, there is a solution. Water softeners help reduce hard water’s harsh effects on hair and skin by removing minerals from the home’s water supply. Softened water helps maintain the natural oils in hair and skin, leaving people with softer, smoother, healthier-looking, and more hydrated skin and hair. 

About Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving Santa Maria, CA, and the surrounding areas since 1993. They provide same-day service, reasonable rates, and financing options. Call them today for water filtration system installation in Santa Maria, CA.

Say Goodbye to Seasonal Allergies! 

Allergy season can be a difficult and frustrating time of year; sneezing, itching eyes, congestion, and runny noses. These symptoms attempt to thwart plans and interfere with day-to-day lives. But this spring doesn’t have to be as unbearable! 

With some minor changes within their home environment, homeowners may just find that allergy symptoms become much less severe – allowing them to focus on what matters: enjoying the fresh air that comes with warmer days ahead. Below are three easy strategies for making this upcoming allergy season more bearable than past ones.

Opening the Windows 

Without proper ventilation, a home can quickly become a petri dish for airborne illnesses and particles, like dust, dander, and even pollen. That’s why it’s so important to air out the home periodically. Opening windows on breezier days is an excellent way to create natural air circulation in a home. This can help reduce allergies and improve indoor air quality by allowing old stale air to escape and fresh, clean air inside. 

When the windows are open, allergens from pollen, dust mites, and other particles that may be trapped inside the home have an easier time escaping outside. This reduces their concentration in the air, relieving allergy symptoms such as sneezing or itchy eyes. These benefits make opening windows on breezier days a great way to keep the home healthy and comfortable.

Replacing Air Filters 

Homeowners should replace their air filters to maintain good indoor air quality and make breathing easier. While the general recommendation is to replace an air filter around every three months, if a homeowner or someone in their household suffers from allergies, it may be worth replacing them more frequently—every month or two. This helps eliminate particles that can trigger allergy symptoms. 

Additionally, replacing air filters on time can help maintain the energy efficiency of an HVAC system and reduce energy bills. Replacing air filters on time also reduces the risk of major repairs for the HVAC system since it’s less likely to become clogged with dust and debris. Overall, timely replacing air filters is a simple way to keep a home’s air quality high while reaping additional benefits.

Keeping Up With Household Cleaning 

Dust is an ever-present threat to air quality and health in homes. Dust can trigger allergies, asthma attacks, and other respiratory issues. It also acts as a carrier for viruses and bacteria, further contributing to health problems. This makes it important to clean and dust the home regularly. 

Dusting helps remove the dust, dirt, pollen, pet hair, and other allergens that accumulate around a home. When cleaning surfaces, using a damp cloth or mop is crucial to pick up the dust. This will help remove the dust and reduce the number of particles that become airborne, like when cleaning with a dry cloth. Vacuuming can also help reduce the allergens on carpets, upholstery, and circulating in the air by trapping them in the vacuum cleaner bag. 

About Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning 

Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a local family-owned and operated business serving Santa Maria and the surrounding areas for almost three decades. They provide reasonable rates, 24/7 emergency service, and same-day service. Call them today for air filter replacement or additional indoor air quality services in Santa Maria, CA. 

Why is Drain Cleaning Important? 

Drain cleaning is more than turning on hot water and scrubbing off the grime around the garbage disposal. It is an integral part of plumbing maintenance. In this blog post, homeowners can learn about the importance of drain cleaning and what it involves. 

Drain Cleaning Prevents Clogs and Buildup 

Professional drain cleaning services from a plumber can help prevent clogs and buildup in the pipes. Plumbers use specialized tools and equipment to dislodge clogs and remove buildup from the drains. They have drain snakes, augers, hydro-jetting machines, and other advanced devices to clear any blockages and prevent even the most stubborn clogs. 

These tools are designed to effectively cut through hardened material, such as grease, soap scum, hair, and other debris that can build up in the drains over time. With regular drain cleaning services, homeowners can ensure that their pipes remain free of clogs and buildup, helping to keep them flowing freely and avoiding potential issues.

Reduces a Property’s Flooding Risk 

Clogs in the plumbing system can significantly increase the risk of flooding by blocking sewage and drainage systems. Clogged pipes can lead to leaks, pipe bursts, or even sewage backups which can cause flooding. Water from these situations can seep through walls, floors, and other surfaces, causing water damage and a serious health hazard. 

It is important to be aware of the signs of clogging in the plumbing system so steps can be taken to prevent flooding. Slow-draining sinks, gurgling pipes, and water backup are all indicators that there may be a clog in the pipes that requires drain cleaning. If left unresolved, these issues can lead to more severe problems, such as flooding and water damage from a leak. 

Fewer Repairs and Cleanups 

One of the key benefits of routine drain cleaning is that it can help prevent plumbing emergencies. This is because clogs or blockages in drains will only get worse over time, which can cause major damage to pipes and fixtures if they are left untreated. By getting the drains regularly cleaned, homeowners can keep them running smoothly and prevent any potential problems from occurring. 

This can save homeowners from having to deal with costly repairs or cleanups due to a plumbing emergency. Regular drain cleaning also helps reduce the chances of bad odors and unsightly buildup in the pipes, so it can also improve the quality of indoor air. So getting the drains cleaned on a regular basis is not only beneficial for preventing expensive water damage or plumbing repairs, but it can also help keep the home clean and odor-free.

About Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning 

Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has three decades of experience serving Santa Maria, CA, and the surrounding communities. They provide same-day service, 24-hour emergency assistance, and financing options. Call them today for drain cleaning services in Santa Maria, CA.

Meet the Innovators Behind Modern Heating and Cooling Technology

During Black History Month, it’s important to recognize and celebrate the contributions of African-American inventors in various fields, including those who revolutionized modern heating and cooling. These trailblazing individuals have significantly improved the comfort of homes and businesses and energy efficiency through their innovations and advancements. They serve as an inspiration to future inventors and continue to influence how we live today.

David Crosthwait 

David Crosthwait was an engineer and inventor from the United States who contributed significantly to heating and cooling systems, temperature regulation devices, and vacuum pumps. He was also a forerunner in using radiant heating systems. He was responsible for designing some of the first modern heating and cooling systems for large buildings such as skyscrapers and office buildings. He also invented several temperature control devices, such as thermostats and temperature controls, which are still widely used in modern heating and cooling systems.

Crosthwait was a renowned expert in vacuum pumps and was responsible for designing some of the first high-efficiency vacuum pumps, in addition to his work on heating and cooling systems. His inventions increased the efficiency and performance of vacuum pumps, making them more dependable and cost-effective. He also contributed significantly to developing the vacuum furnace used in various industrial and scientific applications.

Alice H. Parker 

Alice H. Parker was an American inventor and engineer best known for her patent for a gas furnace. This revolutionary system enabled central heating in homes and buildings by supplying warm air via a network of ducts. Before her invention, heating systems were typically limited to radiators or small, individual heaters, making large spaces or entire buildings difficult to heat.

Parker’s 1919 patent changed the heating industry by making central heating systems more efficient and cost-effective. Her design used a gas furnace as a heat source, which was more efficient than previous heating methods like coal-fired boilers. The furnace was linked to a network of ducts that distributed warm air throughout the structure, providing more consistent and comfortable heat.

Lewis Latimer 

Lewis Latimer was an inventor and engineer from the United States who significantly contributed to indoor air quality. He was also well-known for his contributions to the telephone and the lightbulb. Latimer was a vital team member that worked on Alexander Graham Bell’s early telephone designs, contributing to the device’s improvement and making it more practical for everyday use. He also helped Hiram Maxim develop the lightbulb, creating the first detailed drawings of the carbon filament used in the bulb.

However, Latimer’s most significant contributions to indoor air quality came from inventions and improvements to ventilation systems. Latimer recognized the importance of good indoor air quality and devised several innovative solutions to improve building air quality. He invented a smoke-consuming chimney, which helped to reduce the amount of smoke and pollutants in buildings, as well as an improved system for ventilating mines, which helped to improve miners’ safety and health. Indoor air quality is an important aspect of modern heating and cooling systems and helps people stay healthy in their homes. 

About Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving the community of Santa Maria, CA, and the surrounding areas. They offer same-day service, reasonable rates, and financing options. Call them today for indoor air quality, AC, or heating services in Santa Maria, CA. 

Getting a New Water Heater Has Benefits

There is so much to love about getting a new water heater. If homeowners are dealing with a faulty or old water heater, they have nothing to lose by purchasing a new one because a new water heater will bring them benefits. New water heaters are more efficient, have a faster recovery rate, and many take up less space. Homeowners will also notice fewer breakdowns and repairs by replacing old and damaged water heaters. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of investing in a new water heater this new year.  

Efficiency and Cost

An old and outdated water heater can cause significant energy waste. Despite being used just as much as newer, more efficient models, the older model will not perform at the same level. Over time, its efficiency will continue to deteriorate, leading to higher energy bills due to inefficient performance. 

The good news is that there is a way to improve the efficiency of a water heater and save money on energy bills; replace it with a new one. Replacing an old and outdated water heater with a newer model can significantly affect the overall cost of heating water. More recent models are designed to use less energy, meaning homeowners will pay less for water heating. This means they can save money on energy bills while still enjoying warm showers and baths. 

Hot Water Recovery Rate

Everyone has been there. They get in the shower, and the water is cold before they’ve finished washing, not because they wasted the hot water by standing in it but because the hot water runs out too quickly. Not just that, but the time it takes for the hot water to replenish itself again is extremely important. 

Homeowners shouldn’t have to:

• Deal with cold showers
• Wait long for the water to get hot after they turn it on
• Have to wait long between showers for the hot water to replenish

The time it takes for the hot water to replenish is called the hot water recovery rate. The newer the system, the better the recovery rate will be. The recovery rate in old or worn-out systems is a lot slower. 

Energy Efficient and Space Efficient

Today’s water heaters are more efficient and take up less space than ever before. Tankless water heaters, in particular, are an excellent choice when it comes to home efficiency. These small units can be mounted on a wall instead of taking up floor space like traditional water heaters. This makes them ideal for storage areas with limited space, such as the garage, basement, or closet. Tankless water heaters use up to 30-50% less energy than traditional water heaters because they only heat water as needed, meaning they can save homeowners money on energy bills. 

Tankless water heaters offer many advantages over traditional water heaters. They are more efficient and take up much less space, making them ideal for anyone who wants to save energy and money while freeing up valuable storage space. Additionally, these models are typically more reliable and last longer than traditional storage water heaters.

About Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning 

Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving Santa Maria, CA, and the surrounding areas since 1993. They provide same-day service, financing, and on-time arrival. Call them today for water heater or tankless water heater services in Santa Maria, CA. 

Three Things Homeowners Should Look for in HVAC Contractors 

Everyone’s heard horror stories about unreliable HVAC service people. Missed appointments, exorbitant repair fees, and subpar work make homeowners think twice about reaching out for help. However, this blog will share three important things homeowners should look for to hire a dependable heating and cooling company. 

Positive Reviews Across Multiple Platforms 

Many websites allow people to leave reviews about home service companies. By looking at reviews, homeowners can gain insight into whether a service is right for them and learn about a company’s reliability. Homeowners should also consider who is leaving these reviews. An anonymous account with a few broken sentences may not be the most reliable source of information, while a certified reviewer could offer honest insights. 

These platforms allow people to leave reviews about HVAC companies in their area: 

• Facebook
• Angi 
• The Better Business Bureau (BBB)
• Yelp 

Google Reviews also offers insight into customer service and feedback. One shouldn’t be scared off by a few four or three-star reviews. There’s no such thing as a perfect HVAC contractor. Still, most reviews should be above average. When reading these reviews, one should look for words like “prompt” and “knowledgeable.” 

Licensing and Insurance 

A qualified HVAC professional will be licensed by the appropriate organizations. Getting a license is more than taking a few courses. It requires years of training and apprenticeships. Insurance is another important matter, too. Hiring an HVAC professional who doesn’t carry liability insurance means that if something goes wrong during repairs, the homeowner could find themselves paying for damages out of pocket. 

Some HVAC companies offer their licensing and insurance information on their websites. However, homeowners can call a company and ask directly if they don’t have this information on their website. 

Offers Maintenance

Regular maintenance on the heating and air conditioning system is a must to keep it running efficiently. Without routine check-ups, small issues can quickly become huge problems that require costly repairs or replacement. A good HVAC company should offer maintenance services, which are essential for protecting a system from unexpected breakdowns and ensuring it’s working as safely and efficiently as possible. 

A reputable HVAC contractor will have trained technicians who are experienced in all aspects of heating and air conditioning system repair, maintenance, and installation. They should also offer energy-efficient options if homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their energy bills. Look for a company that has been providing services in the area for several years with good customer reviews before hiring them. 

Regular HVAC system maintenance is essential for keeping it functioning properly, saving money on energy bills, preventing costly repairs or replacements, and ensuring a comfortable home environment. Check the warranty that comes with any new HVAC installation, as this often includes routine maintenance for a certain period. However, even after the warranty expires, it’s still important to keep up with regular maintenance. 

About Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning 

Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving Santa Maria, CA, and the surrounding areas since 1993. They provide affordable prices, same-day service, and financing options. Call them today for air conditioning or heating services in Santa Maria, CA.

Don’t Let a Plumbing Emergency Ruin Thanksgiving! 

Thanksgiving is the perfect time of year to give thanks to local plumbers for protecting their communities from plumbing disasters. Many people gather during the Thanksgiving holiday to celebrate with their families. It is traditional to enjoy a large Thanksgiving meal during the holiday of giving thanks. 

During Thanksgiving, more pressure may be put on the home’s kitchen and bathroom plumbing than usual. Hosting multiple guests at home or preparing a large meal can increase strain on the plumbing system. Homeowners can use the tips in this blog post to help prepare their home plumbing for common Thanksgiving plumbing disasters such as a clogged drain or toilet. 

Prevent Clogged Toilets

A clogged toilet on Thanksgiving is a recipe for disaster. Guests may rush out the door when they find out there is no working toilet. Homeowners can get their homes ready to host guests and enjoy a Thanksgiving meal together by taking steps to prevent a clogged toilet. 

It is important not to flush anything down the toilet other than toilet paper. People are often tempted to use the toilet as a second trash can to dispose of small waste products. Even if the toilet does not clog the first time, the items can build up in the sewer line and cause clogs. Products labeled as flushable, such as flushable wipes, should also be avoided. Despite the product marketing, plumbers do not recommend putting these products down a toilet because they are more absorbent and don’t break down as well as toilet paper. 

Children in the home may be the culprits for why homeowners need to unclog the toilet this Thanksgiving. Parents should remind their children of flushing best practices, such as only using the amount of toilet paper needed and not flushing any other items. Flushing as you go instead of all at once at the end can also help to prevent toilet clogs when a large amount of toilet paper is needed. 

Prevent Blocked Sewer Lines

A clogged sewer line is one of the worst things that can happen to a home plumbing system on Thanksgiving because repairs are often complex. There are a few ways that a clog can form further down the sewer line. One way is if there is a buildup of grease, soap scum, or other materials in the line. This can happen when drains aren’t cleaned regularly. Another way that a clog can form is if tree roots have grown into the sewer line. This is more common in areas with older sewer lines made of clay or other materials that roots can easily penetrate.

If there is a clog further down the sewer line, it can cause several problems. First, it can cause sewage to back up into the home through the drains. This can lead to a nasty mess and can also cause health problems. Second, it can cause the sewer line to burst, leading to extensive damage and a costly repair bill. Finally, it can increase the water bill as the extra water has to go somewhere and often ends up overflowing into the street or yard.

Homeowners can do a few things to prevent clogs from forming further down the sewer line. First, ensure that drains are cleaned regularly by a plumber qualified to perform drain cleaning. This will help remove any buildup of materials that could potentially clog the line. Second, if homeowners have an older home with outdated plumbing, they can consider replacing it with new plumbing that is less susceptible to clogs. Finally, if tree roots are a problem in an area, have a professional come out and inspect the sewer line regularly to ensure that they are not penetrating it. 

Plumbing Maintenance Helps Prevent Disasters

Homeowners can take preventative steps to keep disasters at bay this holiday season by hiring a professional plumber to perform maintenance and inspections. Drain cleaning and inspections can go a long way in keeping the home plumbing system working smoothly. A plumbing emergency, while guests are staying at the house for Thanksgiving can be embarrassing, so homeowners should act now rather than later. 

Working on plumbing systems can be dangerous. Risks of amateur plumbing repairs or maintenance include property damage or personal injury. To keep things safe, homeowners should leave plumbing maintenance up to professionals. 

Drain cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping the plumbing system in good working order. A professional can help clear away any build-up of debris or sediment that may be clogging drains and also inspect them for any potential problems. This can help prevent serious issues like leaks or blockages from developing and save homeowners money in the long run. 

About Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving Santa Maria, CA, and the surrounding neighborhoods. They provide same-day service, on-time arrivals, and financing. Call them today for plumbing and drain cleaning services in Santa Maria, CA. 

Get the Heater Ready For Colder Temperatures

Preparing for fall involves more than just shopping for sweaters. With fall comes a drop in temperatures and a rise in heater usage. Maintenance is especially important to keep heaters working efficiently. Finding and taking care of potential problems now will prevent getting stuck in a cold living room later due to a broken heater. 

Heater Maintenance 

Even in California, preparing for colder weather is crucial. Cold indoor temperatures can cause respiratory problems, so a working heating system is important. An annual heater tune-up is recommended, regardless of the brand, to keep the system working safely and efficiently. During the maintenance visit, a technician will examine the system, including the thermostat, blower motor, wire connections, coils, and safety controls. 

When an HVAC system is not running as it should, homeowners can expect to see a sudden increase in the power bill. However, the high energy costs could also be from neglecting maintenance. The benefits of heater maintenance are energy bill costs decrease, a longer system lifespan, fewer repairs, and better indoor air quality. Technicians can also find and fix problems before they worsen while they clean and inspect the system. Maintenance this fall can improve heaters before the cold sets in. 

Air Filters Matter

While trained technicians handle issues within the system, homeowners can help in other ways. Replacing the air filters is one of the easiest ways to help maintain heating and cooling systems and is something homeowners should do regularly to keep the unit working right. 

A dirty air filter prevents air from circulating. Not only can energy bills increase, but the air will not feel as warm or cold as the thermostat says it should. Air filters that are never replaced can even cause the system to shut down and can be a fire hazard for overheating furnaces. 

There are different types of air filters available. Many homeowners choose disposable filters because they are relatively cheap and only need to be replaced around once every three months. Regardless of the type, air filters must be placed front to back. Placing them the incorrect way will affect indoor air quality. Changing the air filter also reduces the likelihood of mold or mildew, which is incredibly helpful for those with allergies.

Energy Usage

Regular maintenance can help homeowners save money, but it’s still advised that they monitor their energy usage. A sudden increase in energy bills is a sign there could be something wrong with the system and will alert homeowners to the problem. However, this sign of a faulty unit is unreliable without maintenance because if maintenance is neglected, that could cause the higher bills.   

Installing a smart thermostat is one of the easiest ways to reduce energy usage and save money. This technology allows the thermostat to be changed remotely from a smartphone. The heater can automatically shut off when nobody is home to save as much energy as possible. 

Weatherstripping around windows and doors can also help reduce energy bills by preventing heat losses this fall and winter. By using a special kind of tape, windows can be effectively sealed. A tension seal is made from a durable type of plastic used along the sides and top of windows. 

About Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving Santa Maria, CA, and the surrounding areas since 1993. They offer reasonable rates, same-day service, and financing options. Call them today for heating maintenance in Santa Maria, CA.

Reasons to Invest In a Water Filtration System

• Improve the taste of tap water
• Safer and cleaner drinking water 
• Saves money
• Environmentally friendly 

Water is one of life’s necessities for cleaning, cooking, bathing, and drinking. Water filtration systems improve water quality by removing contaminants. The most popular type of water filtration system is a reverse osmosis system. 

What is a water filtration system? Tap water can contain numerous contaminants and have an unpleasant aftertaste from the water processing plant. Reverse osmosis water filters push the water through a semipermeable membrane that purifies the water of any contaminants for better tasting, safer water. Installing a water filtration system means the home will always have clean, healthy, and safe water for drinking and other tasks. 

Improve Water’s Safety and Taste

Tap water can contain contaminants, including microorganisms that can damage gut health. Homeowners can protect their health by drinking filtered water. Some tap water also contains heavy metals and other harmful pollutants. Installing a water filtration system protects the homeowner’s health by ensuring clean water.

Reverse osmosis water filters produce cleaner-tasting water. Better-tasting water directly from the tap encourages families to drink more water and spend less on water bottles. Cooking with cleaner water can even make a difference in how food tastes. 

The minerals and heavy metals often in tap water can dry skin and hair. Installing a water filtration system provides cleaner water for bathing without all the harsh chemicals. Skin, hair, and nails look more hydrated when washed with clean and filtered water. 

Save Money

Homeowners can help prevent plumbing issues and preserve their plumbing fixtures and pipes by installing a water filtration system. Corrosive materials in the water, such as heavy metals and minerals, can create rust and leaks in plumbing fixtures. A water filtration system can remove contaminants that lead to corrosion, so plumbing systems last longer and homeowners save money. 

Water filtrations systems also save homeowners money by preventing the need to buy bottled water. Buying plastic water bottles for the family can add up, but families can leave that heavy item off the grocery list by having clean, better-tasting drinking water directly from the home’s taps.  

Eliminate Waste and Help the Environment

Water bottles are one of the most common items found in landfills and polluting the ocean because most do not get recycled. Homeowners can waste hundreds of dollars each year on water bottles that end up in landfills or hurt sea creatures in the ocean. Installing a water filtration system is an eco-friendly alternative to bottled water, providing clean water whenever needed. 

Eliminating plastic water bottle waste helps the environment, and homeowners can save a ton of money by removing water bottles from their grocery bills. Installing a high-quality water filtration system ensures that there will always be clean and healthy drinking water at home.

About Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving Santa Maria, CA, and the surrounding areas for nearly three decades. They provide same-day service, reasonable rates, and on-time arrival. Call them today for water filtration systems in Santa Maria, CA. 

What to Know About Central AC (and Other AC Systems)

To understand the air conditioning basics, someone doesn’t have to be a licensed HVAC professional. All they need is a few moments of their time, and they can learn important information to help keep their system in good shape. They can also learn what AC system works best for their home and the advantages of alternative sources.

Common Types of Air Conditioners

Many people in Santa Maria, CA, have central AC systems. This means that cool air comes from a centralized source and is filtered to various parts of the home through ducts. There are many advantages to centralized AC systems, such as:

• They can last 15-20 years with appropriate maintenance.
• These units reduce humidity throughout the home. This reduces the possibility of mold growth and promotes good indoor air quality.
• Central AC units also add to homes’ resale values. They’re not as visible as other units and are efficient at cooling even the largest of homes.

Aside from centralized AC units, other types of air conditioners include:

• Ductless mini-splits: These units don’t rely on ductwork, reducing pollutants in the air. Because they don’t rely on ductwork, they’re usually pretty easy to install and more energy efficient, lowering energy bills. They also allow homeowners to set different temperatures for different parts of the house.
• Portable AC units: Many portable AC units come on wheels, allowing users to move them around the house easily. They also use less energy than many traditional AC units.
• Window AC units: These are ideal for mild or cooler climates. Installation is easy, and one can uninstall it within minutes when winter comes around.

Three Signs That an AC System Needs Repairs

Three signs that an AC unit needs professional attention include:

• High energy bills: Everyone should have a basic idea of how much their monthly energy bills cost. If one’s energy bill unexpectedly spikes, this could mean the AC is working “overtime” to cool the home.
• Sounds coming from the AC unit: The AC unit should have a quiet hum while it’s on. Any other noise could indicate problems with the motor blower, coils, or fan.
• The home doesn’t get cool: While many AC units can last more than ten years without problems, their internal components generally don’t last that long. A professional can assess one’s system and determine what is not working as expected.

What to Know About AC Maintenance

Ways for homeowners to maintain the AC system include:

• Changing the air filter at least once every three months
• Keeping the area around the AC system clear of clutter
• Promptly address any leaks or puddles around the AC system’s base by calling a professional
• Regularly clean dust and other debris away from the AC unit’s vents
• Schedule a cleaning of the unit’s ductwork every three to five years if it has ducts

Homeowners should also schedule AC maintenance visits with a professional at least once a year. A professional can run a diagnostic test, check for problems, and recommend a course of action for any issues.

About Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving Santa Maria, CA, and the surrounding areas since 1993. They offer reasonable rates, same-day service, and financing options. Call them today for air conditioning services in Santa Maria, CA.