CJB 100th Anniversary

100 Year Community Event

Our anniversary is not just about marking time, but it’s a celebration of the relationships and connections we’ve established with the community. We look forward to recognizing our 100 years of service and cannot wait to reveal what’s in store for this magnificent occasion. So, mark your calendars and help us celebrate this remarkable achievement.

CJ Brubacher has been a trusted name in plumbing and HVAC services for a century now, expanding into electrical and construction as well. To celebrate this grand occasion, we are hosting a community event that promises to be fun-filled and informative!

Our 100-Year Anniversary event will bring together the local community to join in the festivities and learn more about CJ Brubacher’s services since its inception in 1923. There will be plenty of entertainment for all ages, including games, face painting, food, and giveaways. But that’s not all, as CJ Brubacher specialists will also be present to answer any plumbing,  HVAC, construction or electrical-related questions you may have. So join us for a fun-filled day and discover how CJ Brubacher can help make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient.

Celebrating Our Customers

Achieving a 100-year milestone in business is no small feat. It means that a company has successfully navigated through decades of economic and industry changes while consistently delivering great service to its customers. However, the real secret to this kind of longevity lies in the quality of the customers themselves. After all, their trust and loyalty have allowed the business to build and grow, and that’s why we want to honour them with a one-of-a-kind celebration. At our 100-year anniversary party, we’ll raise a glass to our customers and all that they’ve helped us achieve over the past century.

As an established business for over 100 years, we take pride in the fact that our customers have come to know us for our quality workmanship and exceptional customer service. From day one, we have worked hard to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations, and that commitment has been a driving force for our success. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing the highest level of service and craftsmanship, and we are always looking for ways to improve and grow. With CJ Brubacher, you can trust that you are in good hands, and we look forward to continuing to serve our community for many years to come.

Original CJB BuildingHonouring Our History

As we prepare to celebrate our 100-year anniversary, we reflect on the journey that has led us to where we are today. The success and growth of CJ Brubacher would not have been possible without countless individuals’ hard work, dedication and determination over the years. Our anniversary event is not just about celebration; it is a time to pay tribute to those who have shaped our company into what it is today. 

It is a time to honour their legacies and to inspire the next generation of CJ Brubacher leaders to continue building upon what has been achieved in the last 100 years. Join us as we look back on a century of growth, innovation and community and celebrate the bright future that lies ahead.

Clare Brubacher

Founder Clare Brubacher purchased the company in 1921 with fellow coworker Charles Hemmerly after working in the plumbing and heating division of M. Weichel and Son in Waterloo during WW1. Clare became the business’s sole owner in just two years and quickly grew the business, employing many workers who helped CJ Brubacher become what it is today. 

One such employee was Clarence Moyer, who joined the company even before Clare had taken proprietorship in 1919. Clarence remained a loyal and valued employee until his retirement in the mid ‘60s. 

Clare’s son, Ralph Brubacher, started working for his father at CJ Brubacher in 1949 and ended up taking over the company in 1965. Clare taught Ralph everything he knew about running a business, including that success is based on your performance in the community. This is why CJ Brubacher strives to provide quality services and make a lasting impact on the community.  

Throughout the next couple of decades, CJ Brubacher remained in the family as James and Peter (grandsons of Clare) completed their apprenticeships and took over the company. Finally, in 2019, Kyle Brubacher Clare’s great-grandson) acquired the business and continues to own it today. 

Join Us At The Event!

Join us for a special event as we celebrate 100-years in this community! To commemorate this milestone, we’ve planned a free community event where there will be tons of prizes, free games, hot dogs, face painting, and lots more. This is our way of saying thanks to the community for supporting us these past 100 years.

The free community event will take place on Saturday June 10th, from 11am-2pm at Bolender Park in Elmira. We’d love for you and your family to join in all the fun! Join our Facebook event to stay up to date with all the exciting plans. Arrive early as the first 100 attendees to check in at our welcome booth will receive a gift bag full of goodies!

We can’t wait to see you and your family at the event as we celebrate 100 years!

Facebook event link: https://fb.me/e/3is1rzTHp 

Save Heat This Winter With These Tips

Kitchener HVAC Services: Save Heat This Winter With These Tips

Inflation aside, most people’s heating bills go up in the winter. Even wearing socks and sweaters during the colder months isn’t enough to help keep your utility bills reasonable. The experts with CJ Brubacher Ltd. offer heating services in Kitchener and these tips to manage your utility costs this winter.

Let the Sun In During The Day

Take advantage of the free heat during the day by opening your blinds or curtains. You’ll also let the light in, so you may be able to turn off lamps when the windows are open. Natural sunshine has many health benefits, which is another reason to keep the curtains open during the day. You need sunlight to produce serotonin and vitamin D. Opening the blinds when the sun is shining can make you sleep better.

Get Rid of Leaks and Draft

Your heating system uses a lot of energy, so you don’t want to let any of your expenses seep out through leaky windows or drafty doors. Weatherproofing is an affordable investment in your home to prevent higher utility costs in both summer and winter. Check for drafts around windows and doors. Inspect your attic and basement for air leaks. You may also want to check your chimney for any air leaks when you’re not using it.

Weatherstripping can go around anything that opens and closes, such as your doors or windows. Use caulk for cracks in door frames or windows. If you haven’t updated your windows in 10 to 15 years, it might be time to get an inspection and a quote to replace them with more efficient ones. If you have leaks in your attic, it might be due to insulation failure. Basement air leaks can often be caulked.

Use Space Heaters

Space heaters aren’t efficient when heating your entire home, but when you need to heat up a small area, they can be quite effective. Use a space heater to add warmth to a bathroom that doesn’t get warm enough when you’re taking a shower. Put a space heater in the garage when you need to be out there. Just make sure to use caution and be safe with space heaters.

Turn the Thermostat Down When You Sleep

It’s surprising how reducing your thermostat by a couple of degrees will save money on your utilities. During the day wear warm clothes. At night, when you’re curled up in a quilt and wearing thermal PJs, you may not even notice it. If you have a smart thermostat, you can set it to turn up a little higher right before you wake up. If the family is gone most of the day at work and school, you may be able to turn the thermostat down while you’re out.

Close the Curtains at Night

Even windows that are sealed well are a loss of heat. The glass isn’t as insulated as your walls or doors, so you should close the blinds and curtains once the sun starts to go down. This will help keep the heat inside your home. It can also make sense to invest in insulated curtains over the cooler months to add to your energy efficiency.

Get a Furnace Inspection

Not only does your furnace use the most energy in your home, but it’s also one of the more expensive systems in your home. As your furnace ages, it becomes less efficient to run. An annual inspection can help you keep your furnace operating at its best throughout its lifetime. Our experts can catch small problems before they become major issues that could break down at an inconvenient time. If you need residential furnace repair or maintenance, contact CJ Brubacher Ltd.

4 Common Plumbing Issues That Occur in Bathrooms

Waterloo Residential Services: 4 Common Plumbing Issues That Occur in Bathrooms

Your plumbing system is vital for keeping your home running smoothly. Unfortunately, plumbing systems malfunction sometimes, and you need to take quick action to resolve the issues. You may be able to handle simple problems yourself if they only require a plunger, but you need professional help for more extensive issues. Here are four common plumbing problems you may encounter in your bathroom.

1. Low Water Pressure

When you turn a faucet on, you expect to see a large gush of water. If the liquid only trickles out of the faucet, you are dealing with low water pressure. Occasionally, this issue is caused by a decrease in the water supply. However, the more likely explanation is that your faucet has a buildup of sediment and debris inside. It’s not an issue you can resolve yourself unless you have the proper tools, so you should call a professional plumber immediately to clean out your faucets and restore water pressure. Maintaining decent water pressure is important for hygiene reasons, so low water pressure is a problem you need to resolve immediately.

2. Clogged Drains

When your bathtub or sink starts to drain slowly, you probably have a clogged drain. Minor clogs can usually be resolved easily with a plunger, but if the clog sits too deep in the drain or is too large for a plunger, you need to call a plumber. Plumbers have special tools called snakes that are designed to fit into drains and eliminate clogs so that your plumbing system goes back to draining efficiently.

3. Dripping Faucets

Your bathroom faucets are not supposed to drip after you turn them off. When dripping occurs, it makes an annoying sound and increases your water bill. Although the problem usually has a simple fix, it is best to leave the project to a professional plumber. Most faucets just need a new washer, but some models do not fit a traditional metal washer and need a ceramic one that makes a tight seal.

4. Leaky Pipes

Leaky pipes are not always obvious problems because pipes are usually hidden under your sink, but when they start to leak, they can drastically raise your water bill. Replacing a leaky pipe is not difficult, but if you don’t know what you are doing, you will end up making a huge mess that takes a while to clean up. Professional plumbers know how to turn the water off and minimize the mess they make while replacing a pipe so that your life can return to normal as quickly as possible. You can use leak tape and clamps as a temporary solution to help with a leaky pipe until plumbers can arrive at your house.

What To Do To Resolve Plumbing Issues

Regular maintenance services go a long way in keeping your plumbing system working efficiently, but when problems arise, it’s important to take immediate action. If you’re handy with tools, you may be able to resolve minor issues yourself. For example, small clogs in your toilet can often be resolved with plungers. However, you often need extensive knowledge of a plumber to resolve major issues with your plumbing system.

When the problems with your plumbing system are beyond your scope of expertise, call CJ Brubacher. Our team of expert plumbers has the knowledge and experience necessary to resolve a wide variety of plumbing issues and get your bathrooms back to working properly. We respond quickly to plumbing emergencies and promise to complete each job officially.

Make an Appointment Today

When you need plumbing services in Waterloo, CJ Brubacher Ltd. has a team of experts ready to help. We offer residential plumbing services to help you keep your bathrooms working properly. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

4 Signs You Need an Electrician Right Away in Kitchener

4 Signs You Need an Electrician Right Away in Kitchener

If you suspect there is a problem with your home’s electrical system, you need to contact a professional skilled in electrical services in Kitchener right away. Electrical problems can lead to issues with your lights, appliances and electrical fires. Attempting to fix an electrical problem yourself could lead to even more damage or danger to your safety or your property. At CJ Brubacher, we can help solve your electrical problems quickly. Here are four signs you need to call us right away.

1. Flickering Lights

A common sign that there is a problem in your electrical work is if your lights flicker. If you have light fixtures that consistently flicker, there may be a problem with your wiring. It’s also problematic if your lights flicker when you use appliances, hair dryers or your air conditioner. When lights are flickering, there may be loose wires, a short or something loose in the fixture. An electrician can check out your lights and electrical panel to determine the following steps to fix the issue.

2. Electrical Shocks

The next big clue that there is something wrong with your electrical system is if you experience electrical shocks. If you feel an electrical shock when you plug something into one of your outlets, that could indicate a problem. An electrician can determine the cause of the electrical shock and remedy the situation.

When this problem occurs, it may be due to an unstable electrical circuit, damage in your circuit or problems with the power cord for your appliance. Ignoring this issue could create a fire hazard in your home. If you ever experience a powerful electrical shock after plugging something in, you may need to seek medical attention or you may need to call 911.

3. Burning Smell

Another dangerous sign of a problem with your home’s electrical system is a burning smell. If you notice a strange odour in your home, it’s essential to get it checked out immediately. A smoky smell may be indicative of a wiring issue that could quickly turn into a fire. Make sure you call a professional with expertise in residential electrical services so the power can be turned off in your home to avoid a potential fire hazard.

A burning smell may be due to a variety of factors. You may have loose or frayed electrical wires that are starting to melt or burn. It could also be from an overloaded circuit that can’t handle your home’s power needs.

4. Buzzing Sound

Finally, in addition to paying attention to the smells in your home, you also want to listen carefully for any unusual sounds that may be associated with electrical wiring failures. If you hear buzzing in your walls, that may be related to an electrical system problem and needs to be looked at immediately.

An electrical buzzing sound may be due to problems with your wiring. It could also be from outlet failures or your wall switches malfunctioning. A licensed electrician can check out the noise and help you with the next steps.

Professional Electrical Services in Kitchener

Homeowners should never wait around or delay service if there is a potential electrical system fault. The average DIYer is not knowledgeable or skilled enough to fix electrical wiring or outlet damage issues. To avoid injuring yourself or causing significant damage to your home, reach out to a professional, licensed electrician to determine the cause of your issue and get it fixed safely and quickly.

Connect with CJ Brubacher for your residential electrical system needs. We provide immediate emergency services for potentially dangerous situations. We can also help with electrical panel upgrades, light fixtures and outlet installations and maintenance of your entire system.

What to Consider When Having a Commercial HVAC System Installed

Waterloo Furnace Repair: What to Consider When Having a Commercial HVAC System Installed

Choosing a Commercial HVAC System: 4 Factors To Consider

As a Waterloo business owner, the comfort of your employees and customers is probably a priority for you, and having a complete heating, ventilation and cooling system can help you accomplish this. If your building requires an HVAC overhaul or you need an older system replaced, at CJ Brubacher Ltd., we are standing by to help you make a few decisions regarding your choices for HVAC replacement and furnace repair in Waterloo.

1. Building Size Matters 

One of the most important factors in choosing a commercial HVAC system is the size of your building. The overall square footage and the number of floors can affect the quality of the heated or cooled air each section receives and how much ductwork each floor might require. If you choose a system that is too small for your building’s needs, you may pay higher energy costs and reduce the life of the system as it struggles to heat and cool an area too large for its output capacity. 

Our technicians can advise you about your building’s needs and what type of system you need to keep your employees and customers comfortable and heat and cool spaces without wasting energy. This can help you save money over time, as controlling the efficiency of your HVAC system can prevent unnecessary wear and tear on important components and give you greater control over how you heat and cool your building. 

2. The Condition of Your Current System

If you call us for commercial furnace repair and our technicians discover that your current system is no longer working as it should due to age or damage, they can list any current issues they find and help you decide whether repairs or a complete replacement of the system is necessary. Several factors may influence your choice, such as whether your building’s existing system is still safe to operate. 

When an HVAC system ages, it’s motor and other moving parts may not work as effectively, causing inadequate heating or cooling in certain far-reaching areas of your building. Most commercial HVAC systems last about 20 years, so if your building’s system has not been replaced in the last few decades, it may be time to consider a replacement rather than a repair. 

3. Cost 

If you do decide to replace your existing heating and cooling system, then cost will likely play a role in what type you choose. For example, a single-split system is generally more cost-effective than a multi-split system, which has more operating options and gives your the ability to heat and cool specific spaces, such as offices and breakrooms. Multi-split systems can heat and cool large commercial buildings with lower energy costs, which could help you offset the price of installation. 

Our service technicians can help you decide which HVAC system suits your current budget. They can inspect your building and inform you about which floors need consistent heating or cooling or whether a split-level system is a better choice for buildings with areas you do not always use consistently, such as storage spaces. 

4. Building Location and Geography 

Your building’s location can have a definite impact on how its HVAC system works and the type you may need for it to function correctly. Moisture, for instance, can have a significant effect on your current HVAC system’s ducts and cause the formation of mold inside the tubes, which can increase the risk of mold spores affecting other areas of the building. 

Your commercial building’s HVAC requirements can affect the comfort and well-being of anyone who works or visits it. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and make your commercial building comfortable for everyone who works or visits. 

 

Commmon Workplace Electrical Problems

Waterloo Electrician: Commmon Workplace Electrical Problems

Many commercial properties have an onsite maintenance staff. While a trained staff can handle many common issues, only licensed electrical services in Waterloo should inspect or correct electrical systems.

Too many people make the mistake of assuming building wiring is straightforward when it is a complex and potentially dangerous interconnection of circuits. Through the years, codes change and technology develops, resulting in many companies operating with a mix of old and new wiring, which can present challenges and risks to inexperienced, well-meaning onsite staff. Even common problems can become significant risks if a person is not a professional.

Therefore, while the onsite staff is qualified for various tasks, they cannot and should not interfere with a property’s wiring or electrical systems. A licensed electrician is the only professional qualified to handle common and complex electrical system problems.

Understanding 3 Common Electrical Problems

Do not assume that because an electrical issue is common that it is safe for unqualified individuals to correct it. Even the most common problems can have disastrous outcomes when mishandled, such as electrical fires. That said, many commercial facilities experience a few of the same issues, and they should understand those issues, but only to recognize when a professional is necessary.

1. Old Wiring

Commercial facilities may have old wiring stretched throughout the property and connected to newer outlets or circuits. The older wiring is more prone to damage from electrical surges or overloaded circuits. Also, mixing and matching electrical components is never a good idea.

A professional electrician can help companies review their systems and suggest necessary upgrades. Sometimes upgrades are required to meet existing building and safety codes. Businesses must remain compliant with current regulations to maintain operational licenses and insurance.

2. Flickering Lights

Commercial and residential electrical services often assist property owners with flickering lights. Business lights might flicker for many reasons, but the most common are loose connections.

However, flickering lights can also occur because of overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. Each potential issue comes with an escalated sense of urgency.

As much as companies want to save money and subvert certain operational expenses, it is never wise to neglect electrical issues. Contact a licensed electrician to diagnose and resolve flickering lights or other lighting problems.

3. Sparks

Sparks can happen even with healthy electrical systems, but they should not remain persistent. Most sparks will occur around outlets, which often indicates an upgrade is necessary. However, if sparks happen often or employees notice outlets heating up, it is crucial to react. Employers or maintenance staff should cut the main power immediately.

Continuous or frequent sparks and heating outlets represent a significant concern. Fire risks are possible in these situations. Therefore, it is crucial that property owners call a licensed electrical service.

Hiring a Professional To Intervene

Licensed electricians are the only qualified professionals who can work on a building’s electrical systems. They understand building and safety codes and know how to perform electrical work safely.

While onsite maintenance can handle more minor issues, such as swapping out an outlet or replacing a fuse, any situations that require investigating entire systems or wiring require a professional. The risk of electrocution is too great for a novice to attempt system repairs. Also, working with unlicensed repair persons risks the safety of all employees and the business.

Licensed services and technicians have the training and experience to correct various issues, from the common to the complex. If you notice any electrical problems in your building, contact CJ Brubacher Ltd. immediately. The company will send a licensed professional to assess the building’s systems and resolve any existing issues. The technician may also suggest necessary upgrades to ensure the property meets current codes and regulations.

Keep Warm This Winter With These Tips

Waterloo Heating Services: Keep Warm This Winter With These Tips

Winter may be the perfect time for holiday parties, family and friends, but then you get your heating bill from staying inside all the time. If you’re trying to make sure your bills stay affordable without turning off the heater, we have some recommendations for making your home more energy-efficient. When you need heating services in Waterloo, think of CJ Brubacher Ltd. Let us service your furnace or heating system to make sure it’s operating at peak performance.

Insulate Windows and Doors

One of the best things you can do to keep heat in your home is to prevent it from escaping in the first place. Your windows and doors are two points where warm air can escape. Hold a candle or incense up to the window and slowly move it around. When you see the flame or smoke waver, you have a draft. Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal up the cracks. Check the weatherstripping on your doors to make sure it seals well when the door is closed. Don’t forget to check your patio doors.

Use door draft stoppers throughout the winter at the bottom of the door. You can buy a fancy one or just roll up an old towel or blanket to put across the bottom of the door. Heavy curtains on your windows can help keep the cold out, too. On northern windows, you may even want to use plastic insulation to really seal out the wind.

Reverse Ceiling Fans

Warm air rises. Reversing ceiling fans in the winter so that they operate in a clockwise direction. Turn the fan on low to create an updraft, which pushes the warm air on the ceiling down to where the space is occupied. Just don’t forget to turn the fan back to normal in the summer.

Check Your Thermostat

Every degree lower you can go will save you money on your heating bill. It doesn’t need to be frigid in your home, but if you can wear sweaters and socks to keep warm to keep the temperature a little lower, it might be worth it. If you haven’t invested in a smart thermostat, maybe this is the year to make it happen. You can program the thermostat to go lower when you aren’t home or when you’re sleeping. Then, program the heater to come on at a certain time so the house is cozy when you get out of bed or when you are coming home. Letting the thermostat do the work makes it more convenient for you. You can always change it right from your phone.

Change Furnace Filters

Dirty air filters restrict air flow, which makes your heating system work harder. You should be replacing your filters every three months, at the very least. If you have pets or your home gets dusty, you may need to replace your filters more often. Set a reminder to check the filters when you pay your electric bill so you never forget.

Ensure Your Heating System or Furnace Is Working Efficiently

Your heating system may lose efficiency over time as parts wear down. Regular maintenance on your unit helps your system function at its best. Our technicians perform different tests on your system when we come out for a service check. This helps alert you to any potential problems before they become major repairs. We can also help you plan for the lifespan of your heater, so you know when it may be more advantageous to replace your old unit instead of putting more money into repairs.

Contact CJ Brubacher Ltd. for residential furnace repair and installation. We have many types of heating systems that help you keep your home comfortable without breaking the bank.