Posts Tagged ‘Southern Vermont’

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Southern Vermont Plumbing Tip: Why Small Leaks Matter

Monday, September 30th, 2013

If you detect a small water leak in your home piping, you might decide to place a water pan underneath the drip and forget about it until you need to empty out the pan. “Oh, it will stop soon,” you think to yourself. But no leak should be ignored unless you want to incur larger damages or require emergency service down the road.

If you’ve sprung a leak and aren’t sure how to repair it, or if you are concerned that you might have a larger problem on your hands, get hold of the Southern Vermont plumbing experts at HB Energy Solutions right away.

A small leak isn’t necessarily a localized issue with your plumbing: it might be the only visible part of more significant trouble, such as pressure building up from clogs, or a widespread corrosion problem that is only now starting to appear. You may already have other leaks in places you can’t see, and these leaks may be much larger ones. None of these leaks will get better on their own—they will probably continue to get worse.

A leak is not just an indication of trouble with your plumbing. It can create its own trouble. No matter the amount of water dripping out of the leak, when water drips where it shouldn’t and starts to form stagnant pools, it can lead to mold growth. This extra water can also cause a rise in humidity and the warping of wood and other building materials that can lead to damages. It only takes a small amount of standing water to damage drywall, plaster, paneling, wallpaper, and paint—and the repair needs will mount the longer the problem continues. Don’t wait for sections of your ceiling to start falling before you address the problem.

Professional plumbers can fix a small leak fast, but they will also be able to determine if the leak is a symptom of a bigger problem. Don’t rely on your own patchwork fixes to solve the trouble, since there might be much more going on than you can see. For excellent help from an experienced and friendly company, look to HB Energy Solutions to handle your Southern Vermont plumbing worries.

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Signs That Could Indicate Your Southern Vermont Electrical System Has Troubles

Thursday, August 29th, 2013

The electrical system is a staple of the home, providing light, heat and power for modern appliances. When trouble arises, it disrupts the flow of your life, and can prove costly as well as inconvenient. Residents of Southern Vermont pride themselves on their self-sufficiency, but troubles with your electrical system usually necessitate a service call from an expert. Here are some signs that indicate potential trouble with your electricity.

  • Tripped breakers. Tripper circuit breakers are usually the most obvious sign of faulty electrical wiring. They trip in the event of an overload, cutting power to that circuit and preventing further damage in the process.  If the breaker keeps tripping, it suggests a significant problem.
  • Flickering lights. If your lights flicker or dim, it may just be a problem with the light bulb. It could also be a loose connection with the wiring or problems with the fixture. Try replacing the bulb with a fresh one. If it doesn’t solve the issue, you should consult an electrician.
  • Warm fixtures. If you’re using a bulb with too much wattage or your fixture lack proper insulation, they could feel warm to the touch. That’s a problem because it means the fixture could overheat, creating a fire hazard.
  • Burning smell. Similarly, if you detect a burning smell whenever you turn on a light, it suggests an overload issue or a problem with faulty wiring. Turn off power to the light panel at the circuit panel and contact an electrician immediately.

For over 20 years, HB Energy Solutions has Offered electrical services to Southern Vermont. We offer 24-hour emergency service and off a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our work. If your electrical system is experiencing troubles, call us today to set up an appointment.

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Basic Components of Your Electrical System

Wednesday, August 14th, 2013

Every modern home has an electrical system, designed to run our lights, appliances and other devices that make modern living possible. In Southern Vermont, electrical problems can be more than an inconvenience, with cold temperatures and inclement weather outside creating all manner of problems. It helps to understand the basic components of your electrical system, so that you know what happens when there are problems and can give a service professional some basic idea of where to look.

Electricity in your home starts with the circuit breaker panel, which is connected to the main power supplied by your city or municipality. The breaker panel usually contains the main breaker, which covers the whole house, as well as individual breakers that run power to different specific outlets inside the house.

Electrical wiring goes out from the breaker box to each of the individual outlets in your home.  The wires have to meet certain codes, both federal and local, in order to be rated safely. Most circuits in the modern home have two conductors: one “hot” and one “neutral.” A third conductor, which grounds the electricity and channels it directly into the ground in the event of any emergency, is connected to every outlet in the home. Older wiring, such as “knob and tube” wiring used in the early decades of the 20th century, is no longer considered safe. If you live in an older home, check with a professional to see if your wiring is still up to code.

The wiring connects to the outlets in your wall, which let you access the electricity and power the lights and appliances in your home. Some outlets contain “mini-breakers” that shut off the power when an appliance overload them.

When your electrical system experiences problems, you should contact a trained service professional immediately. HB Energy employs trained professionals who can safely handle all kinds of electrical issues, and we serve most communities in Southern Vermont. Call us for an appointment today; we’re dedicated to your satisfaction and will work hard to correct your problem the first time, every time.

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Southern Vermont Air Conditioning Repair Guide: Signs of a Faulty Capacitor

Wednesday, June 26th, 2013

A reliable air conditioning system is one of the best investments any homeowner can make. During the hottest time of the year it is great to be able to come home to a cool, comfortable environment. Even the best air conditioners on the market, though, are still mechanical systems. Like all other mechanical systems, it is impossible to guarantee that they will never suffer from operational problems. That is why it helps to understand some basic warning signs that trouble is brewing with your AC. Here are some indicators that you may have a faulty capacitor in your system from the pros at HB Energy.

First of all, what is a capacitor? Basically, a capacitor is a device that stores an electrical charge. In an HVAC system they are used in fan motors and compressors. A run capacitor is used in the fan motors of AC systems, heat pumps and furnaces. It is their job to maintain a certain voltage charge which keeps the motors running, and to increase their torque when the motors first start up. A start capacitor is also used in many heat pumps and air conditioners. When the compressor first starts up a start capacitor supplies a torque boost. Once the compressor is up and running the start capacitor switches off automatically.

Many different problems may be the result of a faulty capacitor in your air conditioning system. Depending on whether the capacitor fails completely or if it loses strength you may notice that the motor it works with stops running. If the compressor motor in your air conditioner won’t run your AC will not cool your home. If the outdoor fan does not operate properly then the compressor may short cycle or shut down. Only a professional Southern Vermont air conditioning repair technician can determine for sure what the exact cause of your problem is.

To learn more about the basic components of your air conditioning system, or to schedule service with a Southern Vermont air conditioning repair technician, contact HB Energy today. Our team of skilled professionals has the answers to all your questions.

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How to Protect Your Air Conditioning System

Tuesday, June 4th, 2013

New and seasoned AC owners alike often assume that once their air conditioner is installed, it should just work until it needs to be replaced. That’s not the case. The best thing you can do for your air conditioner is to ensure that you take care of any homeowner maintenance duties on a regular basis, as well as scheduling professional maintenance. All of this is in the interest of maintaining optimal performance and energy efficiency, as well as protecting the condition of your air conditioning system. Call HB Energy Solutions today for comprehensive AC maintenance and repair services.

Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can protect your AC.

  • Take care of repairs ASAP: This is critical. Don’t let those minor repairs snowball into major, costly repairs. If you have any suspicion that your AC is not operating as well as it should, then make sure you get it checked out as soon as possible. Whether you have a refrigerant leak or frosty coil, or simply think that your AC performance has declined over the years, a professional AC technician will be able to arrive at your home and assess the situation quickly.
  • Enroll in a maintenance program: This is an important step in extending the longevity of your AC, and thus protecting your investment. A preventive maintenance program gives the AC tech an opportunity to examine your AC closely and inspect any problematic areas. It also involves the thorough cleaning of its various components, as well as testing and adjusting the electrical and refrigerant levels. Hands down, this is the best thing you can do for your AC.
  • Do your maintenance duties regularly: Although the majority of air conditioning maintenance should be taken care of by a professional, there are a couple of things that you can do to protect the performance and efficiency of your cooling system. First, keep an eye on your air filter and make sure that you change it regularly. Second, keep the area surrounding your outdoor and indoor units free of any belongings or organic debris.

Call HB Energy Solutions today for comprehensive Southern Vermont air conditioning services. 

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Common Causes of Southern Vermont Electrical Problems

Monday, 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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When to Call a Southern Vermont Plumber for Professional Repair

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

Monday, 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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Southern Vermont Electrical Safety Tips

Monday, 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

Monday, 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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