Question 1

Why is my AC leaking water?

Accepted Answer

An air conditioner that is leaking water can be caused by a few different factors:

Clogged condensate drain line: The most common reason for an AC to leak water is a clogged condensate drain line. This is typically caused by a buildup of dirt, debris, or algae in the drain line. When the drain line is clogged, the water that is supposed to be draining out of the AC gets backed up and can leak out of the unit.

Dirty air filter: If the air filter in your AC is dirty or clogged, it can cause the evaporator coils to freeze up. When the coils thaw out, they can produce excess water that can leak out of the unit.

Low refrigerant levels: If the refrigerant levels in your AC are low, it can cause the evaporator coils to freeze up and then thaw out, producing excess water that can leak out of the unit.

If you're experiencing an AC leak, it's important to have a licensed HVAC technician inspect your unit to determine the root cause of the problem and make any necessary repairs.

Question 2

How do you fix a leaking waterline?

Accepted Answer

The specific steps to fix a leaking water line depending on the type of pipe and the location of the leak. Generally, the first step is to turn off the water supply to the affected area. This can usually be done at a shut-off valve located near the leak or at the main water supply valve. Locate the source of the leak and assess the damage to determine the extent of the repair needed. To avoid any water damage or further leaks, drain the water from the pipes by turning on a faucet at a lower elevation than the leak. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be able to repair the pipe with a patch or sealant. If the damage is more extensive, you may need to replace the damaged section of the pipe. Once the repair is complete, turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks or water damage.

If you're not comfortable making these repairs yourself, it's always best to contact a licensed plumber to ensure the repair is done safely and effectively.

Question 3

How much should it cost to clear a drain?

Accepted Answer

The cost of clearing a drain can vary depending on the severity of the clog and the method used to clear it. On average, a simple drain cleaning can cost between $75 and $200, while more complex clogs may cost more. It's recommended to get multiple quotes from plumbers to compare prices. However, a professional plumber will be able to give you a more accurate estimate after evaluating the situation.

Question 4

What do plumbers recommend for unclogging drains?

Accepted Answer

Plumbers recommend the following methods for unclogging drains:

Using a plunger: This is the most common method for unclogging drains; it uses suction and pressure to push the clog through the pipe.
A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that is inserted into the pipe to break up and remove the clog.
Using an enzymatic cleaner: These cleaners are designed to break down organic matter that can cause clogs, such as hair and soap scum.
Using a high-pressure water jet: This method forces clogs and cleans the inside of the pipes by using high-pressure water.

Clogs can be avoided by regularly cleaning your drains, being mindful of what you put down your drains, and installing a drain strainer.

Question 5

How long do furnaces last?

Accepted Answer

As a general rule of thumb, a furnace should last between 15 and 20 years. There are a few things that will affect how long your furnace will last. For example, it is critical to have a properly sized system for your home. Shorter cycles put more strain on a furnace's components, so if the system is bigger than necessary, it will switch on and off too rapidly. Poor installation can also have a negative impact. Poorly constructed, scaled or sealed ducting has an effect on airflow. In addition, not doing routine maintenance and the conditions the furnace lives in all combine to determine the lifespan of a furnace. A nice clean, dry basement is a better environment than a crawl space with a dirt floor and a lot of moisture to rust out the system.

Question 6

How much does a new furnace installation cost?

Accepted Answer

A new system cost can vary greatly depending on the difficulty of the job and the type of system you want and need. A furnace is like anything else: they can start at $3500 for simplest, basic install. But you can add options, features and higher efficiencies, which will all drive the total price tag up. Your HVAC specialist will evaluate your needs and give you an accurate price quote.

Question 7

What furnace is best?

Accepted Answer

Over time, the top furnace brands will deliver more consistent performance and help you save money on energy costs while keeping your home warm. Here are the top four manufacturing brands that should give you peace of mind and last 15-20 years. Anything else may only last 10-15 years.

Lennox is one of the oldest furnace manufacturers in the United States. They sell top-of-the-line central air conditioners and whole-house furnaces.
York is one of the most well-known heating and cooling brands. It is recognized for producing tiny home furnace heating systems and is one of the leading air conditioning and heating producers.
Carrier air conditioners and furnace systems are known for their great quality because of their lengthy history.

Trane gas furnaces are among the best in the business when it comes to heating and cooling. Trane has been a trusted brand since the late 1800s.

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