Land & Property Archives - Total Comfort Solutions

A Guide to Getting Sump Pumps Ready for Spring

What Are Sump Pumps?

With improvements in building techniques, humans are more able to live in places that were previously inhospitable. Even in modern times, low-lying properties can be difficult to protect from nature, especially rain and flooding. To protect these structures, people should install sump pumps.

Sump pumps are necessary in many homes because they remove water to protect them from flooding and water damage. Here is a quick guide to sump pumps to help homeowners understand their importance and how to make sure they are working.

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

Sump pumps are installed at the lowest part of a home, such as basements and crawl spaces, to collect water and pump it safely away from the home and its structure to protect it from flooding and costly water damage. They collect water in a sump pump basin or pit, and once the water reaches a certain level inside, the sump pump turns on automatically.

The part responsible for detecting when water reaches the level to make the sump pump work is a float switch. Sump pump float switches sit in the sump pump basin and float with the water level present. When the level reaches a certain point, the float switch tells the pump to turn on and remove water until it drops to a set point.

Main Types of Sump Pumps

For homes that need protection from flooding, such as those in low-lying areas or homes with basements or crawl spaces, there are two main options for sump pumps. The first option is a submersible sump pump. This type of sump pump sits in a sump pump basin. The motor and pump are encased together so that water is never in contact with electrical components. Submersible pumps are more powerful and quiet than the alternative but are the more costly of the two options.

Pedestal sump pumps are a budget-friendly choice because they are less expensive. These pumps have a motor that doesn’t enter the water or basin, allowing for easy inspection and maintenance. However, this makes the pump’s operation louder, which can be undesirable if the pump is in a finished basement.

Checking Sump Pumps for Spring

Spring is the rainy season, so homeowners with sump pumps must ensure their home is ready. Luckily, testing a sump pump is easy, even for those with little knowledge. To test the sump pump, pour enough water into the basin to trigger the sump pump to turn on. Once the unit is on, it should drain away the water and then turn off automatically. If this doesn’t occur, a plumber should be called to inspect the sump pump and repair it if necessary.

Besides routine testing, sump pumps should also be routinely maintained by professionals to ensure their proper operation. Sump pumps that are well maintained and routinely tested are less likely to experience problems when they are needed the most to protect the home from flooding and water damage.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions offers free estimates on plumbing installations and promises an on-time guarantee for service. Their teams handle residential and commercial plumbing repairs and installations. Call them for sump pump services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Understanding Humidity and How It Affects Your Home

Controlling Humidity at Home With Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers

Anyone who’s ever complained about the air being too dry in the winter or damp and sticky in the summer has experienced the unfortunate effects of too little or too much humidity. Humidity is the measure of water vapor in the air and is one factor that can affect health and comfort at home.

During the summer, when the weather is warm, water evaporates and becomes vapor easily, making the air feel extremely wet and humid. The opposite is true during the cold winter months. Frigid temperatures make the air feel dry. But when there is too much or too little humidity at home, it can have many other negative effects that can be fixed by installing humidifiers or dehumidifiers. This article will share the effects of indoor humidity and the benefits of installing dehumidifiers and humidifiers.

The Impacts of Humidity at Home

Humidity plays a crucial role in the comfort of a home’s indoor environment and the health of its residents. Optimal humidity levels typically range from 30% to 50%, providing a balance that helps to prevent the problems associated with too much or too little moisture in the air. Excessive humidity can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which are harmful to health and can cause allergic reactions and other respiratory issues. Furthermore, high humidity can make the air feel warmer than it is, leading to discomfort and increased use of air conditioning, thereby raising energy costs.

On the other hand, too little humidity can cause discomfort by drying out the skin and mucous membranes, leading to irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. It can also exacerbate conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Low humidity levels at home can also cause wooden furniture and flooring to shrink and crack, adversely affecting their durability and appearance. Maintaining proper indoor humidity levels is essential for safeguarding the health and comfort of the home’s occupants and ensuring the longevity of the home’s contents.

What a Humidifier Is For

Homeowners might realize the need for a humidifier installation when the air inside homes becomes uncomfortably dry. Telltale signs a humidifier is needed include frequent static shocks, dry skin, irritated sinuses, and a persistent cough, all of which suggest that the indoor air lacks sufficient moisture. Installing a humidifier can vastly improve home comfort by maintaining optimal humidity levels, which not only alleviates these physical discomforts but also helps preserve the health of wooden furniture and floors, which can crack or warp in dry conditions.

Furthermore, maintaining a healthy humidity level with a humidifier can also reduce the likelihood of airborne viruses, offering an additional health benefit to household members. Installing a humidifier at home can also reduce energy costs by optimizing the indoor climate. During the colder months, humid air feels warmer than dry air at the same temperature, allowing the thermostat to be set at a lower temperature while still maintaining a comfortable environment, which can lead to considerable savings on heating bills.

What a Dehumidifier Is For

Dehumidifiers can also play a pivotal role in maintaining good indoor air quality by removing excess moisture from the air. Homeowners can tell they need a dehumidifier installation if they start noticing condensation on windows, a musty odor in parts of their home, or if they are experiencing frequent allergic reactions, which could be worsened by mold and dust mites thriving in high humidity. Additionally, visible mold spots on walls or ceilings and peeling paint or wallpaper indicate that the indoor air contains too much moisture and could benefit from a dehumidifier.

Installing a dehumidifier also comes with many benefits. Firstly, it makes the home less hospitable to allergens such as dust mites, mold, and mildew, improving respiratory health and reducing irritation. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma and allergies. Also, by maintaining an optimal humidity level, dehumidifiers protect a home’s structural integrity and preserve wooden furniture and electronics from the adverse effects of excess moisture. They can also make the home feel cooler and more comfortable during hot, sticky months, potentially reducing the need for air conditioning and, thus, saving on energy costs.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated plumbing, heating, and air conditioning business serving Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas since 2008. They provide straightforward pricing, 24/7 live answers, and on-time service. Call them today for dehumidifier and humidifier services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Is a Tankless Water Heater a Good Choice?

Is 2024 the Year to Install a Tankless Water Heater?

Homeowners spend a lot of time making decisions about investing in the home. Every year, a big ticket item may need to be planned for, whether it’s a new roof or major AC repairs. The benefit of planning is that the associated cost and loss of amenities can be prepared for instead of reacted to in the case of an emergency.

When it comes to the water heater, this year may be the best year to make an upgrade. Conventional water tanks are bulky and expensive, with some serious shortcomings. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, have gained a lot of attention for their benefits. Here is a quick list of benefits that can be realized by installing a tankless water heater in 2024.

Take Advantage of Energy Efficiency

Conventional water tanks are very wasteful. Despite thick insulation and strides in efficiency, by their nature, they have to waste energy all day long, keeping a tank full of water hot in the event it is needed. The simple answer to reducing the energy usage of the water heater is only to turn it on when water is needed. However, water tanks can’t heat water that fast.

Tankless water heaters save massive amounts of energy by only heating water when needed. This can significantly reduce monthly energy bills and contribute to a more eco-friendly household. Invest in a tankless water heater this year for lower bills for years to come.

Instantaneous and Endless Hot Water

Tankless water heaters use powerful burners to heat incoming water in seconds. As soon as the flow is sensed in piping, which results from a valve in the plumbing system being opened, the burners kick on to heat water to a set point. This means that instantaneous hot water is always available.

Instantaneous water heaters provide hot water fast, but another great feature of tankless water heaters is that they continue providing hot water for as long as needed. Gone are the days of waiting for the hot water to recover. Hot water will always flow and will still be cheaper than heating a massive tank of water.

Longer Life Expectancy Than Water Tanks

The final reason many people are switching to tankless water heaters is another facet of cost reduction. Not only do tankless water heaters use less energy, but they also generally require fewer repairs and maintenance. Consequently, they tend to last much longer than hot water tanks.

A typical hot water tank lasts around ten years. The main point of failure in most water heaters is the tank itself. With repeated expansion and contraction, the tank’s inner lining wears away, exposing the steel in the tank to water.

It sets off a corrosion cascade that leads to rust and, ultimately, irreparable leaks. Tankless water heaters have no such vulnerability, generally lasting around 20 years.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions has free estimates for new tankless water heaters. Their prices are straightforward, and they are always on time. Call today for exceptional plumbing service in Walla Walla, WA.

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How to Tell if the Heater Is Dangerous and Malfunctioning

Hazardous Heating Problems

As winter approaches, it is important to ensure the heater is in good working condition to keep homeowners and their loved ones warm during the colder months. However, a faulty or malfunctioning heater can pose serious risks to health and safety if not properly maintained or repaired. This blog will discuss the potential dangers of a faulty heater and the warning signs to look out for to help homeowners keep their homes safe and warm during winter.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a dangerous issue for households, and since it is an odorless, colorless gas, spotting a carbon monoxide leak can be difficult. The health effects of carbon monoxide exposure can include disorientation, headaches, nausea, and loss of consciousness.

Carbon monoxide detectors are crucial for the safety of a household to help alert families of the danger before health problems arise. A carbon monoxide leak can happen when the heat exchanger is damaged or too old to function properly. Annual heating maintenance is recommended to help prevent problems like this from leading to hazardous gas exposure.

Mold

Mold thrives in moist and warm environments, making heating systems an ideal breeding ground. This is because these systems are often dark and damp from condensation and have limited air circulation. Additionally, if there are leaks or cracks in the system, water can seep in and lead to mold. Since mold is not always visible, homeowners should pay attention to household smells. Mold has a musty odor that can alert households to the issue.

Mold can grow in various parts of a heating system, from the furnace to the air ducts and vents. This can not only affect the performance and efficiency of the system but also pose potential health risks to occupants. Common health issues associated with mold exposure include similar symptoms to allergies, like sneezing, runny nose and congestion, coughing, sore throat, headaches, and eye and lung irritation.

Overheating

Overheating furnaces or heaters can also pose serious risks, including the threat of fires or carbon monoxide poisoning, so detecting the signs of overheating, such as a distinct burning smell or an unusual humming noise, is crucial to ensure safety.

On the prevention front, regular maintenance is vital in avoiding overheating. This involves routine air filter changes and scheduling routine inspections and maintenance with a professional to ensure that the heater or furnace works well, preventing potential overheating and extending the unit’s lifespan. By taking these preventive measures, homeowners can help their heaters operate safely and efficiently throughout the colder months.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated company serving Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, 24/7 live answers, and fast, reliable solutions. Call them today for heater repair in Walla Walla, WA.

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Easy Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Professional Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes and Their Consequences

A frozen pipe is a ticking time bomb. It’s only a matter of time before the pressure inside the pipe becomes too great and causes it to burst or leak, leading to wasted water and damaged property. As the seasons change, homeowners may worry about how to prevent this from happening. This post will explain the risks of frozen pipes and give tips to help avoid them.

But Wait––Why Are Frozen Pipes So Dangerous?

Frozen pipes not only prevent water from flowing through the pipes correctly, but they can also lead to more risks, such as leaks and burst pipes. When water freezes, it expands inside the lines and puts pressure on the pipes, leading to ruptures and cracks.

Leaking and burst pipes then lead to more problems, including flooding, high water costs, water damage, and mold growth. Homeowners should know the signs of a burst pipe and leak so they can be identified and fixed by a plumber as soon as possible to mitigate the damage.

Pipe Insulation Prevents Pipes From Freezing and Bursting

One important step is adding insulation when considering possible ways to prevent frozen pipes. But pipe insulation does more than prevent frozen and burst pipes; it also:

Keeps water hotter longer: Water loses temperature as it travels in the piping from the water heater tank to the fixtures. Insulation reduces how much temperature the water loses.
Prevents rust and corrosion: Some pipes naturally oxidize with time and moisture, leading to rust and corrosion. But insulated pipes help control condensation, helping prevent this and protecting pipes.
Saves money on utility bills: With the increased heat retention from insulated pipes, homeowners could lower energy bills.

More Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes

Aside from insulating the home’s pipes, here are some other considerations that can keep lines from freezing and bursting:

Temperature control: Some homeowners turn off the heat completely when they go out of town or leave the house to save money. Yet, the home’s heater does more than regulate indoor comfort. It can also keep the pipes from getting too cold and freezing.
Let the faucet trickle water: During freezing temperatures, turn the taps connected to vulnerable piping on slightly, letting a few drops of water trickle out. Keeping water moving inside a plumbing system prevents it from freezing.
Keep doors and cabinets open: Keeping doors and cabinet doors open allows warm air to circulate throughout the home and helps prevent the pipes from freezing.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions has been serving Walla Walla and the surrounding areas since 2008. They offer straightforward pricing, free estimates, and a worry-free process. Call them today for plumbing services, leak detection, or burst pipe repair in Walla Walla, WA.

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How Can Homeowners Prepare Their Heaters for the Fall?

Get the Heater Ready for Colder Weather

The seasons are changing, temperatures are getting cooler, and as with every season, there are certain things that homeowners need to do to make sure their property is ready to handle another winter. During the winter, people spend most of their time nestled indoors where their heater or furnace can protect them from the frigid temperatures outside. Unfortunately, if the heater isn’t properly cared for, it can fail to perform this winter.

Homeowners can do a few things to prevent a heating problem and repairs this winter. This article is a quick guide to help homeowners ensure their heater is ready and working efficiently for the coming seasons and their air quality stays high during the winter. By following this advice, homeowners can save money by preventing repairs and lowering energy bills.

Schedule Heating Maintenance

The first thing on a fall maintenance checklist for the home should be scheduling professional heater maintenance. Heating and cooling accounts for around 40% of utility bills, so ensuring that it runs as efficiently as possible with routine maintenance can save homeowners money. Maintenance can save even more money by leading to fewer future issues and repairs and extending the life of the heater.

During a heating maintenance visit from a local professional, technicians do important things like:

Lubricate moving parts
Replace worn belts
Look for damaged system components
Clean the burner
Check safety devices
Test the gas or electrical connections

By spending a little money on annual heater maintenance, homeowners can save by helping prevent major problems, extending their lifespan, and saving on energy costs.

Change Air Filters

Another thing that shouldn’t be neglected to care for the heater correctly is air filters. How often they should be replaced depends on their size and type, but it’s generally around every three months. Dirty air filters can have many negative effects, such as poor indoor air quality, inefficiency, and higher energy bills.

Replacing air or furnace filters on time, on the other hand, improves the heater’s efficiency, reduces utility bills, helps protect the heater from overheating and other problems, and improves indoor air quality, which can help improve the health of those who live in the home.

Keep Track of Utility Bills

As mentioned above, heaters use a massive amount of energy to keep the home warm during the winter, and heating and cooling account for a huge portion of utility bills. One of the significant benefits of monitoring energy usage is that homeowners can more easily spot trouble, as a spike in utility bills is a sign of heater trouble, allowing them to get it repaired before the heater faces worse consequences.

Aside from a sign indicating the need for heater repair, monitoring energy bills can also be used to see how homeowners can save. Adding weatherstripping around doors and windows and installing a smart thermostat are two ways to help reduce a home’s energy usage and save money, and keeping track of bills allows homeowners to see how much they are saving and what more can be done.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a plumbing, heating, and AC company with 15 years of expertise serving Walla Walla and the surrounding areas. They offer HVAC emergency service, free installation estimates, and straightforward pricing. Call them today for heating maintenance in Walla Walla, WA.

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Help Avoid Sewer Line Clogs With These 3 Easy Tips!

Prevent Clogged Sewer Lines

Slow-moving drainage, standing water, funky smells – these are but a few of the things that homeowners have to put up with when their sewer lines get clogged. They’re annoying at best, but if they become a severe problem, clogged sewer lines can cause damage to homes as well as lead to health and sanitation issues. Homeowners who want to be free of this problem don’t have to look far for a solution. Here are three of the easiest ways homeowners can help prevent clogs in their sewer lines.

Call Professionals for Drain Cleaning

When it comes to pipe problems, prevention is always better than repair. Contracting the services of a professional plumber to conduct regular drain cleaning should keep pipes healthy and clog-free, saving homeowners a lot of time and resources that would otherwise have been consumed by a particularly nasty clog or blockage that could have been prevented in the first place.

Most plumbers offer drain cleaning services that help homeowners solve and prevent clogs in the sewer line. They can access a home’s sewer line to reach clogs without digging up the yard to get to the plumbing lines. Plumbers are also trained and equipped to conduct hydro jet drain cleaning, which is a method of cleaning the pipes using highly pressurized water that can clear out even the most stubborn blockages that even augers or drain snakes would have a hard time removing. This drain cleaning method is also the best for cleaning the sewer line to prevent clogs.

Install a Mesh Drain Screen in the Home’s Drains

While having a professional plumber maintain the pipes at home is a great way to keep clogs from becoming a problem, homeowners can also take steps to prevent their pipes from getting clogged. One such way is to purchase and install mesh drain screens that will keep objects from going down the drain and getting lodged in the piping.

This method isn’t just cheap and simple, but it is also highly effective at preventing clogs by catching anything that may accidentally make its way to the drains and cause clogs. Mesh drain screens are inexpensive, easy to find, and easy for homeowners to install, making them an excellent method for DIY clog prevention at home.

Don’t Dispose of Food Waste in the Kitchen Sink Drain

One of the worst offenders when it comes to sewer line clogs is food waste that makes its way from the drain in the kitchen sink. Most people think it’s okay to dispose of food scraps there, especially if they have a garbage disposal installed. While the garbage disposal is designed to grind down food into small pieces to prevent them from clogging up the pipes, most food items are still better thrown in the trash.

Some food waste should never be put down a drain or garbage disposal. These include bones, coffee grounds, eggshells, pasta, and rice. Not only can they cause problems with garbage disposals, but they can also form clogs in the pipes. Another thing that must be kept away from the drains at all costs is oil, grease, or fat. These are particularly bad for sewer lines because they solidify once cold. While they may be liquid when poured down the kitchen drain, they can become solid in the pipes and cause a blockage.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a plumbing, heating, and air conditioning company serving Walla Walla and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, on-time service, and a worry-free process. Call them today for drain cleaning services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Chase Away Those Back to School Blues With This Primer on Air Conditioning

Understanding How an Air Conditioner Works

It’s simple enough to understand what an air conditioner does and what it’s for. One of the most common household appliances that people practically can’t live without, especially in the thick of the summer season, ACs are meant to provide comfort and relief from the heat by cooling the air indoors. But while its convenience and practicality make it a hot commodity as temperatures soar, it’s worth asking if people know enough about it to maximize its capabilities and keep it performing at peak levels. For those who want to be in the know, here’s a brief primer on air conditioning just in time for the back-to-school season.

Popular Kinds of Air Conditioners

While there are many different kinds of air conditioners available for the average consumer to choose from, some of the most commonly found in households usually fall into two distinct categories: the central air conditioner or the ductless mini split air conditioner. The main difference between the two is that central air conditioning systems use a network of air vents and air ducts to take in warm air from indoors and then redistribute the cool, treated air to different rooms and spaces within the home.

Ductless mini splits, however, do not use ductwork. Instead of having the entire home at one set temperature using air ducts, ductless mini-split systems have multiple indoor units that control the air temperature in that particular room or zone in the house. This means mini splits offer greater flexibility and can save on energy bills by adjusting the temperature in unused parts of the home. Additionally, ductless mini split air conditioners are more energy efficient because they don’t experience energy loss in the ductwork like central AC systems, helping homeowners save money on energy costs. However, central air conditioning systems are typically cheaper to install.

Does Your AC Need Repair?

Most air conditioners, whether central or ductless, are built to last for a long time. Still, every now and then, they encounter hiccups that may require some form of air conditioning repair, if not outright replacement. Some of the most common signs indicating problems with the AC include:

Unusually high energy bills: This may be caused by dirt and other debris that clog up the filters, preventing air from flowing efficiently or being cooled properly. Another possibility is that malfunctioning parts are causing the AC to function inefficiently.
Lack of cooling power: An AC that doesn’t seem to cool the space properly may suffer from a refrigerant leak or malfunctioning component.
Odd smells and noises: Strange noises and smells may be caused by many issues, including loose parts or the accumulation of moisture that allows mold or mildew to grow within the unit.
Weak airflow: Homeowners should be wary of any physical blockages or leaks in the system that may prevent air from flowing correctly and affect airflow.

How to Keep Your AC in Tip-Top Shape

When it comes to longevity, AC maintenance is the name of the game because keeping the AC in excellent working order will not only keep homeowners from dealing with emergency repairs that cause inconvenience and unexpected costs but also keep them from having to fork over a serious amount of money to cover the cost of early air conditioning replacement.

Engaging in routine air conditioning maintenance, such as changing the air filter once every three months and contracting the services of a professional HVAC technician to check for problems and tweak the system to achieve peak performance, goes a long way in making sure that air conditioners are working well and providing the comfort that homeowners need as they sail the heat waves of summer. Annual air conditioner maintenance will also ensure the system works efficiently and can prevent energy bills from rising.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated business serving Walla Walla and the surrounding areas since 2008. They offer straightforward pricing, free installation estimates, and 24/7 HVAC emergency service. Call them today for air conditioning services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Don’t Let a Faulty Water Heater Affect Your Home

Signs That the Water Heater Needs Service

A water heater is an essential household appliance often overlooked until the moment it malfunctions, like being greeted with a cold shower on a chilly morning can be jarring. Understanding the signs that a water heater needs professional attention is vital in preventing such unpleasant surprises. This blog will share various signs that a water heater is experiencing issues and requires attention from a professional.

It’s Making Unusual Sounds

The sounds a machine makes can tell a lot about the state it is currently in. Loud, popping sounds from the water heater, for example, may be due to excess sediment in the water heater tank and maintenance being neglected. Over time, the sediment and mineral deposits can form a hardened layer over the heating element or along the inside wall of the water tank, which creates a loud popping noise as heat builds up inside the tank.

This indicates the water heater needs maintenance, which involves having a plumber drain and flush the hot water tank and check the anode rod to see if it needs to be replaced. These essential water heater maintenance tasks help the unit perform efficiently and help prevent tank corrosion which would require replacing the water heater early.

Hot Water in the Home Is Smelly and Discolored

Another common sign of water heater problems is the quality of hot water that comes out of plumbing fixtures around the home. If the hot water smells bad or comes out looking cloudy, discolored, or tinted red with what looks like rust, it can be a sign of corrosion in the water heater.

A corroded water heater means that the tank material has degraded over time, which can cause bits and pieces of the rusted tank to come off and contaminate the water that comes out of it, creating poor water quality. When the water heater has corroded, it will likely require a replacement rather than a repair.

It’s Leaking

Any leak in any part of the home requires immediate attention, including if this happens to a hot water heater. Leaks from a water heater may mean that corrosion has damaged the tank’s material and compromised its durability, causing a leak, or the leak may be due to a more minor issue, such as a loose valve.

While it’s possible for a leaking water heater to be repaired if it requires a part or valve to be tightened or replaced, a corroded water heater will likely need replacement. A professional can assess the extent of the water heater’s damage to determine the best solution to fix the water heater.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions has over a decade of experience serving Walla Walla and the surrounding communities. They provide 24-hour emergency service, straightforward pricing, and on-time service. Call them today for water heater services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Why a Ductless HVAC System Is a Smart Choice for the Home

Understanding Ductless Mini-Split Systems

Choosing the right heating and cooling system for the home can be daunting. With so many options available, it’s important to consider the benefits of each system, and only then is it possible to make an informed decision. And given advances in ductless heating and cooling, there’s much to consider about ductless mini splits. This post will cover some advantages of ductless mini-split systems, from lower energy bills and easier installation to improved comfort and indoor air quality.

How a Ductless Mini Split Can Reduce Energy Bills

Ductless mini-split systems can save homeowners money on their energy bills. Since there are no air ducts, the energy losses associated with ducts are negated. In fact, they can reduce the energy used by air conditioners by 30 percent. Many ductless systems also use inverter technology, which allows them to adjust their output to match the heating and cooling needs of the room. This means they use only the energy required to maintain the desired temperature rather than constantly cycling on and off, which can drain energy.

Another way ductless mini-split systems can save homeowners money is through their zone control capabilities. Unlike traditional central air HVAC systems, which heat or cool the entire home through ducts, ductless systems allow for individual zone temperature control. Homeowners can turn up or down the temperature depending on the season in rooms that are not being used, reducing energy use and saving money on energy bills.

Ductless Mini-Splits and Their Installation

Aside from providing energy-efficient operation, mini-split systems don’t require ductwork installation in the home. Instead, the outdoor unit is connected to indoor units through electrical wiring and a refrigerant line. This typically makes ductless mini-split installation simpler and easier for technicians than central air systems with ducts.

Installing ductless systems is also a fantastic heating and cooling option for people retrofitting older homes that don’t have ductwork. Room additions where the ductwork cannot be extended and smaller homes without room for ductwork installation can also benefit from these systems since they don’t need air ducts.

How Ductless Systems Can Improve Home Comfort and Indoor Air Quality

Having a comfortable home environment is essential. With a ductless mini split, households can maximize their comfort by customizing temperatures in different parts of the house without having to set one temperature for the whole house. This provides greater flexibility and convenience and allows temperatures to be set depending on people’s preferences.

Since there are no air ducts with a ductless mini split system and each indoor unit has an air filter, they can also help improve the home’s indoor air quality. Ducts are prime real estate for dust, pet dander, mold, and other airborne allergens and irritants. They can be cycled through the house whenever the air conditioner or heater comes on. But dirty ducts affecting indoor air quality aren’t an issue with a ductless system.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a plumbing, heating, and air conditioning company serving Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding communities since 2008. They provide straightforward pricing, free installation estimates, and on-time service. Call them today for ductless mini-split installation in Walla Walla, WA.