Our Blog

Our Blog

• The ABC's of Indoor Air Quality - VOCs

  The blog discusses Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are gases emitted by various household products, including cleaning agents, paints, cosmetics, and disinfectants. It outlines potential health effects of VOC exposure, such as irritation, headaches, and organ damage, and notes that some VOCs are suspected carcinogens.
  READ MORE

• 4 Ways to Stay Warm On a Budget

  To stay cozy without overspending this winter, install a programmable thermostat to heat your home only when needed, utilize natural sunlight by opening blinds and curtains during the day, layer up with sweaters and blankets to trap heat, and stay active to generate body warmth while completing household chores. These methods will help you maintain comfort without breaking the bank on heating costs.
  READ MORE

• Should I Keep Furnace Vents Clear of Snow?

  To ensure safety and efficiency during winter, it's crucial to keep furnace vents clear of snow and ice buildup to prevent carbon monoxide from accumulating indoors. Clearing vents allow for proper ventilation, ensuring appliances work effectively and efficiently. Regular maintenance of water heaters and other appliance vents is also essential to prevent potential failures.
  READ MORE

• Why is My Furnace Blowing Cold Air?

  When a furnace blows cold air in Chicago winters, it's not always a serious issue. Initially, cold air may be expelled as the system starts up, but prolonged cold airflow could indicate problems like incorrect thermostat settings, a dirty furnace filter, issues with the flame sensor or pilot light, or a clogged condensate drain in high-efficiency furnaces.
  READ MORE

• Using Thermal Imaging to Find Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical Problems

  READ MORE

• Why Does My Water Smell Like Rotten Eggs?

  This post discusses the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas in tap water, which causes a rotten egg odor, especially noticeable when running hot water. It explains that hydrogen sulfide can come from decaying organic material in well water or from water heaters with magnesium anode rods. Solutions include installing whole-house water treatment systems for water supply issues or modifying water heaters by replacing magnesium anode rods with aluminum ones.
  READ MORE

• Are Drain Cleaners Safe for Pipes

  Chemical drain cleaners can effectively dissolve organic matter but pose risks due to their corrosive nature and potential harm to surfaces and individuals. They are less effective for deep clogs and can be hazardous if not handled properly. Professional drain cleaning with methods like drain snakes or water jetting offers a safer and more effective alternative, provided by services like ABC Plumbing to ensure thorough and safe unclogging without the use of harmful chemicals.
  READ MORE

• The ABC's of Plumbing - Traps

  This blog post explains the purpose and design of plumbing traps, also known as P-Traps. It highlights that P-Traps serve to prevent sewer gases and odors from entering the home while also trapping debris to prevent clogs. The term "P-Trap" originates from its shape, resembling the letter "P," which consists of two 90-degree joints and a horizontal overflow pipe.
  READ MORE

• Tips To Protect Your Plumbing System While Your Away From Home

  To protect your plumbing while away from home, keep the heat on at 60 degrees or higher to prevent frozen pipes, check for leaks or signs of corrosion around the water heater, fix any leaks or clogs to prevent mold and mildew buildup, and ensure the sump pump is working properly by pouring water into the pit to test it.
  READ MORE

• 5 Holiday Fire Safety Tips to Keep Your Home Safe

  To prevent holiday-related fires, ensure decorations are at least three feet away from heat sources, inspect electrical cords for damage, water the Christmas tree daily, check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and never leave cooking equipment unattended. Following these safety measures can help keep your home, decorations, and family safe during the holiday season.
  READ MORE