Common Plumbing, Heating & AC Questions
Have questions? Here are answers. We’ve put together some of the most common questions our technicians are asked when they’re on the job.
HVAC QUESTIONS:
How often do you change your thermostat batteries?
Batteries should be changed every year in your thermostat. Most newer style thermostats have a “Low Battery” symbol on the screen.
How often should I change my air filter in my furnace or air handler?
“Rule of thumb” is change your furnace or air handler filter every 30 days. Some thicker filters can last up to 6 months. If you forget to change your filter, the furnace can overheat and shut down or the indoor part of your air conditioning system can freeze and cause water to leak out of the furnace or air handler.
How often should my HVAC system be serviced or maintained?
HVAC systems should be inspected and maintained once per season every year. Northwest has an extinctive regiment involving cleaning and maintaining your HVAC system. Most manufacturers require yearly maintenance on your HVAC system for warranty purposes.
Why are my energy/utility bills so high?
People often wonder if their heating or cooling system is the culprit. Common causes include poor efficiency, dirty filters/coils, improper sizing, lack of insulation, thermostat settings, or the system running longer than necessary.
What size HVAC system do I need for my home?
Homeowners ask this when replacing or upgrading. It’s not just about square footage—factors like insulation, windows, climate, layout, and ceiling height matter. Oversized or undersized units waste energy and don’t perform well.
What temperature should I set my thermostat to (for heating in winter or cooling in summer)?
Common recommendations include around 72°F for cooling (or higher for savings) and 68°F for heating when home, with adjustments when away or asleep. Higher efficiency furnaces and a/c units can be more impactful with energy savings than thermostat adjustments.
How long should my heating/cooling system last?
Expected lifespan: central AC units ~10–12 years, furnaces ~12–15 years, heat pumps ~10–12 years. Proper maintenance extends this.
What are signs that something is wrong with my system?
Unusual noises (banging, rattling), uneven temperatures, poor airflow, strange smells, frequent cycling, higher bills, or the system not turning on/off properly.
How can I improve energy efficiency and save money on bills?
Beyond maintenance: seal ducts, add insulation, use ceiling fans, keep vents clear, consider upgrades like high-SEER units or smart thermostats.
PLUMBING QUESTIONS:
“8 years ago your team installed a RUUD hot water heater in my home. When should I consider replacing the pressure relief valve?”
For replacing the relief valve, it should not be necessary unless it is dripping or tripping. We generally find that relief valves will last the life of the water heater and other than testing it periodically, it should be just fine. If after you test the valve, it should leak or drip, then you would look to replace it.
A couple of other maintenance items that will help extend the life of your water heater include:
- If there is a screen at the bottom of your water heater, be sure it is clean and clear or dirt and lint (a shop-vac works great)
- There is a drain valve located toward the bottom of your tank. Place a bucket underneath the valve and release a couple of gallons of water. This will help clean out the sediment that collects in the bottom of the tank and help extend the life of the heater.
“I’m leaving to go on vacation and will be gone for about a week. How can I prepare my home?”
If you’re heading off on vacation for more than just a few days, it’s a good idea to make a few preparations to make sure you don’t walk into a plumbing disaster zone when you return. Here are three simple tips:
Turn off the main water feed to your house. During the winter season, you should also drain your pipes to prevent them from freezing. If your pipes freeze, they could burst, causing a major flood.
If you have a gas water heater, turn the dial of the gas valve to the lowest setting possible. Some dials have a “vacation” setting.
Double check to make sure your sump pump is working properly.
“How do I check to make sure my sump pump is working correctly?”
Like any other home appliance, a sump pump requires the occasional maintenance check-up. To make sure your sump pump is working properly:
- Unplug the sump pump.
- Dump 5 gallons of water into the pit.
- Plug the pump back in and check to see if it is pumping out the water.
- Go outside to check that the pump is actually discharging water. Sometimes the pump will run, but it won’t pump any water out.
Why does my toilet keep running (or won’t stop running)?
This tops many lists. It’s usually a faulty flapper valve not sealing, a stuck handle, misaligned chain, or fill valve issues. It wastes water and spikes bills—often fixable with a cheap part replacement.
Why is my drain (sink, shower, bathtub, or kitchen) always clogging or draining slowly?
Common culprits: hair + soap scum in bathrooms; grease, food scraps, or “flushable” wipes in kitchens. Many ask what can safely go down the garbage disposal (answer: mostly soft scraps; avoid grease, fibrous veggies, bones).
Why am I running out of hot water so quickly (or why doesn’t my hot water last)?
Often due to an undersized, aging, or sediment-filled water heater (typical lifespan 8–12 years for tanks). Other causes: high demand, faulty thermostat, or dip tube issues.
Why is my water pressure low?
Causes include clogged aerators/fixtures, partially closed valves, sediment buildup, leaks, or old pipes (e.g., galvanized). People also ask about sudden drops or differences between fixtures.
How do I prevent (or what do I do about) frozen/burst pipes in winter?
A big seasonal question. Prevention: insulate exposed pipes, keep heat on, drip faucets, disconnect hoses. For frost-free spigots: still often disconnect hoses and shut off interior valves.
Why is my water bill suddenly high (even with no visible leaks)?
Hidden toilet leaks (e.g., silent flapper issues), dripping faucets, running toilets, underground leaks, or irrigation problems. Many ask how to detect hidden leaks.
What should I do in a plumbing emergency (e.g., major leak, burst pipe, backed-up sewer)?
Immediate steps: find and shut off the main water valve (people often ask its location—usually near the meter or where the supply enters the house). Avoid DIY fixes for big issues.
How long should my water heater last, and when should I replace it?
Tank models: 8–12 years; tankless: 15–20+ years. Signs for repair/replacement: age, noises (rumbling from sediment), rusty water, inconsistent temps, or leaks.
If you have a heating, plumbing or air conditioning common questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
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