The techs were on time and did a great job. Very professional and looked for other potential problems. We always have a good experience with Patton. I highly recommend this company.
Author: Patton Plumbing, Heating & AC
The Importance of Regular Plumbing Maintenance
Plumbing might not be the most glamorous aspect of homeownership, but its significance cannot be overstated. From providing clean water for daily use to ensuring the proper disposal of waste, a well-maintained plumbing system is crucial for a comfortable and healthy living environment. Often overlooked until a problem arises, regular plumbing maintenance is a fundamental practice that can save you from headaches and hefty bills in the long run.
Prevention is Key
Just like any other system in your home, your plumbing requires routine care. Scheduled inspections and maintenance help identify potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Leaks, clogs, and pipe corrosion are among the common problems that, if left unattended, can cause significant damage to your property. A proactive approach through regular maintenance allows for timely intervention, preventing these issues from spiraling into larger, more expensive dilemmas.
Preserving Health and Hygiene
Clean water is a basic necessity, and maintaining your plumbing system ensures the delivery of safe and uncontaminated water. Regular maintenance helps keep pipes clean and free from buildup, reducing the chances of bacterial growth or water contamination. Additionally, addressing leaks promptly prevents the development of mold and mildew, which can pose health risks to occupants and compromise indoor air quality.
Conserving Resources
A well-maintained plumbing system is inherently more efficient. By fixing leaks and addressing inefficiencies, you can conserve water and energy, ultimately reducing your utility bills. Even minor leaks can lead to significant water wastage over time, impacting both the environment and your finances. Regular maintenance ensures that your plumbing system operates at its peak, minimizing unnecessary resource consumption.
Enhancing Longevity
Just as regular exercise keeps the body healthy, routine maintenance elongates the lifespan of your plumbing system. Preventive care, such as cleaning drains and inspecting pipes, prevents premature wear and tear. It’s an investment that not only saves you money on unexpected repairs but also extends the overall lifespan of your plumbing infrastructure.
Professional Assistance Matters
While some basic maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, it’s essential to engage professional plumbers for comprehensive inspections and complex repairs. Their expertise and specialized tools enable them to detect underlying issues that might go unnoticed otherwise. Moreover, professional plumbers can provide valuable advice on maintenance schedules and recommend improvements for your system’s efficiency.
Regular plumbing maintenance is a fundamental aspect of responsible homeownership. It’s a proactive measure that not only prevents inconveniences but also safeguards your health, conserves resources, and prolongs the life of your plumbing system. Investing in routine inspections and timely repairs is a small price to pay compared to the potential consequences of neglecting this essential component of your home.
At Patton Plumbing Heating and AC, we understand the importance of regular plumbing maintenance and are committed to providing top-notch services to ensure the efficiency and longevity of your plumbing systems. Contact us today to schedule your regular maintenance and enjoy peace of mind knowing your plumbing is in good hands.
How to Winterize Your Plumbing System
As the cold weather approaches, preparing your home becomes crucial to avoid potential damage, especially to your plumbing system. Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on pipes, leading to costly repairs and inconveniences. Winterizing your plumbing is a proactive step toward ensuring a smoothly functioning system throughout the colder months. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to winterize your plumbing effectively.
Inspect Exposed Pipes
Begin by inspecting all exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Look for any signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. These vulnerable areas are at higher risk of freezing, so addressing any issues beforehand is essential.
Insulate Pipes
Wrap exposed pipes with insulation sleeves or foam. This extra layer helps prevent freezing by maintaining a consistent temperature around the pipes. Pay close attention to areas prone to cold drafts and ensure they’re adequately insulated.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses, and store them in a sheltered area. Shut off the outdoor water supply and drain any residual water from faucets and pipes leading to the outdoors. This prevents water from freezing and potentially causing pipes to burst.
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Seal any cracks or gaps around your home’s foundation, windows, and doors. Use caulking or weather-stripping to prevent cold air from entering, which can cause interior temperatures to drop and increase the risk of frozen pipes.
Service Your Water Heater
Your water heater works harder during the winter. Consider draining and flushing it to remove sediment buildup, which can affect its efficiency. Check for any leaks or signs of damage and ensure it’s set to an appropriate temperature to prevent freezing.
Keep Heating On
Maintain a consistent temperature inside your home, even when you’re away. Set your thermostat no lower than 55°F (12°C) to help prevent pipes from freezing. Consistent heating is crucial, especially in areas that aren’t frequently used.
Prepare for Vacant Properties
If you have a vacant property, take extra precautions. Shut off the main water supply and drain all the pipes to prevent any water from freezing and causing extensive damage in your absence. Consider enlisting professional help for this process.
Emergency Preparedness
Despite all precautions, sometimes pipes can still freeze. Know the location of your main shut-off valve in case of emergencies. If a pipe does freeze, turn off the water supply immediately to prevent further damage, and use a hairdryer or towels soaked in hot water to thaw the pipe gently.
Winterizing your plumbing system is an essential part of home maintenance. By taking the time to prepare your plumbing system for winter, you can prevent costly damage, save energy, and enjoy peace of mind throughout the cold months. If you need help winterizing your plumbing system, or if you’re facing any plumbing issues, don’t hesitate to contact Patton Plumbing Heating and AC. Our team of experienced professionals is ready to help you keep your home safe and comfortable all year round.
Winter Heating Hacks: Staying Warm Without Breaking the Bank
Winter is approaching, and it’s time to start thinking about how to stay warm without spending a fortune on heating bills. Here are five easy and effective winter heating hacks that can help you stay warm without breaking the bank.
1. Seal Your Windows and Doors
The first step to staying warm in winter is to ensure that your home is properly sealed. Check for any gaps or cracks around your windows and doors and use weather stripping to seal them. This can help prevent cold air from seeping into your home and save you money on your heating bills.
2. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can help you save money on your heating bills by automatically adjusting the temperature in your home based on your schedule. Set your thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re away from home or sleeping, and raise it when you’re home and awake. This can help you save up to 10% on your heating bills.
3. Use a Space Heater
If you spend most of your time in one room, consider using a space heater instead of heating your entire home. This can help you save money on your heating bills by only heating the space you’re using. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe use.
4. Use Insulated Curtains
Insulated curtains can help keep the heat inside your home by preventing cold air from coming in through your windows. They can also help keep your home cooler in the summer by blocking out sunlight. Look for curtains with a thermal lining for maximum insulation.
5. Use Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling down in the summer. In the winter, you can use your ceiling fan to help circulate warm air throughout your home. Set your fan to run clockwise at a low speed to gently push warm air down from the ceiling.
By following these five easy and effective winter heating hacks, you can stay warm without breaking the bank. Remember to also have your HVAC system serviced regularly to ensure it’s running efficiently. Contact Patton Plumbing Heating and AC to schedule a service appointment today.
Signs Your HVAC System Needs Repairs
As a homeowner, you rely on your HVAC system to keep your home comfortable throughout the year. However, just like any other appliance, your HVAC system can break down or malfunction over time. It’s important to recognize the signs that your HVAC system needs repairs before it becomes a major issue. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some common signs that your HVAC system needs repairs and what you can do about it.
1. Strange Noises
If you hear strange noises coming from your HVAC system, such as banging, rattling, or grinding, it could be a sign that there’s something wrong. These noises could indicate a loose or broken part or a malfunctioning motor. If you hear any unusual sounds, it’s best to call an HVAC professional to diagnose the problem.
2. Airflow Issues
If you’re experiencing poor airflow from your HVAC system, it could indicate a clogged or dirty air filter, blocked ductwork, or a malfunctioning blower motor. Poor airflow can also cause your system to work harder, leading to increased energy bills and decreased efficiency. Regularly changing your air filter and scheduling regular maintenance can help prevent airflow issues.
3. High Energy Bills
If you notice a sudden increase in your energy bills, it could be a sign that your HVAC system is working harder than it needs to. This could be due to a variety of issues, such as a clogged air filter, dirty coils, or a malfunctioning thermostat. Regular maintenance and repairs can help keep your system running efficiently and prevent unnecessary energy costs.
4. Inconsistent Temperatures
If you notice that some areas of your home are warmer or cooler than others, it could be a sign of an issue with your HVAC system. This could be due to ductwork issues, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a faulty air handler. An HVAC professional can diagnose the issue and provide the necessary repairs.
5. Strange Odors
If you smell strange odors coming from your HVAC system, such as a musty or burning smell, it could be a sign of a serious issue. A musty smell could indicate mold or mildew growth, while a burning smell could indicate an electrical issue. If you notice any strange odors, it’s important to call an HVAC professional right away.
Recognizing the signs that your HVAC system needs repairs is crucial for maintaining your home’s comfort and efficiency. By scheduling regular maintenance and repairs, you can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure that your HVAC system is running at its best. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Patton Plumbing Heating and AC for all your HVAC needs.
Keeping Your Air Conditioner Running Efficiently This Summer: Expert Tips
Summer is here, and with rising temperatures, the importance of a well-functioning air conditioner cannot be overstated.
With a properly maintained AC unit, you can beat the heat and enjoy a comfortable living space while keeping your energy bills in check. In this blog post, we’ll share valuable tips and strategies to help you keep your air conditioner running efficiently throughout the summer months. Follow these guidelines provided by the experts at Patton Plumbing, Heating, and AC, and make the most of your cooling system.
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule a professional tune-up for your air conditioner before the summer heat kicks in. A qualified technician will inspect and clean the unit, ensuring it operates optimally. Routine maintenance improves energy efficiency, reduces the risk of breakdowns, and extends the lifespan of your AC system
- Clean or Replace Air Filters: Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your air conditioner to work harder to cool your home. Clean or replace the air filters every one to three months to maintain proper airflow and maximize efficiency.
- Optimize Thermostat Settings: Adjusting your thermostat by a few degrees can make a significant difference in energy consumption. Consider setting the temperature a bit higher when you’re away from home or during the night when cooler temperatures prevail. A programmable or smart thermostat allows you to automate temperature adjustments, saving energy and money.
- Seal Air Leaks: Inspect your home for air leaks around windows, doors, and ducts. Seal any gaps or cracks to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering your living spaces. This simple step can improve your AC’s efficiency and reduce your cooling costs.
- Utilize Ceiling Fans: Supplement your air conditioner with ceiling fans to enhance air circulation. Ceiling fans create a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler without significantly lowering the temperature. By using fans, you can raise your thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
- Keep Heat-Producing Appliances Away: Appliances such as ovens, dryers, and incandescent light bulbs generate heat, forcing your AC to work harder. During the hottest hours of the day, minimize the use of these appliances or shift their usage to cooler times, such as evenings or early mornings.
- Utilize Natural Shade: Make use of natural shade from trees, curtains, or blinds to block direct sunlight from entering your home. By reducing the heat gain, you can lessen the workload on your air conditioner, allowing it to run more efficiently.
- Clear the Condenser Unit: Keep the outdoor condenser unit clean and clear of debris, such as leaves, dirt, and grass. Maintain at least two feet of clearance around the unit to ensure proper airflow. Regularly inspect and clean the condenser coils to maximize the AC’s cooling capacity.
- Consider Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Models: If your air conditioner is outdated or inefficient, consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model. Energy Star certified units can provide substantial savings on your energy bills while keeping your home comfortably cool.
- Professional Inspection: Schedule an annual inspection by a qualified HVAC professional to assess your entire cooling system. They can identify any potential issues, provide necessary repairs or replacements, and offer expert advice on optimizing your AC’s efficiency.
By following these expert tips, you can ensure that your air conditioner runs efficiently, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the summer season. Remember, regular maintenance, smart thermostat usage, energy-saving practices, and professional assistance are key to maximizing your AC’s efficiency and reducing your energy costs.
Stay cool and beat the summer heat with Patton Plumbing, Heating, and AC – your trusted partner in air conditioning solutions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about optimizing your cooling system for maximum efficiency.
Just reach out to our team today at (901) 489-2119 or contact us online to have any questions answered about AC maintenance in Arlington.
Career Fair at Fayette-Ware Comprehensive High School
The Career Fair at Fayette-Ware Comprehensive High School is an excellent opportunity for students to explore their options after graduation. One of the paths that should be considered is the trades. Though sometimes overlooked, a career in the trades can be incredibly rewarding. From electricians to technicians and more, there are numerous trades to choose from.
Not only do these careers offer job security, but they also provide the opportunity to work with your hands, build rewarding customer relationships, and see the tangible results of your hard work. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the benefits of working in this field.
What Is a Trade Job?
Skilled trades are occupations that require a distinct set of skills and knowledge that are usually acquired through practical training. Unlike traditional higher education, skilled trade workers will spend a significant amount of time learning the ins and outs of their particular trade through practical experience. This hands-on approach not only allows individuals to gain the necessary skills for their job but also prepares them to be critical thinkers and problem solvers in their field. A career in the skilled trades can be an excellent option for those looking to enter the workforce quickly and with a specific skill set.
The trades can be split into the five broad categories:
- Agricultural
- Construction
- Transportation
- Service
- Manufacturing & Industrial
Here at Patton Plumbing Heating and A/C, our company focuses on the construction category.
Examples in the construction trades include:
- Plumbers
- Heating and air conditioning technicians
- Electricians
- Painters
- And more!
Why Choose a Career in the Trades?
When it comes to choosing a career, the trades can offer a wealth of benefits that shouldn’t be overlooked. In addition to the opportunity to work with your hands and create tangible products, there are many other advantages to consider.
1. Shorter & More Affordable Pathways
Training programs for the skilled trades offer a quicker and more cost-effective path towards starting a career than other higher-education options. Instead of spending four years in a traditional academic program, you can earn a degree or certification in just two years. This not only saves time but also reduces accumulated debt as you start your adult life. Moreover, many apprenticeship programs offer on-the-job training, allowing individuals to get paid while learning a trade.
2. High Wages
In the past, high paying jobs were often associated with four-year university degrees while tradespeople were perceived as having lower earning potential. However, this perception is not accurate. Skilled tradespeople can earn salaries equivalent to or even higher than their academic counterparts. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, plumbers made a median pay of $59,880 in 2021.
In addition, a majority of trade jobs also offer excellent benefits and retirement packages, which are not always available in other careers. Those who seek to excel in their trade can earn even higher incomes by learning additional applications and processes. Skilled tradespeople are highly sought-after workers and often become mentors for those entering their field.
3. Satisfying & Rewarding Work
The trades offer a change from mundane day-to-day motions and can be rewarding for those who enjoy variety in their work days. Working in the trades brings excitement and fosters camaraderie among coworkers. Perhaps most importantly, there is a genuine sense of pride and satisfaction that comes from completing a job well done. A survey from 2021 revealed that around 83% of tradespeople were either somewhat or extremely satisfied with their jobs.
Whether it’s fixing a pipe or installing a new HVAC system, the trades offer a sense of fulfillment that can be hard to find in other professions. If you’re looking for a career to explore, consider the trades – the sense of pride you’ll experience in your work will make it all worthwhile.
4. High Employment Demand
As the job market continues to change and adapt, one field remains a constant necessity: skilled trades. Communities across the country have a growing demand for highly-trained electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, and other tradespeople to build and maintain infrastructure, homes, and facilities.
According to analysts, the demand for skilled trades jobs will only continue to rise in the coming years, with over 3 million positions projected to be unfilled by 2028. These positions are essential to ensuring our daily amenities, such as electricity and water, continue to function smoothly. The skilled trades industry provides a unique opportunity for individuals to have a fulfilling career while also contributing to our community’s overall well-being.
Contact Patton Plumbing Heating and A/C to Learn More
Choosing a career path can often be a daunting task. However, it’s important to remember that there are many options available to you. The trades, for instance, offer a variety of rewarding and fulfilling career paths.
Patton Plumbing Heating and A/C is thrilled to participate in the Career Fair at Fayette-Ware Comprehensive High School each year. We believe that it’s essential to educate students about the possibilities of working in the plumbing & HVAC industry.
Our team is happy to share our knowledge about the trades, such as the necessary skills and the kind of work involved. Even if you couldn’t attend the event, we welcome you to contact us and learn more about what we do. Our focus is always on serving the community, and we’d be delighted to chat with you.
Don’t let the stresses of career planning discourage you from exploring all of your options. Reach out to us for guidance on your journey towards success!
Call us today at (901) 489-2119 or contact us online! We’re more than happy to help you learn more about working in the trades.
How Does Drain Cleaning Fit into Your Plumbing Maintenance Routine?
How Does Drain Cleaning Fit into Your Plumbing Maintenance Routine?
Drain cleaning is essential to plumbing maintenance because it cleans clogs and eliminates blockages that can impact water flow. Without regular drain cleaning, your drains can become clogged, trapping wastewater and causing unpleasant odors. Drain issues can also lead to serious property damage from flooding and water damage. Because drain cleaning is an important part of maintaining your plumbing system, you need to ensure your inspection and system care is being handled by a qualified professional. Many technicians suggest beginning drain cleaning with a video camera inspection. This additional step will allow your plumbing professional to remove debris and gain better insight into challenges that may exist in your pipes.
What are Some of the Signs of Draining Issues
Clogs can be a major inconvenience, but it’s important to understand when these problems require professional help. One sign of serious drainage issue is sluggish draining. If your drains move slowly, that could indicate you have a clog forming or another blockage in your pipes. If you notice unpleasant odors coming from your drains, that could also be a sign of impending problems. If you see pools of standing water near your faucets or plumbing fixtures, or if the drains start to gurgle when running water, it’s time to call in the experts. A plumbing professional will inspect your system, locate and remove debris causing problems.
Why is Drain Cleaning Important to Plumbing Health?
Drain cleaning and maintenance can identify issues such as pipe corrosion or breaks in your lines that may further increase the risk of plumbing problems. After inspecting and cleaning your system, your plumbing team will have all the information they need to appropriately treat your pipes moving forward. At Patton Plumbing Heating and A/C, we offer our customers complimentary video camera inspections with drain cleaning services, which underlines how effective we believe this combination to be when preparing to clean your drain. Video camera inspections involve inserting a long, thin waterproof camera into the drainage system to get an up-close view of any blockages or issues preventing water flow. Knowing the exact cause of blockage can help identify the appropriate action and proper tools for restoring proper function to your drainage system. The ability to diagnose your plumbing issues accurately and efficiently before beginning ensures a more thorough and effective cleaning.
Which Drain Cleaning Method is Right for Your Home?
Drainage problems can be a nuisance, so choosing the right drain cleaning method is key. A trained plumber will be able to determine how best to proceed once they’ve inspected your system. Whether your drain would benefit from manual methods such as plungers and plumber snakes or high-pressure water jetting to blast away debris and clogs, entrusting your system to the expertise of a professional plumber is your safest bet. A qualified technician is better equipped to help decide which drain cleaning solution is right for your home.
How Often Should You Clean Your Drains?
Drain cleaning is an essential part of plumbing maintenance that should not be neglected. To ensure your pipes stay clear and function properly, it’s important to have them inspected and cleaned regularly. There is no one-size-fits-all answer as to how often your drains should be cleaned. The frequency depends on multiple factors, such as the size of the pipes and the environment they are in, so it’s best to consult a professional plumber. After an inspection, your plumber will be able to provide suggestions for how often your system should be cleaned. Generally speaking, however, maintaining an annual inspection and cleaning schedule can avoid unsightly back-ups or potential flooding in your home.
Contact the Team at Patton Plumbing Heating and A/C Today!
Drain cleaning is important for plumbing maintenance because it helps prevent clogs and keeps your drains flowing properly. As part of your plumbing maintenance routine, drain cleaning is preventative. When drain cleaning is used as a reactive tool, it’s often because you’ve experienced a plumbing problem. Drain cleaning on a schedule can help you prevent clogs and keep your system running smoothly – saving time and money. If you’re experiencing any of the signs indicating drainage problems, call Patton Plumbing Heating and A/C. We will clean your drain and help keep it clear long-term. Call (901) 489-2119 to schedule an appointment with our team today.
Don’t Be Surprised if HVAC Issues are Leading to Poor Indoor Air Quality
Don’t Be Surprised if HVAC Issues are Leading to Poor Indoor Air Quality
Most people are aware that their HVAC system has an impact on their indoor air quality. However, many do not realize how much of an impact it can have. Cold and hot spots in your home can create drafts that allow dust and other pollutants to circulate through your home. Airflow issues can also cause problems that lead to the distribution of contaminants in your air. In this blog post, we will discuss how HVAC issues can impact indoor air quality and how you can improve it.
5 Common HVAC Issues Impacting Indoor Air Quality
Inadequate HVAC maintenance can lead to several common issues that can greatly impact the air quality in your home. Poor airflow from blocked ducts or vents and a broken fan motor can reduce circulation and contribute to poor indoor air quality. Cold or hot spots throughout a house can be caused by imbalanced airflow, which strongly indicates that you have dirty filters allowing large amounts of contaminated particles into your home. These types of HVAC-related issues can rack up quickly and impact the quality of the air you breathe.
Here are five of the most common HVAC issues causing poor air quality in homes:
1. Poor Airflow: When the airflow from vents and ducts is inadequate or blocked, it can cause circulation problems and lead to poor indoor air quality. This is especially true if there is a broken fan motor, which reduces the amount of air being moved throughout the home.
2. Unbalanced Airflow: Inadequate maintenance can lead to imbalanced airflow, creating cold and hot spots throughout the house. This causes discomfort for you and your family and can prevent circulation and cause the air to feel stale.
3. Dirty Evaporator Coils: When your evaporator coils become dirty, it can reduce their ability to remove humidity from the air. This can create a sticky environment in your home and decrease air quality. It is important to have your evaporator coils cleaned periodically.
4. Poor Insulation: If your insulation is inadequate, it can lead to cold and hot spots throughout the home. This temperature imbalance will stress your HVAC system and can decrease indoor air quality.
5. Dirty Filters: Installing a higher efficiency filter that limits dust particles can help improve indoor air quality. The filters act as a barrier against airborne particles and should be replaced regularly to ensure optimal air quality.
HVAC Maintenance Can Significantly Improve Indoor Air Quality
Keeping an eye on your HVAC system is essential to improving and protecting the air quality in your home. One great tip for keeping your HVAC system running properly is to switch to a higher quality air filter if you’ve noticed problems with the quality of air in your home. Regularly changing your filters is on the first line of HVAC maintenance. Having consistent temperatures throughout the home is also a key factor to consider when tackling indoor air quality concerns. These types of inconsistencies must be top of mind when trying to take control of the air quality in one’s home. HVAC maintenance is an important part of maintaining healthy indoor air quality. Regular HVAC maintenance can significantly improve indoor air quality by removing contaminants from the air, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens. Additionally, HVAC systems that are properly maintained can improve energy efficiency and save money each month. Regular maintenance should be performed to not only ensure your heating and cooling systems are in good working condition, but to also ensure other components such as filters, fans, and other parts that contribute to poor air quality are also working well.
Contact Patton Plumbing Heating and A/C for Indoor Air Quality Solutions
By paying attention to your HVAC system, you can improve the air quality in your home and create a healthier atmosphere for your family. Regular maintenance will help maintain good indoor air quality and keep your HVAC system running properly. HVAC maintenance doesn’t have to be long and laborious. With just a few simple steps you can ensure that the air in your home is clean and healthy! Call today at (901) 489-2119 to schedule an appointment.
