Posts Tagged ‘Springfield’

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Havertown Air Conditioning Repair Question: Why is My Air Filter Damp?

Tuesday, June 18th, 2013

You depend heavily upon the integrity of your air conditioning system to deliver clean, cool air throughout your home on a daily basis during the summer months. Air conditioners are generally built to last; they are built of sturdy components are designed to withstand damage. However, some problems are inevitable. Among the various problems that you may encounter with the operation of your AC concerns high levels of humidity. Moisture is a necessary component of comfortable air, of course, but in high amounts, this can lead to microbiological growth and system damage. A damp or wet air filter is a common issue in air conditioning, but it needs to be properly diagnosed to find the root of the issue. In today’s post, we’d like to look at this issue more closely. Call the Havertown air conditioning repair experts at Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc. for service.

Let’s take a look at two potential reasons why your air filter is damp:

  • Condensation: The most common reason for this is due to the condensation caused by the thermal interaction of the evaporator coil and warm indoor air. Your evaporator coil circulates cool, liquid refrigerant that absorbs the heat from indoor air. This process dehumidifies the air and the resulting condensation goes into a condensate drain pan, which is itself connected to a pipe that removes the water away from sensitive air handler components. If something goes wrong with your condensate drain system, you may have additional moisture in your HVAC system, including possibly a damp air filter.
  • Humidifier fault: If your HVAC system is outfitted with a whole-home humidifier, then your wet air filter problem could be related to a fault within the control valves. The result is saturated air moving directly into the air filter.

If you have high levels of moisture in your air conditioning system, you should consider having it checked by a professional technician. This can be a symptom of a more serious problem that can reduce performance and energy efficiency. Call Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc. today for comprehensive air conditioning repair services in Havertown, PA.

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Why Schedule Havertown, PA Air Conditioning Repair as Soon as Possible?

Monday, May 13th, 2013

Is your AC no longer cooling as well as it once did? Have you noticed a leak around your indoor air handler? Making sure that you schedule  air conditioning repair as soon as you notice a problem or deficiency is the best way to allow your system to work as it should. You need to make sure that your AC is not only performing well so that you can stay comfortable during the summer, but also that it is performing efficiently, so you can keep your energy bill to a minimum. Both of these concerns rest on an AC in good working order. In this post, we’d like to review why the timing of pro repair is so important. Call Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc. today for comprehensive Havertown, PA air conditioning repair service.

  • Energy efficiency: During the summer months, you need to make sure that your AC operates efficiently, meaning that the ratio between electrical energy input and cooling output remains high no matter what the outside temperature is. While your AC has a SEER rating that indicates its estimated efficiency, the actual energy efficiency depends upon the cleanliness of your system, its age and condition, as well as the insulation of your home and the condition of your ductwork.
  • System longevity: Even minor problems can lead to significant problems if left unaddressed. Neglecting air conditioning repairs can decrease the working longevity of your system, and it may cause your system to break down much earlier than it should.
  • Performance: Repairing any problems in the first instance is the best way to ensure that they don’t get in the way of your comfort. This is the reason why you have a comprehensive home cooling system, so don’t allow a minor repair to shut your system down during the hottest days of summer. Whether you have a dirty condenser coil, low refrigerant, or an overheated compressor, your AC will not work well unless it is repaired by a professional technician.

If you’re concerned about the integrity, efficiency, or effectiveness of your system, call Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc. today for comprehensive Havertown, PA air conditioning repair services. 

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Springfield, PA Air Conditioning FAQ: Why is My AC Leaking Water?

Monday, April 29th, 2013

As we enter the cooling season in Springfield, PA, you may be checking on your AC to ensure that there’s nothing wrong with its operation before the heat and humidity begin. One common problem we see is air conditioning systems leaking water. If you’ve ever wondered about where that water is coming from, you’re not alone. The air conditioner is a complex machine, but one thing to keep in mind is that it also dehumidifies the air as part of the cooling process. We’d like to explain why your AC might be leaking water. For Springfield, PA air conditioning services, call Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc. today!

To understand the leaking water, let’s take a look at the process of cooling and dehumidification. Inside the indoor unit where the air handler sits there is an evaporator coil that is responsible for cooling the warm air in your home. It is a pyramid-shaped series of coils through which a cool liquid refrigerant circulates. As the warm air comes into contact with these coils, the moisture in the air condenses on to the coils, and the air is dehumidified.

But where does that water go? There is a condensate drain pan fitted beneath the evaporator coil, so that any condensed water vapor can drip right into the pan, and down the drainpipe. From there, it either goes to its own drainage, or connects to your wastewater disposal system. When this system works, the condensed water is not a problem, but if not, that water is at risk of moving into the air handler itself, or possibly on the floor in front of the indoor unit. This typically occurs because the condensate drain pipe becomes clogged with dust and other debris, causing the drain pan to overflow. However, leaks can also occur, whether because of physical damage or due to general wear and tear. These are usually quick fixes for your AC contractor.

For more information about your Springfield, PA air conditioning system or to schedule repair service, call the experts at Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc. today! 

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Havertown, PA Air Conditioning Guide: Is it Time to Repair, or Replace?

Monday, April 22nd, 2013

Spring is a great time to ensure that our home is in tip-top shape for the heat and humidity of the summer. While routine maintenance should help ensure you get years of reliable cooling, there may come a time when you need to consider the decision between repairing and replacing. While it may make more financial sense to replace your AC in many cases, it’s important to know what your options are. That’s why professional consultation is so important. When you need exceptional Havertown, PA air conditioning services, call Wm. Henderson Plumbing Heating Cooling Services!

There are a number of factors to think about when deciding whether to repair or replace: your cooling needs, the condition of your home, budget, and so forth. The following is only a brief guide, and hands-on diagnosis should be performed by a professional before you make any decisions. That said, let’s take a look at some potential reasons to repair or to replace your AC:

It’s probably time for repair if…

  • Frozen coil: This is often caused by a clogged air filter, or some other airflow problem. When fixed, your AC will usually return to normal. 
  • Water leak: Water leaks in or around the air handler are caused by a condensate drain overflow or drainpipe clog. This device fits under your evaporator coil to catch water and make sure it drains properly. Clearing the clog is usually a quick fix.
  • Debris accumulation: Sometimes your AC just needs to be professionally cleaned in order to restore its efficiency and effectiveness. Obviously, not a problem that requires you to replace your system.

It’s probably time to replace if…

  • AC is old: If your AC is old and it seems as though it’s reached the end of its life, then it’s a good time to at least begin thinking about replacement, even if your AC still works.
  • Frequent repairs: If your AC requires frequent repairs, you should consider replacement as a viable alternative. Not only would you receive a brand new highly efficient system, but you would also be able to avoid supporting an old system, and begin investing in your future comfort.

Whether you need repair or replacement, the Havertown, PA air conditioning experts at Wm. Henderson Plumbing Heating Cooling Services are here to assist you. Call us today! 

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Springfield, PA Plumbing Tip: Pros and Cons of Copper Piping

Monday, April 15th, 2013

If you’re in need of plumbing replacement, you may be wondering what type of pipes your plumber will use. While copper piping has become the standard hard pipe in the plumbing industry, and has been used in plumbing applications for many years. It is only since the 1970s that plastic piping has offered a viable alternative to copper plumbing. In this post, we’d like to run you through the pros and cons of copper piping so that you and your plumber can make an informed decision about what’s right for your home and your plumbing requirements. For more information about copper piping, or to schedule a Springfield, PA plumbing service, call Wm. Henderson Plumbing Heating Cooling Services today!

As a tried and tested standard of the plumbing industry, copper offers many pros, including:

  • Durability: While it’s ductile enough to be used for fittings and joints, copper is incredibly durable. In addition to its fire resistance, it is also corrosion resistant. Its rigidity allows for less supports when spanning distances, and it maintains alignment under pressurized conditions.
  • Malleability: Plumbers love copper because of its strength and malleability. Sweating copper pipes is one the basic techniques of the residential plumber.
  • Fire resistance: Copper has a high thermal rating, making it resistant to fires. For homeowners concerned with using fire retardant materials, copper makes an excellent choice.

That said, there are some potential cons to take into account, as well:

  • Cost: The major reason for the rise of alternative piping is cost. Copper piping is more expensive than plastic piping, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). The latter is quickly becoming a standard in many residential applications for its strength and flexibility.
  • Metallic flavor: While it is minimal, copper piping may add a metallic flavor to your drinking water, which may be off-putting for some homeowners.

Remember to discuss your options with a plumbing professional in order to receive the most up-to-date information on piping. For Springfield, PA plumbing services, call the experts at Wm. Henderson Plumbing Heating Cooling Services today! 

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Springfield, PA Heating Systems: Boiler or Furnace?

Monday, March 25th, 2013

Spring is an ideal time to think about upgrading your existing heating system. As it begins to warm and we move into the cooling season, it’ll be comforting to know that when winter once again hits in Springfield, PA, you’ll have a new heater to keep you home warm and comfortable. When it comes to finding out what type of heating system to choose, you may find yourself divided between a boiler and a furnace. Both are tried and true heaters, and are widely recognized as standards of the modern home. In this post, we would like to break down some of the differences between these popular heating systems. For heating installation in Springfield, PA, call Wm. Henderson Plumbing Heating Cooling today!

Let’s take a look at some of the differences between boilers and furnaces:

  • Fuel. Both boilers and furnaces can rely on either natural gas or electricity. While electricity is generally more efficient, because there is little wasted combustion exhaust, natural gas can be more cost-effective, depending on your locale. Gas furnaces and boilers are common, and each will be fitted with some type of ignition apparatus and safety device to ensure that the combustion chamber does not fill with fuel if it cannot be lit.
  • Heat distribution. All furnaces use roughly the same principle of distribution: an air handler blows hot air into ductwork to distribute heat throughout the house. There will be duct registers at the base of walls and often in the ceilings. Boilers, on the other hand, have roughly two distribution systems, depending on whether they use hot water or steam. Hot water boilers use either copper baseboard piping with aluminum fins, hot water radiators, or some combination thereof. Steam boilers use specially designed steam radiators to produce a pleasant humidified air during the dry winter months.
  • Advantages? Both systems are great and have their own advantages, depending on what your current system is and what you expect from your heating system. Hot water boilers can also heat the water for your home, thus removing the need for a separate water heater. For some homeowners, that’s a definite plus.

We hope this helps you understand a bit more about furnaces and boilers. Whatever system you choose, the key is professional installation from a reputable company. For Springfield, PA heating installation, call Wm. Henderson Plumbing Heating Cooling Services today! 

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How Trenchless Pipe Replacement Works in Springfield, PA

Monday, March 18th, 2013

When your sewer main or water line needs replacement, there’s often nothing more disconcerting to a homeowner than digging large trenches in your yard to replace a relatively small pipe. Rightfully so, but is there another way? Trenchless pipe replacement is a time and cost-saving technology that avoids extensive excavation on your Springfield, PA property. Far from having to remove large portions of sidewalk or trees, trenchless technology means less damage and disruption to your home. If you notice wet spots in your yard, or severe backflow in your home, it may be time to replace that sewer main or water line. For trenchless pipe replacement in Springfield, PA, call Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc. today!

Sewer or water line replacement used to require heavy equipment to excavate enough of the yard to make accessing the damaged pipe possible. Instead of digging up the entire area surrounding the length of the pipe, the trenchless team digs two access holes, one at either end of the pipe in need of replacement. Typically, video inspection is required to assess where the damage is as well as its extent. A hydraulic pump is set up at one end to provide the pressure necessary to pull a pipe liner, often fitted with a pipe-bursting attachment on its head if the pipe is collapsed.

If your pipe has a leak, crack, or is missing a section, the hydraulic pump pulls the pipe liner through the length of pipe. Once it is inflated, it released an epoxy cast, which seals a new pipe inside of the old one. The inflatable bladder is then removed. In cases where there is significant damage to the pipe, the liner is fitted with a pipe-bursting cone that removes any debris and forces the pipe to open up enough to fit a new pipe inside. A new pipe forms within the old. Whatever the problem is with your sewer or water main, trenchless pipe replacement is the way to handle the situation effectively.

Don’t dig up your beautiful lawn—call for trenchless pipe replacement in Springfield, PA from Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc. today! 

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Springfield, PA Plumbing FAQ: How Can I Be Sure My Drains Are Clean?

Monday, January 28th, 2013

Are you wondering whether or not your drain lines need a professional cleaning? Call the Springfield, PA plumbers at Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc. for all your drain cleaning needs. We can also provide you with tips and advice on how to maintain your drain system to prevent clogs and backups.

Does your home have an old plumbing system? If so, you may experience more problems with your drain system. Many older plumbing systems were installed with cast iron drain pipes, which can cause clogs due to waste material getting caught on the rough surface inside the pipe. The older your system gets, the more problems you may have. Routine cleanings and keeping your drains free of materials that could get clogged are two important ways to prevent plumbing repairs.

If your kitchen sink gets clogged often, try to keep cooking oil and large food particles out of the kitchen drain, especially if you have a garbage disposal. There are many items that a garbage disposal is not designed to handle, so be sure you know how to operate the equipment. For bathroom drains, use hair catchers to keep hair and soap scum out of the drain line.

You may also have a larger issue if you notice slow drains. Keep in mind that a faulty plumbing vent or running large plumbing appliances all at once can also cause slow drains. If your toilets back up often, there may be an issue further down the line. The only way to know for sure is to hire a plumber for a video pipe inspection to fully inspect the inside of your pipes.

You may have a broken sewer line if you notice sewage smells or wet spots in your yard. If you suspect a leak in the main sewer line, call a plumber ASAP. This could prevent further damage to your pipes or your property.

Call the plumbers at Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc. for all your Springfield, PA drain and sewer needs!

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Keeping Your Pipes Safe This Winter: A Springfield PA Plumbing Tip

Monday, January 14th, 2013

Winter is a great, fun time of the year. If you are going to ice skating, though, make sure that you are doing it out on the pond and not in your basement or backyard. Dealing with burst or damaged pipes is never fun. Luckily, there are a number of steps that you can take to ensure the safety of your pipes in Springfield, PA this winter. If you still have any questions about ways in which you can protect your pipes this heating season, contact the expert plumbers at Wm. Henderson. We can help you protect your home.

The first way to prevent freezing pipes is to keep a small trickle of water moving through them. It does not take much, so do not be tempted to overdo it. You do not want to think that you are protecting your pipes only to come home to an overflowing sink. Keep that faucet open just a bit to add some insurance to your pipes.

It is also important to remember that insulation does not only belong in your walls and in the attic. Make sure that any exposed piping in your home is properly insulated. If the cold has a tougher time reaching the pipes it will have a tougher time damaging them.

Shut off the water to any outside fixtures and drain them. If you are concerned about the pipes in your home you should be just as concerned about those out in the elements, right? Pack up the sprinklers and the garden hose. You won’t be needing them for a while.

You may want to have your plumbing system inspected before the cold arrives if you have had problems recently. A water line that is compromised in any way, for instance should absolutely be replaced before the freezing temperatures arrive. Call a professional Springfield PA plumber to schedule a water line replacement before damage is done to your home.

If you would like more tips about keeping your pipes safe this winter, contact the pros at Wm. Henderson. We are proud to be able to put your mind at rest in Springfield, PA. Follow our advice and your pipes will make it through the winter unscathed.

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Sewer Line Maintenance in Springfield PA

Monday, December 17th, 2012

Chances are that you do not really think about your sewer line very much. When a problem develops with the sewer line on your Springfield PA property, though, it is impossible to ignore. A damaged or burst sewer line is quite unpleasant. It is unsanitary and can do some major damage to your home as well as requiring some costly repair services. The best way to prevent a problem from developing with your sewer line is to take the time to learn about some basic sewer line maintenance. Here are some tips from the plumbing experts at Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating.

When it comes to the condition of your sewer line, a preventive approach is certainly the best way to go. Routine maintenance from a qualified, fully certified Springfield PA plumber is indispensable. The fact of the matter is that you just cannot see into your pipes to locate a problem. A professional plumber, on the other hand, has the tools and the training to do just that.

Using technology such as video camera pipe inspection equipment your professional plumbing service provider can find and resolve any small, developing problems with your sewer line before serious damage is done. This is far preferable to a reactive approach in which you wait for the damage to happen before addressing the problem. Be aware of your sewer line and keep an eye out for any early warning signs, such as frequently clogged drains or backed up toilets, which may indicate a problem.

The sooner than any problems with the drain or sewer lines in your Springfield PA home can be resolved the better. No problem is too small to merit the evaluation of a qualified, professional plumber. Contact Wm. Henderson Plumbing & Heating the moment you suspect an issue with your sewer system. Be sure to schedule routine maintenance to greatly reduce the risk of sewer line problems in your home.

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