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Our Blog

• 5 Frequently Asked Questions About Home Sewer Lines

  The blog post highlights key facts about sewer line maintenance to prevent major issues. It emphasizes factors affecting sewer line lifespan, homeowner responsibility for repairs, and the limited coverage of sewer damage by most insurance policies. Common causes of sewer line damage are discussed, including tree roots and aging pipes. Additionally, it introduces trenchless repair technology as a modern alternative to traditional trench-digging methods for addressing damaged sewer lines.
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• 10 Tips To Cut Your Cooling Costs This Season

  To reduce cooling costs in Chicago homes, start by sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and outlets with weather-stripping, potentially saving up to 15 percent on cooling expenses. Switching to energy-efficient CFL or LED lights reduces heat emissions and electricity usage. Additionally, program your thermostat to adjust temperatures when the household is away and schedule regular maintenance to ensure your air conditioning system operates efficiently.
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• The 4 Most Common Air Conditioner Problems

  Regular air conditioner maintenance is crucial to prevent common issues like refrigerant leaks, clogged air filters, dirty AC coils, and electrical component failures. Technicians inspect for leaks, clean coils, and ensure proper refrigerant levels to optimize cooling efficiency and prevent premature failures, ultimately saving money on repairs and breakdowns. Schedule annual maintenance to keep your AC running smoothly and efficiently, especially as hot weather approaches.
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• What is HVAC Zoning System and How it Works

  The blog post introduces system zoning for home heating and cooling, where multiple thermostats connected to a central control panel regulate dampers in the ductwork. This approach offers customized temperature control for different zones, addressing temperature discrepancies and potentially saving up to 30% on energy bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Professional evaluation by companies like ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling, and Electric is recommended for implementing tailored zoning solutions.
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• What is an HVAC Split System?

  The blog post explains what a split system is, detailing its components both inside and outside the home, including a gas furnace for heating and air circulation, an indoor evaporator coil, an air conditioner or heat pump for cooling, air ducts for distributing conditioned air, a control thermostat, and indoor air quality accessories for a healthier indoor environment.
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• The ABCs of Energy Efficiency In Home Heating and Cooling

  When looking for a new furnace or air conditioner, two key ratings to consider for efficiency are SEER and AFUE. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and applies to air conditioners. Higher SEER ratings mean the unit is more efficient and will result in lower cooling costs. AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency and applies to gas furnaces. A higher AFUE rating means the furnace uses more of the fuel to heat your home, and less is wasted, resulting in lower heating costs.
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• Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner

  This blog post discusses whether homeowners should repair or replace their old air conditioners, particularly in the Chicagoland area. It suggests that while the adage "if it ain't broken, don't fix it" may apply to some household items, delaying the replacement of an old AC system could result in higher long-term costs due to inefficiency. The post recommends replacing air conditioners beyond 10 years old for improved energy efficiency, potential savings of up to 56% on cooling costs, and other benefits like reduced need for frequent repairs and quieter operation with newer models.
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• 6 Reasons To Consider Calling an Electrician

  This blog post talks about for older homes; electrical safety concerns include frequent breaker trips, flickering lights when using appliances, and overloaded or insufficient outlets. Additionally, the absence of grounded plugs and the lack of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in wet areas pose safety risks, highlighting the need for upgrades to enhance safety and compliance.
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• Sump Pump Maintenance Tips

  The blog advises on ensuring proper functioning of the sump pump during late winter and early spring to prevent basement flooding in the Chicagoland area. It suggests checking that the sump pump is plugged in and testing it by lifting the float; if it doesn't start, professional assistance is recommended to have the pump checked.
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• How To Locate and Turn Off Your Main Water Shut-off

  This blog post stresses the importance of knowing the location and operation of the main water shut-off valve in case of emergencies like burst pipes or flooding. It provides guidance on where to find the valve based on different types of homes, such as houses on slabs, with basements, or with crawl spaces. Additionally, it offers instructions on how to turn off the water using either a circular valve or a lever. Finally, it suggests contacting professional plumbers, like ABC Plumbing, for assistance with plumbing issues.
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