Expert Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Tips

Save On that Summer Energy Bill

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 23:11:10 GMT

TIPS TO SAVE ON THAT SUMMER ENERGY BILL

Are you ready for summer? Lots of fun to be had across our great state! Nevada is a hiker’s paradise. If that’s not your thing, our great Silver State has over 600 ghost towns. And don’t forget our nearby recreational lakes! After a lovely day though, we want to come home to ‘nice and cool,’ don’t we?

But we don’t want that summer energy bill to break our budget!

Nevada is the driest state in the union; therefore, our Summers are severely hot and dry with day and night temperature differences ranging as wide as 40°F (4.4°C). Daytime highs frequently top 100°F (37.8°C) from June to September and can shoot up our thermometers to reach a scorching 120°F (48.9°C). That.is.HOT.

TIPS TO SAVE ON THAT SUMMER ENERGY BILL

Change the air filter monthly. This is the Achilles Heel of all air conditioning systems and correlates to energy costs. For more information on extending the life of your air conditioning system, check out our blog post "How to care for your A/C and save costs over the life of your unit"

Resist wild swings in your thermostat setting. Hold the temperature at 78 whilst home and 85 when away. This alone will save 10% on your electricity bill, according to the US Department of Energy.

Replace standard light bulbs with energy efficient LED bulbs. LED bulbs generate much less heat than either CFLs or incandescent bulbs while providing the same amount of light. Plus, they last up to five times longer than standard lightbulbs. A real Win-Win! If you want to mimic the warm glow like that of incandescent bulbs, look for CFL or LED bulbs in the 2700K to 3000K temperature range. If you’d like a whiter light, choose bulbs ranging from 3100K to 4000K.

Ceiling fans: Now, ceiling fans make a room feel cooler even though they do not actually lower the room’s overall temperature. Ceiling fans produce a ‘wind chill’ effect that works to move air across your skin, which helps to evaporate body sweat at a faster rate than just using the A/C. Make sure to rotate ceiling fans counterclockwise when looking up at them so that they blow cool air down on you for maximum benefit. Be sure to turn off the fans as you leave the room because they only cool your skin, not the air. Thus, they only work when you’re in the room to enjoy the benefits of both being cooler and saving energy costs.

Window Treatment: No, we’re not talking stylish window ‘décor.’ If you have an older home, consider replacing old single-pane windows with insulated glass windows that have a low-E coating. Or install less expensive heat blocking solar film on the inside of your single pane glass windows. Don’t install solar film on double pane windows as it can cause heat to build up between the glass which can rupture the seal and void the glass warranty.

More options for reducing solar heat from streaming into your home:

Close the curtains, shutters, or blinds during the day on all windows in your home – but especially the sunny windows; plant shade trees on the sunny sides of your house, typically this is the west and south areas; install awnings over your doors and windows.

Turn off lights and electronics when not in use; or set to sleep-mode. You are probably already doing this important tip. Good on you! It’s the little things that add up to big savings. Turning all heat-producing items in your home when not in use is easy-peasy savings. It’s even easier to save by installing motion-activated sensors that turn lights on when you enter a room and off after you leave it. Life is good!

Cook less – or – more. Summers are perfect for al-fresco meals. If you must stovetop or oven cook, consider doubling or tripling the recipes that need heat to cook. Plenty of online recipes are perfect for delicious leftovers and for making several different meals out of one or two main ingredients. This way, we’re heating the kitchen – and the house – once for three or four good meals. Saves energy. Saves time!

And finally, take advantage of free energy audits offered by your local energy provider. Check your monthly statement or their website to see if they offer this valuable service. They will go through your home in detail and provide a custom report of energy-saving recommendations. Some energy providers will provide a free Smart Thermostat installation.

Call or send a text to 775-825-6500 if your A/C unit shows any sign of struggling during the heat. Paschall Plumbing heating Cooling is available 24/6 Monday through Saturday by Text, Email, and Phone.

The sooner we check out your struggling A/C unit, the sooner you can get back to keeping cool!

How to Find a Water Leak Inside a Wall

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 19:21:34 GMT

How to Find a Water Leak Inside a Wall? Plumbers. Gotta love us. We love our jokes!

“What keeps the ocean from leaking out?” answer: The seals.

As a plumber's assistant, I'm always being ordered around... "Stop that dripping, plug that leak, for God's sake... turn off the water works!"

It's not my fault, I'm just an emotional guy.

I just replaced my leaking water heater. It's a tankless job, but somebody has to do it.

*Groan*

But when it comes to leaks inside the walls of your home, we do not joke.

Leaks behind walls are often undetected until almost too late. As a homeowner you will need to notice leaks in time to prevent long-term effects such as structural damage and potentially serious mold problems within the walls. A small drip-drip that goes undetected can cost thousand more in flooring, ceiling, and wall repair than the actual point of leak plumbing repair by itself.

Paschall Plumbing’s experienced leak detection tips:

Water bill

– Does your water bill show a sudden spike in usage? While water usage in Nevada can fluctuate greatly depending on the season, the average usage for a family of four is about 100 gallons per person per day. Water usage significantly higher than this average can be an indicator of hidden leaks.

Walls

– Early detection? Do you hear ‘drippy’ sounds even though you just turned off the tap or flushed the toilet? Instead of making a quick exit from the bathroom or kitchen, take a few seconds to quietly listen for any faint dripping sounds that may be coming from inside a nearby wall. Another detection method is to first read your water meter, then go through your house turning off every place where there is running water in your home. Reach behind the toilets to turn the knob off, underneath the sinks to turn off those knobs, and behind the clothes washer to turn off those knobs; then check to see if the meter is moving. If it is, you have an interior leak.

– Do you notice changes in wall texture? Are there bubbles or drooping sections in your paint or wallpaper? Does your drywall appear to sag downward? Does the wall appear to curve outward? If the leak has been ongoing. as the water leak saturates the wall your home’s drywall will eventually buckle under the weight causing distortions in the usual texture.

– Do you see signs of mold or mildew? Early on, mold will look like brown or black densely clustered dots. But not seeing mold does not mean that it is not silently growing inside of walls that have been saturated by water leaks. Mold can cause significant and potentially serious health problems.

– Do you smell musty odors? Sometimes an odor is the only sign of this kind of deep in the wall leak.

Flooring

– Do you see standing puddles of water near a wall? Is your carpet noticeably wet under your feet? Is the always wet in a certain area of your home? Say near your washing machine or dishwasher, or in your bathroom by your sink, toilet, or shower?

Ceilings

– Do you see brownish discoloration or changes in ceiling texture? Some homes have plumbing in the attic for the air conditioning or heater. Also, check to see if your roofing gutters are clogged because these clogs can cause water to leak into your walls. Schedule a quick check annually or quarterly to see if you need to flush out A/C drainpipes and unclog gutters.

Exterior/Foundation Walls

– These leaks are rarely caused by leaky plumbing. Rather, outside water sources can seep into your foundation. When this happens, water can seep into your interior walls. We have tips for digging trenches around your foundation and for creating protective barriers.

If you detect an inside-the-wall water leak, call Paschall Plumbing. We’ll bring our specialized leak detection equipment right out, quickly pinpoint the exact location of your leak, and let you know just what we can do to repair the plumbing before the damage gets any more severe.

We never get tired of saying that “Whatever your plumbing needs may be, you can count on Paschall to dispatch one of our experienced technicians to assess your plumbing issues. We take pride in educating our customers on their options for repair or new installations, so you can make an educated decision. We aim for Paschall Plumbing to be your best experience each time!

Call us anytime at 775-825-6500 , 24/6 Monday through Saturday.

Should I Upgrade To Central Air In My Old House

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 16:56:16 GMT

Raise your hand if, like us, you enjoy watching “This Old House.”

Raise your hand if, like us, you enjoy watching “This Old House.” Seeing the complete renovation of the HVAC system while keeping the charm and character of that old home is right up our Paschall HVAC alley! In our Reno–Sparks metropolitan area we have beautiful old homes with architectural styles of the Queen Ann, Victorian, Craftsman, Ranch, and Mid-Century Modern Style eras.

If you have one of our area’s charming old – or older contemporary – homes , you may be wondering, “Is it a good idea to upgrade to a modern Central Air system?

According to the US Department of Energy, “Air conditioners use about 5 percent of all the electricity produced in the United States, costing homeowners more than $11 billion annually. Replacing an old air conditioner unit with an energy efficient unit could save you 20-40 percent on your home cooling costs.”

In our Paschall Plus A/C Installation Services Webpage we discuss in detail the “Six Signs You Need AC Installation Services”. For example:

When is it time for a replacement?

When repairs are half the price of a new model.
When replacing just one expensive component can possibly do more harm than good. For example, replacing an evaporator coil or compressor, but not upgrading the entire older system, can hobble system performance of an older system.
When advancements in technology help save you money each month on your bills.

At Paschall Plus, with over 35 years of experience, we excel in sizing your air conditioning system right. We perform industry-standard calculations to help determine your system’s size based on our local climate, which direction your home faces, your home’s window orientation, insulation levels, size and layout of your home and much, much more. Our checklist is thorough because we don’t want our customers – you – to end up with a bigger, more expensive system than your home needs because it becomes more costly for you to operate than it should have. Your budget is very important to us.

It’s worth our saying this again, “While it may seem like a more substantial cost upfront, once you begin to see those bills go down each month, your wallet will thank you. Once we have finished our installation, the pros at Paschall will help give you advice on keeping it running efficiently between our maintenance visits.”

Reference Links:

https://www.energy.gov/articles/you-asked-we-are-answering-your-home-efficiency-questions

https://www.paschallplus.com/services/air-conditioning/ac-installation

Why You Should Never Pour Grease Down the Drain

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 23:30:21 GMT

Fatbergs Unearthed in the Bowels of Major American Cities!

Why You Should Never Pour Grease Down the Drain

FATBERG – First used in 2008 to describe "large, rock-like lumps of cooking fat" washing up on beaches in Wales. Fatberg” is a compound of the words “fat” and “iceberg.” Fatberg is now a recognized Oxford Dictionary word commonly used to reference sewer-blocking fat deposits.

FATS, OILS & GREASE – commonly referred to as FOG—are some of the trickiest things to treat in wastewater. Fats, oils and grease can build up and become “fatbergs”; masses of grease, oils and non-biodegradable waste that don't get washed away. Fatbergs can build up in local city and county tunnels and pipes, causing a big, solid, stinky mess – starting with your own home’s plumbing.

What problems are caused by grease?

Potential contact with bacteria and viruses that can cause illnesses.
Sewage backup into your home, clogged drains, clogged toilets. The sewage can even backup into your tub!
Sewer overflow can damage neighborhoods homes, yards, streets, and play-spaces.
Expensive cleanup, repair and replacement of damaged personal property.
Budget-breaking higher operating and maintenance costs; local sewer bills could rise as a result.

We plumbers love to ‘dredge’ up facts (pun intended): In 2018 officials in in Macomb County, Michigan, spent $100,000 to remove a Fatberg in county sewer lines that was an astounding 100 feet long, 10 feet wide, and six feet tall – about the size of a Blue Whale. Completely solid, removing this fatberg was a dangerous, dirty and expensive job. Everyone pays when local sewer lines clog.

Fatbergs are becoming a massive problem worldwide due to improper disposal of FOG.

What can YOU do? And how can WE help? Paschall PLUS, has answers.

Home prevention and remedies

Prevention’s simple answer is to throw it in the trash; but follow these steps:

Allow the oil to cool. Hot oil can melt your trash can liners. Messy!
Pour cooled oils into a leak-proof disposable container and close tightly.
Tip: save your ‘empties’ of non-recyclable bottles, cans, etc., to throw away grease
Toss the sealed container into the trash bin.
OR contact local waste management facilities to find out who collects cooking oil for recycling into Biodiesel Fuel.
Recycle Finder is an online search engine to find where locally to drop off used oils.
Never pour used oil on the ground. Kitchen grease damages dirt like petroleum oils.
Minimally use your garbage disposal to help reduce blockages in kitchen sinks from food particles combining with grease in the pipes. Instead use a sink strainer to collect food waste and regularly throw strainer waste into the trash.
Also, wipe oil-coated pans with a paper towel before washing. A large amount of FOG buildup in pipes comes from washing greasy dishes.
Periodically pour boiling water down drains to help loosen and flush out pipes. Take extra caution when handling boiling water as serious burns can occur to family and pets.
Boiling water is safer on pipes than potentially corrosive chemical drain cleaners; plus, these chemicals ultimately end up polluting our natural waterways.

Remedies for when a mini-Fatberg invades your home pipes:

Follow our prevention tips and it could be a good long time before you need us. But once a fatberg forms, it is very difficult to eliminate without our professional plumbing services. Call Paschall Plus . We really are your best remedy.

Is a Burning Smell Normal When I Turn on the Heat?

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 23:31:00 GMT

Is a burning smell normal? Is my family safe?

The season of Frosty Nights have arrived, and home-heater systems are being switched on across our cities. Ahhh! Warmth reaches our bones. Nice. And then you smell a strange, distinctive burning smell.

Is a burning smell normal? Is my family safe?

Some odors are normal, and others are signs of potential danger. We’ll help you know the various smells that can occur, what they mean and whether they require any action.

Elements and Dust

The most common smell associated with first-time heater firing up is the burning smell of accumulated dust as well as the inevitable native insects being burned off the vents, registers, and heat exchangers. When the furnace fires up after months of non-use this accumulated layer that has come in contact with heating elements heats up quickly and creates a distinctive odor as it burns off.

Fortunately, this smell should only be noticeable for a few minutes and only for the first time or two that you run your system.

Take comfort in knowing that, if you’ve had the same furnace in your home for several years, you’re probably familiar with the system’s ordinary burning smell.

Smells that are not normal:

What’s sitting next to your space heater? Yes, it seems obvious, but we all can overlook that during the year we may have stored some items near the furnace when it was not in use. First procedural steps when first firing up the heater, take a minute to notice the surrounding areas and clear any household objects that had accumulated around the furnace. Then it’s safer to fire it up.

On rare occasions , there are potentially dangerous burning smells emanating from your furnace that are a cause for concern, and for which you should contact one of our Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling HVAC technicians. Please do not hesitate to call us for any of the following:

The burning odor persists for more than a few minutes
You smell smoke which is a different smell than the typical seasonal burning odor
You smell burning rubber or plastic
The smell has an electrical odor, like burning wires

Anything that seems unusual is a cause for concern. Our experienced professionals can help diagnose your furnace issues quickly to ensure a safe, breathable environment.

Preventative Maintenance:

To avoid that burning smell this year or any year, schedule your furnace’s maintenance visit before your first time firing up the heater. Part of Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling preventative maintenance tune-up is a thorough system cleaning. This can help you avoid any burning odor.

With one of our maintenance agreements, you can make regular tune-ups an easy part of your home care routine. Contact us at Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling 775-825-6500. We’ll check your system to make sure it is operating at optimal performance to give you peace of mind during the winter months. If you require a repair, you can trust we won’t leave you in the cold. Ready to upgrade to a new system? Let our expert technicians guide you through the process of selecting the system that meets your needs whether it be for your home or business.

How To Winterize Pipes Before They Freeze

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 13:15:02 GMT

3 Before It Freezes Tips

Are your pipes prepped for winter? Did you know that ruptured pipes and the subsequent water damage to the home are one of the most common causes of expensive property damage?

Winterizing pipes now before freezes come helps insure your home and family are safely warm and dry.

3 Before It Freezes Tips:

Wrap, wrap, wrap! Every exposed pipe needs electrical heating/thermal wrapping tape. Depending on pipe exposure to wind and the elements, freezing can occur long before it gets as low as 20 degrees; don’t wait. In interior spaces, even if a heated space, pipes that are near cracks or openings that let in cold air may develop ice blockages. Your local home improvement store offers pipe-wrapping tape and helpful tips for maximum benefit.
And wrap the outside faucets. Local hardware stores have supplies or use old towels or t-shirts and duct tape/ Leaving room to open the faucet for a slow drip-drip during the forecasted freeze .
Seal cracks and crawl spaces everywhere.
Irrigation systems are often overlooked when prepping for freezes. Your local water supply company often has tips on how to winterize irrigation systems. Online DIY videos are helpful, also. Call us if you’d like more specific tips.
Get severe weather alert push notifications on your smartphone***. After you’ve done the preventive winterizing measures , this is hands-down our best follow-up tip for preventing burst pipes. We all get so busy, right? Programming your smartphone for severe weather alert notifications means you’ll get ahead of any kind of severe weather headed your way. Consult the Settings Menu on your phone to see what emergency notifications are already embedded into your phone service. However, there are some terrific weather alert apps available. Check your phone for the one most compatible to your device.

***Weather Alerts: Did you know here in Washoe county, we have access to local and national emergency alert notifications? This includes severe weather alerts: https://www.washoecounty.gov/em/RegionalAlerts.php ; scroll down to “Severe Weather” for instructions. If you’re in a different county, a simple web search will connect you to your county’s specific emergency alerts system.

3 Tips for When Freeze is Forecasted:

Start the outside faucet on a slow drip-drip-dripping.
Double check that all electrical/thermal insulation tapes are working.
Open the under-sink cabinet doors and start a slow drip in faucets in the kitchen and all bathrooms that have exterior wall piping. Opening the cabinet doors lets warmer room air have access to the pipes; the drip can be extra insurance against water freezing in the pipe.
But close garage doors during a freeze if water lines are exposed inside the garage.
Keep your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees if you’re going to be away from the house. This also helps to insure against the interior pipes freezing.

From our Paschall Plumbing Heating and Cooling Family to yours: May your Winter be White – and your Pipes be Warm!

Why Does My Toilet Keep Clogging?

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 23:13:12 GMT

Common Reasons Your Toilet Keeps Clogging

So, you know you can call Paschall Plumbing ANYTIME, right?

But really, we want you to know how to avoid having to call us on the basic clogged toilet emergencies. Paschall Plumbing is here to help you solve the common causes of toilet. We’re also going to give you some tips for choosing among the best no-clog toilets if your old toilet needs updating.

First, the possible obstructions that can clog up your works:

Foreign objects are the most typical. Yes, there are the toys, socks, stray make-up brush, and such that our toddlers will push down just to watch the water swirl it down the drain – but it never does. But there are the less obvious objects that clog such as flushing those wet-wipes, baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, paper towels, and other types of paper products down the toilet. However, unlike toilet paper, these objects will not dissolve in water and can create the kinds of blockages that you’ll have to call Paschall Plumbing to come unclog for you. Even excess hair buildup can cause your toilet to clog. No worries, we’ll be right there. But you can delay having to call us if you’ll keep the family informed on what not to let go down the toilet.

Too much toilet paper. Yes, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Don’t worry about an exact number, just try to use less any time you can. Another good toilet paper tip use is to check out the latest biodegradable toilet tissues such as the 100% bamboo paper being produced now. But there are several other kinds of biodegradable toilet tissues. Call us at Paschall Plumbing and we’ll let you know a few of our favorite types.

And our last most two common causes – Hard Water and Worn Pipes. Hard water, which is water with a high mineral content, can wreak havoc on your pipes that then can cause issues with your toilet’s functionality. The minerals in hard water tend to calcify which forms a difficult to remove white substance. This calcification in your pipes causes its own blockage that toilet waste can’t travel through. Over time, household pipes can crack, or break, even can become crushed due to not only age, corrosion, wear and tear, but also heavy rain and drastic temperature changes. There are other reasons, but those are most common. When household pipes break the toilet’s mechanical ability to drain slows down. Simply put, when pipes are worn the toilets in an average household simply cannot keep up with average demand. While drastic temperature changes can be anticipated – always keep an eye on the local weather and be prepared to wrap before the freeze is predicted – age and wear and tear cannot be avoided.

Finally, when it’s finally time to replace worn pipes and ancient toilets, call us at Paschall Heating and Plumbing. We are experts at helping you choose among the most up-to-date-top-rated no-clog toilets for big stools. Yeah, we said it. Sorry, not sorry. Plumber’s jokes are just…. Bad.

But from our hearts we want to say, thanks – as always - for reading our blog posts. We value you, our customers. You’re our family, friends and neighbors.

May your Holiday season be filled with love… and may your toilets always empty.

Everything You Need to Know About Air Scrubbers and What's the Big Deal with Microns?

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 19:46:53 GMT

Why you should have an air scrubber

In this blogpost we’d like to tell you about Microns. But your first thought is likely, “Now why do you want to tell us about those Superheroes who came from outer space to fight against Psycho-Man and protect the Microverse?” We love The Avenger Series, too, but this blog is about the bad Microns that are NOT super-heroes.

So, let’s get started:

A Micron is a unit of length that our industry uses to measure the common airborne household contaminant particles.

Did you know that 1 Micron = 39 millionths of an inch? That’s small! The eye can only see micron particles down to about 25 microns. Place just one grain of salt on a plate and you’re looking at a size of about 60 microns.

These mini-Micron-sized contaminants may be smaller than your eye can see, but without proper filtration, these Microns are likely floating all throughout the air you breathe in your home. Here are the relative sizes of some common household contaminant particles:

0.3 - 1 micron = Bacteria, Metallic Fumes, Tobacco Smoke

1 - 5 microns = Bacteria, Wood Smoke from fires, Small Dust Particles

5 - 10 microns = Mold, Pollen, Medium Dust Particles

10 – 25 microns = Large Dust Particles, Debris and Dust Particles (visible to the naked eye)

150 to 300 = Human Hair, Dust Mites

Your home creates trillions of Microns of these contaminant particles every year. They cause allergies, sickness, and discomfort. So now that you know about those pesky micron particles pervading your home, let’s talk about Air Scrubbers.

Air Scrubber Units have increased in popularity over the years because this device provides a renewable source of fresh air not polluted with harmful and toxic gases substances. Increasingly Air Scrubbers are being thought of as the best solution to fight pollution in households, offices and factories, providing clean air by removing micron-sized dust particles, pollens, fumes, and more from your home’s air.

Air scrubbers, or whole-house air cleaners, are excellent appliances that reduce the number of pathogens and allergens in the air. They remove dust that collects in your air ducts, preventing it from spreading throughout your home. Non-ozone-producing Air Scrubbers remove up to 99% of the pathogens in your home, allowing you and your family to breathe freely and comfortably. Our expert HVAC technicians can install the Air Scrubber in your home so that you can enjoy the benefits of breathing clean air.

We at Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling truly feel you deserve to be comfortable in your home. We’ll help you achieve that. Contact our team to schedule a visit from one of our professionals. You and your loved ones will breathe better, sleep better with refreshing air that is now scrubbed clean. To learn more about how we can help visit our air purification website page.

HVAC Mini Splits and Why They are So Beneficial

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 14:41:34 GMT

Everything You Need to Know About HVAC Mini Splits and Why They are So Beneficial

“Mini-Split! What is that? Is that a new gymnastics trick? The Itsy-Bitsy Splits? ” We hear that a lot when we first suggest to customers that their home’s heating and cooling needs might benefit from a Mini-Split Heating and Cooling System. This system is especially useful here in Nevada.

So, what is a Mini-Split Heating and Cooling System and why do we at Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling think that you would benefit by knowing what a Mini-spit could do for your home?

Individualized Controls. Unlike the traditional HVAC systems, Mini-splits are heating and cooling systems that allow each individual to control the temperatures in their individual rooms or spaces via remote access, including remote controls and timers, and smart phone.

The key word is ‘individual.’ Individual uses. Individual preferences. For example, have you ever lived in or visited a home where the whole-house HVAC system has to be turned down to a super low temperature overall so that just one or two rooms get to a comfortable temperature? Or do you close vents off to certain rooms when trying to manage the wide swing of temperature differences as air blows through your centralized HVAC unit? Is Grandma freezing in her room while your teen in their room feels too hot? To cool off the kitchen while cooking, do the other rooms go super-cold? Mini-split units have individualized cooling and heating capabilities where central heating and air units do not.

How does it work? Mini-splits are ductless heating and cooling systems designed to cool or heat individual rooms throughout the home or business. Although ductless, like central systems, mini-splits have two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser, and an indoor air-handling unit. A conduit, which houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain, links the outdoor and indoor units. Ductless installations are growing throughout the US because they're proving to be much more efficient than conventional ducted systems. It’s estimated that duct losses in a central air system account for more than 30% of energy consumption (source: Energy.Gov ). Cooling or heating air-loss in duct systems is especially significant in the usual unconditioned spaces such as an attic or crawlspace. This energy loss grows if the ducts aren't sealed tight.(call us at 775-825-6500 for a diagnostic to see if you need help improving your current HVAC’s energy usage. We can help!)

Mini-Split Heating and Cooling System are not only great solutions for whole home or new constructions but make good retrofit add-ons to houses with “non-ducted” systems. They can also be a good choice for room additions when extending or installing distribution ductwork is not feasible, and energy efficient new homes that require only a small space conditioning system.

MINI-SPLIT ADVANTAGES

Small size and flexibility for zoning or heating and cooling individual rooms rather than your entire indoor space.
Complete control of each room, customizing temperature via remote access, including remote controls and timers. Your smart phone, too!
One outdoor Mini-split unit can connect to just one or multiple indoor air handling units; some systems such as the efficient Fujitsu Mini-split systems for up to eight (8) zones or rooms.
More efficient than window-mounted units, don’t require complex expensive ductwork like centralized units.
Ductless mini-splits avoid the energy losses associated with ductwork of central forced air systems.
Use the same amount of energy that a home refrigerator uses and are very quiet.
Stylish. Flexibility of room placement, floor or wall mount. Can be picture framed.
20 years is the estimated life of most adequately maintained mini split ductless air conditioners – far beyond the 12 to 15 years that most conventional systems last.
(source: Energy.Gov )

For more information on Mini-split Heating and Cooling Systems give us a call at 775-825-6500. We’ll answer all your questions, help you correctly size each indoor unit, and judge the best location for its installation. Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling technicians are qualified to walk you through the different systems available so you can see if a Mini-Split System is the right fit for your home’s comfort needs.

How to care for your A/C and save costs over the life of your unit

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 20:53:59 GMT

How to care for your A/C and save costs over the life of your unit

Nevada heat is notoriously brutal. It starts as early as May, but usually in June, and stays as late as the end of September. Also brutal is our pollen count in most months of the year. Allergenic pollen is being blown about in the air by winds throughout most of the year in northern Nevada, starting in February and persisting into November. An air conditioner in our area is a necessity and not a luxury. In fact, Heat Advisories issued by the U.S. National Weather Service are as common to our summers as boating on our many lakes in Northern Nevada. Those of us with elderly parents, children, or pets depending on us are always concerned that the air conditioning does not fail us in our hot, hot summers.

No one wants to come home to a broken air conditioner. No one wants to wait for the service tech to get the needed parts. No one wants to pay avoidable costs.

So, if you follow our TOP 5 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM TIPS, you’ve got a better chance at keeping your cool and keeping your money. Here goes -

Tip #1: Change your filter – You’ll breathe easier

Unless…. You are okay with:

Reduced air quality: Clean A/C filters help keep allergens out of the air that we breathe each day. For those with allergies, air filters can be extremely beneficial by minimizing irritations. Check the air filter about once a month, more frequently if you have pets or smokers. You’ll breathe easier.

Tip #2: Change your filter – You’ll save more money

Unless…. You are okay with:

Utility Bill increases: Straining your A/C unit’s ability to cool your home by increasing strain of pulling air through a filter choked with dirt. The extra energy needed to run the system adds to cooling costs more than the cost of regularly changing the filter.

Tip #3: Change your filter – You’ll keep your Air Conditioning Unit working longer

Unless…. You are okay with:

Early repairs or significant replacement costs: The strain of pulling air through a filter choked with dirt creates distress in your A/C system; the blower and coils needlessly overheat and could fail. Filters are cheaper and easier than repairing or replacing your system due to not keeping filters clean.

You’re probably thinking, “Really? You had to tell us to change our filter three times?”

True. we could have just given you a list of three tips for summer. But we’ve been working in the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) industry long enough to notice a pattern of needless expense directly related to not changing air filters. We cannot emphasize enough how Mission Critical it is to change your filters regularly.

Do you need help deciding which filter is best for your A/C system? Contact us today at 775-825-6500. We can give you information on how to inspect them and when they should be replaced. You’ll also want to learn about the different types of filters that are available – there are options such as standard, pleated, electrostatic-charge, or even dual-layer!

Now on to tips #4 and #5:

Tip #4: Adjust A/C thermostat control temperature to split no more than 8 degrees during the day.

Daily shoot for a temp of 78 degrees and pump it up to 85 degrees when no one is home. According to the US Department of Energy, homeowners who do this will save an average of 10% energy costs per year. If you like it colder when home, shoot for 75, but remember, don’t adjust the thermostat more than 8 degrees in either direction so that your A/C unit doesn’t strain under the effort to get to temperature. Less strain = longer lasting.

Tip #5: Keep windows and doors shut/shades drawn

Open windows and doors let warm air inside. It is highly recommended that you close all windows and doors and close drapes when the air conditioner is turned on. This will keep the cool air inside the room and keep the temperature moderate. In addition to cooling efficiency, this will also reduce stress on the air conditioner which otherwise may cause your air conditioner to become faulty prematurely.

Calling us at 775-825-6500 is the best way to stay cool this summer! Preventive maintenance and diagnostic services can help eliminate costly repairs, so you don't have to worry about breaking your budget. You deserve better than expensive bills for an air conditioner that doesn’t work—call now!

Top Benefits of Air Conditioning Preventive Maintenance

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 13:13:46 GMT

Advantages of HVAC/Air Conditioning Preventive Maintenance

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units are responsible for heating and cooling buildings, allowing moisture to escape, and providing adequate ventilation. When hot summer and freezing winter temperatures are upon us, there’s nothing worse than your HVAC system breaking down. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. Like vehicles, HVAC systems require regular maintenance to be effective. This often gets ignored or put off until it’s too late, resulting in higher repair costs as well as inconvenience.

Benefits of HVAC Preventive Maintenance

Preventative maintenance consists of trained technicians keeping your HVAC system in the best shape possible by optimizing efficiency, conserving energy, and ensuring safety. There may be some maintenance that you can take care of on your own, but professionals best carry out things like checking refrigeration levels, compressors, and electric connections. So, what exactly will preventive maintenance provide? The following are some of the benefits you can gain by opting for HVAC preventive maintenance.

Prevent Coolant Leaks

Technicians check coolant levels to ensure no coolant leaks that you’ll have to deal with. Even the amount of time your coolant lasts depends on factors like inspection and aging. If there are any coolant leaks, you can expect the system to stop producing cold air quickly and causing a host of other problems. Not only will regular maintenance prevent leaks, but it can also keep existing leaks from getting worse by using sealants and repairing the unit before more damage can occur.

Check Amp Draws

Professionals will also check heat strip amps and amp draws to see whether your HVAC unit is efficient. For example, if your compressor is locked up, the pressure can result in a high amp rate, resulting in a breaker or fuse to blow. Regular preventive maintenance makes sure that this does not happen and you’re not presented with exorbitant costs to repair it when it’s too late.

Check Energy Efficiency

When professionals check energy efficiency, they make sure that your unit is running on the least amount of energy possible. This is extremely beneficial because it lowers utility costs and ensures a comfortable environment for you and others. Any dirty coils are cleaned and clogs in condensate drains are fixed to improve the HVAC unit’s overall performance.

Airflow

When your HVAC unit or air conditioner is working optimally, you should be able to feel the airflow. Weak airflow requires repairs. Whether you have hot and cold spots or there’s an issue with your evaporator coil, technicians can ensure consistent airflow for maximum comfort levels. Even not changing the air filter regularly can result in the gathering of dust and particles. Professionals fix this and save you the hassle of taking care of it yourself.

Insulation Deterioration

Checking duct insulation and signs of corrosion and damage on coils can prevent insulation deterioration and save you costly repairs in the future.

Take Advantage of HVAC Preventive Maintenance Today

Now that you know the importance of HVAC preventive maintenance, it’s time to take advantage of it to prevent long-term problems and higher expenses. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be overly expensive. Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling is known for providing high-quality HVAC repair and maintenance services without breaking the bank.

We also understand the importance of being readily available and are open 24 Hours from Monday to Saturday. Simply call us at 775-825-6500 or contact us here . If you have an emergency, don’t worry. We’re also available on Saturdays for emergency services via phone. Call us, and we’ll respond right away. Since we’re experts in residential HVAC systems and have been in the business for over 38 years, you’re guaranteed professional services that will make your HVAC and air conditioning units more efficient than ever before!

COVID-19 Alert

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Sat, 29 Feb 2020 14:16:32 GMT

We are continuously monitoring the situation with novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and adjusting our operations to comply with local, state, and national regulations and mandates. Our number-one priority remains the safety of our customers. As a result, we’ve enacted the following measures designed to limit person-to-person contact while still providing our services (while possible):

we wipe down door handles, steering wheels and wear rubber gloves and booties.
we do not allow technicians who show any sign of illness to work
we are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of our customers and employees

COVID-19 is an evolving situation, and our management and ownership teams will adjust as the situation changes. We pledge to keep you up-to-date on any operational changes and how they might impact you. Be safe. Our thoughts are with those affected by COVID-19.

The Top Ten Reasons to Hire a Local Plumber in Reno

angela@paschallplus.com (Angela Teats) — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 12:28:16 GMT

Why Hire A Local Plumber?

When a plumbing malfunction happens at your home or business, it may become extremely enticing to try to rectify the situation on your own. With instant access to YouTube videos and wikiHow pages that give step-by-step directions to almost any common issue, it gives those avid do-it-yourselfers seemingly enough information and an excuse to avoid calling a local plumber. If you aren’t a trained professional, you likely don’t have the knowledge needed to remedy plumbing failures and may end up causing more damage. Improperly addressing plumbing malfunctions almost always results in more severe (and expensive) plumbing problems down the road. As tempting and seemingly simple as it may be to address plumbing issues on your own, we think you should reach out to your local professional plumbers at Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling for the following reasons:

#1: A Local Plumber Has the Knowledge & Experience

The amount of knowledge and experience local plumbers come with alone makes them well worth the call for help. As it is a requirement of the job, a professional plumber has a great working knowledge of most plumbing systems. They understand what plumbing goes where and what it all does. This type of familiarity in the field will not only save you a tremendous amount of effort and time but will also help you avoid the headache of doing the repairs on your own.

#2: Convenience and Peace of Mind

Convenience is also one of the biggest benefits of hiring a professional Reno plumber. For example, if your plumbing system develops some sort of problem in the middle of the day or even at night, your local plumber is just a phone call and short distance away. Close proximity ensures your local plumber will be out to your property to rectify the issue as promptly as possible. When you rely on a seasoned plumber to get the job done, you can get back to your life quicker without the inconvenience of a plumbing disaster. The decision to call on your local plumbing professional will give you the level of service and peace of mind you deserve that is far exceeds doing guess-work on your own.

#3: Saves You Time

Local plumbers are familiar with the areas you live in and always a short distance away to effectively serve their neighbors. With a local plumber, you won’t ever have to wait for days or even weeks for your plumbing issues to be fixed. They are quite knowledgeable and can make sure your plumbing system stays maintained to ensure optimal operation and longevity. When it comes to DIY home repairs, the process most frequently becomes drawn out. Thankfully, hiring a local plumber allows your plumbing system to be repaired in one visit. So instead of wasting the whole weekend trying to fix a plumbing problem yourself, why not hire an expert who can do the work for you in half the time?

#4: Expect High-Quality Services

If you make the smart choice to hire a professional local plumber in your area, the kind of quality work you’ll receive will be enough to make this entire blog post make sense. A professional plumber is in a position to share advice about the best plumbing products available for your needs and will take special care to ensure your system is functioning at peak-efficiency before leaving you. As a professional in the field, a local plumber knows their reputation relies on the type of work they perform and the customer care they exhibit. In short, you will receive the reliable services you need so you can feel ease in knowing your plumbing issues have been rectified to professional standards.

#5: Ensures the Utmost Safety

Through utilizing professional plumbing services, you can ensure your plumbing system is safe. A seasoned plumber has ample knowledge and field experience to understand complex plumbing issues and how to address them safely. In addition to their skill, your professional local plumber will be well-equipped with the quality equipment and various other plumbing products that are necessary to rectify your plumbing issues safely and efficiently. Not to mention, a skilled plumber can offer preventative service that safeguards your equipment and extends its lifespan. Through a scheduled home plumbing repair and maintenance plan with your local plumber, you’ll not only get the best out of your plumbing system, but you will also be able to ensure your system is safe to use once it’s back up and running.

#6: Cheaper Than You Think!

When that primary plumbing pipe in your home develops a problem, most people’s minds go straight to replacing the entire system as a “quick” fix. This is especially true when they have tried DIY solutions to rectify the issue time and time again in the past with no prevail. However, if you choose to have the plumbing problem fixed by a professional Reno-Sparks, NV plumber, you will end up saving a ton of money that you would have otherwise spent trying to fix the issue blindly. Local plumbers are experienced and have what it takes to promptly and cost-effectively bring life back to your plumbing system.

#7: Always Available When You Need Them

Whether it is in the middle of the day or the wee hours of the morning, you can’t accurately plan for a plumbing disaster. Most reliable plumbing companies offer 24/7 emergency plumbing solutions for the areas they serve. A local plumber is always close by and can promptly save your home or business when severe plumbing issues arise. Maybe you woke up at 3 a.m. to a flooded house due to a burst water pipe. Or perhaps your sink becomes backed up and smelly right before a family gathering. You likely don’t have the skills or tools to rectify these types of situations by yourself. A local plumber is always ready to serve their customers, as their emergency service and ample expertise are just a phone call and short distance away.

#8: Consistent Home Comfort

If it’s been months or even years since you had your plumbing system checked out by a professional plumber, you’ve likely had to deal with the side-effects of a system breakdown at some point. However, by calling on a local plumber, these problems can be identified and prevented before they have a chance to happen. It’s always a good idea to have a scheduled visit by your local plumber every year. This way, a seasoned technician can catch a smaller issue before they grow into something more severe. There could be a tiny problem within the entire system, and if it is left unattended for an extended period, it could develop into something bigger and cost more money to repair in the long run. By having a local Reno-Sparks plumber come to your home to perform routine maintenance you will feel an increase in your peace of mind.

#9: Loyalty You Won’t Find Elsewhere

If you’re a business or homeowner, you likely haven’t seen the last of leaky faucets, clogged sinks, and backed-up toilets. When these issues occur, maybe even in the not-so-far-off future, you’re going to want a professional plumber you can rely on to get the job done so you can get back to your life. Rather than relying on half-hearted DIY solutions or hiring a new plumber each time an issue arises, why not rely on a local plumber who you can develop a relationship with? It’s better to have a friend in the business rather than having to put your trust in several technicians you know nothing about. Loyalty goes a long way in the plumbing industry, so the next time you’re faced with a plumbing issue, you can feel confident calling up your trusted Reno-Sparks plumber.

#10: You’ll Receive a Guarantee on a Local Plumber’s Work

Last but not least, when you decide to tackle plumbing problems on your own, there’s no guarantee behind your amateur work. If the problem occurs again, you’ll be faced with no choice but to do the same job again, hoping it pans out this time. And if it doesn’t, you may become desperate enough to invest in new products or supplies that aren’t guaranteed to get the job done. Thankfully, with a professional plumber, you can avoid all these problems. A local plumber will always give some sort of guarantee on the work they perform. While the guarantee may vary from one plumber to the next, you’ll typically be covered between 90 days and one year. This means if the problem reappears within the guaranteed timeline, all you have to do is make a phone call to your local plumber, and they’ll pay you an additional visit to rectify the issue free of charge. It can’t get better than that!

Your Preferred Local Plumbing Company in Reno & Sparks, NV

The benefits of relying on a local plumber are virtually endless. Finding the best plumbing partner for your home or business needs will give you the solutions and peace of mind you need and deserve. Property owners far and wide just want a trustworthy friend in the plumbing business who they can rely on to deliver the very best service. And since you never know when you might need them, it’s ideal to have a trustworthy option close by. At Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling , we’ve been serving the Reno-Sparks area for over 35 years. We love the loyalty our customers show us. Join the family and call Paschall Plumbing Heating Cooling for all of your plumbing and HVAC needs. We aim for “Your Best Experience Each Time!”

Great Service! I usually don't write reviews but I was totally impressed with Paschall Plumbing. I called this morning because my son's furnace quit working last night and with kids in the house, they needed heat. Bruce was able to get someone there today and had it fixed in no time at all and for a reasonable price. Thank you so much!!!

- Denise S.