New Hampshire Plumbing Tips: Some Basic Plumbing Components

May 20th, 2013

In this post, we’d like to give you a rundown of some of the basic plumbing components in your home, so that you can stay a little bit more informed about how your plumbing system works for you. But if something goes wrong, or you’re looking to replace your piping or plumbed appliance, then call the New Hampshire plumbing experts at HB Energy Solutions.

  • Water heater: You need your water heater to wake up in the morning with a hot shower, or to clean your dishes and laundry effectively. While the conventional water heater is made up of a large tank that holds as much as 80 gallons of hot water at a certain temperature, there are other models now available. Tankless water heaters, for example, are highly energy efficient because they don’t have to heat a large tank of water constantly. There are also solar water heaters that use the radiant heat of the sun to supplement your existing hot water system.
  • Gas piping: Natural gas requires quality hookups in order to remain safe for use in the home. Because gas leaks are notoriously dangerous, gas piping requires a high level of technical expertise and the right materials. Whether you have a gas furnace or stove, you’ll need to hook them up safely to your natural gas tank.  
  • Water line: Your water line is vital to the operation of your home. Without a good working water supply, you simply would not be able to enjoy many of the conveniences of the modern home. Over time, however, whether because of mineral deposits or tree root penetration, your water line may need to be professionally serviced.

Call HB Energy Solutions today if you need comprehensive New Hampshire plumbing services. 

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Common Causes of Southern Vermont Electrical Problems

May 13th, 2013

Your electrical system allows you to harness the power of appliances and gadgets that require electricity by providing a safe and comprehensive network of circuitry and receptacles. But as with any aspect of our home, our electrical systems may need repair and professional service at some point. It’s critical that you find a good electrician to work on your home. Electricity can be dangerous, so make sure that you call the pros at HB Energy to solve your Southern Vermont electrical problems.

Let’s take a look at some common causes of such problems in your home.

  • Faulty connection: Your home’s electrical wiring works by virtue of a circuit, and this circuit depends on the integrity of its connections. If one of your wires fails, either due to heat or physical damage, then this can cause a faulty connection. For example, if you have any flickering lights in your home, this is often the consequence of a wiring issue.
  • Moisture: Water and electricity don’t mix, as well all know. But less obvious is the impact of moisture and humidity on your home electrical system. While most electrical materials are well-insulated to protect against the risk of invasive moisture, and GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) can detect water and shut themselves off to prevent shorting the entire system, you need to make sure that your home electrical system is safe from any encroaching moisture or water.
  • Improper installation: Unfortunately, one of the common causes of electrical problems in the home is because of improper installation. Remember, only hire a certified and reputable electrician to perform work on your home.

If you’re having an issue with your electrical system in Southern Vermont, then make sure you give HB Energy a call today. 

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New Hampshire Air Conditioning Repair Tip: Signs of Electrical Problems

May 6th, 2013

While professional installation and regular maintenance will often prevent many problems before they start, some repairs are inevitable. As you well know, your AC requires electrical energy to create its cool air, and that can often be the source of various problems. We’ve compiled a list of some signs of electrical problems to look out for as we approach the summer. For more information, or to schedule a air conditioning repair in Southern Vermont or New Hampshire, call HB Energy Solutions today!

  • Buzzing noise: If you hear a buzzing noise in or around one of your AC units, then it could indicate a serious electrical problem. The electrical supply line may have become damaged, or there may be something known as electrical “arcing,” which can be hazardous. While you can expect your AC to make a certain amount of noise during its operation, a distinctive buzzing sound often means something is not right.
  • AC won’t turn on: If your AC won’t turn, make sure you haven’t merely blown a fuse or tripped the circuit breaker. Also, make sure that your thermostat is switched on and calling for cool air. If neither of these steps works, then you may have an electrical connectivity problem with your AC, or possibly a bad capacitor.
  • Short cycling: In order to operate properly, your AC requires a certain amount of voltage constantly running to it. If there are any changes to the line voltage of your outdoor unit, which houses the compressor, this may cause the AC to short cycle (turn on and off). This leads to inadequate cooling and energy inefficiency.

Enrolling in a maintenance plan is a great way to ensure that your AC is always running well throughout the summer. With inspection, cleaning, and tune-ups, many electrical problems can be caught before they interrupt your home cooling. Make sure you hire a professional to perform any repair work on your AC. For more New Hampshire air conditioning repair tips, call HB Energy Solutions today! 

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New Hampshire AC Repair Tip: Signs You Need Air Conditioning Repair Service

April 29th, 2013

We rely on our air conditioners in New Hampshire to provide energy efficient performance, so that we can avoid major energy bills during the summer. Like all mechanical systems, your air conditioner is subject to wear and tear, as well as damage, and needs to be professionally installed, maintained, and repaired in order to work properly. In this post, we’d like to review some signs that you may need air conditioning repair. Call HB Energy Solutions for comprehensive AC services in New Hampshire today!

  • AC won’t turn on: First, check your electrical panel to make sure that you haven’t blown a fuse or tripped a circuit breaker. If your AC still won’t turn on, then there could be several things wrong. It’s possible that your thermostat is faulty, in which case it either requires calibration so that it can accurately sense the temperature, or it needs to be replaced. There can also be connectivity issues. Alternatively, it could be an electrical problem: a damaged wire in the electrical supply, for instance.
  • Inadequate cooling: This is a common complaint. There are numerous reasons why your AC is not cooling as well as you need it to. First, check your air filter to see if it’s dirty or possibly clogged. If that’s the case, make sure you take care of your air filter so that it doesn’t restrict airflow. Check to see if you need to change or clean it once a month during the cooling season. Alternatively, you may have a duct leak somewhere within your home that is reducing airflow, or possibly low refrigerant.
  • Warm air: If your ducts are blowing out warm air, and your thermostat is properly set, then you have a problem. While there are many different possible reasons, your expansion valve may need to be adjusted, or it may be faulty.

We hope this gives you some idea about when to call for air conditioning repair. Call HB Energy Solutions for AC repair today! 

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When to Call a Southern Vermont Plumber for Professional Repair

April 22nd, 2013

Your plumbing is a complicated system, and there are a lot of different parts that need to work together.  From your drain pipes to your water heater, your local plumber has extensive training on how to make sure each component is working as it should.  In this post, we’ve given you a shortlist of when you should call a southern Vermont plumber for professional repair instead of trying to fix the problem on your own. For more information, call the experts at HB Energy Solutions today!

  • Water heaters: Hire a pro to come take a look at your water heater problem. Your home water heater can be difficult to work on, as well as dangerous. It is not only a tank filled with hot water, but it is also a lot of pressure. 
  • Septic line blockage: If your septic line becomes clogged, make sure that you get it professionally inspected and fixed. The problem may be deep down within your septic line or the septic itself, and a professional will have the equipment to fix the problem properly.
  • Low water pressure: This is often the result of an obstruction in your water supply line, or some other issue with the integrity of the piping.  Alternatively, after his professional diagnosis of the situation, he may recommend supply line modifications, which might be inhibiting the flow of water.
  • Sump pump: There are numerous reasons why your sump pump may not be operating properly. The drain line might be clogged, or there may be a mechanical or electrical issue. Whenever you are dealing with electricity and water, you definitely want a trained professional taking care of any repair.

Recognizing a problem is the first step to ensuring that your home plumbing system works well. When you need a Southern Vermont plumber, call HB Energy Solutions!

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Minimize the Need for Plumbing Repair in New Hampshire

April 15th, 2013

When something goes awry with our home plumbing systems, the results can often be extremely problematic. While plumbing repair may often be an inevitable part of home maintenance, there are some things you can do to minimize the need for plumbing repair in New Hampshire. Routine maintenance is a great way to ensure that your supply and wastewater systems are in good working order. For more information, call HB Energy Solutions today!

Let’s take a look at few actions every homeowners should take in order to reduce the risk of plumbing repairs:

  • Septic tank maintenance: Maintaining your septic tank is incredibly important. As your personal sewage treatment system, the septic tank relies on a cooperation of three layers of waste: the scum at the top, the semi-clear water in the middle, and the sludge at the bottom. At the top, bacteria convert the scum into liquid, as the solid matter falls to the bottom. The water is drained into your soil absorption area. Your septic tank requires regular pumping and maintenance of bacteria levels in order to operate properly.
  • Drain cleaning: Don’t wait until you have a serious drain clog. Schedule a drain cleaning today if you think your drains are slow, or you have never had them cleaned. We may also utilize a video camera inspection of your drainpipes in order to target any particularly blocked areas.  When drains become dirty or clogged, it can lead to major and costly repairs.
  • Take care of your plumbing: Avoid flushing anything other than organic waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Also, make sure to avoid putting fats, grease, and oils down your drain system. While they may be in liquid form while hot, when they cool and turn to a gel-like consistency, they can quickly clog up your home plumbing.

For more information about ways you can minimize the need for plumbing in New Hampshire, call the experts at HB Energy Solutions today!

 

 

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Southern Vermont Plumbing Installation Guide: What to Consider Before Installing New Fixtures

April 8th, 2013

Whether you’re having a new bathroom or kitchen installed, comprehensive repiping, or a new sewer line, there are some things to consider prior to your plumbing installation. At this stage, you may or may not have met with a plumber, but perhaps you’ve seen some brochures or designs that you really love and want to implement in your own home. Perhaps you desperately need a new water heater, sump pump, or extensive repiping. The first step is hiring a professional whose expert knowledge will lead you through the process every step of the way. Ask questions and know what your budget is and what options are available in your home living space. For more information, call HB Energy Solutions today!

  • Low-flow fixtures. If you’re looking for high quality design as well as energy efficiency, then you should consider installing low-flow fixtures in your home. New bathroom plumbing installation is a great opportunity to complement your new living space with money-saving low-flow faucets and showerheads. They can produce savings of up to 60%, depending on your existing plumbing setup. Low-flush toilets are also available.
  • Space considerations. The perennial question of major plumbing installation is determining where you want your new plumbed appliance or fixture to go. When incorporating new plumbing into your existing home, consider whether you’d like to move anything around. Perhaps you’ve always wanted that shower to be where the vanity sink is, or your new kitchen sink to be where the dishwasher used to be.
  • Tank or tankless? If you’re considering a new water heater, then you may want to consider whether you should use a conventional tank storage system, or opt for the latest innovations in tankless technology. Tankless offers a virtually endless stream of hot water without standby heat loss. They are highly efficient, compact, and versatile—you can install one or multiple units throughout your home. Speak to a plumber about which one options might be right for your home.

Your plumbing equipment is only as good as its installation. Make sure you hire a reputable plumber. For more information about our Southern Vermont plumbing installation services, call HB Energy Solutions today! 

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New Hampshire Heating Problems: Why Does My Heater Cost So Much?

April 1st, 2013

Maintaining warm, comfortable temperatures throughout the heating season is a goal that most homeowners share. Unfortunately, many homeowners are dissuaded from keeping their homes as comfortable as they’d like due to high energy costs. At HB Energy Solutions, we do not think that anyone should have to compromise their comfort in order to keep their energy bills manageable. Here are some common causes of heating problems along with some possible solutions from the heating professionals at HB Energy Solutions. Contact us today with any questions you may have.

One reason that your home heating costs may be too high is if your ductwork is in poor condition. Leaky, torn and improperly installed air ducts will allow the air that you have already paid to heat to escape from your system before reaching its destination. This means that your heater will need to heat more air to make up for this loss, causing efficiency levels to drop. This can also cause further problems, as your heater will need to work harder to replace lost energy. Your heater will incur more wear and tear that can potentially lead to damage.

In fact, minor and developing problems with your heating system are another very probable cause of your high heating costs. If even one component of your heating system is not working properly it can throw off the performance of the entire system. Only when each individual part of the system is operation correctly can you get the best performance and efficiency that your system has to offer.

That is precisely why routine heating maintenance is so important. During routine maintenance, a professional heating technician has the opportunity to inspect and tune up your entire heating system. Any small problems can also be discovered and resolved before they can have much of an impact on your heater. Keep your heating costs manageable by scheduling routine heating maintenance with a qualified professional today.

When you have heating problems in New Hampshire, call HB Energy Solutions. We can help you heat your home in a more efficient manner. Keep comfortable and cut heating costs by scheduling service today.

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Southern Vermont Electrical Safety Tips

March 25th, 2013

Spring is a time for cleaning, organizing, and outdoor maintenance. Make sure that you and your family know the risks and dangers of electrical equipment. While most people know the danger of electricity, everyone needs to be educated about home safety. Here at HB Energy Solutions, we work with a wide range of energy products and services, from septic tanks to comprehensive electrical installation. In this post, we’d like to pass along some electrical safety tips. For comprehensive energy solutions, call the Southern Vermont electrical experts at HB Energy Solutions today!

  • Be aware of overhead wires. As you do your spring cleaning outside the home, remember to know where any overhead wires are at all times, particularly if you’re working on a ladder.
  • Inspect any home tools for electrical faults. If you have any electrical equipment, make sure that it’s safe to operate by taking a look for any frayed or damaged wiring.
  • Don’t overload outlets. Plugging too many gadgets or multiple surge protectors into a single electrical outlet can overload your electrical system and be hazardous. If you need additional power sources, then make sure they are professionally installed.
  • Don’t operate electrical equipment near water. In places like the kitchen, bathroom, or even outside around the swimming pool, the operation of electrical equipment can be dangerous. Keeping electricity and water separate is obvious to most people, but it’s easy to overlook, too. Make sure that any potentially harmful devices are out of the reach of young children.
  • Have an electrical problem? Hire a pro. There’s no substitute for the knowledge and experience of a trained professional. Handling electricity can be dangerous, and you need to make sure that you’re not doing more harm than good. Make sure you hire a certified electrician.

Electrical problems can place your home in danger and your comfort at risk. Make sure you stay alert to flickering lights, frequently tripped circuit breakers, and wobbly switches. When you need a Southern Vermont electrical expert, call HB Energy Solutions.

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Southern Vermont Septic Guide: How Your Septic System Works

March 18th, 2013

If you don’t rely on the municipal waste management system to get rid of your wastewater, chances are you have a septic tank in your backyard. Your septic tank sifts through the organic waste, and separates the water from the solid matter, allowing it to drain effectively into the drain field. The septic tank experts at HB Energy are committed to informing their customers about how their home systems work, so that they have the tools necessary to recognize major problems before they cause serious malfunction. While it’s not always possible to prevent repairs, a little bit of know-how goes a long way. For any septic tank problems in Southern Vermont, call HB Energy Solutions today!

Your septic tank is a watertight box buried in your yard that is usually made out of concrete or fiberglass. It typically holds about 1000 gallons, but its size depends upon the size of your home and your plumbing needs. Your sewer and drains gang together into your sewer main and flow into your tank. This new water displaces the old. Once there, there are three different layers that form inside: decomposing matter floating at the top of the tank (scum), mostly solid matter collected on the bottom (sludge), and relatively clear water in the middle of the two, which overflows into your drain field. The decomposition process takes the scum and separates it into solid matter and water.

The entire system is passive, meaning that it is powered only by gravity and the design of the system and materials themselves. The drain field, also known as the soil absorption system, is a trench with perforated piping overlaid with gravel to disperse the water. The septic tank requires a periodical removal service, which pumps the solid matter out of the septic tank to avoid overflows and promote efficient sewerage. The frequency of the septic pumping depends upon tank size, condition, and usage.

We hope that answers some of your questions about how a septic tank works. For more information, or to schedule septic tank maintenance in Southern Vermont, call HB Energy Solutions.

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