Do you have 15 minutes and a coil brush, shop vac and a dust mask? Then let’s get to work and clean those coils! It’s easy to do and will save you money! Keeping those coils clean can also help your refrigerator run more efficient. When the coils are clogged with dirt and dust, they can’t efficiently release heat. The result is your compressor works harder and longer than it was designed to, using more energy and shortening the life of your fridge. So if your refrigerator runs, but is not cold enough, get those coils clean!
Cleaning of the coils is needed more often if you have pets that shed or if the area where the refrigerator is located is particularly dusty, such as a garage
Step 1: Disconnect the electrical power
Step 2: Remove the toe grill (some fridge’s have the coils on the back – if yours does, just pull out from wall.)
Step 3: Clean the condenser coils. Push a coil brush into the condenser coils under the refrigerator. The coil brush knocks the dust off of the condenser coils. Vacuum the area to pick up the dust.
Step 4: Reinstall the toe grill.
Now it’s time to go outside and enjoy the beautiful Skagit Valley!
This is a common question that is often asked by homeowners who have never used this type of water heating equipment in the past. In essence, this kind of water heater allows you to have instant access to hot water on demand. This does not mean that the water is hot the very second you turn on the tap. It does take a few minutes for the hot water to reach the tap just like when using a tank system. What makes a tankless system different is that it does not store water and heat it up over and over again throughout the day and night.
Wherever Hot Water is Demanded
For better efficiency and energy savings it only heats water when the tap is turned on and water is flowing through the pipes. A tankless water heater can be powered by propane or gas and once the water is heated it travels along pipes to faucets wherever hot water is demanded. As a note, tankless water heaters that are gas powered must be vented through an outside wall. This is different as compared to a tank type water heater where venting typically is directed up and through the attic.
Gas and Water Pipes
In terms of cost management keep in mind that the venting system for a tankless hot water can be quite expensive and in some cases can cost as much as the water heater itself. Always choose to have a professional electrician and plumber install this kind of system in your home. This is especially true considering the fact that gas and water pipes must be correctly routed to allow for the new system to work properly. Even the electrical connections must be installed professionally to ensure that there is never a fire danger or other problems that may arise later. Finally, tankless water heaters can also be powered electrically and are somewhat different than propane or gas powered type tankless water systems.
Professional Electrician and Plumber
This type of electrically powered arrangement works by using heating elements that are located inside the pipes that heat water as it passes by. One advantage of using electrically powered tankless water heaters is that there is no venting required of the system. This is convenient because it means that this version of the system can be placed just about anywhere in your home. As a note, you will still require a professional electrician and plumber to ensure that the system is installed in the right way. Contact Alpine Heating & Cooling today to learn more about Burlington Washington tankless water heater installation services.
Extending the life of a residential hot water heater can save money and prevent potential water damage as well as other related costly repair problems. Here are a few useful tips for homeowners wishing to maintain a residential water heater in top condition year-round. One example is to simply know where the water heater is located within your home. Be sure that there is clear access to this important home appliance and that the plumbing is easily accessible in the event that repairs or immediate action is required.
Powered by Propane
In addition it is recommended by most professionals that you know what type of water heater you have installed. For example, is the water heater powered by propane, electric or natural gas. Perhaps you have a tankless type water heater. Whatever the case may be, knowing well in advance what kind of device is installed in your home can ultimately save a lot of time, trouble and money. Experts in the industry recommend that homeowners write down in a safe place the serial number and model number of the unit that is installed in their home.
Model Number
This information is vital and important especially for a professional plumber who may end up working on the unit at some point. Keep in mind that embedded within the serial number and model number is information on gallon capacity as well as the age of the appliance. Equally important is to know where and how to turn off the flow of water to a water heater. Knowing how to shut the water off quickly in addition to the power or fuel supply for the unit can prevent water damage and other situations that could result in expensive repairs.
Adequate Airflow
Finally, keep the area around any water heater clear and free of debris at all times. This ensures that if a leak develops that you will notice it quickly. If the area surrounding the heater is cluttered it may not be as easy to identify developing leaks. Also ensure that there is adequate airflow around the unit. This is especially true of water heaters that use gas as a fuel. A lack of adequate airflow can result in reduced efficiency and even result in damage to the burner chamber or other parts and components within the unit. Contact Alpine Heating & Cooling today for Burlington WA HVAC services that always get results.
