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Our Blog

• Choosing the Right Furnace Filter For Healthy Indoor Air

  Disposable fiberglass filters have a low cost and low MERV rating (1-3), primarily preventing larger particles from damaging the furnace. Pleated filters, made from polyester or cotton paper, offer better filtration for smaller particles like mold spores but require frequent changes to avoid clogging. Disposable or permanent electrostatic filters, with a MERV rating of 10 or higher, provide highly effective filtration, making them suitable for homes with allergy sufferers. For inquiries about furnace filters and indoor air quality, contact ABC Plumbing for assistance.
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• Light Up Your Landscaping and Add Safety and Beauty To Your Home

  As fall approaches and days shorten, consider adding exterior landscape lighting. It not only enhances the beauty of your home and landscaping but also improves safety and security. Well-lit areas deter intruders, while motion-activated flood lights near entryways illuminate approaching guests and alert homeowners. Landscape lighting also improves nighttime navigation on walkways, stairs, and curbs. Low-voltage lighting with automatic shut-off combines convenience with energy efficiency. Highlighting attractive landscaping features can even boost your property value. Choose lighting that guides visitors by illuminating walkways, greenery, house numbers, and entryway walls.
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• How to Prevent Water Leaks Around the Home

  Water leaks can be more than just a dripping faucet. Washing machine hoses can burst and cause extensive water damage, especially if the machine is located on an upper floor. Regularly check and replace hoses that are cracked, over 5 years old, or made of rubber. Leaky toilets can go unnoticed for a long time, so add food coloring to the tank and check the bowl for signs of coloring to diagnose a leak. Finally, water heaters nearing the end of their lifespan (8-10 years) are prone to rust and leaks. Flushing sediment from your water heater annually can help extend its life and reduce the risk of leaks.
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• 3 Reasons To Upgrade to Dimmer Switches

  Installing dimmer switches offers several benefits, including lower energy consumption by adjusting light output as needed, which can lead to significant savings over time. Dimmers also extend the lifespan of light bulbs by reducing heat and intensity, thus increasing their longevity. Additionally, dimmer switches provide control over lighting intensity, allowing for customized ambience in different spaces throughout the home. Consider contacting ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling, and Electric for all home electrical upgrades.
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• How to Choose a New Furnace

  When replacing your furnace, consider the size, efficiency, noise level, and reliability of the new unit. Opt for the right size to ensure efficiency and comfort, prioritize energy-efficient models to save on heating costs, look for quieter options with advanced features like two-stage fans, and choose a reliable brand to minimize the risk of breakdowns during cold winters.
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• The ABC's of Indoor Air Quality - What's In the Air?

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• The ABCs of Home Electrical Systems - How to Reset a Circuit Breaker

  To reset a tripped circuit breaker, first locate the breaker near the off position, switch it fully to the off position, and then back on. If it trips again after two attempts, there may be a short or other issue requiring professional inspection by ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling, and Electric to prevent electrical hazards.
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• How Can You Improve Indoor Air Quality

  This post discusses additional components of an indoor air quality system beyond furnace and air handler air cleaners. It highlights electronic air cleaners for filtering out pollutants and pathogens, humidifiers for maintaining optimal humidity levels, UV lamps for killing mold and bacteria, ventilators for fresh air exchange, and carbon monoxide detectors for safety. These components work together to ensure cleaner and healthier indoor air while also enhancing HVAC system performance.
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• How Much Money Will CFL Bulbs Save Me

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• Top Home Electrical Upgrades For Summer

  Summer is a perfect time to enhance your home's electrical system for better safety, comfort, and functionality. Upgrading your outdoor lighting with porch lights, path lights, or security lights can improve curb appeal, deter crime, and create a welcoming ambiance. Installing a standby generator provides peace of mind during power outages by automatically switching on and powering your entire house using natural gas. Finally, ceiling fans improve air circulation and work alongside your cooling system to keep your home comfortable without actually lowering the air temperature.
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