Breathing Easy: Make 2023 the Year of Cleaner Air

Breathing Easy: Make 2023 the Year of Cleaner Air

Expert Tips for Improving a Home’s Indoor Air Quality

IAQ, or indoor air quality, measures the amount of particulate matter and harmful substances in the inside air. Air pollution is not just a concern outdoors. It can even be of greater concern indoors because it can be much more concentrated. It is of particular concern for those who suffer from chronic respiratory issues or allergies. This article will cover how homeowners can maintain and promote good indoor air quality and clean air in their homes.

Replace Air Filters Regularlyfilters

Besides just keeping up with normal heating and cooling maintenance, the easiest way to ensure decent indoor air quality is by changing the air filters at least every three months or more frequently if needed. Air filters are made to catch particulate matter and prevent it from going into the heating and cooling system's moving parts, reducing efficiency. It also helps keep debris from recirculating through the HVAC system. Some of the things that the average air filter can catch are listed below:

  • Allergens
  • Dirt
  • Dust
  • Organic Matter
  • Pollen
  • Pet hair
  • Some VOCs (volatile organic compounds)

Purchase a Filter or Air Purifier for the Whole Home or a Certain Space

purifierA household may include someone with allergies, asthma, emphysema, or COPD. Perhaps someone has a compromised immune system for one of many reasons this occurs. The house may need more thorough protection against indoor air pollution and germs. Filters and air purifiers like air sanitizers are available for just such a necessity. Below are a few options for houses that need a little extra TLC.

  • Air Scrubbers:  These filters and sanitizers attach to an HVAC system and purify the air, typically using a HEPA filter and a UV filter to remove airborne germs. 
  • Whole Home Air Filtration Systems: If a household is more concerned with allergens, then a whole home air filter compatible with the HVAC system may be needed. These filters typically use HEPA filters and activated charcoal to clean the air.
  • HEPA Filters: Though these are merely a name for high-efficiency particulate air filters, they are considered the best for removing allergens. Air purifiers for individual rooms are typically equipped with this type of filter.
  • Ion Filters: These filters use positively charged ions to attract the negatively charged particulate matter in the air. These do an excellent job collecting pet hair and house dust.
  • UV Filters/Air Sanitizers: Though they are often called filters, UV air sanitizers use UV light to kill germs and sanitize instead of using a literal filter. These are great for high-traffic areas of the home during the cold and flu season.

Keep the Home Clean and Tidy

Another way to maintain good indoor air quality is by keeping the home clean. Regular dusting, vacuuming, and sweeping clean what could have ended up in the air and, eventually, the heating and cooling system. Cleaning helps prevent the accumulation of one of the most common and problematic allergens: dust.

Besides contributing to poor indoor air quality, too much dust getting into the HVAC system can cause issues like damage and even breakdowns. Following the tips in this blog will help dust stay out of the heater and AC, allowing it to work smoothly and keeping indoor air clean and healthy. 

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. is a local company that has served the people of Fargo, ND, and the surrounding areas for more than 60 years. They provide a one-stop resource, honest advice, and competitive pricing. Call them today for indoor air quality services like UV air sanitizer installation in Fargo, ND.

Why Should Homeowners Insulate Their Water Heaters This Winter?

Get the Water Heater Ready for the Cold

Get the Water Heater Ready for the Cold

Homeowners can insulate their water heaters to save energy and money and protect them from unnecessary wear and tear. Insulation protects the water heater by keeping the water inside warmer for longer, preventing the water heater from having to work harder to keep the water warm. This reduces the strain on water heaters as well as energy consumption.

Why is it Important to Insulate the Water Heater?heater

Insulating the water heater is an effective way to save money on energy costs and reduce standby heat losses. During the winter, the temperatures outside are colder than in other seasons, so incoming water will be cooler, thus requiring more effort from a water heater to warm it up. 

By reducing the amount of energy needed to maintain a hot temperature, homeowners can save money on their monthly utility bills while still having access to hot water whenever they need it. Additionally, insulating a water heater also helps protect against potential accidents such as burns or scalds due to very hot water temperatures. 

If homeowners are unsure how to go about insulating their water heater, it's best to consult with a professional who can provide guidance on the proper steps and materials needed to ensure that the insulation process is done correctly and safely. This extra step will ensure that they reap all of the benefits of having an insulated water heater while avoiding potential issues or damages.

How to Determine Whether a Water Heater Requires Insulation

According to the US Department of Energy, adding insulation to a water heater can reduce water heating costs by 7-16%. Most people are unaware that their home’s water heater can be insulated, allowing them to save a significant amount of energy. 

Most new water heater tanks are already well insulated, but if it’s an older water heater or has an R-value of less than 24, it could benefit from additional insulation. Homeowners can check to see if the insulation has an R-value higher than 24 by checking the details on the tank or user manual. 

Insulation Types

typesThe most popular way to insulate water heaters is using a water heater blanket or insulation blanket that can be wrapped around the water heater. These blankets are made of various materials, such as fiberglass, foil, and denim.

Most hot water tanks use fiberglass or polyurethane foam for insulation. Fiberglass is a plastic material reinforced with glass fibers held together by a binding substance. It is strong and long-lasting, with excellent insulation properties and a low cost.

Polyurethane foam, invented in the 1930s, is a highly versatile polymer material used to insulate modern water heaters. For an electric water heater, neoprene foam is usually best. Fiberglass pipe insulation is best used around gas water heaters, and homeowners will most likely need to use aluminum foil tape.

About Laney's Inc.

Laney’s Inc. is a locally-owned company serving Fargo, ND, and the surrounding areas since 1960. They provide competitive pricing, free second opinions, and no overtime charges. Call them today for water heater services in Fargo, ND.

Why Should Homeowners Hire a Professional HVAC Technician?

Why Should Homeowners Hire a Professional HVAC Technician?

The Cost of DIY HVAC Repair

DIY videos are available online to anyone with the internet. Although some sites share repair tips, most homeowners will not understand how to fix a heating and cooling system properly. Mistakes made by ambitious homeowners usually end up costing more than if they hired a professional in the first place. Hiring qualified technicians also help keep families safe because many AC and heater repairs are more dangerous than they seem. 

Pros Avoid Costly Mistakes

saveLicensed technicians are trained to work on HVAC systems properly. Repairs and replacements involve specific technology and tools used for safety and efficiency. Without industry knowledge, homeowners risk infringing EPA requirements on a state-by-state basis.

Refrigerant tanks purchased online often do not provide instructions. Non-licensed technicians should never try to put refrigerant into the heat pump themselves. This can cause the entire unit to malfunction and can be extremely dangerous to handle if the unit requires natural gas.

Professionals can handle unexpected installation issues, but homeowners are not likely to understand how to fix structural problems. The goal of DIY repairs is to save money; however, DIY HVAC repairs often end up costing more than hiring professionals. Mistakes or misdiagnoses by amateurs will cost more to fix than if technicians handled them correctly the first time. 

They Save Time

timeTrained HVAC professionals are familiar with how the unit works in multiple scenarios. Regardless of an issue with the refrigerant or fan blades, qualified technicians can do multiple heater repairs at once. Their knowledge of different systems and how they work helps technicians get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Homeowners who hire technicians can also receive tips during visits that will help them save more time and money in the future, including based on their usage and system. Homeowners can save time by learning how to better take care of their HVAC unit. It prevents the unit from breaking down and allows homeowners to stay comfortable indoors. Rather than trying complicated and lengthy DIY repairs, professionals can get an HVAC unit up and running in no time.

They Give Peace of Mind

Licensed and insured HVAC contractors know how to operate units safely and effectively. They also know the exact code requirements for the location. The International Code Council is an association that develops the standards used for building safe structures. HVAC technicians are trained to follow building industry codes so that residential dwellings have environmentally-friendly and sustainable air systems. Regardless of state, the national HVAC standards include how to install and maintain HVAC units.

Professionals are also licensed and insured, so homeowners are not liable for any mistakes or injuries. Working on HVAC systems can be dangerous, so to keep household members safe from structure fires, trained HVAC technicians can handle wiring, installations, repairs, and general inspections and maintenance.

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. has been a one-stop resource serving Fargo, ND, and the surrounding areas for over 50 years. They provide competitive pricing and honest advice and are available 24/7 with no overtime charges. Call them today for AC and heating services in Fargo, ND.

Don't Be Scared By Bathroom Remodeling

Don't Be Scared By Bathroom Remodeling

Let Qualified Professionals Tackle Bathroom Remodels 

October is a spooky month, but Halloween can offer nothing scarier for homeowners than planning bathroom remodels. Bathroom renovations are notorious for lasting longer than intended and costing more than expected. Unfortunately, too many homeowners fall into this trap because they don’t hire professional help. 

Instead of taking the risk on an unlicensed and uninsured handyperson or trying to tackle a bathroom renovation on their own, homeowners should make the safer, cheaper, and quicker choice and hire professional bathroom renovation contractors. 

Reduce Injury Risks With Professionals 

No home remodeling project is completely safe. With any construction project on the home, the risks are obvious. But that doesn’t mean that homeowners shouldn’t take every precaution possible to prevent injuries on their property. When uninsured and unlicensed individuals work on a remodel, homeowners risk being sued by anyone harmed on their property and are financially responsible for any damages. 

Hiring professionals means that work is done safely and homeowners can prevent injuring themselves during DIY work. Professional bathroom remodelers have the experience that leads to greater safety and insurance, so homeowners aren’t financially responsible for accidents or injuries. They also have the right tools for a job, a prerequisite for safe construction work. Avoid the risks associated with DIY work by hiring a professional from the beginning, so everyone goes home safe at the end of the day. 

Save Money With Competent Help

saveBathroom remodeling can be more expensive without hiring a qualified plumber. Homeowners start a remodeling project with a budget and timeline, only to be blindsided by unexpected delays and costs. DIY work also leads to more mistakes, and when it comes to bathroom remodels, nothing blows a budget faster than having to do something over again or hire a professional to fix a homeowner's mistakes.  

There are some reasons why work might have to be done twice. The first reason is doing something wrong, and another has to do with the order of work. Bathroom remodeling tasks have to proceed in a certain order because certain things have to be done before other tasks can proceed. The result is work that has to be torn out and redone. 

Another way that qualified professionals help save money, in the long run, is by having insurance coverage. Bathroom remodels are inherently risky, and mistakes can cause bigger problems. Contractors are insured, so they are covered in the rare case that something goes wrong during the process. 

Save Time With Professionals

timeThere is one thing that all DIY projects have in common: they last for far longer than anyone can anticipate because they aren't professionals. Even skilled DIYers constantly underestimate how much time tasks will take. When it comes to bathroom remodels, time is of the essence. Dealing with displaced family members throughout the construction period can add unnecessary stress to the whole family, so it’s important bathroom renovations are done quickly and accurately. 

The best way to ensure that projects stay on schedule, especially projects that have the potential to shut down an entire bathroom for a period, is to hire an experienced professional. Qualified professionals have the experience to renovate bathrooms quickly and reputations to protect, so they always strive to finish jobs on schedule. 

About Laney's Inc.

Laney's Inc. is a locally-owned company serving their neighbors in Fargo, ND, and the surrounding areas since 1960. They offer upfront service with no surprises, competitive pricing, and fast response times. Call them today for bathroom remodeling and renovation in Fargo, ND.

3 Signs It May Be Time To Replace the Thermostat

Signs of Thermostat Issues

Problems with the heating and cooling system can be among the most frustrating and confounding aspects of home ownership. Not only can they make the house uncomfortable, but tracking down the underlying cause of the issue isn’t always easy. But even some of the most confusing heating and cooling problems can be traced back to something as simple as a faulty thermostat!

The thermostat is like the brain of the entire HVAC system, so if something goes wrong there, it can cause all sorts of issues for the rest of the system. Fortunately, there are a few ways to tell if the home’s thermostat is failing. So read on to discover three common signs of a broken thermostat and what to do about them.

Unusually High Energy Bills

billOne of the most common signs of a broken thermostat is an unexpected increase in energy costs. This can occur when the thermostat is reading the home’s temperature incorrectly and, in turn, causes the system to work harder than it should. In some cases, this may result from a dirty sensor or an incorrectly calibrated thermostat, which can both be resolved fairly easily by a professional. 

But in many cases, especially if the thermostat is older, it may be necessary (or more economical) to replace it altogether. If homeowners find themselves with higher energy bills than normal, they should contact their local HVAC company to determine if the thermostat is the culprit.

Thermostat Shows the Wrong Temperature

readingsA thermostat reading the home’s temperature incorrectly may also display the wrong temperature on the thermostat's face. A faulty thermostat can not only make the home uncomfortable but can also drive up energy costs and put undue strain on the HVAC unit. 

Homeowners can test the accuracy of their home thermostat by placing a simple portable thermometer near the thermostat or taping it to the wall with a cloth or paper towel behind it to prevent direct heat transfer from the wall. Suppose there is more than one degree (Fahrenheit) of difference after letting it sit for about 15 minutes. In that case, the thermostat is likely showing incorrect temperatures, which is another sign it may be time for a replacement.

System Is Short-Cycling

Another possible indicator of a broken thermostat is if the heater or AC “short-cycles.” Short cycling is when the system frequently turns on, runs for a short period, then turns off again, only to turn on again moments later. This means that the unit isn’t completing its full heating or cooling cycle and is being shut off prematurely. 

Short cycling could indicate that the area around the thermostat is reaching the desired temperature before the rest of the house has a chance to do so. This could be caused by a dirty air filter, problems with the ductwork, or an oversized HVAC unit, but it often points to a faulty thermostat. In some cases, the thermostat may have been installed in a poor location and needs to be reinstalled somewhere else with fewer temperature fluctuations.

Short cycling consumes more energy, puts undue stress on the unit, and makes for uneven temperatures throughout the home, so it’s always best to address this problem as soon as possible with the help of a trusted professional.

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. has over 60 years of experience serving the community of Fargo, ND, and the surrounding areas. They provide competitive pricing, honest advice, and free second opinions. Call them today for expert thermostat services in Fargo, ND.

Plumbing 101: An Introduction to Residential Plumbing

A Back To School Guide to Plumbing

Homeownership comes with a lot of responsibilities, responsibilities that no one teaches. They have to be learned on the go after a home is purchased. One of the things that homeowners fear the most is paying for unexpected major repairs that have the potential to cause damage to their property. In many cases, the fear comes from a lack of knowledge about what a homeowner is dealing with. This is often the case with plumbing problems.

A little knowledge can go a long way towards easing some of the hassles of homeownership. Learning about a home’s plumbing can empower the homeowner to make smart decisions regarding repairs and maintenance. Here is a quick guide to the basics of plumbing from local experts.

Where Does it All Start?

water meterEvery home is connected to a water source through a municipal hookup. The municipal water supply enters the home through one single source. The connection between the source and the house is made by a water meter that monitors water usage for billing purposes. After that, the water enters the house and can usually be found in a garage or a basement. Looking for a water heater is often a good place to start. From there, the water splits to feed the home's water heater and the cold water sources. Most fixtures in the house receive hot and cold water, so two lines are run to each point of use.

Once water arrives at a point of use, another problem presents itself: where does it go after it’s used? Of equal importance to freshwater plumbing is the drain and sewer system that takes it away from the house. Each toilet, sink, and appliance is hooked to a system of drains that removes sewage. They all meet in one main pipe before draining into the municipal sewer system.

Common Plumbing Fixtures

showerheadCommon plumbing fixtures are:

  • Sinks and faucets
  • Showers and showerheads
  • Toilets
  • Appliances like dishwashers and washing machines
  • Water heaters
  • Floor drains
  • Hose bibs

These constitute some of the most important plumbing fixtures in a home. When it comes time to upgrade these fixtures, look for water-saving and energy-efficient models to save money on utility bills.

Plumbing Maintenance

Look at the average water bill in a home, and it’s easy to see that plumbing does its fair share of work. In the average home, hundreds of gallons of water are used and drained away daily. With all this hard work, it becomes obvious that wear and tear can take a toll on a home’s plumbing.

Plumbing maintenance is a great way to get continued reliable service from a home’s plumbing. Plumbing maintenance can include things like:

  • Water heater maintenance– i.e., draining the water heater and replacing the anode rod
  • Drain cleaning
  • Inspections of plumbing fixtures looking for damage and potential issues
  • Water softener maintenance

Altogether, these steps can extend the plumbing’s lifespan, reduce utility bills, save money on repairs, and prevent the likelihood of problems.

About Laney's Inc.

Laney's Inc. has over 60 years of experience serving its neighbors in Fargo, ND, and the surrounding areas. They offer competitive pricing, honest advice, and fast response times. Call them today for plumbing services in Fargo, ND.

How To Keep Cool on Those Summer Nights

How To Keep Cool on Those Summer Nights

Easy Ways To Cool Down Without Breaking the Bank 

EnergyStar reports that most homeowners' energy usage comes from their heating and cooling systems. As one can imagine, this can strain one’s HVAC system and cause energy bills to skyrocket. Is there any way to stay cool during the summer without breaking the bank? 

There are many things homeowners can do to cut down on their cooling costs while also staying cool themselves. Some of these considerations include: 

Set the Air Conditioner to 78 Degrees Fahrenheit 

During the summertime, there is no need to have the AC lower than 78 degrees––especially in a place like North Dakota. Most of the time, during June, July, and August, temperatures don’t exceed 90 degrees––making 78 degrees a perfect indoor temperature for most people. 

But why 78 degrees exactly? Well: 

  • This temperature is a perfect medium between hot and cold temperatures. It also ensures the AC only kicks on when things really start heating up. 
  • Keeping an AC powered on at 78 degrees doesn't cost much money. Energy bills start drastically increasing once an AC goes below the 72-degree mark. From there, every degree below 72 degrees causes energy bills to increase by three percent. 

Homeowners have two goals when staying cool during the summer: being comfortable and saving money on utility bills. Keeping the AC at this modest temperature ensures both of those things. If homeowners want it cooler, they can use fans while keeping this temperature because fans don’t use much energy. 

Install a Programmable Thermostat 

thermostatProgrammable thermostats take all the guesswork out of controlling the home’s cooling system. It automatically senses when the AC should turn on during different times of the day, then plans accordingly.  According to the Smart Energy Consumer Collaborative, smart thermostats can save homeowners 15 percent on their cooling costs. 

Aside from regulating indoor air quality, programmable thermostats: 

  • Sync with homeowners' phones, allowing them to control their homes’ temperature remotely 
  • Allow homeowners to set cooling and heating schedules 
  • Project how much energy a home will use in a single period 
  • Allow homeowners to use their HVAC systems efficiently 

Regularly Replace the AC’s Air Filter 

filter When homeowners don’t regularly replace their home’s air filters, the AC systems won’t work as well as they should. The home may only cool for a few minutes or never reach the desired temperature due to diminished airflow. 

According to EnergyStar, homeowners should change their AC unit’s air filters at least every three months. This allows the AC system to “breathe” and filter particles from the air. One should consider changing their air filter more often if: 

  • They have a lot of pets. Dogs and cats are beloved family members. However, they produce a lot of hair, dander, and other airborne materials that can clog the AC system faster. 
  • The AC system is seeing a lot of use. If the AC stays on most of the day, it’s likely working “overtime.” The increased use may warrant a new air filter every month or so. 
  • The home has a lot of occupants. Like animals, people contribute to the home’s indoor air quality. The more people the house has, the more often one should change their AC unit’s air filter. 

About Laney’s Inc. 

Laney’s Inc. is a locally-owned company with nearly 60 years of experience serving its neighbors in Fargo, ND, and the surrounding areas. They provide competitive pricing, honest advice, fast response times, and free second opinions. Call them today for air conditioning services in Fargo, ND.

This Father's Day, Spoil Dad With Plumbing Upgrades!

3 Ways To Help Dad Relax This Father’s Day

Finding the right Father’s Day gift for dad isn’t always easy. After all, what do you get the man who has everything? Well, one thing that most dads are short on is spare time. Between working, tackling projects around the house, and being a dad, they rarely have much time for themselves.

So this year, instead of a traditional gift, why not free up some of dad’s time by tackling one of the projects on his agenda? And since plumbing projects tend to be the ones dads dread most, why not start there? Fixing a leaky faucet, changing out an old toilet or showerhead, or even surprising dad with a luxurious plumbing upgrade he’d never get for himself are just a few ways to help dad take a load off this Father’s Day. Keep reading for more ideas, inspiration, and pro tips for plumbing upgrades and repairs for dad!

shower

Put In a New & Improved Showerhead

A showerhead upgrade is one of the best and easiest gift ideas for dad. Every dad deserves a relaxing shower experience, especially after exercising or a long day of working outside. And there is a wide range of options on the market, so it’s easy to find one that’s both right for dad and the bathroom's overall aesthetic.

Rain showerheads provide a relaxing and luxurious experience with their larger surface area and many spray nozzles. Handheld showerheads allow for a more effortless, more dynamic bathing experience, and many have nozzle settings that offer a gentle water massage. Even dual-showerhead models can give dad the option of switching between a rain showerhead and a handheld nozzle.

Most of today’s showerheads have lower flow rates than older models but use aeration or compression chambers to ensure high water pressure. This means that dad can enjoy great water pressure and save money on utilities simultaneously!

Give Dad the Surprise of a Plumbing Upgrade

The showerhead is a good place to start, but other old plumbing fixtures can be changed out for newer, more eco-friendly versions, many of which come with modern features for greater practicality and luxury. 

A touchless faucet with a motion sensor is great for conserving water, but it can also help prevent the spread of germs by allowing dad to wash engine oil or dirt off his hands without getting any on the faucet handle. It is also easier to clean than a traditional faucet. Today’s smart toilets use very little water per flush yet are virtually clog-proof and offer neat features like seat warmers, ambient lighting, bidets, self-cleaning functions, and even Bluetooth speakers.

These changes and upgrades can be made individually or as part of a larger bathroom remodel. Still, in any case, it’s best to hire a professional plumber to tackle the major installs or the more intensive aspects of the remodeling process.

Fix That Dripping Faucet For Himfaucet

Another great option is to tackle some plumbing repairs that dad hasn’t had time to handle. If there’s a leaky faucet, showerhead, or toilet that can be heard refilling regularly, it’s best to tackle these things quickly. Leaks - even minor ones - can waste hundreds of gallons yearly, which is on the low end. It’s estimated that just one steadily dripping faucet can increase the monthly water bill by upwards of 10%.

The good news is that most fixture leaks are fairly easy to repair. It usually comes down to replacing a broken gasket or a worn valve. In some cases, the fix may require replacing the entire faucet or fixture so that dad will get that upgrade after all! For those unsure about handling the repairs on their own, it’s never a bad idea to contact a reputable plumber to handle the job.

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. is a locally-owned company with over 60 years of experience serving the community of Fargo, ND, and the surrounding areas. They provide competitive pricing, fast response times, and free second opinions. They are also available 24/7, and there is never an overtime charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Fargo, ND.

Fight Spring Allergies By Improving Indoor Air Quality

May Flowers Bring Huge Pollen Counts!

April showers bring May flowers and seasonal allergies. Every spring, the immune systems of allergy-sufferers are negatively affected by benign particles of pollen and dust, leaving people’s health and comfort in shambles as collateral damage. 

Subpar air may be a problem for those who suffer from seasonal allergies and constant sinus problems. During allergy season, immune systems get overwhelmed trying to fight off non-infectious particles. The best way to beat allergies is to reduce exposure to these particles that elicit such an annoying response and give the immune system a break. Here are some tips from local indoor air quality experts that can help ease the pain of allergy season. 

Use Air Purifiers and Air Scrubbers to Your Advantage

air purifiersThe key to fighting allergies is improving indoor air quality and reducing the amount of offending particles in the air. Two good choices for this are air purifiers and air scrubbers. Both appliances use HEPA filters to remove particles down to .3 microns in size. HEPA filters were designed during WWII to capture radioactive particles that could cause radiation poisoning. Today HEPA filters keep air clean in manufacturing environments, hospitals, and homes.

Luckily for homeowners, .3 microns is adequate filtration to remove nearly every pollen particle in the air, so air scrubbers and air cleaners are highly effective at removing every size particle down to .3 microns. Air scrubbers add a layer of effectiveness by using ionization to cause dust particles to cling together and be more easily filtered from the air. 

Keep Things Clean with UV Air Sanitizers and Dehumidifiers 

Removing dust from the air is a vast improvement, but it isn’t the whole equation. Moisture is another critical component in improving air quality. When the moisture content is too high, mold growth is encouraged. When mold is allowed to grow, it constantly pumps spores into the air in an attempt to spread. These spores can escape filtration and aggravate allergies. 

Once the dehumidifier dries the air to make it unsuitable for mold growth, how are particles less than .3 microns dealt with? UV air sanitizers are the final piece of the puzzle. Powerful UV light destroys viruses and odors, so they don't aggravate allergies. 

Schedule AC Maintenance and Air Filter Replacement

maintenance

A simple strategy that fixes problems for most people with mild allergy symptoms is to get better at changing the air filter. AC maintenance in the springtime is the best time to have a professional install high-quality air filters in an AC. By keeping clean air filters in place and allowing a professional to perform AC maintenance, homeowners can: 

  • Improve the air quality by allowing the AC to remove more moisture from the air
  • Keep the air clean by preventing dust buildup in coils
  • Prevent dust from building up inside the ductwork
  • Increase the reliability of the AC equipment, so the air stays healthy and comfortable all year round instead of needing AC repairs. 

 

About Laney's Inc.

Laney's Inc. has almost 60 years of experience providing the community of Fargo, ND, with full-service plumbing and HVAC solutions. They offer competitive pricing, free second opinions, and fast response times. They are also available 24/7, and there is never an overtime charge. Call them today for indoor air quality services in Fargo, ND.

Make Sure The Water Heater is On The Spring Cleaning List!

Reasons A Water Heater Needs Proper Maintenance

Likely sitting in a closet somewhere is a home’s water heater that goes unseen, unheard, and forgotten most of the time. Many people tend to take hot water for granted, and some may not even know where their hot water comes from. 

However, just like every other appliance in a home, a water heater needs proper maintenance to function as it should. 

Is Cleaning (Flushing) a Water Heater a Big Deal?water heater

Just because a water heater’s tank is filled with drinkable water does not mean that it is clean in any real sense of the word. Many areas have “hard water,” which means many minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, are dissolved in the water. They are not harmful to humans or animals, but they often leave traces behind in the tanks of water heaters and pipes.

Flushing the tank is an essential part of proper maintenance because the sediment formations can lead to problems in the water heater's efficiency, making the heater have to work harder. This decrease in efficiency leads to an increase in utility bills. The minerals and sediment can also lead to corrosion of the tank, meaning a replacement of the water heater will be necessary before its expected lifespan is up.

The sediment can combine with compounds in soap to form the soap scum that tends to line tubs and sinks. These mineral and dirt deposits can lead to some of the following problems:

  • Tepid Temps: It’s hard for a water tank to maintain heat when a buildup is present.
  • Low Water Pressure: This buildup can move into the pipes and narrow them, making it more difficult for water to pass through. 
  • Clogs: This buildup passing through can create clogs in pipes, faucets, or showerheads. It can be flushed down drains and hinder that movement as well.

 

valves

It’s Not Just About Buildup

While this flaky mineral buildup is the primary reason to clean the hot water tank, the water heating unit itself may also need some attention beyond the cleaning. If professionals perform regular maintenance, they may find other things that need to be replaced, cleaned, or tweaked.

Listed below are a few of the items that might need adjustments:

  • PRV (pressure relief valve)
  • Heating element
  • Fuel pipes
  • Water supply pipes
  • Anode rod
  • Electrical connections
  • Check the tank for corrosion or leaks

 

What Good Does Maintenance Do?

Having annual maintenance makes a homeowner’s life easier. It provides peace of mind that their water heater works properly and most efficiently. Efficiency saves energy and money for the consumer. Water will flow freely and be as hot as needed. 

The hot water will likely last longer because the clean water heater tank can heat more efficiently and may have a slightly larger capacity. Proper maintenance will prevent the higher cost of needing to replace the water heater too soon.

About Laney’s Inc.

Laney’s Inc. is a locally-owned company with more than 60 years of experience serving the residents of Fargo and the surrounding areas. They provide free estimates, no overtime charges, and are available to help 24/7. Call them today for water heater services in Fargo, ND.