Ask the Experts: FAQs on FAUs with Eric Sanchez

You asked and we listened! Our “Ask the Experts” blog series is a way that you, our valued customers, can find out everything you’ve been dying to know about your home, from the guys that you trust – Bill Howe technicians! With the winter months quickly approaching we had customers asking about forced air unit (FAU)/heater repairs so we sat down with Bill Howe Heating & Air field supervisor, Eric Sanchez, to get answers to our customers “FAQs on FAUs.”

Q: How many years have you been in the heating and air conditioning industry and where did you receive your training?

Eric: I’ve been in the HVAC industry since 1997. I went to school for it at a trade school in San Jose. After graduation I worked for HVAC companies in San Jose and Sacramento before moving down to San Diego.

Q: How long have you been specialized in HVAC service and repair (as opposed to HVAC installations)?

Eric: I went to school specifically for service and repair of all types of equipment and brands, but once I got out in the field I did a lot of HVAC installations. For the past several years I’ve come back to what I really enjoy which is service and repair and personally I find it more satisfying.

Q: What are the most common causes of heating problems?

Eric: It really depends on the age and type of the furnace. If we’re talking about an old furnace, it’s really common that the pilot light is out, especially at the beginning of the cold season. Other times it’s usually a problem with the gas valve, the thermocouple or sometimes air leaks that are killing the pilot flame. Sometimes the unit isn’t heating because of the air filter is full of debris and the system isn’t receiving enough air flow.

With newer systems, common causes include electrical shorts or a defective ignition device. Even with newer systems, a dirty air filter can cause issues as well.

Common issues with heat pumps are usually low refrigerant or a dirty filter.

Q: Are there any signs (other than just not getting any heat) that would indicate a problem with a heating system?

Eric: Yes, certain sounds and smells can be a good sign that there may be an issue with the unit. For instance, if the blower motor is out of balance it will make the unit rattle or sometimes the unit will hum because there’s a problem with the motor. We also receive a lot of calls from customers who are concerned about smells that come from their air ducts when they turn on their unit. That’s due to a lack of service on the unit. Sometimes dust will come through the vents and even set off smoke detectors. Customers can avoid this by having a tune-up before they need to use the unit, but if it’s too late and the smell/dust is already there, they can have a professional come out to clean the heat exchanger. Eventually this dust and smell will go away on its own, but it tends to take awhile. Sometimes, if it’s a really old unit, that smell is not going to go away and the unit is too rusted beyond any type of repair.

Q: How long does the average repair take?

Eric: Heater repairs are not usually as complicated as air conditioning repairs. The average heater repair will take between one and two hours. If the unit is having problems intermittently, sometimes the problem doesn’t present itself when we’re onsite. That’s when we’ll leave the unit on overnight and go back the next day to fix the problem.

Q: Are heater repairs expensive?

Eric: It really depends on the parts that are needed, but sometimes the problem is solved by fixing wiring issues or cleaning the unit and doesn’t even need parts. On average, repairs costs around $200 to $350.

Q: If my pilot light is out, can the customer just light it?

Eric: Yes, however we strongly advise customers to proceed with caution, especially if it’s an older unit. The safest thing to do is have a professional light the pilot (SDG&E can also do this), however there are directions on the unit that shows the customer how to do it themselves. A lot of the time we get calls because the customer has tried lighting the pilot light themselves, but it won’t stay lit.

Q: What is the average lifespan of a heater?

Eric: For energy efficiency, the average lifespan is about 10 to 12 years, however, heaters can last many more years, the unit just loses efficiency.

Q: How long is the warranty period for a heater repair?

Eric: At Bill Howe Heating & Air Conditioning, our heater repairs come with a one year warranty on the parts that we supply and a 30 day warranty for the labor.

Q: What is the average lifespan of a thermostat?

Eric: The newer digital thermostats will usually last between 5 and 8 years.

A lot of customers still have the old thermostat with the mercury inside. I’ve found that customers like these thermostats because they’re easy to use, but they’re not always efficient or accurate and mercury isn’t safe to have either. There are a lot of benefits to upgrading to a digital thermostat (e.g. programmable thermostats will ensure the customer is not wasting energy/money when they aren’t at home and some of the newer thermostats will actually learn the customers’ habits and program the system to the customers’ needs without them having to do anything).

Q: What are unsafe levels of carbon monoxide in the house?

Eric:  Every gas appliance in the house (i.e. gas stove, furnace, etc.) is going to produce between 0 and 9 parts per million (ppm) which is a safe level of carbon monoxide. Many homes still don’t have a carbon monoxide detector, and they should. If customers have one, the detector will go off if levels go above 9 ppm.

Q:  What is the best method of filtration?

Eric: There are several different filtration methods and the best ones out there can get pretty expensive. Some really good methods that are also affordable include UV lights and electronic air cleaners. Also, the air tends to get really dry when using the heater so sometimes customers will have us install humidifiers into the system to improve air quality and reduce dryness. 

For even more information on FAUs or to schedule an appointment with one of our expert technicians visit our website at www.billhowe.com or give us a call at 1-800-Bill-Howe (1-800-245-5469).

It’s Never Too Early to Start Thinking About Your Heater! Keep Safe With Our DIY Safety Tips!

We’ve survived the San Diego heat wave…almost…but don’t wait until it’s cold out to have your heater checked out! At Bill Howe Heating & Air, the San Diego heating experts, we recommend having your heater tuned-up as soon as possible so that you can rest easy knowing that it will safely turn on and work the moment you need it.

Our San Diego heating professionals have the knowledge, experience and expertise to ensure your heating and cooling systems are running at peak performance. When it comes to heating, San Diego residents have trusted our advice for years. Plus, our San Diego heating experts not only fix any issue large or small, but we pride ourselves on educating customers about their systems in an attempt to help preserve the longevity of their units.

Safety is a top priority at Bill Howe so we’ve included some steps you can take to make sure your heater will keep you warm and won’t compromise your safety:

1. Keep the area around your furnace clear. The outside gets very hot, creating a fire hazard if materials are stored too closely.

2. Change the filter on your furnace once a year and be sure to clean the filter regularly. Over time, filters can be blocked by debris such as pet hair and dust, reducing airflow and creating a fire hazard.

3. About once a year, vacuum the fan blower with a heavy-duty vacuum like a Shop –Vac® and check your vent pipes to ensure there are no worn or damaged parts. Remember to turn off the power to the unit BEFORE doing this.

4. Heat exchangers should be regularly inspected to check for cracks and ensure that carbon monoxide is not leaking into the air ducts. Because they’re trained to find problems with your heating, San Diego HVAC technicians will be able to keep your system running smoothly by replacing any worn or broken components. This should be a high priority to ensure your system is running safely and efficiently.

5. Lastly, if you have a gas furnace, examine the pilot light for flickering and color changes. Ask someone to turn up the thermostat as you are doing so, but be sure to turn the system off for at least five minutes before starting. If you see changes, there could be an issue with the heat exchanger; so it’s best to call a professional.

For questions about these tips or to schedule an appointment regarding your heating, San Diego residents please give us a call at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit our website at www.billhowe.com.

Ask The Experts: Water Filtration Systems FAQs With Jason Bolas

Jason Bolas is one of Bill Howe Plumbing’s senior technicians. Jason has extensive experience in tankless water heater installations and repairs as well as the installation and repair of water softeners, whole house water filtration systems and reverse osmosis systems. In our latest “Ask the Experts” interview, we asked Jason questions that he receives most from customers interested in water filtration systems.

Q: How many years have you been in the plumbing industry?
A: I’ve been in the plumbing industry for 19 years. The first four years of my career I worked in a plumbing supply warehouse, then I started working out in the field. I’ve been with Bill Howe Plumbing for the last seven years.

Q: How long have you specialized in whole house water filtration systems?
A: I’ve been working with water filtration systems for the last 10 years. I worked at Culligan Water for four years before I came to Bill Howe. At Culligan Water we did a lot of work with whole house water filtration systems, water softeners, well treatment and reverse osmosis. During that time I received both formal training and a lot of on-the-job training with these systems.

Q:  How do whole house water filtration systems work?
A:  There are two types of systems: A carbon filtration system and a water softener.

A carbon filtration system has a coconut charcoal in the system and as the water passes through the charcoal it filters out the chlorine, sediment, etc., delivering bottle quality water to every fixture in your house. As time passes and this charcoal collects waste in the water, it has to clean itself out. It goes through a self-cleaning process automatically every 7-10 days.  The average lifespan of a carbon filtration system is 10 to 15 years.

A water softener works on what’s called an ion exchange. A tank of a man-made resin and sodium ions is used to attract calcium and magnesium which creates hard water. As the water passes through, the result is soft water to every plumbing fixture of your home. After a period of about 7 to 12 days, these ions become depleted and the resin needs to be regenerated, which is done automatically. A salt/brine tank is used for the regeneration process. The salt water is flushed through the tank and filters through the resin, during which the sodium ions adhere to the salt. Then the machine washes away any excess ions. The life-span of a water softener is about 12 to 15 before the resin would need to be switched out. Most often at that point it would be the most cost effective to simply replace the system.

Q: So, does a water softener increase the amount of sodium in the water?
 A: No. There is a misconception about the amount of sodium that is potable water. It’s actually a minimal amount. When the water softener goes through the regeneration process and cleans itself, it rinses out a lot of the excess sodium left behind. So, in actuality, VERY little sodium gets into your drinking water.

Q: How do you determine which type of filtration system a customer needs?
A:  Customers first need to decide what they want. Do you want “water bottle quality” water throughout your house? Or, do you want soft water, free of grittiness. San Diego is notorious for its hard water and is probably the more common system of the two. Both systems serve different functions: water softeners remove the calcium and magnesium that cause hard water and a carbon filtration system removes everything except for calcium and magnesium. Sometimes customers will have both installed.

Q: Are there any other water filtration options?
A:  Another option is a reverse osmosis system which is installed to filter the water of one fixture. These systems are not large consumption systems and typically installed to improve the home’s cooking and drinking water. They’re usually a 2 or 3 gallon reservoir tank and most times they fit right under the kitchen sink. They run around $1000* to install.

*Price subject to change, for exact price call 1-800-BILL-HOWE for an onsite estimate

Q: How is a whole house water filtration installed?
A: First, I have to find the main water supply and shut off valve so that I can hook up the system there. By hooking up the system where the water enters the house, it ensures the entire home’s water will be treated. Then, we want to find the nearest drain (that could be a clean out or a drain line that we can tap into) because each unit is a self-cleaning system and will need to drain excess water when it does this. Next, we find the nearest power source because they are all electrical and need to be plugged in.

Q: Should customers be concerned about their electric bill going up?
A: No, these systems are low voltage (24 volts) so there should be minimal, if any, increase to the electric bill.

Q: How much water does it waste when it goes through the self-cleaning process?
A: These units will waste about 15 to 20 gallons when it cleans itself. This happens once every 7 to 12 days, depending on water usage. This is equivalent to the water waste of a 10 to 15 minute shower.

Q: How long does the job take?
A: On average, installation of either unit takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on where the unit is going to sit at, how much copper needs to be used, how much drainage needs to be ran, etc. The really easy installations only take 2 hours, but I’ve been on really hard installations that have taken 5 or 6 hours.

Q: How much does a whole house filter cost?
A: Cost varies from house to house. On average, through Bill Howe Plumbing, a softener will be installed for $2,100 to $2,200 and a carbon filter will cost roughly $1,900 to $2000.

If you’d like to schedule a free estimate for a water filtration in your home or business, please call us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit our website at www.billhowe.com!

Why You Should Keep Your HVAC Air Filters Clean

The heat wave may be behind us, but that doesn’t mean we should forget about maintaining our HVAC units! When it comes to HVAC, San Diego residents can count on Bill Howe Heating & Air. After all, we know that to keep your HVAC system running well, it is important to follow these two simple steps. Replace your indoor air filters regularly and have a San Diego HVAC specialist give your system a tune-up once a year.  It’s never too early to get ready for the cold weather, you can get your heating tune-up now and make sure your heating unit is ready the minute you need it!

However, if you suspect you already have an issue, don’t worry because we can help! At Bill Howe, our technicians often find that filters with excess buildup have created problems for our customers.  A clogged filter stops airflow and puts more stress on your system. This drives up utility costs as owners attempt to correct poor air quality by running the AC or heat more often. Air slow-down can result in iced-up evaporator coils or cause the system to overheat. These problems can lead to HVAC failure or, in the case of over-heating, can spark a fire. Fortunately you can prevent these problems by calling one of our expert San Diego HVAC technicians for a tune-up.

If these filters aren’t replaced and the unit is not regularly inspected (we recommend twice a year), the system will reduce the heat-exchange rate. A lower heat-exchange rate will cause the system to fail over time. Then, the evaporator and condenser may break down as a result. Tune-ups by a professional technician will clean out debris and allow the system to function effectively.
Additionally, dirty filters result in lower air quality, which can lead to various problems. Poor air quality has been known to inflame allergies and cause other health and respiratory issues.

So, a good rule of thumb is to change air filters in the house every month and to have an HVAC tune-up once a year. If your business creates a high dust environment, it may need multiple tune-ups during the year. Additionally, homes with pets may need a tune-up more often if filters are easily clogged.

We are the preferred local company when it comes to HVAC. San Diego home and business owners have trusted us for years, and you can too.

To schedule an appointment or receive an estimate regarding HVAC, San Diego residents please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit our website at www.billhowe.com.

Pressure-Balanced Shower Valves and Cartridges

As leading San Diego plumbers, Bill Howe Plumbing knows that a nice warm shower that suddenly turns freezing cold or painfully scalding can be all too familiar in some homes. However, we also know that there is no need for this uncomfortable and irritating situation. After all, there is an easy and safe solution that prevents this annoyance from happening known as pressure-balanced shower valves and cartridges.

Pressure-balanced shower valves and cartridges allow hot and cold water to stay well mixed even if the pressure changes from a toilet being flushed, washing machine started or running sink. By allowing one of our expert San Diego plumbers to install a pressure-balanced valve or cartridge, your shower plumbing will no longer react to common pressure changes, allowing your shower to remain at a comfortable temperature. As a result, this can prevent scalding hot water and minor burns along with slips and falls from trying to escape icy cold water. Essentially, these valves and cartridges are a wise safety measure, especially for young children and the elderly.

When it comes to plumbing in San Diego, we know all the best ways to provide customers with everyday solutions. After all, we have been providing the very best service when it comes to plumbing in San Diego for well over 30 years. If you are looking to install a pressure-balanced valve or cartridge in your home or business, we can help. Customers know that they can count on us to make sure the job is always completed correctly the first time. We guarantee all of our parts and labor. Customer satisfaction is number one with us and we know you will be 100 percent satisfied with our service.

Don’t take another unnecessary uncomfortable shower. Schedule an appointment with one of our expert San Diego plumbers today by calling 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visition our website at www.billhowe.com.

Stay Cool and Safe With These Heating and Air Conditioning Tips!

We are supposed to have another HOT weekend and at Bill Howe we want to keep our San Diego heating and air conditioning customers cool AND safe! A couple weeks ago we stressed the importance of checking your drip pan (aka your safety pan) on your indoor air handler to make sure it is not leaking. During this hot summer we’ve been having, our air conditioning units might be top-of-mind, but with the recent earthquakes in San Diego, heating units also need a little attention.

Typically, there are two types of pipe used when a new furnace is installed. While there are several brands for both of these types of pipe, they generally fall into two distinct categories: they are either a hard pipe that is black in color or a flex pipe with a yellow plastic covering. While the hard pipe is thick, rigid and safe, the flex pipe is generally thin, flexible and prone to breaking which can cause very dangerous gas leaks. In the case of an earthquake, which can cause your furnace to shift, a hard pipe will not break in the commotion, but a flex pipe is far more likely to break and cause a gas leak.

If a flex pipe was used in your furnace installation, or if you are unclear about what type was used, we highly recommend that you have one of our expert San Diego heating technicians take a look in order to ensure your safety. Our heating technicians adhere to strict standards. Our technicians are certified with the North American Technician Excellence (NATE). They also belong to the non-profit Institute of Heating and Air Conditioning Industries, Inc. (IHACI). They have completed the AC&R Safety Coalitions and have extensive training in the refrigerant known as R-410A. They must also adhere to the standards of the EPA and have been certified through the Esco Institute.

When it comes to cooling you down during these hot summer months, and keeping you safe with all of your needs in heating, San Diego residents count on Bill Howe Heating & Air. No problem is too large or too small for us and we guarantee your satisfaction and safety.

To schedule an appointment or for more tips on your heating, San Diego residents please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit us online at www.billhowe.com.

Take Our Survey & Get $5 To Starbucks & Entered In Our BIG Giveaway!!

Your feedback is VERY important to us! Please take our customer survey so that we can better serve you and all of our customers in the future!

www.billhowesurvey.com

The survey will take about 6 minutes and once it’s completed you’ll receive a $5 gift card to Starbucks and you’ll be entered to win a 32″ LCD HDTV in our BIG Giveaway! 

Ask The Experts: Slab Leak FAQs

Our interview with Bill Howe Plumbing slab leak locator, Luis Mascareno about what his customers ask most often when they’re dealing with a slab leak.

Q: How long have you been specialized in slab leak location and repair?

A: I started with Bill Howe Plumbing about 11 years ago and I’ve focused on slab leak location and repair for the past seven years.

Q: Are you able to tell the cause of a customer’s slab leak?

A: Most slab leaks happen because of the age of the homes. On average, homes that are 25 years old or older are more likely to have a slab leak than newer homes. I tend to get called out to the older areas of San Diego most often.

Q: In your experience do insurance companies tend to cover the cost associated with the slab leak?

A: I get this question more than any other: it really all depends on your insurance company and the type of coverage you have. But in my experience, insurance companies typically cover the cost of the slab leak location and the cost to repair any damage the leak may have caused. Since I do this so often, I am used to working with the insurance companies to get them all of the information they need in order to determine what they can cover. Customers like that we can take care of the leak right away and work with the insurance company while we’re doing it to take that burden off of their shoulders.

Q: What are the different types of repair options for slab leaks and what are the benefits to each?

A: For residential properties the most common solution is a reroute and for commercial properties the most common solution is a direct repair. A direct repair is when we jackhammer into the floor to expose the pipe and a reroute is when we cancel the line and re-direct the line overhead. Typically residential property homeowners don’t want to ruin their flooring so a reroute is a cost effective and non-invasive solution. Every situation is different and I make sure to talk with my customers to make sure we determine the best fit for them, whether that’s a cost-effective solution or the most long-term solution like a repipe which is when we reroute all of the water lines under the slab.

Q: Take us through the leak location process.

A: One a hot water slab leak it’s easier to locate the leak because of the hot spots. Cold water slab leaks require an analysis of the home to check each fixture by pressurizing the line with a pressure gauge on one of the hose bibs to see if the gage level drops. Once it’s determined it’s a cold water slab leak, I use an electronic sound devise that allows me to hear and pinpoint leaks under a concrete slab. The location process usually takes between one and two hours. An experienced slab leak locator will be able to precisely locate the leak in most cases. There are situations that can hinder an exact location (i.e. leaks under shower pans and cabinets), however a leak location can still be performed successfully.

Q: What do you like most about working on slab leaks?

A: I like that slab leak jobs are challenging. I feel my experience in slab leak repair has brought me from a good plumber to an excellent plumber. You need to have knowledge and experience to do this type of work well. I also like the gratitude customers have when the work is done.

If you have a question for one of our experts for our feel free to give us a call at 1-800-BILL-HOWE(1-800-245-5469) or visit our website at www.billhowe.com.

Air Conditioning Tips Of The Week

As temperatures continue to soar, Bill Howe Heating & Air wants to advise our San Diego air conditioning customers to check the quality of their drip pan (also known as a “safety pan”) on their indoor air handler. The pan keeps the condensation that your air conditioner creates off the floor. But, if the pan is dirty or old, water can leak onto your floor, which creates problems, especially if you have wood underlay flooring. Moisture leaking outside the pan may also contribute to mold growth.

Should you need assistance checking your drip pan, one of our skilled technicians can help. After all, when it comes to air conditioning, San Diego residents trust us. Not only can we check the condition of your drip pan, but we can also inspect the drainpipe that carries off the condensation and verify that it’s draining properly. We know that over time, these pipes can clog from algae growth, dust, insect invasions or plant debris. And, if the water can’t drain properly, it can back up into the safety pan and possibly overflow. Our routine air conditioning inspections also involve examining the insulation around the drainpipe. The insulation protects the pipes from condensation that can damage many areas of your home through which the pipes run. The course of the pipe is often concealed, so you could have leaks, condensation or drips you’re unaware of, creating issues that could be avoided with a simple inspection.

At Bill Howe Heating & Air, we highly encourage our customers to inspect the areas outdoors where the drainpipe runs from time to time. Any streaks or discoloring along the exterior or roof of your home near the drainpipe may indicate that you have problems with your air conditioner drainage system. Solving  problems  with your San Diego air conditioning unit is quick and easy at Bill Howe. Our exceptional team of technicians has the knowledge and skill necessary to have your unit running like new in no time.                

So, when it comes to air conditioning, San Diego home and business owners have counted on us for years, and you can too!

To schedule an appointment or for more information regarding these safety tips and your air conditioning, San Diego residents please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit our website at www.billhowe.com.

Reduce Your Water Bill With These Water Saving Tips

San Diego residents often ask us what they can do to conserve water. Although we need water for many daily functions, we know that conservation and cost-reduction is at the forefront of many San Diego residents’ thoughts when they receive their water bill each month. Using water every day for bathing, cooking, and cleaning is obviously necessary, but there are many ways in which we can conserve without losing the luxury and necessity of our water use. Just a few small changes and taking the time to take a look at some of your plumbing fixtures can provide beneficial water savings.

We are much more likely to notice leaks indoors than outdoors. It is always a good idea to do a spot check around the exterior of your home. Check your hose connections, near the A/C unit, and around the sprinklers. If you notice water spots, or signs of leaks, call a plumber in San Diego for an estimate. Your water meter and water bill are valuable tools to help in determining possible water leaks. If there is a large spike in usage cost or the meter spins when no water is in use, it could mean a leak. Check your water bill against your usage. Are there significant changes? Most plumbers in San Diego can confirm your suspicions of a leak at no charge and provide you with estimates for repair.

There are also many low-flow, high efficiency products available for installation in your home. If you would like information on the savings involved in the installation of any fixture, schedule with your trusted plumber in San Diego today. They can guide you on all of the benefits of the products, such as high-efficiency showerheads and educate you on how they can save you money and water waste.

Experienced plumbers in San Diego are only a phone call away to chat with customers about the different water saving plumbing fixtures and various “green” ways of reducing and reusing water. There are many ways to reduce water waste while keeping your lawn and plants healthy and green. Here are some great ways to double-team your garden growth and water-savings:

• Before running your disposal, think about other uses for that food waste. Why not start a compost system for your garden. By throwing food waste such as fruit and vegetable peelings into a compost pile, you can eliminate this source of water waste.
• Save the run-off water while you rinse of fruits and vegetables and use it to water your indoor plants.
• Does your lawn need watered? Consider washing your car on your lawn and utilize that water for two purposes at once.
• If your kids want to cool down during the hot summer days, set up the sprinkler in the area your lawn needs water most.
• Leftover ice cubes are another great way to water your plants. Throw them in the pit and as they melt, they will nourish your plants making it unnecessary for you to waste water.

Whether you save water by taking a minute or two off of your shower time, calling a plumber in San Diego to thoroughly check for leaks inside and outside of your home, find creative ways to re-use wasted water in your garden, or by installing water-saving appliances and fixtures, every little bit helps. When it comes to conservation, no step is too small.

At Bill Howe, we have some of the very best plumbers in San Diego that can help you identify areas of water waste and suggest ways to decrease water consumption in your home and increase your savings.

To schedule an appointment or receive an estimate from an expert plumber in San Diego, please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit our website at www.billhowe.com.

Detox The Air In Your Home With APCO

The APCO (Advanced Photocatalytic Oxidation) system is an air purifier that utilizes both germicidal UV light and activated carbon cells to clean the air in your home. At Bill Howe, we are the San Diego air conditioning experts. Our technicians are highly skilled at installing APCO systems, which are placed directly in the ductwork of your central air system. APCO is a new approach that has significant advantages over the older, ozone-based systems.

If you have been let down in the past with air purifier systems in your home or business, we invite you to learn more about APCO. Many air purifiers installed in San Diego air conditioning systems previously utilized ozone for purification. Ozone, in most cases, is not recommended as a long-term air cleaner and it more frequently used as a temporary solution. The APCO system is a safe approach to reduce odors in the air – whether from chemical or organic sources – including mold, mildew and common germs. The titanium infused activated carbon cells inside APCO attract and hold the Volatile Organic Compounds while the UV light then transform them into harmless water vapor protecting your home and family from airborne biological contaminants such as bacteria, mold spores, viruses  as well as unpleasant odors and VOC’s. The HVAC industry has recently recognized the ultra-violet and carbon cell approach to air quality utilized in APCO products; APCO won the 2011 AHR Innovation Award for Indoor Air Quality.

Our team at Bill Howe Heating & Air recommends APCO systems because they are a safe, effective and cost-efficient approach to better breathing with purer air. Besides their safety and efficiency, APCO systems function with very little maintenance required. They utilize an HV lamp, which keeps the activated carbon cells clean. This means that with an APCO system installed as part of the air conditioning, San Diego residents can save money on the costs of having a professional regularly clean their air-purifying unit.

At Bill Howe, we regularly assist our customers with any and all San Diego air conditioning and air purification issues. After all, there are many benefits to indoor air purifiers. Whether your problem is large or small, we know air conditioning. San Diego residents have trusted our expertise for years, and you can too!

To schedule an appointment or receive an estimate regarding air purification or air conditioning, San Diego residents please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469).

Benefits To Indoor Air Cleaners

When it comes to air conditioning, San Diego residents can count on Bill Howe Heating & Air. We have the skills, knowledge and expertise to provide excellent service quickly and efficiently. It might not be well-known, but all air conditioning units use filtration systems to create a flow of clean air throughout the home. However, even if a homeowner keeps the air conditioning unit working efficiently and effectively through routine maintenance, there is still another way increase the purity of the air and enjoy its benefits.

Indoor air cleaners are the new system of choice for many homeowners in San Diego. Air conditioning units are meant to keep us cool, but they can also protect our health. Due to pollutants and contaminants in the atmosphere, it is important to have proper air filtration that complements the system already in use by the conventional air conditioning unit. By installing an electronic air cleaner, residents can expect approximately 98 percent of harmful contaminants such as pollutants and allergens to be removed from the air. One beneficial air purifying system, Advanced Photocatalytic Oxidation (APCO), utilizes germicidal UV light and activated carbon cells to purify the air inside of the home; it can be installed directly into the ductwork keeping your family protected. It comes as no surprise that in 2011, the APCO won the AHR Innovation Award for indoor air quality.

At Bill Howe, our San Diego air conditioning experts can also help in selecting the best electronic air filter to install in the home. A good air filter can keep drapes, carpets, and walls clean by removing pollen, lint, pet dander, and dirt from the air. The result is better air quality. Once our San Diego air conditioning experts help carefully select the perfect electronic air filter for the home, they will professionally install it quickly, allowing our customers to rest easy and begin breathing easy too! Bill Howe Heating & Air will also show customers how to use their new filter detailing all the ways in which it work to benefit them.

If you are looking to improve your current air conditioning, San Diego residents need to look no further than us. Our team of exceptional technicians can help in no time.

To schedule an appointment for services related to air conditioning, San Diego residents please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit our website at www.billhowe.com.

Top Air Conditioning FAQs

Why Does My San Diego Air Conditioning Run All Day in Hot Weather?

San Diego County residents, especially those that live in the inland areas such as Santee, La Mesa, El Cajon and Lakeside, know that the summer months can get really hot. Since air conditioning systems are designed for maximum efficiency, many will continuously run in order to keep a home cool. Most systems are set to meet air conditioning needs of about 90 degrees, at which point the system should turn on and off to cool the home. When temperatures go above 90, which they tend to do in many San Diego areas, the system continuously runs. We can help by replacing the coil and outside unit for optimal efficiency.

Does the Indoor Coil Need to be Replaced with a New San Diego Air Conditioning Unit?

In some cases, this is not mandatory. However, in order to obtain the rated efficiency according to Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings, it is best to have a matching set: the indoor evaporator coil and the outdoor air conditioning condensing unit or an indoor fan coil unit if you have a heat pump. By matching the two components, homeowners can ensure maximum efficiency allowing for more effective temperature regulation.

Do I Need to Purchase and Install a Large, Conventional AC Unit?

Not necessarily. At Bill Howe, we offer a package system that takes up very little space. These systems are all-encompassing and can be placed in small areas while still offering heating and cooling. They are compact and make a perfect fit for any San Diego air conditioning needs. These systems can often be installed on roofs or on the ground in convenient locations outside of the home because air conditioning San Diego homes does not require a lot of space. They are highly energy efficient and can offer up to 15 SEER of cooling and heating performance. The higher the SEER performance ratings, the more energy efficient the unit is. And, they are available with gas heating as well as heat pumps.

When it comes to air conditioning, San Diego residents can count on us. We have the knowledge, skill and expertise to help will all of your cooling needs.

To schedule an appointment with one of our experts in air conditioning, San Diego residents please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit our website at www.billhowe.com.

More Tips TO Save Water This Summer

At Bill Howe, we have been the number one plumber San Diego residents have selected for decades. As an expert San Diego plumber, we want our customers to know we hold their very best interests as our top priority. That is why we want to pass on our expert tips to help you save water in your home so you can rake in the savings.

1. We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Use a water-efficient showerhead!

If you live in an older home in San Diego, plumber experts like us suggest replacing your existing shower heads with quality low-flow shower heads. The newer models of water-efficient shower heads can save you around 750 gallons of water each month if you take a daily 10-minute shower, doing the environment and your pocket book a world of good.

2. Check for toilet bowl leaks

To check for a leak in your toilet, you can put food coloring in the back tank of your toilet and don’t flush the toilet. If the color seeps into your toilet bowl, you might have a leak. Detecting a leak early and getting it stopped could save you up to 1,000 gallons of water each month.

3. Take care of leaks immediately

If you have a dripping showerhead or faucet, or if you detect a toilet bowl leak with the food coloring test, be sure to have the leak taken care of right away. Even a mild constant drip can waste gallons of water every week.

Because Bill Howe is a local plumber, San Diego customers can be sure we will do everything we can to help them keep their homes in peak condition. With more than 30 years of experience, no problem is too large or too small for us to handle.

To schedule an appointment or receive a free estimate from an exceptional plumber, San Diego residents please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit our website at www.billhowe.com.

The Importance of Earthquake Shutoff Valves

At Bill Howe, our plumbers in San Diego are often asked if all businesses and homes need an earthquake shutoff valve. The simple answer is yes.

Our skilled plumbers in San Diego know that a shutoff valve offers critical protection for your home or business. Even minor earthquake activity could potentially cause damage to gas lines and create an undeniable risk of explosions and fires. Even if the earthquake were minor, it’s always best to be on the safe side and have the proper safety features installed. For this reason, there are mandates to install a government-recommended, tremor-automated gas shutoff valve. So, the next time you call for a Bill Howe plumber in San Diego ask us about earthquake shut off valves, and we’ll have you speak with an plumbing expert and come out to your home for a free estimate.

Since the earthquake shutoff valve is automated by seismic tremors, it can cut off gas flow before homeowners even have time to react to the terror of an earthquake. And, since the shutoff effects are immediate, there is far less danger that the gas could continue to flow and reach damaged lines which could be dangerous and worst case scenario could set off an explosion. Our plumbers in San Diego know that seconds count in an earthquake and that is why they know the importance of a properly functioning earthquake shutoff valve.

Bill Howe maintains a large staff of technicians and plumbers in San Diego. You can be sure that our plumbers are certified to fit the valve according to plumbing code. Once we finish, you will know that your home or business is protected. As a major service and repair company, we are proud to be able to offer these protective valves to homeowners and business managers. We also offer installation of the water heater restraint system (aka earthquake straps) to make them less likely to topple during an earthquake. Earthquake straps are also required by law and our technician can inspect the existing straps to ensure they are also up to plumbing code.

To schedule an appointment or receive an estimate with an expert plumber in San Diego, please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit www.billhowe.com. Whether you need a plumbing estimate or more information regarding earthquake safety measures, we can help!

How Pressure Reducing Valves Can Save You Money

As most of us already know, reducing water consumption can save money and have a positive impact on the environment. If you’ve read our earlier blog, How Pressure Reducing Valves Can Save Water, you already know that one easy way to start saving money and reducing water consumption is by using a pressure reducing valve. However, water saving tipswe understand that learning about options for plumbing in San Diego can be challenging. Home owners may be interested in reducing their water consumption with a pressure reducing valve, but they don’t know how that valve works. Luckily, at Bill Howe we are dedicated to helping our customers understand how different types of plumbing works and how fixtures can result in major home improvements. After all, we are the leaders in plumbing in San Diego.

Pressure reducing valves help home and business owners save money, water and energy by reducing the amount of water being used and ultimately, wasted. According to the Watts Regulator Company, a faucet left running for ten minutes with a water pressure of 50 psi wastes 30 gallons of water; at 150 psi, it wastes 56 gallons of water. A pressure reducing valve decreases that incoming pressure from the water supply and sets a low, regulated water pressure for the entire home or building. The pressure reducing valve can help decrease water usage by one third. Factor in the cost to heat water at $0.04 a gallon, and you can expect a substantial saving each year, just on heated water. Imagine the amount you can save when you factor in additional energy reduction and waste-water bills. Did you also know that high, unregulated pressure is also a leading cause for leaks and fixture problems? By installing this money-saving device, you can have peace of mind that you won’t need to call us to repair your plumbing in San Diego as often!

So, when it comes to plumbing, San Diego residents look no further than Bill Howe. We have more than 30 years of experience and we know that for plumbing, San Diego residents want to turn to a trusted company who can offer quality service. At Bill Howe, we are the San Diego plumbing experts, and we can help.

To schedule an appointment or receive a free estimate regarding your plumbing, San Diego please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit us at www.billhowe.com.

Thermostat Roundup: The Nest, Ecobee & Honeywell

As we all know, in order to stay completely comfortable in your home or office during the summer, the indoor temperature must be set just right. Your thermostat serves as an indicator to adjust your indoor air temperature to your preferred setting and to ensure it remains there. Additionally, it is intended to act as a safeguard when it comes to your heating and cooling bills. If you are having difficulties cooling your indoor space or keeping it cool, there may be a problem with your thermostat. Especially if there is a spike in your energy bill, but the temperature of the room does not reflect a higher electric usage.

So, if you suspect there is a problem with your thermostat, one of our expert San Diego air conditioner technicians can come and inspect your system. We have the knowledge, skill and expertise to handle any thermostat issue. And, if it is determined that you are in need of a new thermostat, our San Diego air conditioner experts can help you choose the right one. From Nest to Ecobee to Honeywell, we have the perfect thermostat for you.

The Nest thermostat is perfect for just about any air conditioner. San Diego residents want to be able to not only heat and cool their homes properly, but save energy as well, which translates to lower heating and cooling bills. Here are some reasons why we love the Nest:

• The Nest thermostat is an intelligent system that works by getting to know its user. It will automatically program itself in just one week and create a personalized schedule just for you continuing to monitor patterns and make changes accordingly
• The system can sense when you’ve left and will adjust temperatures accordingly to not waste energy
• It’s sleek and simple design will fit into any home interior
• The system educates you on your usage so that you can make better energy decisions and know what impacts your energy bill the most. Also the “Nest Leaf” appears to let you know when you’ve set the thermostat to an energy efficient temperature
• Whether you want to heat things up or cool things down, adjusting the temperature won’t give you an immediate result. The Nest will tell you how long it will take to reach the temperature you want
• Using your home’s WiFi, the Nest can be controlled form your computer or smart phone

Learn more about the Nest on their website: http://www.nest.com/

Any San Diego air conditioner can benefit from an Ecobee thermostat. This thermostat has an easy-to-use touchscreen and homeowners can save an average of 26 percent on their energy consumption through its unique features. Here are some more reasons why we love Ecobee:

• Ecobee includes a remote feature that allows homeowners and business owners to control their thermostats via their smart phone through easy-to-use apps for iPhones, iPod Touches and Androids
• Ecobee Smart Thermostat changed the industry with the first Wi-Fi enabled thermostat in 2009, they’ve made it so easy to do this that more than 80 percent of their customers are remotely programming their thermostats
• Ecobee continues to improve their products and upgrade their software, all at no cost to their customers
• Great for residential or commercial properties, as well as vacation homes

Learn more about Ecobee at http://www.ecobee.com/

Honeywell is one of the most recognized names in the industry. There are several thermostats that can fit just about any home and preference for an air conditioner. San Diego residents can count on our experts to help them choose the right one. Check out the list of reasons why Honeywell is one of our recommended thermostats:

• Whether you want a programmable or a non-programmable, Honeywell has more options than any other company
• If a programmable thermostat sounds like it would fit your busy life (who wants to try to remember to adjust the temperature every time they leave the house?) your options don’t stop there. You have your choice of a 7-day, 5-2 day, 5-1-1 day or 1 week programmable thermostats.
• With Honeywell’s selection of WiFi compatible thermostats, the Total Connect Comfort Mobile App allows customers to monitor and control their HVAC system remotely (free apps and no monthly monitoring fees)
• Their touchscreen is not only in high-definition, but also has tri-lingual options (English, Spanish or French)

Find Honeywell’s wide selection of thermostats at http://yourhome.honeywell.com/home/products/thermostats/

If you have any questions about which thermostat is right for you, don’t hesitate to contact us.

To schedule an appointment with one of our qualified San Diego air conditioner technicians, please contact us at 1-800-BILL-HOWE (1-800-245-5469) or visit our website at www.billhowe.com.