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How to Protect Plumbing When the Temperature Drops

Keep Your Plumbing Break-Free This Fall and Winter

Winter weather sneaks up yearly, ready to pounce on unprotected plumbing, costing homeowners a pretty penny in pipe repairs. Taking time before temperatures drop below freezing keeps pipes functional, preventing bursts and secondary issues due to water damage. Protecting plumbing in the winter is easier than some may think.

In this article, plumbing experts share tasks that are either free or low-cost (and cheaper than pipe repairs) and can be done without professional help.

Insulate All Outdoor and Exposed Pipes

Insulating pipes exposed to the air, inside and outside the home, decreases their risk of freezing or bursting. These often include pipes in spaces like:

Attics
Crawl spaces
Unfinished basements
Garages

Pipe insulation comes in many different sizes and materials, providing the best protection against freezing pipes. Fiberglass or polyethylene tubular pipe sticks are easy to measure and fit to exposed plumbing, and the materials are designed to offer optimal protection with as little bulk as possible.

Homeowners can even insulate pipes using towels, rags, pool noodles, or newspapers in a pinch. Remember that while these methods protect against freezing pipes, they come with their own risks of flammability, lower efficiency, and a bigger headache to clean up if they fail.

Keep the Heat on and Cabinets Open to Protect Interior Pipes

Heating a room is only helpful if the warmth can work into every nook and cranny, and closed cabinets may prevent this. When temperatures drop to freezing levels, cabinet doors under sinks and in other areas and housing plumbing should be open so the warm air can combat frozen pipes.

Keeping the heat on and cabinets open, even in the guest bathroom that no one uses, reduces the risk of a pipe burst, which can cause immense damage. Consider opening the cabinet doors and setting up a space heater for a more economical solution.

Ensure everyone knows to keep the heat on and cabinets open.

Don’t Forget to Disconnect Hoses From Outdoor Faucets

Frozen pipes are often found in the exterior lines of a home because they’re less insulated and more challenging to manage. Even disconnecting hoses from outdoor faucets can be the difference between a burst pipe and an intact one.

Once the hose is disconnected, drain the excess water and store it in a shed or garage to protect against cold damage.

Styrofoam faucet covers help trap heat from inside the home around the outdoor spigot, protecting it from freezing or cold-related damage to the valves and seals. If possible, shut off the water supply to the outdoor faucet and open it so any remaining water drains from the pipes.

About Laney’s Inc.

With over 60 years of service in the Fargo-Moorhead area, Laney’s Inc. has proven its plumbing and HVAC expertise. They know emergencies don’t stick to work hours and offer competitive around-the-clock rates without overtime charges and free second opinions. For a quick response with a family-owned feel, contact Laney’s Inc. for your plumbing needs in the Fargo region today!

Schedule Autumn Heating Maintenance

Annual Maintenance Prepares a Heater for Winter Temperatures

Though the days seem long and passive in this early autumn, winter is coming, and in this part of the country, that means cold. One way to prepare for colder weather is to ensure the heater is properly working. Scheduling professional routine heating maintenance should be on a homeowner’s to-do list for the season, and this article will explain why.

Why a Homeowner Should Be Concerned With Heating System Maintenance

Every machine does better with proper maintenance, including cars and heaters. Perhaps a homeowner would argue that the heater only works for half the year, so it shouldn’t need as much maintenance, but this is not the case. Any physical object sitting unused will collect dust and may have trouble starting any moving parts. Below are some of the few reasons why homeowners should schedule maintenance:

Consistent Temperatures: The home will be more comfortable with a fully functioning and maintained heating system.
Energy Efficiency: Heaters will work efficiently if cleaned and maintained. It uses less energy to achieve optimal temperature and save time and money.
Fewer Repairs: If a professional checks a home’s heater annually, they can catch problems before they start and replace worn-out parts before they stop working.
Peace of Mind: If maintenance is done well, there is very little chance of surprise malfunctions, so emergency service will not be necessary.
Saves Money: A more efficient system saves money on energy, and a system that works well prevents repairs.

An Example of Professional Maintenance

When a professional HVAC technician comes to perform a maintenance check, they will usually have a checklist of things to look for and jobs to do. They will likely start with a general visual inspection and then will expand it to many of the following tasks:

Air filter replacement
Clean ducts
Check ducts for damage
Check the igniter (if applicable)
Check the heating element (if applicable)
Check the burner (if applicable)
Clean coils
Clean and check vents
Check electrical connections

Why Get Regular Maintenance Now?

The main reason why maintenance should be done now is that it is easier to schedule it before the cold season comes. As winter approaches, more and more people will demand service and attention, which may make it more difficult to find time to fit in. It also means that the heater will be running smoothly throughout the winter when it is most needed. If a homeowner schedules now, they will be ready when the cold weather hits. They can also get a bit ahead of time by changing or cleaning the air filter themselves. It is one of the few HVAC jobs that can be done as a DIY.

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. offers free second opinions and has over 60 years of experience serving Fargo, ND, and the surrounding communities. Their expert staff responds quickly and is known for personalized solutions and honest advice. Call today to schedule heating maintenance in Fargo, ND.

It's Never Too Late for Water Heater Maintenance

The Importance of Maintaining the Water Heater

The water heater is one of the most important appliances in the home, providing hot water for sanitation and bathing. Unfortunately, too many owners forget about the water heater, which is likely tucked away in a basement or closet. After years of neglect, water heaters can suffer from wear and tear, requiring costly repairs and running up utility bills due to poor efficiency. Luckily, this scenario is preventable by following some simple professional advice.

To keep the water heater running reliably, all that is needed is annual water heater maintenance. This article is a quick guide to help homeowners understand what happens during water heater maintenance, why it is important, and how often to schedule water heater service.

Steps Done During Water Heater Maintenance?

Water heaters come in two main styles: water tanks and tankless water heaters. Water tanks are the most popular choice for most homes simply because they have a time-tested design, and most homes are already outfitted to accommodate them. Unfortunately, hot water tanks are more likely to succumb to problems over the years because of how they operate. First, the water velocity can slow down in the tank, leading to the settling of solids. During maintenance, plumbers drain and flush the tank to remove the solids interfering with water heater volume and efficiency.

The large tanks conventional water heaters use are also notorious for failing due to corrosion. Every water heater has a device called an anode rod that sacrifices itself to protect the tank. After a few years, the anode rod will be completely degraded. During water heater maintenance, plumbers will inspect and replace the rod if necessary to prevent corrosion.

Both water tanks and tankless water heaters must maintain their heating elements and burners to ensure proper efficiency. During maintenance, plumbers ensure the heating devices are efficient and working well. They will also check all electrical connections and valves.

Reasons for Water Heater Maintenance

Water heater maintenance is a great investment regardless of the type of water heater present. Water heaters use a lot of energy to heat water, so their operation and efficiency have big implications for utility bills. Water heater maintenance is essential, especially in protecting its efficiency.

Repairs must be prevented to reduce further the cost of owning a water heater. During maintenance, the steps taken by plumbers reduce the likelihood of problems in the future. Owners can keep their operating costs to a minimum by preventing costly bills.

How Often Is Maintenance Recommended?

Most experts recommend water heater maintenance every year. However, if a tank has been neglected for a while, or the water source needs to be better or has a high mineral content, more frequent maintenance may be optimal. Local plumbers will know best regarding the interval due to local water conditions. By starting a maintenance program now, homeowners can partner with local experts and better care for their water heaters to save a ton of money over the long run.

About Laney's Inc.

Laney's Inc. maximizes the value of the plumbing in every home with expert maintenance and repairs. They never charge overtime rates for emergencies and offer regular repairs at upfront pricing. Call today for plumbing repairs and hot water maintenance in Fargo, ND.

Can a Dehumidifier Help This Summer?

Taking Care of Excess Humidity

During the summer, the higher temperatures allow the air to hold onto more water vapor. Couple that with the fact that humidity tends to move into the region during the warm season, and it becomes obvious that humidity can be a problem outdoors. Indoor air inside the home is directly affected by the amount of moisture outside, leading to high humidity levels within the home.

When humidity levels rise, the air feels warmer because the body can’t cool as effectively. Since the air is already laden with moisture, the sweat off of the skin can’t evaporate as quickly, so people tend to feel hotter. When this humidity is present in the home, it can feel warm and sticky inside. Luckily, dehumidifiers are the perfect solution to this problem.

How Does a Dehumidifier Work?

A whole-home dehumidifier works with the home’s air conditioning system and ductwork to remove excess humidity. The air conditioner can often handle the problem when humidity levels are low. However, in the heat of the summer, many homes may benefit from extra dehumidification. Whole-home dehumidifiers make this process simple and easy to handle.

Dehumidifiers work similarly to air conditioners. Within the air conditioner, chilled coils cause moisture to condense on the surface and drain away. Dehumidifiers use the same process, allowing them to remove excess moisture from the air in the home without using as much power.

Signs That a Dehumidifier Installation Would Be Helpful

Excessive moisture in the home can sometimes be hard to detect. Often, the most noticeable signs are that the home is uncomfortable. During the summer, it can feel warm and muggy when there is high humidity indoors.

Other signs that dehumidification would be beneficial are:

Condensation on the windows
Mold problems
Musty smells

Benefits of a Dehumidifier Installation

If the air conditioner seems to be having trouble keeping the home comfortable during the summer, a dehumidifier installation may be necessary. Not only can a dehumidifier make the home more comfortable, but it can also help lower energy bills by allowing homeowners to raise the temperature on the thermostat without sacrificing comfort.

Whole-home dehumidifiers are also beneficial because they help prevent mold growth and work automatically without requiring intervention, like draining. A portable dehumidifier needs to be emptied and monitored, while a whole-home dehumidifier operates automatically with no effort on behalf of the homeowner.

About Laney's Inc.

Laney's Inc. has nearly 60 years of experience serving the Fargo area. They offer honest advice, competitive pricing, and fast response times. Call today for whole-house dehumidifier installation and services in Fargo, ND.

Should You Install a Water Filtration System?

The Importance of Installing a Whole-Home Water Filter

Clean drinking water has always been a foundational principle of public health. With the ubiquity of clean drinking water in homes, it can be easy to forget the importance of safe water without impurities and bacteria. Water filtration systems do a great job of removing impurities in a home’s water that are threats to health. The following is a quick guide to water filtration systems, including how they work and different types, their advantages, and signs that a house needs a water filtration system installation.

How Do Water Filtration Systems Work?

There are several options to consider when installing a whole-house water filter, and each type operates differently. Two popular styles of water filters are:

Activated Carbon Filters: These water filters use layers of active carbon to remove bacteria and other impurities, like chlorine and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), from the water.
Reverse Osmosis Filters: These water filters work by passing water through a membrane to remove bacteria and other impurities and are effective at removing nearly all contaminants from water.

Benefits of Installing a Whole-House Water Filter

A water filter installation can provide several benefits to households, including:

Cleaner and better-tasting water for drinking, cooking, and other uses
Protects health by removing bacteria and impurities that can cause illnesses and diseases
Can save money over time and reduce the household’s environmental impact by avoiding having to buy bottled water

Signs a Water Filtration System Is Needed

People may look at a glass of their home’s tap water and think it looks clean, even if it isn’t. Some of the signs that a water filtration system is needed are:

A strange flavor or taste to the water
A distinct smell since water should have no scent
The water appears cloudy or discolored and isn’t clear
Household residents get sick for no apparent reason or suffer from stomach issues

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. is a locally owned company that has been serving the Fargo area since 1960. They provide competitive pricing, honest advice, and upfront service. Call them for water filtration system installation in Fargo, ND.

Central Air Conditioning vs. Ductless Mini Split Cooling

Central or Ductless Air Conditioning: Which Is the Right Choice for Your Home?

Whether homeowners are finally getting around to replacing that clunky old air conditioner or starting from scratch and scheduling an air conditioning installation in a newly built or renovated home, shopping for a new AC system can be a chore. After all, there are so many options to choose from.

Homeowners can choose the best AC system for their home and situation. This article will explain the advantages of the two main types of air conditioning systems, central AC and ductless mini splits, as well as a few less common options.

Central Air Conditioning

A central AC system, as the name suggests, cools the home using one main air handler unit, generally installed at a central location in the house. The cool air is then distributed evenly throughout the house via a network of air ducts. A large outdoor condenser unit, installed on the roof or beside the house, disperses the heat energy extracted from the indoor air.

Central AC units tend to cost less to install than ductless systems, especially in homes with existing ductwork. They are also less visible inside the home, as the only parts seen inside rooms are the air vents. Additionally, they easily integrate with indoor air quality products such as humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and UV air sanitizers to improve the air quality and health of those in the home.

Ductless Mini Split AC Systems

A ductless mini-split air conditioner requires no air ducts, making them great for homes without the space for ductwork. Instead, mini-split systems use several indoor air handler units throughout the home that provide cool air directly to each room or zone of the house. These units are typically installed high up on a wall, more or less out of the way, but this makes them more visible.

Perhaps the biggest advantage ductless AC systems have over central air systems is their energy efficiency. This is because of their lack of ducts and because each indoor unit can be set to different temperatures, allowing energy to be saved in rooms that aren’t being used. Mini-splits offer unparalleled temperature control in individual rooms, allowing for individualized comfort.

Other Air Conditioners

Other types of air conditioners on the market include window AC units and portable AC units. However, these units are not meant to cool a whole home. Instead, they are meant for cooling a room. While these are affordable options, they lose the benefit of affordability when many units must be purchased to cool an entire home.

Window air conditioners are self-contained units that sit inside a window frame. They do not allow the window to be opened, and some of the natural light is blocked from the window. Portable air conditioners are similar to window units but don’t sit inside a window and can be more easily moved from room to room. However, they tend to be noisy and can make a room feel more cluttered since they sit on the floor.

These types of air conditioners, though inexpensive, aren’t effective at cooling larger spaces and certainly not entire homes. They are generally best used for workshops, garages, or other smaller spaces not attached to a home’s air conditioning system. But depending on the space, a ductless mini-split may be preferable for a more discreet, permanent option for these types of spaces.

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. has been serving the Fargo area since 1960. They provide competitive pricing, honest advice, and friendly experts. Call them for air conditioner installation and replacement in Fargo, ND.

A Home's Sump Pump Needs to Be in Working Order

Sump Pumps Explained

A sump pump removes water from the lowest point in a home, whether it's a basement or crawlspace. It pumps floodwater away from a house through a discharge pipe to a safe location to protect the home against flooding and water damage.

Sump pumps are especially important in areas that are prone to flooding or have a high water table. This article will outline the advantages of installing a sump pump, the different types, and ways to ensure the home’s sump pump continues working to prevent home flooding when it’s needed.

Why Install a Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are appliances that remove water that collects in a sump pump basin or pit. They are important for preventing flooding, water damage, mold growth, and structural damage to the house. Some of the benefits of a sump pump installation include the following:

Prevents home and basement flooding
Humidity reduction
Prevents water damage
Prevents mold and mildew growth
Prevents structural damage and protects the foundation
Prevents electric shock and other electrical hazards
Speeds up the cleanup process

What Are the Main Types of Sump Pumps?

Pedestal sump pumps and submersible sump pumps are the two main types of sump pumps. There are advantages to both types, which a homeowner can use to help them decide which will work best for their home, needs, and budget. Here are the benefits of each:

Pedestal Pumps: These sump pumps have a motor that sits above the sump pump basin and doesn’t get submerged in the water.

They are less expensive.
They work for smaller pits.
They last longer.

Submersible Pumps: The motor of submersible sump pumps is inside the sump pump basin and gets submerged in the water.

They are more powerful and can handle large volumes of water.
They are quieter.
They take up little to no space since they sit below the ground.

How to Ensure the Sump Pump Is Working?

It is vital that a sump pump works well so that when flooding occurs, it can effectively protect the home from flooding, water damage, and other problems. One way to ensure the sump pump works well is with routine maintenance from a professional. They can check the system's performance and fix any issues they find.

Another important step to make sure the sump pump is working is routine testing. Homeowners can test their sump pumps in several ways, but one easy way is to pour a bucket of water into the sump pump pit slowly, until the float switch activates the pump to turn on and remove the water. Another great way to ensure the sump pump can work, even during a power outage, is with a sump pump battery backup. If the power goes out, the battery backup will keep the pump working, removing water to protect the home.

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. has over six decades of experience serving the Fargo area. They offer competitive pricing, honest advice, and friendly experts. Call them for sump pump installation and repair services in Fargo, ND.

Proper Maintenance Helps Get AC Systems Ready for the Seasons Ahead

Benefits of Regular AC Maintenance

Many home systems need maintenance and upkeep to ensure they work well and prevent issues, and air conditioning systems are no different. Staying on top of proper AC maintenance is vital to keep the home cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. This post will share the main benefits of keeping up with routine AC maintenance and inspections.

Energy Efficiency and Improved Performance

One of the greatest benefits of air conditioning maintenance and upkeep for homeowners is improved efficiency and performance, which leads to lower energy bills. When the AC system is working well and efficiently, it uses less energy to operate. It will also do a better job cooling the home, so it will not need to constantly run to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Getting air conditioner maintenance done in the spring is also beneficial. This ensures that the unit is efficient when it is used the most in the summer, so homeowners don’t have to waste money on higher cooling costs due to inefficiency. Keeping up with maintenance services is essential to having the system ready for the warmer months ahead.

More Reliable Operation With Fewer Repairs

Along with improved performance and efficiency, homeowners who keep up with their air conditioner maintenance will enjoy the peace of mind that a reliable AC system can provide. This means the air conditioning unit will work better and have a lower risk of problems developing and needing repairs.

Even well-maintained systems will eventually need repair work done. However, when the air conditioner is neglected, and routine maintenance is skipped, it will develop more wear and tear and be at a higher risk for issues and the need for AC repair. Additionally, during maintenance visits, technicians can find and fix smaller issues before they develop into bigger, more costly problems.

Longer Lifespan for the AC System

Another reason the upfront investment in air conditioning maintenance is worthwhile is that it can extend the lifespan of the air conditioner. When homeowners keep up with routine maintenance, it can prevent issues and catch potential problems sooner, so the cooling system will last longer, and homeowners won’t have to pay for an early replacement.

Air conditioners typically last around 10 to 20 years, so extending their lifespan by several years can be a long time considering their life expectancy. Scheduling annual AC maintenance is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of air conditioners and hold off on the need for a full AC replacement.

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. is a locally owned company that has been serving Fargo and the surrounding areas since 1960. They provide competitive pricing, upfront service, and honest advice. Call them for air conditioning repair and maintenance services in Fargo, ND.

Dealing With Hard Water Using Water Softeners

How Does a Water Softener Benefit Households?

In the US, most homes have hard water, which means the water has a high mineral content, such as calcium and magnesium. When these minerals are dissolved into local water sources to a high enough degree, they can prevent the water from being as effective or beneficial as it could be. Luckily, a water softener installation can remove the hardness of water, which offers many advantages. Here is a quick article describing the benefits of installing a whole-home water softener.

Soft Water Makes Cleaning More Effective

Hard water can have negative impacts when used for cleaning, which often leaves unsightly spotting or cloudiness on dishes after being washed in the dishwasher, and mineral deposits on bathroom fixtures that can be time-consuming to clean. It can also cause clothes to fade over time when washed in hard water. This is due to the high concentrations of minerals in hard water.

However, installing water softeners can be a game-changer for cleaning, transforming hard water into soft water and preventing the accumulation of scale buildup that requires time-consuming cleaning. Consequently, not only does this lead to shiner and spotless dishes and bathroom fixtures, but it also extends the lifespan of clothing, maintaining fabric color and condition for much longer.

Protects Plumbing and Appliances

Hard water can also cause issues for the plumbing and household appliances that use water. Mineral deposits can accumulate in pipes, reducing water pressure and speeding up corrosion that can cause leaks and breaks. Appliances such as water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines are also vulnerable as the mineral buildup can reduce their efficiency, necessitate more frequent repairs, and ultimately shorten their lifespan.

Installing a water softener mitigates these concerns by removing the excess minerals from the water before it circulates through the home. Not only does this promote the longevity and efficiency of plumbing and water-using appliances, but preventing inefficiency and early replacements can also save homeowners money.

Improves the Health of Skin and Hair

Just like hard water creates problems with cleaning, allowing residues to linger on supposedly clean surfaces, it also does the same when people bathe or shower. Hard water can be harsh on skin and hair, stripping away natural oils and leading to dryness and irritation. The high mineral content in the water creates a layer of soap scum that's difficult to rinse off, contributing to clogged pores, flaky skin, and brittle hair.

Introducing a water softener to one's home can improve skin and hair health by removing excess minerals. Softened water doesn't leave behind a residue, ensuring that hair and skin stay more hydrated, soap and shampoo lather more effectively, and the natural balance of moisture is preserved, leading to healthier skin and hair and reducing the discomfort of itchiness.

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. is a locally owned air conditioning, heating, and plumbing company that has been serving Fargo, ND, and the surrounding areas since 1960. They provide competitive pricing, honest advice, and a fast response time. Call them today for water softener installation and repair in Fargo, ND.

Celebrate 2024 With Cleaner Air

Improve Indoor Air Quality for Better Health

The foundation of good health starts by changing what goes into the body. At the beginning of each new year, millions of people set resolutions to improve their health by changing their dietary habits. While improving food choices can go a long way toward improving health outcomes, there is a huge blind spot that most people miss.

Breathing cleaner air can have dramatically positive health outcomes for everyone in a home. This year, improve health by remembering to help improve the indoor air quality in the house. This post will share three easy steps homeowners can take for a healthier home in 2024.

Change Air Filters on Time

Indoor air can be far more polluted than outdoor air. When air conditioners and heaters are designed, the indoor air quality is as big of a concern as the comfort of the home. The air filters are the first line of defense against poor indoor air quality in every home.

All the air circulating the house must flow through an air filter before it is conditioned. This allows them to catch dust and irritants before they are distributed through the air. Experts recommend checking the AC and furnace filters monthly and replacing them when they are dirty. Changing air filters every three months is typically needed. More frequent changes may be necessary in homes with a lot of dust or in more polluted regions to maximize positive health outcomes.

Install a UV Air Sanitizer

If some of the home’s occupants have problems like allergies or asthma, more effort may be needed to maximize indoor air quality and improve health. For this, homeowners can turn to UV air sanitizer installation. They are installed into the HVAC system to improve the entire home's air quality.

Air sanitizers use UV light to attack everything from dust and allergens to viruses. They benefit homes by reducing excess dust, resulting in a cleaner home, and help reduce symptoms and improve breathing for individuals with asthma, allergies, or other conditions.

Clean the House Regularly

Regular filter changes are a necessary habit, and installing air sanitizers can improve air quality. Still, neither of these strategies will be as effective as they could be without some changes in housekeeping. Much of the contributions to low-quality indoor air start from subpar cleaning. As a resolution to cleaner air and a cleaner home, adopt strategies like:

Wash bedding and upholstery every two weeks
Launder bathroom linens once a week
Properly dry all wet clothing and washcloths to prevent mold growth
Sweep daily and mop about once a week
Vacuum weekly
Dust flat surfaces every other week

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. is a locally-owned plumbing, electrical, heating, and air conditioning company serving Fargo, ND, and the surrounding areas. They offer honest advice, a fast response time, and competitive pricing. Call them today for UV air sanitizers and indoor air quality services in Fargo, ND.