Press Releases Archive - Page 4 of 16 - B&L Plumbing and Heating

Indications of a Refrigerant Leak

How To Tell if the AC Is Leaking Refrigerant and Needs Repair

A refrigerant leak may seem like a minor issue at first, but it can quickly turn into a major concern, especially when an air conditioning system malfunctions or a refrigerator fails to cool during the sweltering summer months. Often subtle and easy to overlook, these leaks can lead to significant problems that affect both comfort and finances. Not only do they decrease the efficiency of cooling systems, resulting in higher energy bills, but they also pose potential health and environmental risks.

Recognizing the signs of a refrigerant leak can help homeowners address the issue before it becomes more serious, saving both money on repairs and avoiding unnecessary stress. This guide delves into the common indicators of refrigerant loss and offers steps to address this frequent yet serious issue.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

A frozen evaporator coil often signals a refrigerant leak within a refrigeration system. When refrigerant levels decrease due to a leak, the remaining refrigerant in the evaporator coil expands excessively, causing the temperature to drop significantly below normal operating ranges. This overcooling leads to moisture in the air freezing on the coils, ultimately forming a thick layer of ice that can completely encase the component.

The buildup of ice creates a damaging cycle: as the coils freeze over, they become less efficient at transferring heat, which forces the system to work harder even as its cooling performance declines. In a well-functioning system, the refrigerant effectively absorbs heat from the air that flows over the evaporator coils at a consistent pressure and temperature. However, when refrigerant levels drop due to a leak, this balance is thrown off, leading to ice formation. If the ice starts to accumulate on the evaporator coils, it’s crucial to have a qualified HVAC technician evaluate the system. Continuing to operate the unit with low refrigerant can cause significant harm to the compressor.

The AC Is Not Cooling Properly

When an air conditioner has a refrigerant leak, one of the first signs is a drop in its cooling efficiency. Refrigerant is the crucial substance that absorbs heat from the indoor air and releases it outdoors. If the refrigerant levels dip below what the manufacturer recommends, the system struggles to transfer heat effectively. As a result, even if the thermostat is set to a cooler temperature, the warm air blowing from the vents may feel only slightly cool rather than refreshingly chilled.

When an air conditioning system operates with reduced efficiency, it has to run for longer periods to reach the desired temperature, leading to extended cooling cycles. The system strains to make up for the decreased refrigerant levels, which results in a noticeable increase in energy consumption and, ultimately, higher utility bills. Moreover, using low refrigerant levels puts additional stress on other components, potentially causing further damage if the issue isn't addressed quickly. A well-functioning air conditioning system keeps refrigerant levels consistent, as the refrigerant works in a closed loop and isn't consumed during regular operation.

Unusual Sounds

Unusual sounds coming from an air conditioner or fridge might seem like just an annoying noise, but they could actually be a sign of a refrigerant leak. When refrigerant escapes through a crack or hole in the system's pipes, it creates some pretty distinctive sounds. One of the most common is a high-pitched hissing or whistling, similar to air escaping from a balloon.

If the leak is near the evaporator coil, bubbling or gurgling sounds may be heard. This occurs when the refrigerant transitions from liquid to gas at the leak site, causing turbulence within the system. Additionally, a refrigerant leak forces the compressor to work harder, which could lead to unusual clicking or buzzing noises. Any of these sounds should be addressed by a professional HVAC technician, as ignoring the issue can result in more significant and costly damage later on.

About the Company

B&L Plumbing and Heating has been providing expert plumbing and HVAC solutions since 1999. With over two decades of experience, they have earned a reputation as the trusted plumbing and HVAC professionals for Colorado Springs and surrounding areas, known for their commitment to quality craftsmanship. As a veteran-owned business, B&L Plumbing and Heating is dedicated to delivering reliable service. Contact them for AC refrigerant leak repairs in Colorado Springs, CO.

Distribution Links +

Remember to Schedule Plumbing Maintenance This Year!

What Is Plumbing Maintenance – And Why Does It Matter?

Homeowners understand that nearly every aspect of a house requires regular attention and upkeep to remain in good shape, and the plumbing system is no different. While it may seem like just a network of pipes, valves, and fixtures, these components can wear down or develop issues over time due to age, environmental conditions, and daily usage.

Regular plumbing maintenance is the most effective method to keep the system functioning properly and in good shape. However, what does plumbing maintenance actually involve? This article will outline the details of plumbing maintenance and the numerous advantages it offers to homeowners.

Plumbing Maintenance Benefits

There are many advantages to maintaining plumbing systems. The most apparent benefit is that it helps avert significant plumbing issues and emergencies – such as clogs and leaks. In this regard, routine maintenance can prevent or at least lessen the necessity for plumbing repairs or early replacement of components and fittings. Consequently, homeowners will avoid incurring expenses on these services.

Plumbing maintenance also helps save money in other ways. Take water leaks, for instance. The average household can lose an estimated 10,000 gallons of water per year due to plumbing leaks. That can add up to a hefty water bill. Regular maintenance allows homeowners to catch and fix these leaks.

Likewise, plumbing maintenance can improve water heater efficiency, reducing energy bills. Regular maintenance can also extend the lifespan of the plumbing system and the plumbing fixtures connected to it (toilets, faucets, showerheads, appliances, etc.), which saves money on plumbing replacement and repair in the long term.

Schedule Maintenance With a Qualified Professional

Many homeowners might feel tempted to handle plumbing upkeep on their own. However, aside from occasional drain cleaning with safe household remedies—such as baking soda and vinegar—it's advisable to leave general plumbing maintenance to the professionals. They possess the training, experience, and specialized tools needed to spot, diagnose, and resolve a wide range of issues effectively.

During a routine maintenance visit, a professional plumber will generally follow a long checklist of tasks, including:

Inspecting pipes for leaks and corrosion.
Measuring water pressure (and adjusting the pressure regulator if necessary).
Testing water quality (for hardness, acidity, heavy metals, etc.).
Cleaning faucet aerators.
Checking valves and fixtures for leaks.
Inspecting drains and cleaning if necessary.
Checking backflow prevention devices (to prevent contamination of potable water with wastewater).
Testing the sump pump (if applicable).
Servicing the water heater.

A typical plumbing maintenance visit takes anywhere from 1-3 hours, depending on what needs to be done. Most plumbing experts recommend that homeowners schedule plumbing maintenance services once per year to yield the greatest benefit.

Maintaining the Water Heater

One of the most important aspects of plumbing maintenance is the water heater inspection and tune-up. This deserves its own checklist of maintenance tasks, such as:

Checking for leaks in the unit and its connecting pipes.
Testing the T&P (temperature & pressure) relief valve for proper function.
Calibrating the thermostat.
Inspecting the pilot light and gas burners (and cleaning or adjusting them if necessary).
Check the exhaust flue for leaks or clogs.
Flushing the water storage tank to remove sediment.
Inspecting the anode rod (an anti-corrosion device inside the tank) and replacing it if necessary.
Checking electrical connections and safety devices.

A lack of maintenance is the number one cause of water heater problems and breakdowns, so this is a vital part of preventative plumbing maintenance. Not only will it help homeowners avoid shelling out for water heater repair, but it will also help extend the life of the unit and boost its energy efficiency. And since plumbing maintenance is generally a low-cost service, it’s an investment homeowners won’t regret!

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

The veteran-owned B&L Plumbing and Heating has provided unbeatable plumbing services in Colorado Springs since 1999. As a testament to their outstanding customer service and workmanship, they have 5-star ratings on Google and Facebook and have won numerous awards, including HomeAdvisor’s Elite Service Award and Expertise.com’s “Best Of” award. They offer competitive up-front pricing, a money-saving maintenance plan, and 24/7 emergency plumbing service with no after-hours fees – so there’s no one to call for plumbing maintenance in Colorado Springs, CO!

Distribution Links +

Warning Signs of Faulty Heaters and the Dangers of Ignoring Them

Identifying Heater Hazards

With local weather conditions, heaters are essential for keeping the home safe and warm during the winter. Reliable heating equipment promotes comfort in the home and helps people weather the winter, which can bring life-threatening colds.

Heaters work hard to keep the home warm during the winter, which can wear down the unit, causing it to fail. When heaters fail, they not only lose their ability to supply heat, but they can also present unique hazards that homeowners must be aware of.

Here are a few signs of faulty heaters and the hazards they carry so homeowners can react accordingly.

Carbon Monoxide Leaks

Carbon monoxide is a product of the combustion of fossil fuels, especially in furnaces. The biggest concern in the home is the release of carbon monoxide from natural gas or propane appliances.

When appliances age or experience problems, they can cause incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, promoting carbon monoxide release. Since carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, it is impossible to perceive. When it leaks into a home, it can cause life-threatening complications.

Maintaining heaters and installing carbon monoxide detectors can help eliminate the threat of carbon monoxide. During heater maintenance, technicians will perform checks and tests to ensure fuels are completely burnt, and the resulting gas is expelled from the home.

If, for some reason, carbon monoxide forms even after inspections and heater maintenance, carbon monoxide detectors can alert the homeowner to the threat so they can call the appropriate contractor for repairs.

Mold Growth in the Home

HVAC systems are responsible for moving air around the home and cleaning it up simultaneously. Air filters are in place to keep dust out of the moving parts of the furnace and the ductwork to clean up the air.

If furnaces and heat pumps are not properly maintained, mold can grow within the air ducts and cause negative health outcomes for homeowners. This process usually starts when the air filters remain unchanged or the air conditioner does not properly dehumidify the air.

During the winter, the process worsens as warm air flows through the ducts and spurs mold growth. Having mold in ductwork in the winter can cause problems like:

Frequent respiratory infections
Foul odors
Allergies
Sinus problems
Reduced lung immunity

To protect air ducts against mold growth, routine HVAC maintenance should be performed twice yearly, and professional air duct cleaning should be scheduled every few years.

Overheating

Mold growth and carbon monoxide poisoning are problems that can take a while before they negatively affect the health of those in the home. When the furnace overheats, the problem is immediate and must be dealt with quickly to avoid problematic fires or faster carbon monoxide poisoning. Look for signs like:

Burnt odors
Frequently tripping safety devices
Soot marks near the heater
Red-hot metal
Humming noises

To prevent furnace overheating, change air filters regularly and remember annual heater maintenance from qualified professionals.

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating has 25 years of experience with heater maintenance and heater repairs. Their skilled teams offer maintenance packages to reduce bills and prevent heating equipment downtime. Call today for heating service in Colorado Springs, CO.

Distribution Links +

Reasons To Explore Water Filtration System Installation

The Importance of Clean Water in the Home

Access to plentiful clean water is a staple of human health and public health. When public water infrastructure fails, it can cause complete chaos for anyone who relies on the grid for their water. In modern society, most people don’t have to worry about the quality of their water. Still, as threats increase, homeowners should be aware of the shortcomings of public water treatment programs.

What Do Water Filtration Systems Do?

One of the more dangerous misconceptions people have about their drinking water is that it is clean and pure. Most people think it’s safe if it comes from the tap, but that is not necessarily the case. Municipal water treatment facilities are federally regulated to ensure they neutralize any biological threats that may be present in the water.

However, this is where the regulations stop. Most municipal water carries a high load of suspended solids that can cause problems with the plumbing, as well as chemicals and pharmaceuticals that aren’t removed during treatment.

For the purest water, homeowners should take it upon themselves to finish the water treatment process. Whole-home water filtration systems can help remove contaminants that are left after the treatment process.

Two types of filtration systems that are helpful in this regard are:

Carbon filters: Carbon filters do a good job targeting chemical contaminants found in treated water. This removes things like fertilizers, pesticides, and some heavy metals.
Reverse osmosis filters: For pure water, the only option is reverse osmosis filtration. While more expensive, this method removes nearly all impurities, including solids, heavy metals, and chemical contaminants.

Benefits of Water Filtration Systems

Water is the nutrient that people need the most besides oxygen. When people are stuck consuming water that is biologically safe but possibly laden with chemicals, it can manifest in the health of individuals in the home.

The truth is, the environment has become fairly universally contaminated with pollutants like:

Pharmaceuticals
Pesticides
Fertilizers
Microplastics
Heavy metals

The evidence shows that these can have potentially serious adverse effects on a person’s health. People can limit their exposure to environmental toxins by using the right filtration system. Not only is it healthy to drink better water, but the home plumbing will also improve.

Suspended solids tend to cause problems like silt buildup in water heaters and quickening corrosion. Both of these can cause costly damage to the plumbing system when uncontrolled. Water filtration systems may be the most cost-effective option to decrease plumbing repair bills.

When To Look Into Water Filtration Systems

Most homes could benefit from some form of water filtration. For more assurance that water filtration systems are the right choice for a home, look for signs like:

Water tastes or smells bad
Plumbing problems are common, especially when they are related to mineral scale or sediment buildup
Water is hazy or has visible suspended solids
Federal citations for local water treatment facilities
Dingy clothing or dishes after washing
Poor health among family members

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating has water filtration options for any customers. With residential and commercial plumbing installation and repair services, they can improve everyone’s water quality. Call today for water filtration services in Colorado Springs, CO.

Distribution Links +

Reasons to Maintain the Heater This Fall

When to Call for Heating Maintenance

Temperatures are already dropping, and while it may not be cold enough yet to fire up the heater, it is time to start planning for the colder months. Luckily, now is the perfect time to schedule professional heating maintenance from local HVAC contractors. During this time of year, most homeowners aren’t using their heating or air conditioning system as much, so there are fewer repair calls. This frees them up to do preventative maintenance to help homeowners out over the winter.

Here are some of the biggest benefits of heating maintenance to inspire homeowners to be proactive.

Improve Energy Efficiency

The weather during the last month of summer and the first of fall is usually mild enough for homeowners to stop heating or cooling their homes. This grants them some reprieve from the high bills that come with climate control systems. However, as temperatures drop and the heater runs more often, bills will quickly climb to the point that they can strain monthly budgets. The best thing that homeowners can do to prevent this is to improve the energy efficiency of their heaters with fall heater maintenance.

Fall heater maintenance is a professional program that helps keep the heater running at peak efficiency. When technicians replace air filters and clean the burner, the system circulates air more effectively, and fuel burns more cleanly. Monthly bills are also reduced by lowering the amount of work that the heater does.

Say Goodbye to Emergency Repairs

Another huge liability of the heater system during the winter is the cost of repairs. Monthly energy bills are high due to the heating system, and one repair can dwarf the monthly energy cost. To keep the home warm without suffering from surprise repairs, homeowners should invest in heater maintenance.

Heaters and furnaces are complex pieces of equipment. Like any mechanical device, periodic maintenance allows it to operate more reliably. During heater maintenance, professionals inspect the unit for any impending problems and lubricate moving parts. When this service is done yearly, homeowners notice that their repair bills drop significantly, and their systems are more reliable for longer periods.

Get the Most Out of the System

The final major cost of a heater is replacing it when the time comes. Sometimes, this can come as a shock to a homeowner, especially when they see the estimates for the project. Most homeowners would rather make their current system last as long as possible to avoid sticker shock. Luckily, annual fall heater maintenance is the perfect way to accomplish this goal.

Heaters that are professionally maintained don’t have to work as hard, and they have less systemic wear and tear that spreads through the system over the years. When technicians perform maintenance yearly, the cumulative total of all these small investments adds years to the heater’s life, saving homeowners thousands of dollars.

About B&L Plumbing and Heating

B&L Plumbing and Heating repairs and maintains heating and cooling systems in homes and businesses. They offer competitive pricing, quality products and services, and peace of mind. To unleash an HVAC system’s efficiency, sign up for their membership program. Call today for heating maintenance in Colorado Springs, CO.