Total Comfort Solutions Archives - Total Comfort Solutions

Why Water Softeners Can Make a Big Difference in Homes

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is a type of water containing high levels of dissolved minerals such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals form deposits and scale buildup on pipes, appliances, and other surfaces. This can result in various problems around the home and in the plumbing. Water softeners are an effective solution for dealing with problems from hard water and improving water quality in homes and businesses.

A water softener is a device used to remove the minerals from hard water, thus making it soft. A typical water softener consists of a tank filled with resin beads, which attract and capture the mineral ions from the hard water through ion exchange. Once the resin beads are saturated with mineral ions, the softener will automatically initiate a regeneration cycle to flush the accumulated minerals. This process ensures that the water remains soft and free of mineral deposits. This blog post will share the adverse effects of hard water and the benefits of installing a water softener.

Helps With Cleaning

Spots on dishes or ones that look cloudy are common in homes with hard water. They are usually found on glasses even after they’ve been washed. However, cleaning dishes will be easier and more effective with a water softener. Additionally, washing dirty laundry with soft water will allow most materials to last longer while looking brighter. This is because washing clothing in hard water can cause them to wear out and fade faster.

Hard water also causes more difficulty when cleaning because it can leave mineral deposits and scale on plumbing fixtures which can be challenging and time-consuming to clean. However, installing a water softener prevents this scale buildup and saves homeowners time when cleaning.

Soft Water Protects the Plumbing System

A water-softening system prevents harsh mineral buildup not only on the plumbing but inside the plumbing, allowing for a steady flow of water. When scale builds up in the pipes or plumbing fixtures, it can reduce the water flow and water pressure, but by using a water softener, the pipes, and fixtures will last longer without needless repairs.

Scale buildup can also shorten the lifespan of water heaters and cause them to lose efficiency, raising energy bills. If homeowners hear strange noises or a popping sound from the water heater tank, this can indicate buildup inside. If ignored, it can also cause corrosion and even leaks.

Benefits for the Hair and Skin

Water softeners can make a noticeable difference in a person’s appearance and comfort. Hard water can dry out the skin and hair and cause itchiness of the scalp and skin irritation, but installing a water softener can help improve the hydration of the hair and skin and prevent the uncomfortableness accompanying a dry scalp and skin.

Hard water can also exacerbate certain skin conditions like psoriasis and acne. Even household members without prior skin conditions can develop rashes or mild irritation. However, installing a water softener system can help keep the hair and body feeling refreshed and moisturized.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated business serving Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, free installation estimates, and on-time service. Call them today for water softener installation, repair, or maintenance in Walla Walla, WA.

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How to Improve Indoor Air Quality and Beat Your Allergies This Spring

3 Easy Ways to Breathe Easier This Spring

Spring is an exciting time for many reasons. However, it also signifies seasonal allergies for many people. As the flowers bloom, the pollen count increases, making it difficult for allergy sufferers to enjoy the season. However, allergies don’t just affect people outside. Indoor air often gets stale since the same air is cycled throughout the home, trapping allergens indoors and worsening symptoms. But improving indoor air quality can help those with allergies breathe easier and stay healthier indoors. This article will discuss three easy ways to improve indoor air quality and beat allergies this spring.

Open Windows for Fresh Air

When the weather permits, opening windows on breezier days can be beneficial in many ways. One of the main benefits is improved air circulation. By opening the windows, homeowners can let out old and stale air while allowing fresh air to enter. This helps improve indoor air quality by reducing pollutants and allergens that may have accumulated over time.

Opening windows can be especially helpful for those who suffer from allergies. Allergic reactions are often triggered by pollen and other air-born particles that can become trapped in living environments if new air is not allowed to enter the space. By opening windows on breezier days, homeowners are allowing these particles out of their homes and helping to relieve allergy symptoms. Opening windows can be a great way to improve indoor air quality and reduce the effects of allergies.

Replace Air Filters for Clean Air

Air filters trap pollutants and allergens to help keep indoor air clean. However, these filters can become dirty and clogged over time, reducing their effectiveness at trapping airborne particles and hindering airflow through the filter. Regularly replacing air filters helps to improve indoor air quality, reduce allergy symptoms, and maintain the energy efficiency of an HVAC system.

Improving indoor air quality by changing or cleaning air filters when necessary can help to improve the health of those living in the home by reducing allergens, making it a more comfortable space for everyone. Factors like the type of air filter used, if a home has pets, and if people living there have allergies can all affect how often air filters should be changed, but it’s typically at least every three months.

Clean to Eliminate Dust and Allergens

Dust and allergens can accumulate on surfaces throughout the home, exacerbating seasonal allergies. Regular cleaning can help eliminate these irritants and improve indoor air quality. Dusting surfaces, vacuuming carpets and rugs, and washing bedding and drapes often can all help reduce the presence of allergens in the home and allergy symptoms.

Keeping the home clean with less dust and allergens also helps the air conditioning system and air ducts because less will be available to circulate through the air cycle, further improving indoor air quality. If more solutions are needed to improve indoor air quality and reduce allergy symptoms, HVAC contractors can recommend additional options like installing air purifiers, cleaners, and filtration systems.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated business serving Walla Walla and the surrounding areas since 2008. They provide straightforward pricing, emergency service, and on-time arrivals. Call them today for indoor air quality or air filter replacement services in Walla Walla, WA.

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The Astonishing Advantages of Professional Drain Cleaning

Benefits of Regular Drain Cleaning

Professional drain cleaning can help prevent various plumbing problems that would otherwise cause havoc in a home or business. Clogged drains can cause significant disruptions and pose health risks, ranging from unpleasant odors and backups to stubborn blockages and burst pipes. However, professional drain cleaning services can effectively solve or prevent these issues. This blog will discuss the advantages of professional drain cleaning, such as improved plumbing system performance, cost savings, and a healthier living or working environment.

Prevents Clogs and Buildup

Routine drain cleaning is necessary to avoid clogs and buildup in the pipes. Debris, grease, and other materials can build up in pipes over time, reducing water flow and potentially leading to costly plumbing issues. Professional plumbers have the necessary tools and knowledge to clean lines thoroughly and remove obstructions. They use techniques such as hydro jetting and drain snaking to clear pipes and remove buildup.

Regular drain cleaning can also help prevent future clogs and extend the life of pipes. Plumbers can perform routine maintenance to keep lines clean and debris-free, lowering the likelihood of clogs and other plumbing problems. Homeowners and business owners can enjoy knowing their plumbing system is in good working order by investing in professional drain cleaning services.

Minimizes the Risk of Flooding

Clogs in pipes can cause several issues, including leaks, pipe bursts, and even sewage backups, all of which can result in flooding and significant water damage. When drains become clogged, water cannot flow freely, increasing pressure within the pipes. This can cause weak points in pipes to burst or leak, resulting in extensive water damage. Furthermore, if a clog is severe enough, sewage can back up into a home or business, posing a health risk and causing extensive damage.

Regular professional drain cleaning can help to avoid these problems by removing any obstructions in the pipes and allowing water to flow freely. While performing regular drain cleaning, plumbers can also detect potential issues before they become serious, allowing homeowners and business owners to take action before any damage occurs. Property owners can reduce the risk of flooding, protect their property from water damage, and ensure the health and safety of occupants by investing in professional cleaning services.

Fewer Repairs and Cleanups

Drain cleaning can help property owners avoid costly plumbing emergencies and reduce the need for expensive repairs and cleanups. When drains become clogged, the pressure within the pipes can build up, resulting in leaks, bursts, or backups that cause water damage. Besides the cost of repair for the plumbing, these issues also require paying for the clean-up and repair of water damage and any structural integrity issues or mold growth it has caused.

These problems caused by clogs can cause extensive damage and necessitate costly repairs and cleanups. So property owners should ensure their plumbing system is functioning correctly and prevent potential problems from escalating into emergencies by investing in routine drain cleaning services. Taking preventative measures saves homeowners money and helps them avoid the stress and inconvenience of dealing with unexpected plumbing emergencies.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated business serving Walla Walla and the surrounding communities. They provide straightforward pricing, on-time service, and 24/7 emergency HVAC service. Call them today for drain cleaning services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Fight the Winter Dryness With a Whole-House Humidifier!

3 Benefits of a Humidifier

Humidifiers can benefit homes this winter by adding moisture to the air, which can help alleviate dry skin, static electricity, and respiratory issues. They can also protect wood furniture and musical instruments from cracking. This blog will share three surprising benefits of installing a central humidifier.

Respiratory Benefits of Humidifiers

Humidity is crucial for respiratory health as it keeps the airways lubricated and wet. The nose, throat, and lungs might become itchy and dry when the air is dry. This can worsen illnesses like asthma and allergies and increase the risk of respiratory infections like sinusitis and bronchitis.

Introducing moisture to the air using a whole home or central humidifier helps lessen these symptoms and enhance respiratory health. As too much humidity can also negatively affect respiratory health, it is recommended to maintain humidity levels within a safe range, often between 30% and 50%.

How a Humidifier Can Improve Your Skincare

Dry air can have a variety of negative effects on the skin. It can result in dry, flaking, and itchy skin. Dryness can also cause an excess of oil to be produced, causing clogged pores and acne. Additionally, the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis can be worsened by dry air, resulting in more redness, irritation, and itching. Dry air dries the skin and causes it to lose suppleness, which can even make wrinkles and fine lines appear more pronounced.

However, the detrimental effects on the skin may be lessened by using a humidifier to restore moisture to the air and skin. Humidifiers can be a great addition to any skincare routine. Adding moisture back into the air is beneficial for the skin because it helps to increase the hydration within the skin, which can lead to a softer, more supple texture.

Humidifiers can help reduce inflammation and redness of the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. They can also help to reduce the loss of moisture from the skin due to dry air and can help to reduce pore size. Humidifiers are great for all skin types, but especially for those who suffer from dry skin or have sensitivities to environmental changes.

How a Humidifier Can Help Indoor Plants

Through a process known as photosynthesis, indoor plants create food and oxygen by utilizing the moisture in the surrounding air. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and water during photosynthesis through tiny pores on their leaves, known as stomata. In this process, light and carbon dioxide are transformed into glucose, a type of sugar, and oxygen utilizing the energy from the light, and the water absorbed. The energy needed for plants to grow and thrive is provided by this process, which is crucial for their existence.

However, it can be challenging for plants to absorb the moisture required to complete this process in dry air, which may be why many people think they can’t take care of plants. Restoring moisture to the air through a central humidifier can enhance the health of plants. This may be especially helpful in the winter when the air is often drier, and the heating is running. A humidifier can encourage plants to flourish, create more oxygen, and appear healthier.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated business serving Walla Walla, WA, residents, and surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, on-time service, and free installation estimates. Call them today for humidifier services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Benefits of Installing a New Water Heater

Benefits of Water Heater Replacement

There’s nothing worse than a cold shower in the middle of the winter, except for a shower that starts hot and then turns icy cold in seconds. In both of these situations, it’s wise to consider water heater replacement. While one can hire a professional to render various repairs, if these repairs are too frequent, it could be more cost-effective to get a new appliance. But getting a new water heater installed isn’t a negative. This blog will discuss some of the main benefits of getting a new water heater.

Saving Money on Energy Bills

On average, a water heater can last 10-15 years with proper maintenance. Some water heaters (tankless water heaters) can last 20 years. However, one thing’s certain: a water heater’s age shows with each passing year. This generally manifests as higher energy bills, decreased efficiency, and frequent inconveniences.

Installing a new water heater benefits homeowners in that it will work more efficiently and cost less to operate. The new water heater will be more efficient and save homeowners money on energy bills, so installing a new water heater can actually save homeowners money when the old water heater is inefficient.

Faster Hot Water Recovery Rate

Everyone wants a water heater with a fast hot water recovery rate. That means it can dispense and heat water quickly after the hot water has been used up. As a water heater ages, it generally loses its quick recovery rate, meaning it takes longer to heat water. A water heater that could once heat 25 gallons of water in minutes could now take close to an hour to work as expected.

With a new water heater, one can enjoy the following benefits:

Longer, hotter showers
Shorter waiting times for hot water
Cleaner clothes and dishes
Energy savings

Space Savings

Another benefit of new water heaters is that they can be much smaller and save space. Today’s water heaters are more efficient and require less space, particularly tankless water heaters. Tankless water heaters are compact units that can be mounted on a wall, making them an ideal solution for areas with limited space. This is especially beneficial in homes where the heater needs to be installed in smaller storage locations like garages, basements, or closets.

By having a tankless water heater, homeowners can free up valuable real estate from the area in which it is installed and make more efficient use of their limited space. Furthermore, tankless water heaters are incredibly energy-efficient because they only heat the water when needed, rather than storing hot water in a large tank like traditional models. This energy efficiency also leads to lower water heating costs.

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, on-time service, and a worry-free process. Call them today for water heater or tankless water heater services in Walla Walla, WA.

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How to Find the Right HVAC Company This Holiday Season

Look for These Three Things in a Heating and Cooling Company

It’s not always easy finding a reliable home improvement service. There are dozens of companies online that claim to offer five-star service but fall short when they finally show up. That makes it important for homeowners to know how to tell the professional HVAC experts from the charlatans. When looking for an HVAC contractor, homeowners should look for the following:

Positive Reviews on Multiple Platforms

Reviews, whether positive or negative, give insight into how HVAC contractors operate. Yet, glancing at a few five-star reviews only goes so far. Consistency is important for a heating and cooling company. Homeowners should look for the following:

Words reflecting their service, like “honest” and “reliable”
Reviews that have substance–no one-sentence comments
Feedback from people who have left multiple reviews
Recent feedback (reviews that are more than two years old aren’t as reliable)
The same complaints (or praises) come up again and again

The Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google, and Facebook allow users to leave reviews about HVAC companies. Angi (formerly known as “Angie’s List”) also hosts reviews about home improvement services, from heating and air conditioning repairs to plumbing.

There’s no such thing as a perfect home improvement service. So, it’s not uncommon to see a few negative reviews in a sea of five-star ones. It’s crucial to consider the company’s services as a whole rather than dwelling on a few negatives.

Licensed and Insured Contractors

A lot can go wrong when installing or repairing an HVAC system, even when the fix seems relatively straightforward. That makes it essential for homeowners only to hire licensed and insured contractors. Technicians must undergo years of training to receive a license so they have the knowledge needed to work on these complicated systems safely.

Hiring an insured heating and cooling company means that if anything goes wrong, the contractor has liability insurance that pays for it. Without hiring a contractor who is properly insured, a homeowner risks having to pay for any damage or further repairs out of pocket. This could put them in dire financial straits––and that’s the last thing anyone wants during the holiday season.

Offer Maintenance Plans

Many HVAC companies offer maintenance membership plans. For a nominal annual or monthly fee, homeowners get the maintenance their system needs every year and can access certain benefits not available to non-members. Some of these plans offer:

Discounted services: Homeowners can get discounts on parts and labor for services.
Annual maintenance visits: HVAC systems need maintenance twice a year. Once a year for the heater and once for the air conditioner, the plan will cover both.
Prompt scheduling: When homeowners have a maintenance plan, they typically get priority scheduling. This means they don’t have to wait to consult with a professional.

One can learn more about an HVAC company’s maintenance plans on their website or when they call. Homeowners can also ask other questions before hiring the HVAC company, including whether they carry insurance.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions has nearly 15 years of experience serving Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, free installation estimates, and a beneficial membership plan. Call them today for AC or heating services in Walla Walla, WA.

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How to Get the Plumbing Ready for Thanksgiving

Tips for Preventing a Plumbing Disaster

As Thanksgiving approaches, homeowners should start preparing for the holidays by giving their plumbing a tune-up. Cooking a Thanksgiving feast and hosting guests at the house can put additional strain on the plumbing system. If there is a plumbing emergency, it could ruin the day.

A clogged toilet could end in disaster if wastewater backs up into the home through the drains. Homeowners will surely be embarrassed if a plumbing disaster ruins Thanksgiving for everyone. This blog post shares some tips from plumbing professionals on how to get the home’s plumbing ready for Thanksgiving.

Don’t Let a Clogged Toilet Ruin Thanksgiving

Prevent clogged toilets this year by practicing proper flushing. Homeowners should be sure to unclog toilets and practice good habits to prevent clogs before guests arrive. A clogged toilet can cause a stinky, unsanitary mess that will ruin guests’ appetites this Thanksgiving.

The best way to prevent a clogged toilet is to avoid flushing anything besides toilet paper. Even wipes advertised as flushable can build up in the sewer line and eventually cause a clog because they don’t break down as well as toilet paper. The toilet should be for flushing toilet paper only, and everything else should go in a trash can.

A toilet that is chronically getting clogged could be caused by a clogged sewer line. Homeowners should contact a local plumbing company to help unclog toilets constantly getting clogged since it indicates an issue with the sewer line. It may be because tree roots have grown into the sewer line.

Prevent and Repair Blocked Sewer Lines

Professional plumbers have specialized tools to help them fix blocked sewer pipes. Sometimes a clog moves from the drain further down the sewer line. Tree roots can grow into the sewer line in search of water through any cracks they find. It may require inserting a camera into the pipes to locate the source of the clog.

The sewer line needs to be unclogged as soon as possible because when the sewer is backed up, it could cause the line to burst. A burst pipe underground, especially a part of the sewer lines, will be a messy and costly problem to clean up.

Homeowners can prevent blocked sewer lines by being mindful of what gets put in drains and flushed and having the system regularly maintained by a plumbing professional. Avoiding putting cooking grease and oil down drains and routine drain cleaning will help prevent sewer line clogs.

Professional Methods

Drain cleaning and maintenance by professionals is vital to keeping a plumbing system in good working order. Having a professional clean and inspect drains regularly can help prevent various issues, from clogs and blockages to more serious problems like leaks and water damage.

In addition to preventing major problems, drain cleaning and maintenance can also save homeowners money in the long run by extending the life of their plumbing system. A well-maintained system will be less likely to need repairs or replacement parts, meaning they’ll save money on costly repairs.

Investing in regular drain cleaning and maintenance is a smart way to protect a home or business’s plumbing system. It’s an affordable way to prevent big problems before they start, saving homeowners money in the long run. Be sure to call a professional drain cleaning and maintenance service to keep drains clean and clear and prevent plumbing emergencies before the holidays.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions has over a decade of experience serving Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding neighborhoods. They provide straightforward pricing, emergency service, and a peace of mind guarantee. Call them today for plumbing services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Fall is Coming ‘ Make Sure the HVAC System is Ready

Getting Heaters Ready For Fall

The fall months are on their way, and it’s important that homeowners are prepared to ensure that their heating system will last through the cooler months. There are several ways that homeowners can ensure that their house will reach a climate to provide comfortable living on the inside while it’s cold outside. This article will share tips from HVAC professionals on the proper preparation to get heaters ready for cooler weather.

Tip 1: Maintenance

HVAC maintenance should be conducted by a qualified professional twice a year, once for the AC and once for the heater. Heater maintenance is best in the fall to prepare it for cooler weather and heavy use.

Heater tune-ups have many appealing benefits, including the reduction of home energy bills. With more money saved on a properly functioning HVAC system, homeowners can spend it on family activities and preparing for the holidays. Another benefit is improving a household’s comfort level and indoor air quality. Maintenance also leads to a longer system lifespan and fewer repairs.

There are a few important steps that a technician will go through to guarantee a proper assessment is done. A technician will check the system’s circuits, the safety controls, all of the caps in the system, and the electrical components within to check for any damage. It’s important to contact a professional to provide proper maintenance.

Tip 2: Regularly Change Air Filters

As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended that air filters be replaced at least once every three months. They may need to be replaced more often, depending on factors like the type of filter or if a home has pets. This may seem excessive, but clean air filters are essential to proper function, inexpensive, and easy to change.

Air filters trap any particles in the air to block them from getting into the system and attaching to coils. If the blockage on the coil is severe enough, it won’t be able to provide a cool atmosphere in a household and can cause further damage to the HVAC system.

Aside from avoiding damage to the system, there are other benefits to changing air filters on time. Air filters help clean air to move throughout a household by removing airborne particles from flowing inside the home. By regularly replacing air filters, homeowners can reap the advantages of comfortable indoor temperatures and better indoor air quality.

Tip 3: Pay Attention to Energy Usage

Paying attention to a household’s energy usage is beneficial for homeowners. They should monitor their energy usage throughout the season to see where they can save money. Installing a smart thermostat or weatherstripping are two ways to reduce energy consumption and save on energy bills.

Additionally, monitoring energy usage is important because higher-than-average energy bills can signify issues with the HVAC system. It can alert homeowners of a problem so they can get it fixed by a technician before it gets worse. Homeowners can save money and keep their homes comfortable all year long by being mindful of energy usage.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated business serving Walla Walla, WA residents and the surrounding areas since 2008. They offer straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency service, and free installation estimates. Call them today for heater repair and maintenance in Walla Walla, WA.

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Reasons to Install a Water Filtration System

Why Get a Water Filtration System?

Nearly every home in the US is lucky enough to have access to safe drinking water regulated by federal standards. Access to clean drinking water is a public health measure that has saved countless lives and prevented the misery of millions since waterborne diseases are some of the most common in countries without this valuable infrastructure. Unfortunately, just because water is safe from diseases doesn’t mean it’s always healthy and tasty.

Instead of buying bottled water or being subjected to water that is safe to drink but still full of pollutants, consider a water filtration system. Reverse osmosis systems can remove contaminants and improve the taste of the water, so each homeowner has control of this precious resource. Here are a few reasons why water filtration systems are becoming so popular.

Tastier Drinking Water

One of the biggest complaints about domestic water supplies is that they often taste bad. Domestic water supplies can have undesirable tastes for various reasons, so it isn’t helpful to try and prevent bad-tasting water. It makes more sense to remove everything contributing to the bad taste. Reverse osmosis water filters can remove pollutants and minerals that make water taste bad.

In addition to making water more palatable, water filters also make it safer. Treated water still has a variety of pollutants that can be harmful to a person’s health. Water filtration systems can remove these pollutants and render the water safer and better tasting. Some of these pollutants are:

Chemicals like pesticides and herbicides
VOCs
Heavy metals
Dissolved solids
Hardness minerals

Reduces Costs

Removing pollutants from water can save homeowners money in two ways. First, many homeowners must buy bottled water when they don’t drink tap water. Bottled water costs a lot more than tap water, so they are needlessly wasting money buying expensive water when they could use their own with a water filtration system.

Secondly, running cleaner water through plumbing has a beneficial effect on pipes and appliances. When excess minerals and corrosive chemicals are allowed to stay in the water, it can cause damage to fixtures, piping, and appliances. Removing these through filtration saves money on needless replacement of equipment and plumbing repairs.

Helps the Environment by Reducing Waste

A secondary concern about bottled water is the plastic waste generated by households constantly purchasing bottled water. Trillions of bottles are stuck in landfills or the ocean simply because homeowners didn’t know they could use tap water for drinking with a water filtration system. Put a stop to the wasteful practice of buying bottled water by installing an eco-friendly reverse osmosis filtration system.

Wouldn’t it be great if everyone had the confidence and peace of mind that their water is tasty and safe? With a water filtration system, homeowners can fill their reusable bottles and drink delicious, safe, and refreshing water without environmental concerns.

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, free installation estimates, and a worry-free process. Call them today for water filtration system services in Walla Walla, WA.

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Air Conditioning Basics for Homeowners

Air Conditioning Basics

In the summer heat, it’s hard to under-appreciate the air conditioner. But, just because everyone loves to enjoy that cold air on a hot day doesn’t mean homeowners understand much about how they work. When homeowners are left in the dark about their home’s critical systems, they can accumulate repair bills and needlessly waste electricity with lost efficiency.

Take back control of the home. This guide from local air conditioning experts can help homeowners learn the basics about their home’s cooling system and how to care for it better so it will last longer and keep everyone more comfortable.

Options for Air Conditioners

One of the first things to learn about air conditioners is the variety of options available for cooling homes and businesses. Too many people shopping for a new air conditioning system don’t know what options are available to them simply because they have no experience with anything other than what is installed in their home. Luckily, the types of air conditioners can be boiled down to two main options:

Central Air Conditioning: This is the option that most people are familiar with. For over 50 years, central air conditioning has been the most common choice for air conditioning in homes, especially in new construction. Central air conditioning uses a central blower and a network of air ducts to distribute cold air.
Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioning: Innovations in air conditioning led to discoveries that central air conditioning isn’t as efficient as possible because of the energy loss that occurs in air ducts, and they cool the entire home instead of only occupied spaces. Ductless mini split air conditioners reduce utility bills by cooling only the desired rooms and because they don’t need air ducts to work. Mini-splits use special blowers to cool the home in zones, allowing different parts of the house to be set to different temperatures.

When to Schedule AC Repairs

Regardless of the style of the air conditioner, there will come a time when AC repairs are necessary. Scheduling air conditioner repairs at the first sign of trouble can help prevent the problem from growing. Some of the early signs that air conditioner repair may be needed are:

Inconsistent cooling
Higher than normal cooling bills
Water leaks around the unit
Strange noises like grinding or squealing

Calling for professional help as soon as possible is always the best thing to do so any damage doesn’t worsen. Problems that are caught early can often be repaired in a single visit.

Benefits of AC Maintenance

To avoid unnecessary air conditioner repairs, homeowners must stick to a maintenance plan with professional help. Air conditioner maintenance can help AC units last longer, need repairs less often, and save money through better efficiency. Annual maintenance on the AC by a qualified technician is recommended to maximize these benefits.

For homeowners, ensure air filters are always changed on time. Air filters reduce dust and grime in the home and inside air conditioners. Get on a schedule and ensure air filters are replaced at least every three months or more often if a home has pets or allergy sufferers.

About Total Comfort Solutions

Total Comfort Solutions is a family-owned and operated business serving its neighbors in Walla Walla, WA, and the surrounding areas for over a decade. They provide straightforward pricing, free installation estimates, and a worry-free process. Call them today for air conditioning services in Walla Walla, WA.