Waterloo Plumbing Services: 3 Reasons the Kitchen Sink Is Clogged

Kitchen sink clogs always seem to happen at the most inconvenient times, like when you’ve got a counter full of dirty plates or your dishwasher is on the fritz. That’s why it pays to have one of the most trusted plumbing services in Waterloo, CJ Brubacher Ltd., in your contact list.

Even with a great plumber at the ready, it’s smart to stay one step ahead of these inconvenient blockages. Read on to learn about three of the most common types of clogs and how to prevent them.

Soap Scum Buildup

It’s counterintuitive to think that cleaning products cause pipe problems, but most commercial cleansers are made with fats and that’s the issue. When soapy fats mix with minerals commonly found in municipal water, they bind together and create a filmy substance that clings to pipes instead of rinsing away.

If your water is hard, it contains more of these buildup-causing minerals. Installing a water softener often alleviates the problem, but if you routinely use fatty dish soaps the issue may persist. Routinely pouring boiling water or water mixed with baking soda or ammonia down your drains helps remove scum before it develops into a full-blown clog.

Food Scrap Blockages

When you have a garbage disposal, you’re accustomed to scraping food residue from plates and pans into your sink. Unfortunately, if you don’t flush your drains properly, that food may never make it into the disposal and instead become stuck inside the curved P-trap piping beneath your sink. Although water might not back up into your basin immediately, if unpleasant odours are coming from your drain, you’ve got a blockage in the making.

To avoid such clogs, dispose of solid foods in your trash or put them on the compost pile. Avoid flushing fibrous produce like celery or pumpkin, which are notorious for wrapping around garbage disposal blades. Fine waste like coffee grounds and onion skins are also bad for your disposal, as it’s easy for the blades to miss them. Remember that anything that doesn’t pass through your disposal builds up and traps other foods, resulting in clogs. That’s why proper food disposal is key to reducing blockages.

Grease, Oil, and Fat Obstructions

As with soap scum, anything greasy or fatty going down your drains is problematic. Liquid fats congregate in the nooks and crannies of pipes, where they bind with the above-mentioned minerals or congeal and harden on their own. Masses of fat glom onto any number of other items that pass through your drains, and before you know it you’ve got a clog on your hands.

Never put cooking oils down the drain. Instead, pour cooled grease into empty cans or containers, set them into the fridge to solidify, and then toss them in the trash. Another option is to mix oils with flour, sand, or cat litter before throwing them away. Even mopping grease with paper towels is better than letting it go down your drain and clog your pipes.

CJ Brubacher Is Here To Help

Knowing what causes clogs and how to prevent them will help you keep your pipes in great shape, but the best care in the world won’t stave off every blockage. When your sink is backed up, it’s time to bring in an expert in residential plumbing services like CJ Brubacher Ltd.

Call the experts at CJ Brubacher when your drains are plugged, or anytime you need the very best in plumbing, heating, and air conditioning care in the Waterloo area. With an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau and around-the-clock service, we’re the right choice when it comes to unclogging your pipes!

3 Common Problems with Commercial HVAC Systems

If you own any type of commercial building, you want it to maintain a comfortable temperature for your employees and customers. Having a functioning air conditioning system is vital. If the unit starts to malfunction, you need to take quick action to make sure everyone in the building stays comfortable regardless of the outside temperature. Here are three of the most common problems with commercial HVAC systems and how you can resolve them.

1. Lack of Cooling or Heating

The biggest indicator of a problem with your commercial HVAC system is a lack of heating and cooling. If your company building stays hot or cold at the wrong times of the year, it needs to be examined. You should also watch for spots of the building that are hotter or colder than others because uneven heating and cooling is a sign of a problem with the unit.

Your HVAC system likely needs to be repaired if it isn’t heating and cooling appropriately. The technicians at CJ Brubacher can repair any malfunctioning components to return the system to top performance. However, you should also know that HVAC units have various capacities. One possible reason that your unit isn’t heating or cooling appropriately is that the system isn’t large enough to maintain the temperature of your building. We can determine whether your unit is the right size for your building’s square footage and replace the system with a larger one if necessary.

2. Reduced Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is important for both homes and businesses. Poor air quality can lead to many health problems, leading to a decrease in productivity and sales. Many types of pollutants build up on your air ducts, and when they circulate air through your company building, they can diminish the quality of the air in your building.

A reputable HVAC company such as CJ Brubacher can work with you to improve the quality of the air in the building. We have trusted professionals we work with to figure out a solution to improve your building’s air quality.

3. Unusual Noises

Sometimes, HVAC systems start to make strange noises. If your commercial unit is louder than usual or is making strange banging noises, it could indicate a serious problem. You should examine the unit to make sure that the banging is not caused by loose components. If you don’t see any obvious problems, you need to contact a professional immediately. The longer you wait to get help, the more significant the problem may become. Quick intervention is the best way to keep from having expensive repairs.

Trust CJ Brubacher To Help

Commercial HVAC systems can malfunction for many reasons. If you want to avoid expensive repairs, it is best to call a professional immediately when you start to notice signs of a problem. The faster you get the issue resolved, the more quickly you can resume your normal routine and maintain a comfortable environment for everyone in your company building.

If you are experiencing problems with your commercial HVAC system, it is time to contact a professional for air conditioning services in Waterloo. CJ Brubacher is proud to offer both residential and commercial air conditioning services. For residential air conditioning units, we help homes stay at a comfortable temperature so that the inhabitants can relax. We keep company buildings comfortable so that your employees can be more productive and your customers can have a better experience while shopping. If you are interested in fixing your commercial air conditioner, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Elmira Electrical Services: Common Problems With Light Switches

It’s easy to take your home for granted. Take the light switches on the walls of your home. If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t give them a second thought until the light doesn’t work. Probably nine times out of ten, when the light doesn’t come on, it’s because the bulb had an issue. It’s that other time that might be the problem.

A malfunctioning light switch is often due to an electrical issue, which is one of the most common reasons for home fires. When a light switch isn’t working, don’t panic. Troubleshoot the problem and make repairs. Contact a professional electrician for residential electrical services to make sure the problem is repaired correctly.

Flickering Lights

A flickering light can be an electrical issue, but it can also mean that the bulb is loose or going bad. Try tightening the light bulb. If that doesn’t fix the issue, it’s likely that there is a loose wire somewhere in the system. If possible, plug the lamp into a different socket to see if there is a problem with the lamp or in the wiring.

Sparks

It can be disconcerting to see sparks when you turn off the light, but it’s actually a normal thing in electrical currents when the contacts move apart. When the spark is large or loud, or both, it’s time to be concerned. Generally speaking, you probably have a short or other problem in the switch. If you smell or see smoke, you should keep the switch off until this issue can be addressed.

Noise

Normally, you shouldn’t hear any noise coming from your light switch. Dimming switches can buzz when the filament in the bulbs vibrate. If you hear any sizzling or popping sounds from the switch, turn it off and get it checked out. It’s probably something simple, a bad switch or loose wire, but it can cause a fire when left unchecked.

Heat

Light switches should not be warm, but some dimmer switches may feel warmer than regular ones because of the way they dissipate heat. When the light switch gets warm, it means that the electricity isn’t circulating correctly. Again, turn the switch off to get the problem checked out. It’s a fire hazard that could be problematic.

The Light Switch Doesn’t Come On

If you aren’t getting any light after checking the bulb, check the breaker. It’s possible that the circuit was tripped for some reason. There’s no need to panic if the breaker tripped once, but you may want to get it checked out. If the breaker hasn’t tripped, then it could be mechanical issues in the switch. If there is a delay in the light coming on when you turn the switch, it probably means that the switch is wearing out and needs replacing.

Safety When Dealing With Electrical Issues

Many homeowners can deal with simple electrical issues, but it’s important to have the right tools at your disposal. You’ll want a circuit tester, electrical tape, flathead and Philips screwdrivers, and needle-nose pliers. Take precautions by turning off circuits to the switch. Use protective goggles to protect your eyes. If you aren’t confident in your skills when dealing with electrical issues, schedule an appointment with CJ Brubacher Ltd. for electrical services in Elmira. Our electricians are licensed and insured to handle big and small jobs of all types. We keep your home well-maintained and functional for your family. We offer a free quote so there are no surprises when the job is complete. Think of CJ Brubacher for plumbing services, HVAC repair and more. We’ll come to your home and we even offer 24/7 emergency services.

Why Did Your Air Conditioner Stop Working in the Middle of the Summer?

You rely on your air conditioner to help your home maintain a comfortable temperature even during a scorching summer, so when your unit stops working properly, you want to get it fixed immediately. It is always best to trust a professional for air conditioning services in Kitchener because you could make the problem worse if you try to resolve it yourself. If your air conditioning system is not cooling your home properly, there are three steps you should take immediately.

Check Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is the tool you use to control your air conditioning unit. In many cases, problems with your system are actually issues with your thermostat and can be resolved if you replace it. It’s always a good idea to check your thermostat if you are experiencing problems with your air conditioner. If the buttons on the thermostat are not working or the display temperature does not match the actual temperature of the house, it is a good indicator that the thermostat is bad. Changing your thermostat may resolve the issue.

Change Your Filter

Dust, dirt, pollen, pet hair and other pollutants build up on your air conditioning ducts and can cause your system to run less efficiently. Having a clean air conditioning filter is important for keeping these particles from spreading throughout your home. It is important to change your filter on a regular basis to cut down on the number of pollutants in your home and maintain decent air quality. You should change your filter every 90 days for the best results, depending on the size and recommendation of the manufacturer. If you have noticed a decrease in your air conditioner’s efficiency, it may be time to change your air filter.

In most cases, changing your air filter is a simple task. You should remove the existing filter and check it thoroughly for build-up. If you can see a lot of dust and dirt particles on the filter, you need to swap it with a new one. It’s best to always have an extra filter on hand so that you can change it quickly if your HVAC unit is not working as well as it should be. If you notice that your system is running less frequently and keeping your home at a cooler temperature, changing the air filter may have resolved the problem.

Contact CJ Brubacher for Help

If changing your thermostat and filter don’t resolve the problems with your air conditioning system, it’s time to call in the professionals. CJ Brubacher has a team of skilled HVAC technicians who can help you get your air conditioner running smoothly again. We have the tools and skills necessary to resolve a wide range of issues with your air conditioner. Instead of trying to solve the problem yourself and risking making it worse, call us immediately to schedule an appointment for HVAC maintenance or repair.

We promise to make sure you are completely satisfied with our work. Before we look at your unit, our technicians will ask questions to ensure we have a thorough understanding of the scope of the problem. We will then examine your air conditioner to see what the problem is. After repairing or replacing any malfunctioning components, we will wipe down your unit to make it more efficient and ensure you are satisfied with our service before we leave.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you want to stay comfortable in your home during a scorching summer in Kitchener, you need to handle problems with your air conditioning unit as soon as they appear. The expert technicians at CJ Brubacher are ready to help keep your system in top shape. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for residential air conditioning or commercial air conditioning services.

Why Are Commercial Plumbing Services Important?

The Importance of Plumbing Services and Inspections

Residential and commercial plumbing services are essential to the function of a property. According to plumbing services in Waterloo, biannual inspections are often required to ensure your system stays in working order. Unfortunately, many people avoid routine maintenance. The forgetfulness is not often purposeful; instead, life gets in the way. However, if it has been some time since you last had your plumbing inspected, you might want to schedule an assessment with a professional plumbing service. The service is beneficial to the maintenance of your system, but it can also help in several specific situations.

1. Can Help With the Installation of Bathroom Fixtures

Many people choose to use a DIY approach to installations. While you can opt for such methods, you might want to take caution when working with plumbing. Your properties pipes and fixtures can be fragile. Additionally, the connections can be tricky with plumbing.

Hiring a professional is the easiest way to ensure your fixtures and pipes all work the way they should. Plus, a licensed plumber can inspect the connections, ensuring you will not have any problems with the fixtures moving forward.

Some DIYers may choose DIY options to cut costs. However, many people end up spending the same or more on DIY projects because they do not possess the necessary skills. Even if a professional costs more, you have to remember you are paying for their expertise.

2. Can Ensure Everything Is Working Properly

Do you experience occasional clogs, or have you noticed a change in water pressure? Calling a professional plumber to your property for an inspection can help you get to the bottom of any issues.

Many customers call plumbers complaining of strange noises, such as clanking, gurgling, and hissing. While there can be simple causes for each noise, sometimes, the cause is significant.

Regardless of any problems you might have experienced lately, a plumbing inspection is the best way to ensure your system is working correctly. Additionally, you might consider a drain cleaning.

Annual or biannual inspections help you develop a relationship with a licensed plumbing service. The more familiar a plumber is with your system, the easier it is for them to diagnose a potential problem. Also, the more often a plumber cleans and inspects a system, the less likely you are to be surprised by costly damage.

3. Can Deal With Water Issues

The primary reason to call a plumbing service is that it deals with water issues. From minor leaks to broken pipes, a plumbing service can help you resolve your property issues quickly and efficiently.

A licensed plumber can also help identify potential problems before they turn into disasters. For example, during a plumbing inspection, the licensed professional may notice cool spots in your wall with a thermal device. The cool areas could represent a small leak that may go unnoticed for months without professional intervention.

Plumbers are not afraid to get their hands dirty. Their job is to help ensure you have running water, working drains, and functioning systems. Licensed professionals can help homeowners and business owners find solutions to common issues and resolve even the most severe plumbing disasters.

Commercial and residential plumbing services are a critical attribute of properties, especially when considering the usefulness of a building. While homeowners and property owners can perform routine maintenance, annual or biannual inspections should be performed by licensed professionals. If it has been a while since your last plumbing inspection or you want to install new fixtures, contact CJ Brubacher Ltd. to schedule an assessment and system checkup. The company will send out a licensed technician as soon as possible.

Kitchener Plumbing Repairs: 3 Signs You Need a New Shower

How Do You Know When You Need a New Shower?

Generally speaking, showers are built to last several decades and do not need to be replaced often. However, frequent use may put wear and tear on shower components, and they may wear out more quickly as a result. If your shower is reaching the 20- to 25-year mark soon, you may need to think about calling plumbing services in Kitchener for a replacement. However, if you notice any of the following signs of shower trouble, you may need to look into residential plumbing services right away.

Sudden Changes in Water Temperature

Sometimes when a shower is wearing out, it may have difficulty sustaining hot water in a constant flow. Therefore, you may be enjoying a nice, hot shower when suddenly the water turns cold. This is an unpleasant surprise that may seem to happen at random. However, if you investigate it further, you may find that it often happens when another device in the house is using hot water elsewhere.

The problem could be an issue with the shower valves wearing out, or it could be an issue with the water heater. In either case, you can call for plumbing services in Kitchener, and a licensed professional will be able to assess the problem, diagnose its cause, and recommend the necessary repairs, whether they be to the shower valves or the water heater itself.

Leaking Water

The fittings and bolts for an old showerhead may loosen over time. This is the most common reason why showerheads start leaking. Another possible reason is a buildup of sediment inside the showerhead. In either case, leaking showerheads or tub faucets can cause big problems. You have to pay for every drop of water that comes out of your plumbing fixtures, whether you intend it to or not. Depending on the severity of the leak, it could cost you significantly. It may not add much to each individual water bill, but it can add up over time. Not only that, but freshwater is a precious resource, and the water that goes down the drain is wasted. Puddles of water that form from leaks can also attract pests to your home. It doesn’t cost much to hire residential plumbing services to install a new showerhead, and it can save you significantly in the long run.

Fungal Growth

A leak in the shower can also lead to the growth of fungi such as mould. Fungal spores can grow just about anywhere there is moisture, and bathrooms are natural environments for it in any case because of the strong amounts of steam produced by the shower. Add a leak to the mix, and your shower becomes an even better habitat for fungal growth. You may start to notice it on the pipes, valves, or showerhead growing in spongy spots of black or green. You may be able to clean mould that is growing on the outside of your pipes and fixtures. However, if it is growing on the inside, this is more difficult to clean. It is probably easier to replace the entire fixture.

Mould in your shower isn’t something you can just ignore. Breathing in mould spores can cause respiratory problems. Showering in mouldy water can cause skin rashes. People who have allergies to mould may have severe reactions to it.

Why Should You Call CJ Brubacher for Plumbing Services in Kitchener?

We provide both residential and commercial plumbing services in Kitchener, so if you have shower facilities at either your home or your place of business, we can service them as necessary. This includes repairing existing fixtures and installing new ones. It also includes maintaining existing fixtures to keep them in good working order and avoid repairs. We provide 24-hour emergency services, so contact us anytime.

Kitchener Air Conditioning Services: 3 Reasons the A/C Smells Musty

When you turn on your air conditioner or adjust it down to a cooler setting, do you detect an odour that seems damp or stale? If so, you should know that this is not normal. Ideally, an air conditioner should not produce any smells at all.

While the musty smell is not dangerous per se, it could be a sign of mould somewhere in your HVAC system. Breathing in mould spores can cause health issues affecting the upper respiratory tract. If you have allergies or asthma, you could have a severe reaction. The smell is a warning that you should have professional air conditioning services in Kitchener to identify and correct the problem. If you are wondering why this is happening, here are some possible causes.

1. Full Drain Pan

Part of the way that an air conditioner lowers the temperature of your building is by removing moisture from the air, making it less humid. The A/C accomplishes this by drawing the warm air over the evaporator coils, which are freezing cold. The change in temperature causes the water vapour in the air to cool and condense. The drain pan is located underneath the evaporator coils to catch the drops of water that condense from the evaporator coils in residential air conditioning.

The drain pan is one of the most important parts of the air conditioner. Because it sees so much use, it can develop problems such as corrosion or cracking. A drain pan that is no longer functioning efficiently may grow mould, which accounts for the musty smell when you turn on the air conditioner or reset it.

2. Blocked Condensate Line

One of the reasons that your drain pan may be full is that your condensate line is blocked. Once the water vapour is condensed and collected in the drain pan, it has to go someplace else to make room for more. The condensate line allows water to run from the drain pan to a location outside the home, whether to the landscaping or a wastewater line. The condensate line isn’t very wide in diameter, which means it doesn’t take much to block it. Sludge can build up in the condensate line, and mold and mildew can grow there as well, all of which can lead to blockages.

3. Excess Moisture in Vents or Air Ducts

If the drain pan is full, perhaps because of a blocked condensate line, the water in the drain pan may back up into the ductwork. Excess water in the ductwork can cause mold and mildew to grow. High humidity levels can also cause mould and mildew growth within the ductwork. Left unchecked, it can spread throughout the ductwork. This can be a problem because, when the air conditioner is operating, the circulating air can pick up the mould spores and spread them throughout the house. This accounts for the musty smell that you perceive when you turn on the air conditioner, and it also increases the likelihood of suffering upper respiratory complaints from breathing in the spores.

4. Wrong Size of the A/C Unit

Many factors determine the size of the air conditioning unit you need. In addition to the square footage of your building, the local climate, height of your ceiling, type of insulation, and the number of occupants all make a difference. When it comes to air conditioners, bigger is not necessarily better. Excess moisture can result when the air doesn’t become completely dehumidified because it is cycling through the building too quickly because your air conditioner is too large.

CJ Brubacher has been in business for nearly 100 years. During that time, we have gained the necessary expertise to provide the best HVAC services to our clients. Find out more about our residential and commercial air conditioning services.

Author: Cj Brubacher