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Our Blog

• How To Check Your Furnace Flue Each Heating Season

  The flue safely transports combustion gases through your home and up through the roof, expelling them above the roofline. Any blockages, leaks, or damage to the flue could allow combustion gases to enter your home, with dangerous or even deadly health consequences. Learn more in this blog post.
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• 5 Causes of a Low Hot Water Supply (And How to Fix Them)

  If your water heater isn't heating adequately, potential causes include a broken dip tube, sediment buildup, malfunctioning heating components, distant placement from faucets causing heat loss, or an undersized tank unable to meet demand. Regular maintenance and inspection by a licensed plumber can address these issues and ensure optimal performance.
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• How to Fix a Blank Honeywell Thermostat

  A blank Honeywell thermostat screen disrupts your home comfort control. First, check the batteries, ensuring they are correctly inserted. Next, verify that your electrical breaker hasn't tripped. If you have a manual safety switch on your HVAC system, try resetting it. Finally, follow the specific steps to restart your Honeywell thermostat model. If you're uncomfortable with these troubleshooting steps or need further assistance, contact ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling, and Electric for professional HVAC services.
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• The ABC's of Home Heating - High Temperature Limit Switch

  The blog explains the function and components of the high-temperature limit switch in a furnace, which is a safety device designed to cut off the gas supply when the burner temperature exceeds safe levels. It highlights that improper furnace maintenance, particularly dirty air filters, is a common cause of limit switch failure due to reduced airflow and heat buildup in the combustion chamber. It encourages readers to contact ABC Plumbing for assistance with their heating systems.
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• The Advantages and Disadvantages of Sewer Pipe Materials

  The sewer pipe material in your home typically depends on its age, with older homes often having clay or cast iron pipes, while newer ones use plastic. However, plastic sewer lines are increasingly replacing older ones. Clay pipes are resistant to chemical degradation but vulnerable to tree roots, while cast iron offers durability but is heavy and costly. Plastic pipes, like PVC and ABS, resist root intrusion but require careful installation. Orangeburg pipes, made from wood fiber and coal tar, are no longer used due to their propensity for failure.
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• The Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Water Heater Designs

  To help you narrow down the options and hone in on the best new water heater for your Chicago home, here's a useful comparison guide, highlighting the pros and cons of some of the most popular water heater designs.
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• Can Tankless Water Heaters Get as Hot as Conventional Tank Water Heaters?

  When switching from a conventional tank-style water heater to a tankless one, homeowners often wonder if the tankless system can provide water as hot as the tank water heater. The answer is yes, as most tankless water heaters can be adjusted between 100° to 140°. However, it's crucial to size the tankless water heater properly based on household needs, considering factors like climate and the number of water sources it will supply simultaneously. For guidance on choosing the right water heater for your home, contact ABC Plumbing for assistance.
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• What Is the Purpose of a Water Heater Expansion Tank?

  This blog discusses the importance of managing excess pressure in water heater tanks due to thermal expansion, which can lead to damage to plumbing fixtures and the water heater itself. It explains the role of a check valve in preventing backflow into the municipal water supply and introduces the function of a water heater expansion tank in relieving water pressure. Additionally, it addresses the potential need for an expansion tank in homes without one, particularly in situations where rapid deterioration of plumbing fixtures or water dripping from the relief valve is observed.
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• What Causes Pink Stains and Rings in Toilets and Bathtubs: Bacteria, Solutions, and Prevention

  The blog explains that pink stains commonly found in bathrooms are caused by a bacteria called Serratia marcescens, which thrives in moist environments. When diluted by water, this bacteria produces a red-orange pigment that results in pinkish stains on surfaces like bathtubs, toilets, and showers.
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• What Is That Gurgling Under My Sink - Causes, Fixes, and Prevention

  The blog discusses two common causes of gurgling sounds from under sinks: clogs forming in the pipes and blocked vent pipes. Clogs occur due to various materials going down the drain, while blocked vent pipes create a vacuum, hindering water flow. It advises contacting a plumber for expert assistance in clearing clogs or removing blockages to resolve the issue.
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