Author: Clarke & Rush

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Efficiency

Written by Clarke & Rush on August 2, 2020. Posted in HVAC.

Sacramento HVAC Contractor Explains Heating, Ventilation and AC Efficiency

In the summer of 2014, the US Department of Energy (DOE) confirmed new regulations on the efficiency standards for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment for residential and commercial use. These changes went into effect January 1, 2015 but there is an 18-month grace period for distributors to sell their remaining inventory that doesn’t adhere to the new standards. Call a Sacramento HVAC Contractor to ensure your home is up to standards.

These new standards have to do with the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) standards. The minimum changes will affect air conditioners and heaters installed on or after January 1, 2015. The current standard for air conditioners is 13 SEER. The new standard for California will be 14 SEER and 12.2 or 11.7 EER depending on the system’s capacity.

The biggest change in these new standards involves split-system heat pumps. In a split-system, an outdoor cabinet containing the condenser and compressor typically sits on a concrete slab. This cabinet is connected to the indoor machinery, which contains the furnace, and evaporator. This indoor cabinet is frequently located in the attic or a closet and connects to the outdoor cabinet through a refrigerant line. Heating regulations for this particular type of machinery have a significant bump in minimum efficiency standards. The previous minimums were a score of 13 seer and HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). The new minimums are 14 seer and 8.2 HSPF. All component parts in the entire split-system air conditioners and heating units must have an aggregate SEER rating that meets these new requirements.

HVAC ducts must be insulated with material with a thermal resistance rating or 8 (R8). A high thermal resistance rating indicates that the ducts do not lose heat as air is flowing through them – increasing their efficiency to deposit warm air where it’s needed. Ducts also must be certified to be free of leaks.

Incentives

Several companies, such as PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E, are offering prescriptive rebates for upgrading to more efficient systems. There may be an incentive for the following:

Lighting
HVAC – Tuneups, maintenance, and equipment upgrade
Water heaters
Food service equipment
Refrigeration
Motors
Window film
Insulation

These companies are offering government entities special payment deals (on-bill financing) that translate to zero percent, no fee loans of up to $250,000 (or $1 million under certain conditions) with terms of up to ten years for installing qualified energy-efficiency measures. These measures must be installed under specified utility incentive programs. These loans are then paid back on the monthly utility bill. Under some circumstances, the monthly energy savings may be more than the monthly payment.

Home Performance Program

The Home Performance Program (HPP) from the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) offers up to $5,000 in rebates to individuals for retrofitting their homes in the SMUD territory of Sacramento. These energy-efficient retrofits include the installation of high performance windows and HVAC systems. The rebate amounts homeowners may receive through this program are based on energy saving results.

HPP efficiency is affected by several factors, such as:

Windows
HVAC
Insulation
Ducts
Sealing within the home
Water heater

Depending on where a family lives, their utility company, and the specific upgrade they get, they may be eligible for thousands of dollars in rebates. Speak to a Sacramento HVAC contractor to learn how.

Replacing HVAC Systems

The system that heats or cools the air in a home accounts for almost 40% of the utility bill. Replacing old and inefficient HVAC systems with a newer, more efficient, and smoothly running system is a great way to improve air quality as well as decrease the monthly cost of energy. SEER rating is an important tool for understanding the efficiency of an HVAC model and is important to recognize when deciding between new systems. HVAC systems that are 10 – 15 years old typically have a SEER rating between 6 and 10. Newer models available today can have anywhere between 14 – 18 seer. This is a huge difference in efficiency and can make a significant change in your home. If you need to replace your HVAC system, a skilled Sacramento HVAC contractor is your best option.

Replacing Windows

As windows get older, there may be an increase in the instance of cracked joints and crevices as well as gaps between the window and the rest of the building. This creates space for treated air to escape, greatly decreasing an HVAC system’s efficiency. Energy efficient windows can prevent the loss of this energy while increasing the amount of natural light without permitting heat to get in.

Talk to a Sacramento HVAC Contractor to Make Your HVAC Solution More Efficient

For over 50 years, Clarke & Rush has been providing top of the line home performance products and services. If you need to replace your HVAC or want to learn how to make it more efficient, call (916) 609 – 2669 to speak to a Sacramento HVAC contractor.

Getting your Home Ready for Fall

Written by Clarke & Rush on August 2, 2020. Posted in Residential Plumbing, Water Heaters.

When preparing your home for the colder temperatures to come, people often overlook their water heaters, without realizing that this apparent harmless omission can actually lead to higher energy bills, or worse, a breakdown of their water heating system – something you do not want to face in colder temperatures. Getting your home ready for fall isn’t too hard. It’s best to make sure everythings working properly. Our water heater experts at Clarke & Rush have prepared a to-do list that will make sure that your water heater perfoms at its full potential throughout the new seasons.

Drain the Water Tank

Over a period of time, especially in the heat, minerals precipitate from the water and settle at the bottom of the hot water tank. This hinders the efficiency of the hot water tank and clogs the drain. So, it is a good idea to drain the water tank at least once a year, preferably before fall.

Insulate the Water Heater Tank

One of the best ways to reduce the costs associated with water heating is to prevent heat loss. This can only be done by insulating the hot water tank. The foil insulating blankets are easily available in the market at reasonable prices.

Monitor the Pressure Rlief Valve

Pressure relief valve needs to be checked. You’ll see if the pressure is escaping or if it’s trapped. This part of the checkup is really important as the buildup of pressure inside the tank can cause it to explode, and that can be a big security risk.

Check the Anode Rod

The water heater is equipped with an anode rod, whose main function is to prevent rust from accumulating on the walls of the tank. The anode rod is prone to corrosion over time and after corrosion, it will lose its peak performance. Eventually, it will cause the tank to rust. Therefore, it is imperative to check the anode rod for efficient performance of the tank.

Turn the Temperature Up

Adjusting the temperature of the water to hot is a good method to prevent bacteria from entering the water. The temperature you should be aiming for is around 140 F, as this temperature is enough to fight off bacteria without burning your skin.

Solve all of your plumbing problems by Contacting Clarke & Rush

Now that you’re getting your home ready for fall, you can contact Clarke & Rush for some professional help. Schedule a plumbing maintenance or water heater checkup so you can be ready for fall without any worries.

How often should my gutters be replaced?

Replacing Gutters Can Prevent Damage to Your Home

Written by Clarke & Rush on August 1, 2020. Posted in Gutter Replacement, Home Improvement.

Replacing gutters may be the last thing you think of when upgrading your home. We have outlined some things to consider when you’re thinking of gutter replacement.

Replacing gutters is a big decision.

Home gutters were built to last and are likely to last for many years depending on the material used to make them. However, with time your gutters will start to deteriorate and eventually you will end up fixing or replacing gutters.

Given the benefits you get from your gutters, such as preventing rainwater from damaging your foundation, it is important to ensure that your gutters are in the best shape. Your home’s value depends on the ability to understand how and when you should replace or fix your gutters. Here are a few factors the professionals at Clarke & Rush use to determine when to replace your gutters.

Type of Gutter Material

Depending on the material used, your gutters can last anywhere between a few years to more than 20 years. For example, galvanized steel and copper made gutters tend to last longer than other varieties.

The type of material used will determine how soon defects such as rust, leakages, and detachments from the roof start to happen. It should also tell you how soon you are expected to replace them.

Gutter Maintenance

How often you maintain your gutters will determine how often you will replace them. Proper maintenance will keep your gutters going for longer. Maintenance includes cleaning and fixing any detached areas.

Carrying out regular inspection and following through with proper maintenance will increase the lifespan of your gutters. Your roofing expert will help you with all your home Sacramento gutter installation and maintenance issues.

Weather Conditions

People living in stormy areas tend to replace their gutters more often than those living in more temperate climates. The wind might detach the gutter from the fascia. Such repeated incidences will lead to gutter wear. Increased gutter wear means that you will have to replace them more often.

Wear and Tear

If your gutters are visibly sagging or detached from the roof then it might be time to call a roofing expert for gutter replacement. You also need to replace your gutters if you notice numerous cracks, holes or rust spots and if your gutter is pulling away from your roof.

The best time to carry out an inspection is during the rainy season. Carefully walk around your house and inspect your gutters. You are more likely to notice effects then.

Damage to Your House

Your gutters are supposed to keep water away from your house. Your gutters will need replacing if you start noticing things like water in your basement, eroded landscaping around your house, and peeling paint from your walls. This will mean that your gutters are not effective. It is also important to ensure that your downspouts are properly attached to the gutters. Make sure they extend at least 10 feet from your foundation.

Level of Damage

The level of damage on your gutters will determine whether you need to replace them or simply repair them. Minor problems such as missing downspouts and lose gutters are easily fixable. Problems such as holes will require a replacement. Make sure to involve a qualified roofing expert to help replace your gutters.

Proper maintenance of your home makes economic sense and helps retain the value of your home. Now that you know how often you should be replacing your gutters, you can decide whether it’s time. Contact Clarke & Rush for professional roofing and gutter maintenance to keep your home in its best condition.

Did You Know Clarke & Rush has Professional Plumbing Services?

Written by Clarke & Rush on June 19, 2020. Posted in Residential Plumbing.

Clarke and Rush are known for their HVAC services, however they offer more than just heating and air conditioning. They also offer plumbing, window, gutters and insulation. If you are ever in the need of a plumber, call us now (916) 609-2669. Here is a list of some of the Plumbing Services in Sacramento, CA that Clarke & Rush offer:

Leak Detection and Repair
Water Heater Repair or Replacement
Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement
Gas Line Installation or Service
Water and Drain Pipes Repair
Bathroom Kitchen Remodel
Faucet, Toilet or Bath Fixture Replacement
Water Filtration Systems
Appliance / Gas Grill Hook-Up
Water Jet Service and Sewer Cleaning
Whole House Re-Pipe Service

If you are unable to talk now we also have an online contact form here.[vc_single_image image=”2492″ img_size=”large” onclick=”custom_link” link=”tel:9166092669″]

Air Conditioning Installation

Written by Clarke & Rush on June 2, 2020. Posted in Residential HVAC.

AC Installation Contractor in Sacramento Explains Air Conditioning Install

The first big heat wave of the year seems to catch just about everyone off guard and results in a huge surge of air conditioning installs. The last thing a homeowner wants to do in the hottest days of summer is to have to replace a broken air conditioning system. The desperation of needing a new system during a heat wave can lead to frustration and rash decisions. Two things can lead to subpar consequences. For most homeowners, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system in our own homes is a bit of a mystery and replacing any equipment can seem rather daunting. This article aims to clarify what one should expect when replacing an air conditioning unit and how to avoid getting taken advantage of or making uneducated decisions. It’s always best to speak to an AC installation contractor in Sacramento for any specific questions you may have.

It is important to note a rising trend in licensed HVAC contractors to tell their customers that building permits are not required for the installation of air conditioning units. Unfortunately, this is simply untrue. In fact, a homeowner’s insurance policy may be nullified if the insurance company discovers that work has been done on the property without the necessary permits.

Consultation

A thorough company will schedule a consultation with the homeowner to evaluate the specific needs of their home. Every home is different and thus will have unique HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) needs. It is helpful to have an experienced AC installation contractor in Sacramento evaluate your home and suggest the best system to provide the appropriate air conditioning.

The contractor should also discuss estimates on unit replacement as well as rebates and tax credits your family may be able to take advantage of.

Pre-installation

Though the company you choose to install your new air conditioning unit will do the vast majority of the work, there are some things you can do to prepare your home. This will expedite the process on installation day and further ensure your home and property will be safe and unharmed.

Remove any obstacles around the existing unit
Remove all valuables in the vicinity of the installation area such as artwork or tabletop items. – Your installation team will clear the area before installing your new device, but doing this work ahead of time will allow you to place your valuables where you prefer and will allow the team to get to work faster.
Make all areas of your home accessible. – Removing the old unit and bringing in the new one will require moving large objects through your home (if the unit is indoors). Clearing a path for this heavy lifting will make it easier on your installation team and decrease the likelihood of damage to any of your belongings.

Installation

The installation should be scheduled at your convenience and the installation team should arrive in a timely manner. Every company is different and the AC installation contractor in Sacramento should explain more in details for your project, but the general order of business is as follows:

The contractor can walk you through the installation steps and answer any questions you may have.
Drop clothes and foot coverings will be placed wherever necessary to keep your home clean and safe during the installation process.
The old unit will be disconnected, and all coolant will be removed. The old unit will the be removed from the property.
The space where the old unit was located will be cleaned before installation of the new unit.
Any retrofits necessary to accommodate the new unit will be performed.
If the area in which the unit will be installed is particularly small, such as an attic or crawl space, the new unit may be disassembled in order to be brought into the area.
The new unit will be installed per the manufacturer’s specifications.
Any necessary electrical upgrades for the new system will be made.
Any other changes to meet building code requirements, such as adding drain lines, flue pipes, or other components will be completed.
Once installation is complete, the installation team will fully inspect and test the new system. Old lines are flushed before adding new refrigerant. Pressure and vacuum tests will be conducted to ensure the installation was successful.
All materials and tools used in the installation process will be removed and the general area where the air conditioning unit was installed will be tidied up.
Important information regarding the system will be provided, including how to use it and answering any questions the homeowner may have.
Before leaving, the installation team will ensure you are satisfied with the job. They will then review all paperwork with you, including warranty, and collect the final payment.

Contact an AC Installation Contractor in Sacramento for your Residential HVAC Needs

The Sacramento summer heat can be extremely difficult and unbearable without proper air conditioning. As air conditioning specialists, we at Clarke and Rush know just what to do to avoid the brutal heat days by planning ahead, providing proper installation and superb maintenance. Give us a call at (916) 609 – 2669 to speak to an AC installation contractor in Sacramento.

signs you need to replace your water line

5 Signs You Need Water Lines Replaced

Written by Clarke & Rush on May 25, 2020. Posted in Plumbing Problems, Water Line Repair.

It is important to make sure that your water lines are properly maintained at all times. This not only allows you to receive adequate water in your home, but it also prevents contamination and possible damage to your property.

5 signs you need water lines replaced

Soggy Spots on your lawn

Your water line is buried underground and passed through your yard or lawn. Any break or crack will cause leakages which will lead to the water seeping into the soil. This leaves soggy spots or puddles in your yard. Such conditions can create some undesirable effects. You are likely to experience the following from soggy or pooled puddles in your yard.

Spawning pools for mosquitoes. Water only needs to stay stagnant for a few days for mosquitos to start breeding.
Drowned plants and grass. Once the plants are dead, erosion can occur leaving your yard looking bare and unattractive. This is not an ideal situation if you have kids.
It can make your yard slippery and increase the chances of accidents. Slippery grounds can cause accidents that result in serious injuries and in some extreme cases death.
The water, without being replaced, can damage your foundation and find its way into the basement increasing the level of humidity in your house. This is especially dangerous because the damage can extend to your personal belongings. Excess humidity provides the right conditions for the formation of mold in your house.

Discolored Water

Your water line can get old and rusted with time. This will introduce rust into the water which is the cause of the discoloration affecting the quality of the water. Discoloration caused by a faulty water line will be present in all your water faucets and sinks. You are also likely to see it in both hot and cold water.

Low Water Pressure

If you are experiencing lower water pressure than normal, then your water line could be leaking and needs to be replaced. You are also likely to see this effect on all your water outlets. Call a trained expert to help you determine where the leakage is and fix it.

Hike in Water Bills

If you notice a sudden and unexplainable increase in your water bill, then there could be a problem with your water line. Left unchecked, this can have some substantial financial effects on you. An expert will be able to locate the problem and offer a lasting solution.

Have Your Water Line Replaced

Now that we’ve gone over the signs you need a water line replaced, you can decide if you need a water line repair. Do not wait until there is extensive damage to your yard or property to call a qualified plumber in Sacramento. Clarke & Rush offers professional water line repairs and replacement services throughout the year. With us, you are can expect a guarantee in performance, zero diagnostic fees, and excellent customer service.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

How to Tell if You Need Air Conditioning Repair

Written by Clarke & Rush on May 20, 2020. Posted in Residential HVAC.

How To Tell If You Need Air Conditioning Repair in Sacramento

Thermostats detect the temperature of a room and compare this to the desired temperature, activating the home’s heating or cooling components when the comparison differs significantly. Thermostats do their job quietly without requiring too much outside work. When they do stop functioning, everyone in the home is likely to notice and perhaps panic. Before calling an ac repair company, first check that the thermostat is not to blame and then seek air conditioning repair in Sacramento.

What kind of thermostat do I have?

The first thing a homeowner should do is determine which type of thermostat is installed. There are two main types of thermostats:

Electromechanical thermostat – These thermostats are the older and more basic models, relying on wires, levers, and a magnet to indicate if there is a significant difference between the detected temperature and the indicated temperature. In these thermostats, a strip of two types of metals are joined together just under the cover, often in a coil shape. This coil will expand or contract in reaction to changes in temperature. The coil is attached to a rotating post, which is connected to the temperature lever, which the homeowner has adjusted for the specific temperature desired. When the coil expands or shrinks, the rotating post affects the lever. When the lever is moved sufficiently from the desired temperature, the heater or air conditioning unit is activated.
Electronic thermostat – This is the modern version of the thermostat and functions like a simple computer. These are often programmable, permitting flexibility in temperature controls, timers, and preferences. Unlike electromechanical thermostats, electronic thermostats do not require manual adjustments. They can be programmed to different temperatures throughout the day so a homeowner’s preferences for the temperature of their home during sleep, wake, and work can all be automatic. These preferences can even be programmed for different days of the week. While this automated system is much more convenient, it means the machinery is much more complicated with more components that can malfunction. For less expensive models, the maintenance to repair the ac system may be more expensive than simply replacing the unit by Sacramento ac installation contractors at Clarke & Rush.

Once the thermostat type is determined, there are several ways to troubleshoot your system, depending on the problem. Be sure to cut power to the system before opening the thermostat and cleaning or repairing any components. It’s always best to get ac repair in Sacramento done by a specialist.

Furnace won’t start

Check the power source – Look for blown fuses, tripped breakers, and dead batteries
Check for dirt, dust, and other debris inside the thermostat – A buildup can cause the mechanical and electrical components to malfunction. Clean using a soft brush, such as a clean paintbrush. Compressed air is another great tool.
Investigate screws and wires for loose or corroded components – Check the owner’s manual to ensure wires are correctly placed.

Thermostat won’t adjust temperature to desired setting

Sometimes it just seems the thermostat is not doing its job. To determine if the thermostat is adjusting the room temperature to what is indicated on the thermostat, perform the following test:

Tape a thermometer to the wall beside the thermostat.
Wait for at least 15 minutes to give the thermometer time to stabilize on a reading.
Compare the thermometer to the thermostat reading.
If the thermometer and thermostat differ by more than a single degree, the thermostat is most likely not giving an accurate reading. This should be mentioned to the repairman when seeking air conditioning repair in Sacramento.

Other considerations

Be sure the inside of the thermostat is clean
Check that the thermostat is level – this affects the internal components.
Check the location of the thermostat. If the thermostat is in direct sunlight or near a window or door, it may affect the temperature the thermostat is detecting.
For electromechanical thermostats, there may be a problem with the indicator arm. If this arm is in the wrong position, the heater may be turning off and on in quick succession, or may exceed or never reach the desired temperature. Open the thermostat cover and push the arm one calibration towards the word “longer” if the heater or air conditioner is turning off and on in quick succession. Push the arm one calibration away from the word “longer” if the desired temperature is being exceeded or not reached.

Having difficulties with your heater or air conditioning unit can be very frustrating. These simple troubleshooting techniques will hopefully allow you to save on the cost of a repairman or make the maintenance appointment quick and easy.

Call Us Now For Any Air Conditioning Repair in Sacramento Needs

With over 5 decades of air conditioning experience, we know just what it takes to ensure your home or office is fully equipped with optimal air conditioning. We know just how to fix any thermostat malfunctions! Give us a call at (916) 609–2669 for air conditioning repair in Sacramento.

How to Test Water Pressure at Home

Written by Clarke & Rush on May 15, 2020. Posted in Plumbing Problems, Repiping Services, Sewer Line, Water Heaters.

Water pressure can affect efficiency in a home. Low water pressure will affect how you enjoy your showers, clean your dishes, and do your laundry. Low water pressure also means that some of your taps might not dispense water at all.

High water pressure, on the other hand, will damage your pipes, appliances, water heater, and faucets, and can cause a mess in your house. To prevent this from happening, our plumbing professionals at Clarke & Rush suggest that you test the water pressure in your house.

Testing your water pressure is not hard. You need an inexpensive tool called a pressure gauge. The pressure gauge will help you accurately determine the pressure of the water you are receiving in your home. It is able to measure up to 300 pounds per square inch (psi).

How to Check Your Water Pressure at Home

Most people only test their water pressure if it becomes too low. However, it is important to periodically test your water pressure to determine whether there are problems that need fixing.

Turn off the water inside and outside your house. Make sure that all the taps, shower heads, dish washers, and appliances that use water are shut off as well. This ensures that no water is moving inside your plumbing system.

Place your gauge on the faucet or hose bib that is outside your house. You can place it to the tap closest to the meter if your water is supplied to you by the municipal council.

Make sure that the gauge is placed securely and completely open the faucet or tap. Make sure that there is no water leakage. A good seal will ensure that you get an accurate reading.

You can now check your gauge to determine the pressure of the water. Normally, you should expect a reading of 45 to 55 psi. Anything below 40 psi or above 80 psi requires immediate attention.

Handling High or Low Water Pressure

Depending on the reading, you will have to take action and rectify the water pressure. A reading of 40 psi and below indicates low water pressure while a reading of 80 psi and above indicates high water pressure. You do not need to take any action if the reading on your pressure gauge is normal.

If the water pressure is too high– Consider purchasing a pressure regulator. This helps maintain a maximum flow of 75 psi. If you have one already, get it checked. Pressure regulators can fail and affect water pressure.

If the water pressure is too low– Start by inspecting your pressure regulator and fixing it if it has failed. Your pressure regulator is usually set at 50 psi. This gives you room to adjust it and raise that value to your desired levels. If the regulator is not faulty, check with your municipal water utility as they could be delivering water at low pressure. You could also use a water pressure booster to increase the water pressure when you turn on the faucets.

A Sacramento plumber will be in a better position to help you determine your water pressure and provide the right solution to any problem regarding your plumbing. If you are looking for a Sacramento plumber, look no further than Clarke and Rush for professional plumbing services.

Common Questions About Boilers

Written by Clarke & Rush on December 18, 2019. Posted in Boilers.

Boiler heating systems are one of the most common heating systems for homes. They provide heating solutions for various purposes. Depending on your needs, having a boiler in your house requires that you understand certain things about them. This is also important if you are moving into an older house with a boiler heating system or are looking to have your boiler replaced. In this article, Clarke & Rush answers to 10 of the most common questions about boilers.

How do Boilers Work?

Your boiler works by heating water into steam from a heat source such as oil, gas or electricity. The steam is then distributed throughout your home through radiators or radiant floor systems where it provides warmth especially during cold seasons. It uses a thermostat which helps regulate the temperatures inside your home.

Do Boilers “Boil” Water?

Modern boilers do not “boil” water as opposed to the older systems. Instead, they use fuel sources to heat water to anywhere between 145-190 degrees.

What Are the Important Things I Need to Know About My Boiler Heating System?

Efficiency- is your boiler a standard or high-efficiency model? Both come with different venting. For example, a standard efficiency boiler will use a metal pipe while a high-efficiency model will use PVC.

Type of Radiator- Boilers come with different radiators such as Fintube, cast iron or baseboard.

How do I determine the Efficiency of My Boiler?

If you are buying a new boiler, look for the energy star rating. Modern boilers are more economical than older models due to technological advancements.

What are the Most Common Causes of Boiler Problems?

Here are some of the things that might go wrong with your boiler.

The pump might fail
Electrical components such as thermostats and controls might fail.
Air can get into the system thus lowering pressure.
In extremely cold conditions, water can freeze and damage the system

How Can I tell if the Boiler is Operating Efficiently?

You can have a professional check the control band or air to fuel ration through either a jackshaft mechanical system or an electronic linkageless control system. The boiler professionals will be able to properly optimize your system for efficiency.

What is Involved in Replacing the Boiler?

Depending on the complexity of the system, a boiler professional will first start by understanding the water distribution system in your home. Proper boiler replacement can only start once they have completed the analysis.

What Type of Boilers Will I Find in the Market?

You are likely to get the following types of boilers in the market.

Combi boiler- these combine the water heater and the central heating system thus removing the need for an external water tank.
System boiler- this one stores hot water and requires an external tank. The boiler heats all the water.
Standard boiler- You are likely to find these boilers in older homes. They have cold and hot water tanks.

How Often Should I Replace My Boiler?

Boilers are generally durable with up to a 15-year lifespan with proper and regular servicing. Your boiler professional will let you know if your boiler needs replacing.

Can I retrofit an old boiler to make it more energy efficient?

No. It is not advisable to alter the original design of the boiler. However, you can choose to replace the boiler with a more efficient unit.

There is much more you can learn about your boiler. Now that we’ve answered the most common questions about boilers, you can decide if you need boiler services. At Clarke and Rush, we offer professional boiler services in your home to ensure you save money, time and continue to enjoy a comfortable home. For more information about our other home services, contact us at Clarke & Rush.

maintaining your heat pump - clarke & rush

Heat Pump Maintenance Tips

Written by Clarke & Rush on December 4, 2019. Posted in Heat Pump.

Following these heat pump maintenance tips will ensure that the temperatures inside your home keep you and your family comfortable. In this article, we share some tips on maintaining your heat pump.

Like any other machine, your heat pump needs to be properly cared for in order to provide an efficient operation throughout the year and save energy.

7 Heat Pump Maintenance Tips

Do a monthly check on air filters, coils, and fans and make sure to clear and replace them when necessary. Dirt on these components restricts airflow which, in turn, reduces performance and can lead to damage to the compressor. Follow your manufacturer’s instructions to prevent damage.
Clear the outdoor unit of snow, debris, and ice. These tend to accumulate after a long time and they can affect the efficiency of the unit. Snow and Ice can also damage components by freezing them.
The outdoor coil should always be kept clean. You can clean your coil using a heavy-duty degreaser and water. Make sure to switch off your unit first.
For proper airflow and servicing, make sure that there are no shrubs or obstructions at least 18 inches around the heat pump. Such an obstruction will not only increase the chances of debris finding its way into the heat pump, but it will also lower the unit’s efficiency.
The indoor condensate pan and drain should be flushed during springtime before you can use your air conditioning. If your unit is above or in a living area, call a qualified service technician for maintenance.
Oil the fan motors if necessary. Note that not all fan motors in a heat pump can be oiled. Some models, especially the modern ones, tend to be permanently sealed.
You should get your heat pump inspected regularly by a trained service technician. A technician will be able to carry out various inspections on your system including ducts, blower, filters, both indoor and outdoor coils, seal any duct leakage, and ensure that the airflow is adequate enough to provide your house with the right temperatures. Generally, your technician should check the whole system for faults and fix them.

Clarke & Rush Services Heat Pumps

Clarke & Rush provides heat pump installation, heat pump maintenance, and heat pump repair services for different heating and cooling systems making it easy for you to run a stress-free, comfortable home.