Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have my heating system serviced?

You should have your heating system serviced once a year for a seasonal check-up in the fall. A heating system that is not maintained is a problem waiting to happen. At the very least, you will have escalating operating costs due to the inefficient running of your system and the eventual need for repairs. In the worst case, improperly maintained equipment powered by natural gas can compromise your safety by causing high levels of CO, resulting in serious injury or even death.

Here are a couple of maintenance tasks that homeowners can do themselves, such as routine cleaning and replacing filters. However, in order to insure safe and efficient operation of a heating system, homeowners should have their furnace inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified service technician. The benefit to homeowners, your health and safety, your money and your time, far out way any costs incurred with a yearly inspection.

What kind of maintenance can be done manually?

With the proper maintenance and care, your equipment will operate economically and dependably. The professionals at Circle B Mechanical are here to help with your heating and air conditioning unit repairs and maintenance. There are a few simple routine maintenance operations you can do to such as routine cleaning along with filter replacement. This will help ensure the best performance and comfort from your heating and air conditioning system.

Should I be concerned about carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide, also known as the silent killer, can pose a serious threat in some instances and is yet another reason to have your furnace and water heater inspected by the professionals at Circle B Mechanical. A carbon monoxide detector is a wise investment. Circle B Mechanical also offers a high quality carbon monoxide detector that has a 5-year warranty.

Why is the upstairs of my house always hotter in the summer & cooler in the winter?

Heat rises, thus the reason it’s hotter in the summer. Assuming the system was sized and installed correctly, you should consider installing a zone system if possible. Sometimes the addition of return air duct-work will help improve air movement and help make upper levels more comfortable.

If my drain is clogged, should I use a chemical cleaner before I call a plumber?

I wouldn’t recommend this for many reasons. Most drain chemicals are very toxic this can be a safety hazard to keep around the home if you have children or pets. If they do make it down the drain they are then dispersed into the ground polluting the environment. The toxic chemicals can also have a negative effect on your piping as well. Over time these chemicals may deteriorate your pipes from the inside out. When this happens, the drain line(s) will have to be replaced. Be sure not to confuse toxic drain cleaners with drain maintenance products that are on the market. These products contain “friendly” bacteria and enzymes. They work great to keep any drain sludge and grease from building up in the pipes.

Homeowner Tips

Drain cleaning is a routine plumbing service that can sometimes be prevented. Here are some tips to help you prevent your drains from getting clogged.

Prevent Drain Clogging in the Kitchen Sink

A common plumbing problem at the kitchen sink is a clogged drain or garbage disposal. You can prevent the need for drain cleaning by keeping certain items out of your sink. Coffee grinds, banana peels, bones, eggshells and grease are difficult for your garbage disposal to pulverize and may cause damage to your system.

Prevent Drain Clogging in the Tub and Shower

The most common cause of a clogged tub or shower is the buildup of hair. Clear your drain after each bath or shower if hair collects in the drain. Check the plate on your drain. If your shower requires drain cleaning regularly, simply buy a replacement drain plate with smaller holes to collect more hair. Prevent the hair from building up in your pipes and prevent the next drain cleaning service.

Prevent Drain Clogging in the Toilet

Preventing toilet stoppages and drain cleaning is easy if everyone in your house understands how to prevent a plumbing problem. Never dispose of items such as tampons or sanitary napkins in the toilet. Supervise young children; they can use an excess amount of toilet paper.

To maintain your plumbing system we recommend drain cleaning rather than using harsh chemical products to clear your drain. Let Circle B Mechanical help maintain an eco-friendly home.

Questions?

Ask Our Experts or Contact Us for additional information.