How To Tell When Your HVAC System Needs Replacing

When it comes to your home’s HVAC system, it’s important to know when it’s time for a replacement. A faulty or aging system can lead to major problems. Problems might include excessive energy costs, air quality issues, and frequent breakdowns. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to tell when it’s time to replace your HVAC system. We’ll cover the signs to look for, how to assess the condition of your system, and what to expect from a replacement.

Age Of System

When it comes to determining when an HVAC system needs to be replaced, one of the most important factors to consider is its age. Generally speaking, HVAC systems have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years. If your system is older than that, then it might be time to start thinking about replacing it. Additionally, if your system is more than 10 years old, you should have a professional come and inspect it regularly. This will help ensure that it’s functioning as efficiently as possible. The earlier you can catch any potential problems, the better off you’ll be in the long run.

Frequent Repairs

If you find yourself needing to repair your HVAC system more and more often, it could be time to think about replacing the system. Although it may seem easier and more cost-effective to keep repairing a broken system, frequent repairs can add up quickly. Not only that, but they can be a huge financial burden in the long run. If you are calling for repairs several times a year or you’ve had to replace expensive parts multiple times, then the money you’ve spent on repairs might be better used towards the purchase of a new system.

To make sure that frequent repairs are not an indication of a failing system, make sure to have our Cool Touch team inspect the system before considering replacement. If the system is beyond repair, then it’s time to start thinking about a replacement.

Higher Energy Bills

One of the key indicators that your HVAC system needs replacing is if you find yourself facing much higher energy bills. Old systems are not as efficient as newer models, and this can cause energy costs to go up significantly. If you notice a sudden spike in your energy bills, it might be time to think about replacing your HVAC system. Additionally, if you find that even with regular maintenance and repairs, your energy bills remain high, this is another sign that it’s time for a new system. Be sure to contact a qualified technician to inspect your system and determine if you could benefit from a replacement.

Uneven Temperatures

You may need to replace your HVAC system if you start to experience uneven temperatures in your home. This means that one room may be significantly warmer or cooler than another room. In addition, some areas of your home may be experiencing drafty air, while other areas are overly stuffy. These issues can indicate that your HVAC system is no longer able to effectively heat or cool your entire home. If you start to notice these temperature changes, then it may be a good idea to have a professional come in and assess your system.

Everything You Need To Know About Getting An A/C Check

Are you curious about what to expect when getting an A/C Check? Do you want to know when the best time to schedule one is? Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about getting an A/C Check. We’ll cover what goes into an A/C Check, what benefits you can expect, and when is the best time to schedule one. With this information, you’ll be well-prepared for your next A/C Check appointment. Read on to learn more!

Why Get an A/C Check?

As temperatures rise in the summer months, you may start to worry about whether or not your air conditioner will be up to the task of cooling your home properly. An A/C check can provide peace of mind by ensuring that your air conditioning system is running optimally and can help you catch any potential problems before they become serious issues.

Getting an A/C check is important because it allows a Cool Touch technician to perform a full inspection of your air conditioning system. During this inspection, our technicians will check for signs of wear and tear, as well as ensure that all components are functioning correctly and that the refrigerant levels are adequate. An A/C check can also identify potential problems, such as leaky seals or blocked ducts, that could be causing inefficiencies in your air conditioning system.

An A/C check can also save you money in the long run by helping to avoid costly repairs or replacements due to neglect or improper maintenance. Keeping your air conditioner in good condition will also ensure it runs more efficiently, meaning lower energy bills in the long run.

Finally, getting an A/C check can also improve the air quality inside your home. By making sure all parts of your air conditioning system are clean and free of dust and debris, you can be sure that the air coming through the vents is free of contaminants. This will help keep your family safe and healthy during the hot summer months.

When’s the Best Time to Schedule an A/C Check?

It’s important to schedule regular A/C checks to ensure your system is running efficiently and effectively. But when is the best time to get an A/C check?

The best time to schedule an A/C check is typically in the early spring before the summer heat arrives. This is the perfect time to assess your system and make any necessary repairs or maintenance. During this visit, your technician can do a thorough inspection of your air conditioning system, including cleaning, checking components, testing for refrigerant levels, and more.

If you haven’t had an A/C check recently, it’s best to schedule one as soon as possible. This way, you can have any issues fixed before the hot weather arrives and your system has to work harder. Scheduling regular A/C checks every few years is also a great way to make sure your system is in good working order.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your air conditioner running efficiently, so scheduling an A/C check should be a priority. Doing so will ensure that you stay comfortable during the warm summer months and avoid costly repair bills in the future.

How Should I Prepare For My Appointment?

Preparing for your air conditioner check is essential to ensure you receive the most benefit from the appointment. There are a few things you can do in advance of your appointment that will ensure a thorough and successful check.

First, it’s important to be aware of any potential issues or concerns you have regarding your air conditioner. Letting your technician know in advance of any problems or observations you have can help them narrow down their search and provide you with a more efficient and accurate diagnosis.

It’s also important to clean up the area around the unit prior to your appointment. Make sure that you remove all debris and dust so that the technician can easily access the unit for their inspection. Additionally, if there are any plants or shrubs growing near the unit, make sure they are trimmed back to give the technician easy access.

Having your air conditioner checked is essential for ensuring that your system is running as efficiently as possible and that any problems are caught before they become major issues. Scheduling an A/C check should be done annually and it’s best to do it during the springtime when temperatures are still mild and it’s not too hot. With a thorough A/C check from our Cool Touch team, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to enjoy a cool, comfortable summer season.

Common Plumbing Myths Debunked: Know The Truth

You’ve likely heard many of these myths overtime, as you search the internet for plumbing hacks to help you save time and money. However, it’s time to set the record straight because it’s time to you know the truth. Here are common plumbing myths you should stop believing right now.

1. Myth: Garbage Disposals Have Blades You Can Sharpen

Have you ever heard that you can put ice down the garbage disposal to sharpen the blades? This is false, because garbage disposals actually don’t have blades – they have impellers. These impellers move at high speeds in order to grind up food waste.

2. Myth: Putting A Brick In the Tank Of The Toilet Will Save You Money

Putting a brick in the tank of your toilet will not save you money. In fact, it can keep your toilet from flushing correctly. Not only that, but it can also tend to crumble and could even cause damage to your toilet. All that being said, you want to refrain from putting any bricks in your tank.

3. Myth: You Can Flush Cat Litter

Many people are under the impression that they can flush cat litter. While many types of cat litter are flushable, the waste found inside the litter box is not. It’s common to find toxic parasites in cat waste which can be harmful to people – especially pregnant women. It’s better to be safe and toss the litter in the garbage can and not your toilet.

4. Myth: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are The Best Way To Clean Your Drains

Not so fast. This one is actually a big drain-NO! Chemicals aren’t only bad for your health and the environment, but they’re also bad for your drains – and can actually make the clog worse. Not only that, but the chemicals found in drain cleaners can actually eat away at your pipes, even if they’re made of tough material. It’s a much better, safer, and cost effective idea to go with a professional drain cleaner.

5. Myth: Hot Water Melts Grease To Prevent Clogs

While grease may be a liquid, it’s not safe to put down your drain – period. Once the grease hits your pipes, it cools, solidifies, and eventually builds up – even if you use hot water while pouring it. It’s a much better idea to dump the grease instead of pouring it down the drain.

6. Myth: A Wire Hanger Is A Good Substitute For A Plumbing Snake

A plumbing snake is designed specifically to clear pipe blockages. Using a wire hanger in its place can actually cause damage to the pipe from the inside, which can lead to additional build-up. Instead of turning to DIY methods, contact a plumber to help with all your drain clogs.

Contact The Pros At Cool Touch Today! We Are Here For All Your Plumbing Needs In The Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas.

We are here for all your plumbing needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your plumbing appointment by visiting us online here.

The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist For Your Plumbing System

Is your spring cleaning in full effect yet? When you start making your ultimate spring cleaning checklist, don’t forget to add your plumbing system to the list! We’ve made it easy for you, and listed out the most important “to-do” items to start checking off. Here are the top 6 items to add to your spring cleaning checklist.

1. Check For Toilet Leaks

First on the list, make sure you are checking your toilets! Toilets can leak for days or even weeks without you knowing because the leaks aren’t always very obvious. While spring cleaning, try the “food coloring” trick. Drop some food coloring into your tank and wait about 30 minutes. If the water in your toilet bowl doesn’t run clear, that means you have a leak and should have a professional plumber out to your residence quickly.

2. Make Sure Drains Are Cleared

Next, check your drains. If you have any blockages or clogs in your drains, it can cause poor water flow and other problems. While tempting, avoid using chemical drain cleaners or bent wire hangers to clear the blockages and clogs yourself. Homemade contraptions can actually cause more harm to your pipes. Instead, invest in professional drain cleaning to help clear your drains quickly, effectively, and safely.

3. Maintain Your Water Heater

Once a year, you should plan to have your water heater professionally drained, flushed and maintained. As the water runs out of the tank, so will the sediment that has accumulated and built up inside. This can eventually cause your tank to rust and corrosion, which will impact your unit’s efficiency. That’s why it’s so important to invest time and money into having your water heater maintained.

4. Inspect Your Sump Pump

April showers bring may flowers. They can also bring flooding if you’re not careful! Before any rain makes an appearance, check your sump pump’s ability to operate. Over time, gravel, pebbles an dirt can get caught in your pump and make it unable to operate efficiently. You can have a professional plumber assess its condition this spring. Your plumber should also be able to tell you any additional things you should consider adding to your sump pump in order to avoid flooding.

5. Clean Your Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal works hard for you – now is the time you work hard for it! Garbage disposals are designed to break down waste, but over time, it can collect food scraps, bacteria and other debris. Not only can this cause your garbage disposal to work inefficiently, but it can also cause your kitchen to smell. A simple garbage disposal cleaning will help keep it working well for you. However, remember to never put your hand down the disposal – even if it’s off!

6. Check Your Pipes

Your toilet isn’t the only thing that can experience leaks. Make sure you’re checking all the pipes around your house – inside and outside – for any signs of visible leaks. If you spot anything off, such as musty smelling rooms, wet spots, foundation cracks, mold and mildew, high water bills, or damaged ceilings, walls, and floors, don’t wait. Contact a professional right away.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Plumbing Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your plumbing needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your plumbing appointment by visiting us online here.

Top 6 Signs You Have A Slab Leak And What To Do About It

Many leaks are easy to identify. After all, it’s pretty difficult to ignore water pooling around your toilet or sink. However, a lot of leaks could be hard to identify – such as slab leaks. Slab leaks are hidden under a layer of concrete. Because they’re more difficult to spot, it’s important to pay close attention to the warning signs. Here are the top 6 signs you have a slab leak and what you can do about it.

1. Increasing Water Bill

Do you notice an unexplained spike in your water bill? Water bills can increase for a number of reasons, but one of the most common ones is that you have a leak somewhere on your property. When you have a slab leak, it means that water is running all day, every day. That being said, it’s no wonder you might see your water bill increasing.

2. Low Water Pressure

If your water pressure has decreased, it’s worth looking into. Slab leaks, for one, can be a cause of this. To test if you have a slab leak, turn off all your fixtures and look at your water meter. If you water meter still runs even though there’s no water running through your home, then you could have a slab leak. Watch it for about 15 minutes though to be absolute sure.

3. Foul Smells

A musty smell often means there’s mold and mildew. Mold and mildew grow best in moist, humid and dark conditions and really only need 24-48 hours to start growing. If you have water leaking underneath your home due to a slab leak, it’s common for moisture to get trapped under the floors, causing mold growth. Because mold is harmful to your health, it’s not something you want to just ignore. Check for signs of leaks if your house starts to smell musty, or you notice visible signs of mold and mildew.

4. Damp Flooring

When you have a leak that is severe enough, or doesn’t get addressed quick enough, can cause damage throughout your home. If you find that your floors are damp, or appearing warped, then you may have a leak under your home. With carpet, be aware of random damp spots that are unexplained. With hardwood or laminate, be aware of a warped appearance that is also unexplained.

5. Water Around Your Foundation

Unless it’s a wet day, or you have a water source close by (like a garden hose), then you shouldn’t notice any water around or under your foundation. Standing water around (or under) your home’s foundation can be a sign of a slab leak.

6. Water Is Continuously Running

Do you hear water running underneath your floors, even when your plumbing appliances and fixtures are turned off? This isn’t a good sign, and could be an indication you have a slab leak.

What To Do If You Have A Slab Leak?

If you notice any of the above signs, it’s best to contact a plumber right away. The faster you contact someone, the faster you can resolve the issue and avoid extensive water damage to your home. Many plumbing companies will specialize in slab leak repairs.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Slab Leak Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your slab leak needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your appointment by visiting us online here.

Love Is in The Air: Top 6 Indoor Air Quality Tips For Valentine’s Day

Love should be the only thing in the air this Valentine’s Day. If harmful pollutants are causing you and your Valentine to feel sick (and no, we don’t mean lovesick), then it’s time to take action. Here are the top 6 indoor air quality tips for a happy and healthy Valentine’s Day.

1. Use Exhaust Fans

6. Invest In Indoor Air Quality Solutions

Maintaining clean air quality is an important part of preventing aggravated asthma, allergies and contagious illness. There’s nothing like being sick to ruin a romantic evening. Consider investing in indoor air quality solutions. Cool Touch offers a variety of indoor air quality services, such as air cleaners, humidifiers and UV germicidal lights.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Indoor Air Quality Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your indoor air quality needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your indoor air quality appointment by visiting us online here.

5 Reasons To Hire A Professional Commercial Plumber

While there are some plumbing jobs that can be done on your own, such as plunging a clogged toilet, there are many that require the skills and expertise of a plumber. Especially if you have a commercial establishment, it’s important you never attempt to fix the plumbing problems yourself. Any type of commercial job is best left to the professionals. Here are 5 reasons why.

1. Access To The Right Tools

Commercial plumbers have high-quality, industry-leading equipment to tackle even the most complex commercial jobs. If you use DIY methods and the wrong tools to try and fix the problem yourself, you could actually cause more damage to your pipes. Commercial plumbers use the right tools in order to fix your plumbing issue without creating more problems or costing you more money. Let’s face it, a commercial plumbing system is far too complex and large for just anyone to attempt to fix.

2. Available 24/7

Most commercial plumbers work around the clock to help with your plumbing troubles. Rarely do plumbing troubles happen during normal business hours, so finding this 24/7 availability is very helpful. Plumbing issues could cause a variety of issues if not addressed swiftly, like decreased employee productivity, lower sales, and more, so it’s important you find someone who can fix your situation as soon as possible.

3. They Follow Plumbing Codes

Your area might have certain plumbing codes that you need to follow, otherwise you could risk being shut down if any violations are discovered. It’s risky business to try and handle plumbing issues yourself, as you could violate these plumbing codes. Commercial plumbers are well-versed in what these plumbing codes look like based on the areas they’re working in. They will help ensure everything they do is in accordance with the plumbing codes established in your area. That peace of mind, alone, is reason enough to hire a professional commercial plumber.

4. Insight and Training

Commercial plumbers have gone through extensive training to be able to handle all plumbing issues, no matter how big or small. They are well-equipped to troubleshoot all equipment, as well as being able to identify issues and come up with solutions. When you attempt to fix commercial plumbing problems on your own, you run the risk of creating even bigger issues. Not only can this be damaging to your plumbing system, but it can also cost you more money in the long run. It’s better to hire a plumber right off the bat.

5. Help Minimize Disruptions

You have a business to run. When plumbing problems come up, this can really disrupt your business operations. Luckily, commercial plumbers can help minimize this as much as possible. They will work efficiently and quickly, as to not waste your time. Nothing can truly beat the knowledge and hardwork of a commercial plumber.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Commercial Plumbing Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your commercial plumbing needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your appointment by visiting us online here.

Does My Air Conditioner Need To Be Covered In The Winter?

We get asked this question a lot: does my air conditioner need to be covered in the winter? Long story short, no – but there’s a lot more to it than just that. We cover everything you need to know about covering your AC in the winter, below.

Your AC Was Built For Snow

Truthfully, modern air conditioning units were built and designed to handle tough weather conditions. They were made with weather-resistant materials. That being said, they’re usually able to withstand everything from rainfall to snow to high summer temperatures. In fact, you shouldn’t be as concerned about snow and rain as you should be about debris and leaves. In fact, if items like leaves, branches, pine needles, and other debris build-up in or around your unit, it can cause damage and impact the overall performance of your AC unit.

You Should Cover Your AC – But Winter Isn’t The Time To Do It

Like we mentioned briefly above, what you should really be concerned about is leaves, branches, and other debris getting trapped inside your air conditioner. And you know what time of year you’re most likely to experience that? Fall. That’s why you should consider covering your AC in the fall, to avoid having any of the typical fall debris get lodged inside your unit. However, before you cover your unit, you want to make sure the unit is off for the season. You also want to make sure you weigh the pros and cons of covering your unit. For example, AC covers tend to trap moisture and cause mold growth. Not only that, but they could also cause pest problems, as small animals try finding a warm place to hide when the temperatures drop. But on the contrary, it can protect your unit from expensive damage – which might mean covering the unit is worth it, after all.

What If I Experience Heavy Snow and Ice Where I Live, Though?

Depending on where you live, covering your unit in the winter might not actually be the worst idea – especially if you experience heavy snow and ice. Covers can protect your outdoor condenser from ice build-up and the weight of heavy snow. People who live in the north often do invest in covers just as a precaution to protect their AC unit. However, like we said, your AC unit was built to withstand the elements and isn’t something that we deem a true necessity.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Air Conditioner Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your air conditioner needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! Whether you need air conditioner maintenance, repair, replacement, or installation, we’re the trusted name for the job. For over 20 years, we have been your premier home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your maintenance appointment by visiting us online here.

New year’s resolutions are a chance for you to set new goals and develop new habits. While you may be thinking of your personal resolutions, and how you can take better care of yourself this year, why not think about how you can also take better care of your plumbing system? Here are the top 6 new years resolutions for your plumbing system.

1. Be Careful What To Flush Down Your Toilet

A toilet is designed to handle two things and really two things only: toilet paper and waste. Avoid flushing anything that’s considered “non-flushable”, like cotton balls, hair, toys, garbage, paper towels, diapers, and feminine hygiene products. You should also consider refraining from using “flushable” wipes because they don’t break down as easily in your sewer system and can clog your pipes.

2. Fix Leaks Right Now

Do you have a small leak you’ve put off fixing? Make the new year the time to have it fixed! A leaking faucet or weird sounds from your pipes can all be small signs of a much bigger problem. Fixing leaks and addressing problems, no matter how big or small, will help you avoid high water bills and water damage.

3. Throw Out Your Chemical Drain Cleaners

Start the new year off right by throwing away all store-bought chemical drain cleaners. These are no good! Most drain cleaners contain toxic chemicals that are not only harmful to your health, but can also be harmful to your pipes. No matter how tough your piping material is, these drain cleaners can eat through the pipe itself while trying to clear the clog. Instead, hire a professional for routine drain cleaning – like Cool Touch!

4. Flush Your Water Heater

Make sure you are flushing and draining your water heater frequently. This can help prevent malfunctions, costly repairs, and even breakdowns. Flushing your water heater can help remove any mineral, dirt, or sediment build-up that has accumulated over time.

5. Pay Attention To Your Water Quality

Do you notice your skin drier than normal? Your hands feeling cracked? Your hair not feeling clean no matter how much you wash it? Does your water taste funky, and do you notice stains on your dishes? You may be dealing with hard water and poor water quality. One way to resolve this problem this year is to invest in a water filtration system.

6. Be Kind To Your Garbage Disposal

Treat your garbage disposal better this year. It’s important to remember that garbage disposals aren’t a replacement for a garbage can. Refrain from putting items, such as coffee grounds, bones, grease, fat, oil, pits, fibrous vegetables, potato peels and more down the drain. These items can cause damage to your blades, or lead to clogs.

Add Plumbing Maintenance To Your New Year’s Resolutions List! Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Plumbing Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas

Ready to start making New Year’s resolutions for your plumbing? We are here for all your plumbing needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your plumbing appointment by visiting us online here.

Who doesn’t want the gift of a warm home for the holidays? Before you start to host guests in your home, it’s a good idea to schedule a furnace maintenance. Here are the top 5 reasons why furnace maintenance is so important.

1. Ensures Efficiency

When used extensively and for many years, parts of your furnace can begin to wear down. Let’s take your air filter for example. An air filter is designed to remove common pollutants from your air, like dust, dirt, dander, and more. When the air filter is dirty or clogged, it greatly restricts airflow and can cause your furnace to work much harder to heat your home. This can negatively impact the efficiency of your unit.

2. Extends the Lifespan of Your Unit

A furnace maintenance can help address minor, small issues before they turn into major, costly issues. A properly-maintained unit can last anywhere from 15-20 years usually. However, if you don’t maintain your furnace, you may find yourself replacing it much sooner than that.

3. Saves on Energy Costs

As briefly mentioned above, when a furnace is dirty or worn out, it’s less efficient. Not only will you notice a change in your comfort as a result, but you’ll also likely notice higher-than-usual energy bills. Neglecting maintenance can result in an inefficient unit that increases energy bills.

4. Keeps Your Family Safe

Many things can go wrong with a furnace that isn’t properly maintained. For one, it can experience electrical issues that can be a huge risk to your home and health. Not only that, but you have a crack or a leak in your heat exchanger that is causing carbon monoxide to leak out which is a serious issue. A professional can check for leaks and make sure that all carbon monoxide is exiting your home, and your family isn’t being exposed to the harmful and deadly gas.

5. Maintain Your Manufacturer’s Warranty

You should plan to double check your paperwork, as many manufacturer’s will void the warranty if you don’t have your equipment regularly maintained and inspected. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and always make sure you’re maintaining your unit so your warranty can stay intact.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Furnace Maintenance Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your furnace maintenance needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your furnace maintenance appointment by visiting us online here.