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Our Blog

• When Should You Schedule an A/C Tune-Up?

  The best time to have your air conditioning system tuned up is in the spring, before the summer heat arrives. A spring tune-up prepares your system for the upcoming cooling season by cleaning, lubricating, and repairing any potential issues. Turning to professionals for the tune-up ensures lower energy bills, fewer repairs, longer equipment lifespan, and warranty coverage, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners in Chicago. Schedule your A/C maintenance with ABC today to enjoy immediate and long-term benefits.
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• When Should You Upgrade Your Home’s Electrical System?

  When remodeling your home, consider upgrading your electrical system to meet current and future needs. Evaluate if your electrical service is adequate, and consider upgrading to 200-amp service if necessary. Install heavier 12-AWG copper wire for better energy efficiency, especially if adding major appliances or fixtures. Different rooms may require additional circuits, outlets, and safety features like GFCIs, so plan accordingly to ensure safety and functionality.
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• How Do You Maintain a Sump Pump to Prevent Basement Flooding?

  Regular maintenance of your sump pump is crucial to prevent potential flooding and expensive damage to your home. Quarterly tasks include cleaning the pump screen or inlet opening and pouring water into the sump pit to ensure proper functioning.
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• Should You Close Vents in Unused Rooms to Save Energy?

  Closing air vents in unused rooms can actually waste energy and harm your HVAC system's performance. HVAC systems are designed to provide balanced airflow throughout the entire home, so closing vents disrupts this balance and can lead to increased pressure in the ductwork. This can cause the blower fan to work harder, risking damage to components like the AC evaporator coil or furnace heat exchanger.
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• Why Is Your Air Conditioner Making Noise and What Can You Do About It?

  Modern air conditioning systems are designed to operate quietly, emitting 55 decibels or less. Unusual noises like banging, screeching, or buzzing may indicate issues such as loose or broken parts, worn-out fan motor bearings, or debris accumulation.
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• What Causes Low Water Pressure in Your House and How Can You Fix It?

  If experiencing low water pressure, first check the water main shut-off valve and faucets for issues like incomplete opening or worn washers. Then, inspect the water pressure regulator to ensure it's within the optimal range of 50 to 80 PSI. If problems persist, clogged pipes due to sediment buildup could be the culprit, requiring inspection and potential replacement by a professional plumber.
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• How Can You Control Humidity in Your House During Winter?

  In older homes, winter humidity problems often stem from excessively dry air, necessitating the addition of humidity. Conversely, newer homes with tighter construction may experience excess humidity due to limited outdoor air circulation, leading to fogged windows and potential moisture damage.
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• Why Should You Invest in a Whole-House Generator?

  A standby generator provides numerous benefits during power outages caused by severe storms, including the ability to charge mobile devices, keep the air conditioner running, cook on electric appliances, maintain lighting throughout the house, prevent food spoilage, stay informed via TV, and avoid relying on flashlights or candles.
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• Late Summer Furnace Maintenance Checklist

  To prepare your furnace for colder temperatures, remember to clean or replace the filter, dust off the unit to remove accumulated debris, and schedule a professional assessment from HVAC technicians to ensure the system is in good condition. Calling in experts like ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric can help ensure your furnace is ready to perform efficiently when needed.
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• Save BIG With Smart Lighting Options

  Dimmer switches offer control over lighting brightness, enhancing ambiance and saving energy by adjusting voltage to fixtures. They extend bulb lifespan significantly, reducing the frequency of replacements and cutting energy bills by up to 10%. Consider upgrading to dimmer switches for both aesthetic appeal and practical energy efficiency.
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