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There Are Endless Benefits To Hiring a Professional Plumber

DIY Plumbing Is Out: Call a Professional Today

DIY plumbing is never a good idea. Some homeowners may be convinced that since they’ve had a little experience with plumbing or handy work in the past, they can cut costs by doing the project themselves. However, in most cases, the project ends up costing them a lot more in money, time, and energy, than if they were to call in a professional.

Not only does a DIY plumbing job take longer, but more mistakes are made, and more money is wasted on parts, tools, and the gas to take multiple trips to the hardware store. The job could also get done improperly because the person looked it up online rather than calling a professional. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of hiring a professional plumber.

Avoid Costly Mistakes

During DIY plumbing projects, homeowners typically make more mistakes and spend more money by the end of the project compared to qualified professionals. Plumbing is complex, and professionals have the training and knowledge necessary to work on it. There are a lot of moving parts. So, even if homeowners have changed out a showerhead or unclogged a toilet, that doesn’t mean they can fix any plumbing problem as quickly or accurately.

Plumbing DIY projects usually aren’t as cheap as they originally seem. The homeowner makes mistakes, breaks things, or — at the very least — wastes money on multiple trips to the hardware store when everything a plumber needs for a job is typically already in their truck.

Save Time and Effort

Plumbing problems can be time-consuming. However, professionals fix the problem quickly, efficiently, and safely and even give homeowners advice on how to maintain their plumbing in the future. Maintaining the system can help prevent problems before they occur, saving homeowners even more time that would have been spent on other repairs in the future.

A plumbing system that is under the care of trusted professionals is a system that lasts longer and works more efficiently. Trying to fix a plumbing problem without a professional can take a lot of time that homeowners probably don’t have. If they hire a professional, they’ll be able to get the job done quickly and efficiently so they can return to their life and busy schedules.

Ditch the Anxiety and Trust the Professionals

The great thing about most professional plumbers is that they have an active license and insurance. All qualified plumbing companies insure their workers because of how dangerous plumbing can get. This is yet another reason homeowners should avoid DIY plumbing.

When plumbers are insured, homeowners are not financially liable for any mistakes or accidents during service. This gives homeowners peace of mind that their wallets are protected, but with DIY plumbing, homeowners would be financially responsible for all damages. Once homeowners know they have a trustworthy, licensed, insured, and experienced plumber, they can sit back and relax until the job is done, knowing they are saving time and money.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated company serving its neighbors in Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas for over a decade. They provide straightforward pricing, on-time service, and free installation estimates. Call them today for plumbing services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Three Ways To Beat the Heat This Summer

Stay Cool This Summer with These Easy Tips

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Washington State is getting hotter. A 2016 study reports that within the last 100 years, the state’s temperature has increased by one to two degrees Fahrenheit. This may not seem like much to some. However, this causes various weather changes that make walking outside feel like walking into an oven.

There are many things homeowners can do this season to enjoy the summer without overheating. The main thing is to make sure the air conditioning unit works properly. Some considerations include routine AC maintenance, exploring AC replacement, and using ceiling fans.

Air Conditioner Maintenance Is Key to the Perfect Home Temperature

It seems like air conditioners know the most inconvenient times to break down. However, by routinely maintaining one’s HVAC system, homeowners can prevent their units from going out of commission. Some AC maintenance tips include:

Changing the air filter: EnergyStar reports that homeowners should change their air filters once every three months – and perhaps more often if they have pets. The air filter lets the AC system “breathe.” It also keeps dust, dander, and other debris from clogging the system.
Keeping the AC system on: Even during the winter, Washingtonians should keep their AC systems on, even if for a few minutes a day. This way, they can learn about any problems faster instead of learning about them when summer rolls around, and the AC is crucial.
Promptly addressing any issues: Air conditioning problems don’t fix themselves. These issues need the help of a trained professional. The longer one waits to get an expert opinion, the more problems they risk.

Many other tasks are also involved in maintaining an air conditioning system, but they should be left to a trained professional. They know how to avoid damaging the unit and can better spot any issues forming.

Homeowners Should Periodically Consider New AC Systems

The U.S. Department of Energy notes that the average AC system lasts anywhere from 15 to 20 years. The organization also notes that even if a system is only ten years old, homeowners could save up to 40 percent in energy bills by getting a newer system.

When considering AC replacement, it’s important that homeowners also consider:

The size of the home: Consider the home’s square footage when shopping for a new AC system. After all, AC units come in different sizes. The size of the AC unit should suit the home’s square footage. Otherwise, it may not work efficiently.
What type of AC system they want: Some AC systems have more advantages than others. For instance, many homeowners are opting for ductless air conditioners. These systems allow homeowners to have more control over their residences’ temperatures.
EnergyStar AC units: EnergyStar’s air conditioning units use less energy than most systems on today’s market. Some even qualify for tax credits.

If one wants a new AC system, they shouldn’t just buy the first one they see. They should consult with an air conditioner replacement service to explore their options.

Put Those Ceiling Fans To Work

The home’s ceiling fans and AC system work in perfect harmony. The AC system emits cool air while ceiling fans circulate that cool air. During the summer, homeowners should make their ceiling fan’s direction counterclockwise to make the air feel cooler. Homeowners can save some money on their energy bills this summer by turning up the thermostat by a few degrees and using fans to make up for it.

Homeowners should also consider the benefits of using air purifiers or even desktop fans. Both of these things can work together to help create the perfect indoor climate.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated company serving the residents of Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas since 2008. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency services, and free installation estimates. Call them today for air conditioning services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Treat Mom to a Spa Day Every Day At Home!

Three Ways to Turn the Bathroom Into a Relaxing Oasis

Whether mom is a stay-at-home mom or is out there shaking things up in the working world, she works hard to keep the home running and the family together. In return for all of that hard work, she gets one day a year for her family to express their gratitude for all that she does. But doesn’t she deserve to feel special and be rewarded every day?

This Mother’s Day, think outside the box of chocolates. Spa packages only last for a day, and flowers die. But what if the spa experience could be her everyday experience? Take some advice from local plumbers and consider these creative ideas for mom.

Find a New Showerhead

The bathroom is the best room to start when it comes to finding long-lasting gifts for Mother’s Day, and what more straightforward way to start than getting a new showerhead. The spa experience in a home bathroom begins with a luxurious bath or shower. Sometimes, mom is too busy for a long and relaxing soak, but why does that mean a shower can’t be comfortable, too?

New showerheads can pack a big punch when it comes to luxury. A few features that are available in affordable showerheads are:

Bluetooth speakers for mom’s favorite tunes or relaxing music
LED lighting to soothe away stress
Gentle rainfall patterns for maximum relaxation
Water filtration to reduce hardness and protect her skin

Install or Upgrade the Bathtub

Upgrading the bathtub for families looking for a more significant spa project for Mother’s Day is excellent. In most homes, master bathrooms are built with builder’s grade materials and aren’t much to rave about luxury-wise. But, with a budget and creativity, the space can be transformed into an oasis. Plumbers can have the bathroom of mom’s dreams ready for her to enjoy in just a few days.

There are numerous options for upgrading the bathtub. Research bathtub designs like:

Pedestal tubs for long, relaxing soaks
Jacuzzi tubs with massaging jets and heaters
Drop-in tubs for a dramatic bathroom presentation
Walk-in tubs for mothers that have mobility issues
Bathtub inserts to replace existing alcove bath/shower combos

Release the Zen of the Bathroom

There are tons of opportunities to enhance the aesthetic of a bathroom or accentuate the changes being made for Mother’s Day. The bathroom is one of the most heavily-decorated rooms in a home, so there are plenty of places to make changes that won’t break the bank. Start with ideas like:

Upgrading sink faucets and tub and shower fixtures
Install new towel racks and toilet paper dispensers
Get new trash cans for accent pieces
Replace the vanity or bathroom sink
Hang a new shower curtain
Install color-changing LEDs and dimmer switches to set a relaxing mood

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated business serving Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas since 2008. They provide straightforward pricing, financing, and 24-hour emergency service. Call them today for plumbing services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Add Duct Cleaning to Your Spring Cleaning Checklist

Air Duct Cleaning for Cleaner Air

Spring is the perfect time to get a fresh start and clean up the house. One part of the house that could probably use more attention this year is the ductwork. Central heating systems use ductwork within walls, floors, and ceilings to circulate air from the central unit to different rooms. These ducts can become dusty and dirty over time.

Professional heating and cooling technicians can efficiently clean the inside of the ductwork to prevent dust from building up and damaging the system. This blog post gives a brief overview of the benefits of air duct cleaning and why homeowners should get their air ducts cleaned as part of their spring cleaning this year.

Benefits of Annual Air Duct Cleaning

Keep utility bills low
Increase longevity of the AC unit
Prevent debris from causing a breakdown
Remove allergens from the air

There are a few reasons to invest in duct cleaning services. When the dust and debris within the ductwork become too much, it can affect the system’s performance. Inefficient HVAC performance can cause a spike in utility bills. And when the air ducts get too dirty, it can lead to a total system failure.

As the contaminants within the air ducts recirculate through the house via the vents, these airborne particles of dust can cause allergic reactions. Dust only further aggravates the symptoms of spring allergies. Homeowners should invest in air duct cleaning services to improve their indoor air quality.

Warning Signs of Dirty Air Ducts

Homeowners should be on the lookout for signs that they need air duct cleaning services. During annual or bi-annual AC maintenance appointments, the technician may recommend duct cleaning services. Scheduling regular maintenance helps homeowners identify and resolve issues with their HVAC systems before a total system breakdown occurs.

Homeowners can tell if they have dirty air ducts by looking into the vents for visible signs of dust build-up, paying attention to unusual spikes in the utility bills, and noticing if there is an abnormal amount of dust particles floating around the air. If the house is always dusty, even right after it has been cleaned, it may be because dust in the air ducts is being pushed back into the house with each air cycle.

Maintenance Tips for Clean Indoor Air

Regular maintenance on HVAC units can prevent dirt, dust, mold, and mildew from collecting in the air ducts. Keeping the area around the HVAC unit clean is one easy thing homeowners can do to keep their ducts clean. Replacing the air filter on time will prevent dirt and dust particles from getting sucked into the HVAC unit and the vents. Experts recommend changing the air filter at least every three months.

Investing in a high-quality air filter that removes even tiny particles of dust can help keep the inside of the system cleaner over time. Having a clean house helps keep the air clean by reducing the number of contaminants that could become airborne and inhaled. The best way for homeowners to ensure that their air ducts are always clean is to keep the house clean between duct cleaning services.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated business that has served Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas since 2008. They provide straightforward pricing, free installation estimates, and 24/7 emergency service for heating and cooling issues. Call them today for heating and cooling services in Walla Walla, WA.

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The Women Who Made Plumbing History

Women’s History Month: The Plumbing Edition

Women make up approximately 1.5% of the plumbing profession in the United States. Before the 1950s, there were barely any women plumbers at all.

Women plumbers now own their plumbing businesses and are welcome to join World Plumbing Day. Nonprofit tradeswomen organizations include Women in Non-Traditional Employment Roles, Chicago Women in Trades, Tradeswomen, Inc., etc. Women’s history has helped pave the way for plumbers of all ages.

The Female Plumbers Who Make A Difference

Several industries in the current workforce have been negatively impacted during the pandemic. Since the beginning of the pandemic, both men and women have been increasingly concerned about finding a secure career.

Trades are a steady way to earn income that does not usually require a college education. Through training, students from trade schools can learn worthwhile skills that can withstand change. Certain industries such as auto repair, electrical sectors, and plumbing are unlikely to disappear in an unforeseen incident.

Women are now increasingly eager to secure a job in the trades to stay safely employed. While the profession was once entirely male, plumbing has evolved to include both sexes. One positive advancement is the inclusion of women teachers for students of all ages. Women are now part of the mentoring programs that help students around the country.

Mentoring programs are a way for students from trade schools to learn from hands-on experience. The plumbing industry currently has a mentoring program designed for girls called Tools and Tiaras. Judaline Cassidy started this program in New York to inspire girls in inner-city communities.

The majority of plumbers earn $54,023 per year. In 2021, women earned 91% of what men earned. Programs that are trying to close this gap include a variety of local unions. Women of the United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters, Welders, and Service Techs represent women plumbers and their best interests.

Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers

The Women’s Auxiliary Committee was originally a social club formed in the early 1900s. The association was known for entertaining plumber’s wives while the National Association of Plumbers had their meetings. This all changed in 1919.

In 1919 the women began to run the organization themselves, leading to meaningful activism within the plumbing industry. One of the most popular campaigns was their partnership with Texaco gas. In 1938 the auxiliary partnered with Texaco to improve sanitation and promote the upgrade in future advertising. This helped boost the industry further.

Lilian Ann Baumbach

Lilian Ann Baumbach grew up in the plumbing business. Accompanying her father on various jobs, she decided to learn the job as a profession. After passing the official Master Plumber’s exams, she became the first licensed woman in the plumbing industry.

In 1953, the magazine Domestic Engineering publicly acknowledged her efforts. “The U.S. Has Its Lady Plumbers Too!” The article compares Ms. Baumbach to Flavia Pompeii, the character from Roman Mysteries.

Known as “The Pretty Plumber,” Lilian Ann Baumbach worked as a plumber and later as her father’s business’s service manager and treasurer. Her femininity and career helped pave the way for dozens of women to break all the stereotypes.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a heating, cooling, and plumbing company serving the Walla Walla Valley since 2008. They provide a worry-free process by offering straightforward pricing and free installation estimates. Call today for on-time service in Walla Walla, WA.