Saddleback Plumbing Heating & Air Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Huntington Beach’

What Huntington Beach Residents Should Do If Their Furnace Keeps Turning On and Off?

Monday, April 16th, 2012

Furnaces in Huntington Beach are designed to last decades without major problems so long as they are regularly maintained.  They typically work so well, in fact, there is a danger of taking our comfort for granted and skipping the annual furnace maintenance for a year or two as time rushes by, waking up suddenly and brutally to a dark night and no heat.

In retrospect, a preliminary indication of trouble could have been the furnace continually turning off and on in short bursts, something that was tugging at your senses, but not strongly enough to really catch your attention.

Possible Problems

A furnace constantly turning on and off could often be a direct result of poor airflow through the system.  Heat builds up and the detectors sense the proper temperatures have been reached and automatically shut down.  In the room, the thermostat calls for more heat and starts the cycle over again.

A relay switch or control valve may also be worn and working improperly.  A crack in the heat exchanger might fuel the flame to burn too hotly and cause the sensor to misinterpret the information and shut down.

These problems not only impede the distribution of heat to the living spaces, decreasing comfort, but also create intense wear on the motor and controls, threatening the very life of the appliance.

Simple Solutions

Restricted airflow can be caused most often by a dirty or clogged filter.  At the furnace, there is usually a panel that can be removed to check, clean or replace the filter.  It is typically a single or series of cardboard and screen panels approximately 1′ by 2′, but varies by manufacturer and furnace output.

A vacuum to pull lint free or compressor to blow it clean are the recommended tools to use a few times each year.  It is a good idea to change the filters at the beginning of each heating season. The belts are also easily replaced.

The fan belts for the blower may also be worn loose and not pushing the air hard enough to get through the filters.  It is a good idea to check them regularly as well.

The Calvary Charge

When in doubt, call Saddleback Plumbing.  Scheduling an annual inspection and service with us takes the worry out of living in a furnace heated home.  Besides the rite of safe passage for your peace of mind, trained mechanics can spot the defects and give you the best assurance of a long life of comfort and warmth.

When contracting with the same HVAC company over time, a relationship is built whereby they care nearly as much as you.

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HVAC Tip: How Electronic Air Filter Works

Monday, April 2nd, 2012

For a long time, the most frequently used kind of air filter has been the mechanical variety, and it probably what you already have in your Orange County HVAC system. This is the kind you probably think of when you hear the terms air filter, air cleaner or air purifier. They use pleated fibrous filters in-line with an air handler to trap particles in the air before circulating it back out into the home.

Many models of these work very well and have for many years. They have the added benefit of being flexible because you can put in whatever filter you need depending on what size particles you need to trap.

However, these traditional devices are not the only option. A second kind of air filter exists for trapping particles in the air– one that does not use a fibrous filter that physically snags them out of the air on the way through.

These electrostatic — or electronic — air cleaners work in a different way to produce a similar result. The filtering component is still a fibrous sheet, but the difference is that the fibers are made of plastic, which becomes charged when air passes through it and causes friction.

(Think something like when you rub a balloon and stick it to the wall.)

These friction-charged fibers carry an electronic charge, which attracts the ions in the air around it. These ions — and the particles that they are a part of — get trapped in the fibers and stay out of your air supply.

 Electronic air filters are generally very good at trapping particles that are 1 micron in size or higher, putting them about on par with a mechanical air filter that carries a MERV rating of 12. The electrostatic method works well for many common household air pollutants, such as dust, pollen, mold and pet dander.

As with many ventilation-related decisions, the choice of what kind of air filter is right for your Orange County air conditioning and heating system depends on your needs and those of your family. If you are having trouble deciding, then an air quality assessment and consultation with Saddleback Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning can be a good way to reach a decision.

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How to Increase Your Water Pressure in Huntington Beach

Thursday, March 15th, 2012

As a Huntington Beach resident it’s no fun when you are in the middle of taking a shower and your bathroom plumbing slows to a trickle. The most logical thing to blame the loss of water pressure is a toilet being flushed or a washing machine being filled. It is not uncommon for losses in water pressure to be associated with simultaneous water usage in other parts of the home.

But if low water pressure seems to be a constant problem when only one source is being used and there are no other appliances using water at the same time, you may have a bigger problem on your hands.

The first thing to do is to check the source of the water supply to your outdoor faucets. Turn the hose bibs to the fully open position and run the water. Is the pressure okay? If so, you probably have a problem indoors. While you are outside, check for any leaks in the hose bibs or faucets. A leak can cause a loss of water pressure in other plumbing circuits.

Now check the hose bibs on the lines leading to interior fittings, like faucets or showerheads, etc. Is the hose bib turned to the fully open position? Someone may have been playing with the bib and turned it down or off. If that checks out okay, take a look at all of the fittings in your plumbing fixtures. Are there any leaks? Is there standing water anywhere, indicating a leak?

If so, tighten up the affected fittings. If you need to remove any fittings to inspect or replace (i.e. a worn out washer or bushing), make sure you turn off the water line to the fitting first.

If there are filter screens in your faucets check them for an accumulation of debris and clean if necessary. A clogged screen can greatly reduce water pressure.

Many new homes now come with a pressure regulator, which governs the water pressure going into the home. The regulator is located above ground, usually where the pipes enter the home. The pressures are usually preset by the regulator manufacturer but may not always be compatible to the local environment. If you think that may be the problem, contact Saddleback Plumbing for a professional opinion.

A disruption in the piping that feeds water into the home can also affect water pressure, such as tree roots in the pipes or a break in the line. These problems can only be diagnosed and corrected by qualified plumbing professionals. Please do not attempt to find and fix these problems as the result may be costly or even dangerous to your health.

Low water pressure can be a drag but it may also only require a quick fix.

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Silverado Heat Pump Repair Guide: How to Handle Your Finicky Heat Pump

Friday, January 27th, 2012

A heat pump is designed to keep your Silverado home comfortable. Warm weather, cold weather – it doesn’t matter. It should turn on when you need it and turn off when you don’t. So, when the device starts turning on and off without reason or when you need it to stay on, what exactly is the problem and how can you fix that problem without losing the heating or cooling capacity of your device.

Common Causes of the Problem

There are a number of reasons why your heat pump would turn off shortly after turning on, and most of the time this occurs in heating mode. If it occurs in cooling mode, you should have the device inspected immediately because there is likely something wrong with a core component like the compressor. For heating mode issues, here are some common problems:

  • Dirty Coils – If the coils are dirty, the device won’t be able to properly operate, especially if it has been some time since the last cleaning. Both sets of coils need to be cleaned at least once a year to avoid this becoming a problem.
  • Low Refrigerant Charge – If the refrigerant gets low, you’ll need to have it recharged because the pressure in the device will drop and it will therefore turn off after a few minutes of use.
  • Defrost Timer – If the defrost timer is forcing the device into a defrost cycle too often (usually it is set to 30, 60, or 90 minutes), the fan might turn off every few minutes after turning on. This is a common problem and is usually due to a thermostat or switch issue which can be fixed relatively easily.

Another thing to ask yourself when this problem occurs is whether the device is heating properly when on. Defrost timer issues don’t usually impinge on the heating ability of the device, while low refrigerant can. You want to make sure the device is working properly when on and not just cycling on and off without heating capacity.

Based on what you find, you’ll need a technician to take a closer look and ensure everything is working properly. Most repairs for this type of problem are relatively simple.

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Basic Furnace Safety Tips

Friday, January 20th, 2012

While you should schedule a yearly maintenance visit with a qualified HVAC technician to check for any safety concerns, you can also reduce potential safety hazards in the heating system of your Dana Point home. Whether you have a furnace or a heat pump, you can substantially decrease the chances of dangerous situations with a few minor routine tasks.

If you have any questions about how to better maintain your heating system, give us a call to speak with one of our expert HVAC technicians. Here are a few guidelines to get you started.

Ventilation in Forced-air Systems:

  • Regularly vacuum and clean out your heating vents and fan blower.
  • Check the condition of your chimney and vent pipe to make sure that none of the parts are damaged or show signs of deterioration.
  • Test the thermostat occasionally to make sure your heating system is working at optimal levels. There could be a safety concern if your heater is not properly heating your home.

Heat Exchangers:

  • Heat exchangers should be inspected often to prevent carbon monoxide leaks. Check for any obvious issues, such as rust or other damages.
  • The heat exchanger for furnaces should be inspected by a professional once a year in case there are hidden problems with the equipment, or if any of the components need to be replaced.
  • Check the pilot light in gas furnaces for any flickers or changes in color. Have someone turn up the thermostat while you watch the light, but turn off the system for five minutes first. If there are any changes, there could be a problem with the heat exchanger. Call a professional if you suspect issues with your heat exchanger.

Heating Equipment Inspections and Adjustments:

  • Adjust the temperature settings if you suspect that the heater isn’t working properly, and if it doesn’t work call a professional heating technician, or if you aren’t sure how to locate or adjust the controls.
  • Check the overall equipment for cracks, rust, or any other obvious signs of damage or deterioration that could create safety hazards.

In addition to performing these tasks, call a licensed Dana Point heating contractor to inspect your heating system at least once a year.

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A Question from Huntington Beach: What Is a Slab Leak and What Damage Can It Cause?

Friday, December 9th, 2011

Also known as a foundation leak, slab leaks can cause a serious problem in your Huntington Beach home. A typical cause of a slab leak occurs when the foundation for the home is poured. While the cement is still wet and setting, copper pipe is laid in to run wherever it needs to go for the plumbing system of the home. This is a fairly common practice.

The problem occurs when the copper piping is soft. As the cement hardens, any kinks, bends, nicks or other imperfections in the pipe are exacerbated. Over time, these problems can become more and more magnified, eventually resulting in one or more tiny leaks in the pipe. This causes water to leak directly into the concrete foundation.

This causes a number of problems for homeowners, both short-term and long-term. In the short-term, it reduces water pressure and increases water consumption, resulting in higher monthly bills for poorer water delivery. These are inconveniences and annoyances, but nothing compared to the long-term damage that a slab leak can cause.

The moisture in the foundation becomes a breeding ground for mold. This mold can spread throughout the foundation and the house, which is a serious health risk for you and your family. Mold and mildew spores negatively impact air quality and can lead to illness. Plus, the moisture weakens the foundation gradually over time. Eventually, you have a home that is less structurally sound and may succumb to mold, which can cause thousands of dollars to eradicate and repair.

Slab leaks can be repaired, but sometimes after repairing one, another will crop up shortly thereafter. However, they still must be repaired immediately before the problem spreads and becomes too big to handle.

There are a few different methods for repair, including breaking up the foundation with a jackhammer and laying new pipe or lining the existing pipe with epoxy. Consulting with a professional is the best way to figure out which method is right for you.

Common symptoms to detect slab leaks early are reduced water pressure or inexplicably high water bills. If you notice either of these occurring in your home, you may have a slab leak, so call a professional to get it checked out right away before it leads to much bigger problems.

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