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How CJ Brubacher Can Help With Commercial Electrical Maintenance In Kitchener

When you work in a commercial building, maintaining your electrical system is vital for the success of your company. Your employees can’t be productive if they can’t work due to malfunctioning electrical sockets. If you live in Kitchener and need assistance maintaining your electrical system in a commercial building, CJ Brubacher is here to help. You should never attempt to perform commercial electrical services yourself because you likely do not have the tools and experience necessary to take care of any issues. Here’s why you should call us for help with electrical services in Kitchener.

Maintenance Keeps Your Power Running

Losing power is never good for a business. You may not even think about how much your company relies on electricity for day-to-day tasks, but even a power outage that lasts only a few hours can cost you a lot of productivity and profit. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep your electrical system in good shape.

Regular maintenance is the best way to make sure your system is functioning properly. During a maintenance visit, the technicians from CJ Brubacher will complete the following steps to check your electrical system:

Ask about any potential issues you may be aware of
Check connections and secure them when necessary
Clean wires and connections
Replace any components that aren’t working properly

Maintenance Ensures Safety

Electrical systems can be dangerous if they are not maintained properly. If your system malfunctions, it can catch fire and calls significant damage to your company building. Some electrical fires are so bad that they completely destroy business buildings.

Electrical systems are also dangerous to the people who service them. Is never a good idea to mess with electricity if you don’t know what you were doing. If you touch an exposed wire accidentally or make connections improperly, you could cause the entire system to crash. You could also cause significant harm to yourself. It’s always best to leave any type of electrical work, including maintenance, to professionals.

Add a maintenance visit, your technician can chat to make sure your electrical system poses no fire hazards. Keeping up with regular maintenance is important for ensuring the safety of your system as well as keeping it in top performance.

Maintenance Can Reduce Major Problems

Minor electrical issues can turn into major problems quickly. It is always more cost-efficient to catch issues and resolve them when they are still small. However, if you don’t keep up with routine maintenance, you probably won’t know that there is a problem until it needs major repairs that are significantly expensive.

Scheduling appointments for regular maintenance allows technicians to examine your electrical system several times each year to check for bad components. When we can replace aging parts before they start causing problems, we can save you a lot of money on major repairs.

Keep Your Electrical System Maintained

Electrical systems are complex, so you never want to maintain them yourself. You need to hire a professional technician to keep your system working properly. The experts at CJ Brubacher have all of the knowledge and tools necessary to keep your electrical system running at peak performance and reduce the risk of any issues arising.

Trust CJ Brubacher To Help With Electrical Maintenance

Any time you lose power to your commercial building, it causes you to lose productivity and can cost you a significant amount of money in profits. You may not be able to prevent power outages due to sudden storms, but you can prevent most other electrical problems by keeping up with regular maintenance. CJ Brubacher offers both commercial and residential electrical services in Kitchener. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for electrical maintenance.

Waterloo HVAC Services: When to Change the Air Conditioning Filter

Your air conditioning system can run more efficiently if you regularly change the filter. Filters help improve your indoor air quality by keeping your HVAC system’s components functioning the way they should be. Our contractors and technicians at CJ Brubacher can help with an HVAC inspection so you can get recommendations about when to change your filter and which kind would be best for your system. Our air conditioning services in Waterloo can help keep you cool this summer.

How Often To Change Your Filter

Homeowners should ask their HVAC technicians about how often to change their residential air conditioning filter. Your filter changing frequency will be dependent on several factors including your lifestyle, habits, household residents and HVAC system specifications.

If you have a system that uses a standard-sized filter, you should change it every 30 to 60 days. If there are people with allergies in your house, you should change the filter more often. Pet owners may also have to change their filters more often than usual, sometimes as frequently as every 20 days.

Signs You Need To Change Your Filter

If you aren’t sure if your filter needs changing, there are some clear signs that you need to replace it with a new one. First, check your air filter. If it looks dirty and dusty, it may need to be changed. If your home is also dusty, you should change the filter.

Another reason to change your air filter for your air conditioning unit is if you notice an increase in allergy symptoms. A dirty HVAC filter can also emit a strange smell from your air conditioning unit and cause it to leak. Additionally, if you aren’t sure when you changed your filter, you should probably replace it.

Picking the Right Filter for Your HVAC

It’s also important to understand which air filter works with your air conditioning system. Our team can give you suggestions on filter brands and sizes that will fit in your HVAC system. First, you’ll need to determine the filter size for your unit. The most common sizes are filters that are from one to four inches wide.

You also need to choose a filter that has an appropriate MERV rating for your unit. MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value. Residential customers should choose filters with a MERV rating of less than 16. Higher MERV ratings are for filters in a commercial air conditioning system.

How To Replace the Filter

When you’re ready to change your filter, the first thing you should do is turn the air conditioning and fan off. Locate where the filter slides into your HVAC unit and check to make sure your replacement filter is the correct size. Your old filter should be labelled with the specifications for size.

Then, remove the access panel to your HVAC unit and take out the old filter. Place the new filter and use the arrows on the packaging to make sure it is positioned correctly. Then you can turn your HVAC system back on.

Air Conditioning Services in Waterloo

After changing your air conditioning filter in your HVAC unit, your system should run smoothly. If you still notice problems, such as a leaky unit, temperatures that aren’t cold or a weird smell, you may need service from the HVAC experts at CJ Brubacher.

Before your air conditioning system starts working hard this spring and summer, make sure you schedule a yearly tune-up and inspection with CJ Brubacher. Regular filter changes, tune-ups and HVAC maintenance can help keep your residential or commercial system working great. Let us handle your HVAC installation, repair and maintenance so you can relax in the cool air this season.

Why Turn Off Your Furnace When the Warmer Weather Appears in Kitchener?

One of the best things about spring is the warmer temperatures during the day. It’s not only more pleasant outside, but inside as well. You can open up your windows and let the fresh air in. Of course, spring weather is unpredictable. One day it might be sunny and bright, but the next day it could be rainy and cold. Turning off your furnace may seem like a gamble. Here’s what to know about turning off your furnace in the spring and who to call for residential furnace repair.

Why Should You Turn Your Furnace Off in the Spring?

Your heater won’t cycle on if you’ve set the thermostat lower than the inside temperature, so you might be wondering why it’s worth turning your heater off.

You end up wasting money by running the pilot light when your furnace is on.
You won’t inadvertently heat your home if the thermostat isn’t set right.
You save money on furnace repair in Kitchener because your furnace takes the season off.

Shutting the pilot light off during the summer reduces your energy consumption and avoids putting stress on the components of your heater during the warmer months when you don’t need it.

How Do You Know When to Turn Off Your Furnace?

Don’t go by daytime temperatures to turn off your heater. Look at nighttime temps, when the air gets the coldest. Your home retains the daytime heat into the night, so it’s those early mornings where you may need the most heat. You want the outside temperature to be consistently above 7 to 10 degrees before turning off your furnace. If you have many north-facing windows or have a tendency to be cold-natured, you may need to wait until late May before you turn your furnace off for the season. Conversely, if you want to save on energy costs and don’t mind putting an extra blanket on your bed and wearing a warm sweater in the morning, you may be able to turn off your furnace earlier in the season.

How to Turn Your Furnace Off in the Winter

It’s not enough to switch off the thermostat. You need to turn off the pilot light to the furnace. You may also want to cut the main gas supply to the furnace. Don’t cut your gas supply to the water heater and stove. If you can turn off electricity to your furnace without shutting down the AC, do so. A professional technician can help you shut your furnace off safely.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Home Safer

Turning your furnace off is a personal choice. You don’t have to, but you should spend some time in the spring checking out your furnace and AC.

Check your furnace and AC filters. Replace them if warranted. Make a note on the filter to remember the date you changed it.
Check your carbon monoxide detector. If it uses batteries, put fresh ones in. Check the age of your CO monitor. Most should be replaced after 10 years. D
Check the area around the furnace. Remove any debris.
It’s also a good time to make sure your AC is ready for the warmer days. Have a service tech do an inspection of your furnace and AC to make your system last longer.

The biggest drawback to shutting off your furnace in the summer is remembering to relight the pilot in the fall. Fortunately, you can call the professionals to handle that job. While they’re lighting the pilot light, they can do a quick inspection to make sure your heater is ready to tackle the winter.

Contact CJ Brubacher Ltd. for residential and commercial furnace repair. We’ll make sure your furnace is operating at peak performance when you need it and doesn’t give you problems when you don’t.

4 Common Air Conditioning Problems You May Experience In Kitchener

People outside of Canada may assume that it is cold and snowy here all the time. However, if you live in Kitchener, you know that summers can become quite warm. If there is something wrong with your air conditioner, you want to identify it right away so you can call for air conditioning services in Kitchener. Here are some common problems you may encounter and what may be causing them.

1. Condenser Coil Freezing

It takes energy to cool your home or office during the summer. The hotter the outside temperature, the harder your AC has to work. This is normal and expected. However, if your unit has to work too hard, it could cause the condenser coil to freeze, which is not normal.

Air conditioners work harder when they are dirty or when their parts are obstructed. You can prevent the condenser coil from freezing by having frequent maintenance to check the ducts, condenser, and blower fan for obstructions and by changing the air filters frequently.

2. Hot Air Blowing Instead of Cold

One of the most obvious types of residential air conditioning problems, as well as one of the most frustrating, is when the unit blows hot air when it is supposed to be blowing cold. You turned on the AC in the first place because you were too warm, and now this just compounds the problem.

Assuming that you have checked to make sure that you switched the central HVAC unit over to air conditioning, there are two reasons for hot air blowing when you want cold. The refrigerant level may be low, or the compressor may be overheating due to an obstruction in the ducts or a dirty air filter. You may be able to prevent such issues by having regular duct cleanings and changing the filter frequently. Once the problems occur, however, they require professional air conditioning services in Kitchener to correct.

3. Air Conditioner Not Turning On

It’s bad enough when your air conditioner blows hot air on you, but it is even worse when it doesn’t turn on at all. If it doesn’t help to set the thermostat to a lower temperature, this is probably a sign of an electrical problem. The wiring may be loose or the thermostat may be faulty. Commercial air conditioning may stop working because a circuit breaker has tripped, meaning that the demand on the circuit is greater than its supply. Attempting to fix electrical issues yourself is dangerous if you do not know what you are doing, so bring in a professional.

4. Strange Smells Coming From the System

When an air conditioner is functioning properly, you shouldn’t be able to perceive any smells coming from it. Malfunctioning AC units, however, can produce several types of strange smells, and the type of smell may give you a clue as to what is causing it. For example, if the smell is musty, it means that there is a problem with the drainage. Water is collecting where it is not supposed to and may be facilitating mold growth.

A burning or electrical smell is a more serious problem. If you perceive it, you should turn off the air conditioner right away. The system may be overheating, probably due to clogged air filters, which should be replaced immediately. Contact professional HVAC services right away if you encounter the problem of a strange smell coming from your unit. You may also be able to prevent the problem with regular cleaning of the unit and the ducts.

Turn to Us for Air Conditioning Services in Kitchener

While air conditioning may seem less vital than heating, high temperatures are responsible for more deaths than any other weather. Therefore, your AC is anything but expendable, and you should have it serviced by the qualified technicians at CJ Brubacher.

Elmira Plumbing Services: 3 Signs You Need a New Mixer Valve

Taking a hot shower at the end of a long day is a luxury many take for granted. That spa-like moment doesn’t happen all on its own. The plumbing in your home is a complex network of pipes, valves and gaskets. When everything works in harmony, you’ll be in steamy bliss. But one glitch in the system could put a stop to your daily relaxation session. When faulty pipes ruin your self-care routine, contact plumbing services in Elmira.

One vital device, the mixer valve, lies behind the wall in your bathroom and regulates the temperature mix of hot and cold. This essential piece of equipment keeps your water comfortable and safe. A simple shower could scald you and your family when a mixer mechanism malfunctions. If you notice any of the following problems, you may need a new regulator.

1. You Notice a Change in Water Pressure

Congested or loose valves will allow less water to move through. This reduction in water will lead to low pressure. You may notice a slightly weaker flow or pressure that varies from firm to soft. The stream may slow to a trickle in more severe cases. Clogs are not always related to backed-up toilets. Several things could obstruct your device, such as:

Limescale from hard water may accumulate over time and form a hard blockage.
Corrosion from the valve or old metal lines can leave behind rust.
Debris, like hair, may travel from elsewhere in your plumbing system and form a clog.
Plastic fragments from the valve or pipes could have broken off and become lodged in the opening.

In some cases, soaking the part with distilled white vinegar may solve the issue. Before dismantling your shower, allow our plumbers at CJ Brubacher Ltd. to assess the situation. Cleaning or replacement from residential plumbing services could be necessary.

2. You Have a Leaky Shower Head

Dripping from your shower is a clear sign of a faulty mixer valve. When you turn off the water at the handle, the mechanism closes and stops the flow. If the piece is loose, it cannot close all the way, and liquid will escape. Anything that gets through will leak from the shower fixture.

Slight dripping may not seem like a big deal until you receive your next water bill. A slow, steady leak can cause a significant increase in usage. It only takes a few days of dripping for a statement to get out of hand. Many water and sewage companies will excuse one large bill for longtime customers. Yet, most will recommend saving that one pass for a more costly sewage line emergency. If left untreated, one small drip could leave you with a major unexpected expense.

3. You Have Trouble Turning the Handle

You interact with the mixer valve every day when you turn the shower’s handle. When you crank up the heat, the valve will slowly reduce the amount of cold water input. This action allows the hot water to overtake the cold gradually, preventing accidental burns. If you cannot turn the handle, it indicates a problem. Corroded metal can cause threadbare connections. When not correctly installed, valves may be loose and not connect with the handle. If your handle turns too quickly or appears stuck, you may need to repair your shower.

Mixer valves may be small, but they play a big role in your bathtime comfort. If you notice low pressure, leaks or handle trouble, a faulty mixer valve could be the root of the issue. At CJ Brubacher Ltd., we specialize in residential and commercial plumbing services. Our technicians are available 24/7, so contact us today to get to the root of your pipe problems.

Kitchener Heating Services: 6 Furnace Safety Tips

In warmer climates, residential heating may not be considered necessary. However, in a northern region like Kitchener that can get very cold during the winter, a furnace is absolutely essential for every home and professional building. It is easy to take your furnace for granted, but if it malfunctions, it does pose a risk for gas leaks, house fires, or carbon monoxide poisoning. With the help of heating services in Kitchener, here are some tips to follow to maintain furnace safety.

1. Avoid Improper Installation

Furnace safety starts at the very beginning by making sure it is installed properly. The installation process is extremely complicated. If you do not install your furnace correctly, you could be putting yourself and your family at risk for gas leaks. Natural gas is very flammable and could combust with the smallest spark. Therefore, attempting to save money by installing the furnace yourself could potentially cost you and your family your lives. Correct installation of the furnace may be more important than the particular furnace you choose.

2. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Because a natural gas leak can be so dangerous, the gas companies add a strong, distinctive odour to it so that you can detect a leak and take prompt action to escape. Carbon monoxide can be even more dangerous than a natural gas leak. It is a byproduct of burning fossil fuels such as natural gas, and it doesn’t have any smell or taste, nor is it visible.

While carbon monoxide is flammable, the real danger is that it is poisonous and virtually impossible for a human being to avoid breathing in if it is present. There is usually no sign of carbon monoxide in the air until you start showing symptoms of poisoning, and by that point, it may be too late. Carbon monoxide detectors alert you to the presence of the poisonous gas in your home before you start showing symptoms. You should have one on every level of your home and be sure to keep fresh batteries in them so that you can rely on them in an emergency. If your carbon monoxide detectors are older, you may need to replace them.

3. Clear a Space Around the Furnace

The area around the furnace may seem like a good place for storage, but clutter around the air vents may prevent proper ventilation. Keep the air intake vents free from debris, and keep the space immediately surrounding the furnace free from large obstructions such as boxes or furniture. Dispose of used furnace filters rather than storing them nearby.

4. Don’t Hang Laundry Next to the Furnace

Though a temporary obstruction, hanging laundry next to the furnace isn’t a very good idea. It could be a fire hazard and reduce the airflow.

5. Have Your Furnace Maintained

Maintaining your furnace helps to keep it operating properly. There are some maintenance tasks that you can handle yourself, such as changing or cleaning the furnace filter, depending on which type you use.

While you probably cannot perform more advanced furnace maintenance yourself, you can perform frequent inspections of the furnace and have maintenance done if you notice any troubling signs. Listen for unusual noises, such as popping, rattling, or banging sounds, coming from your furnace. Look for visual changes to your furnace, such as rust spots.

If you notice warning signs like these, you should call an HVAC professional right away. However, it isn’t only when you suspect trouble that you should have furnace maintenance. You should have a professional evaluation performed on a regular basis.

Call CJ Brubacher for Heating Services in Kitchener

We have been providing residential and commercial heating services in the area for nearly 100 years. Schedule services 24 hours a day.

Waterloo Heating Services: Is A Burning Smell In Your Furnace Normal?

The heating system in your home or a commercial facility is necessary for the colder winter months. While heat is essential for keeping people warm, it is also vital for the maintenance of your property. Without heat, pipes can freeze, windows can break, and so much more. If you do not have heat, contact an expert in furnace repair in Waterloo.

However, not every apparent issue requires a technician. For example, many homeowners freak out when they smell something burning after turning on their HVAC system for the first time. Is the smell normal? Is it something to worry about?

Is It Normal To Smell Burning?

A slight burning or hot smell does not always warrant a call to a residential furnace repair company. When a system is shut down for a while, like most systems are during the spring and summer months, a minor odour is expected as the system kicks back on.

A stagnant system collects dust throughout. When the furnace kicks back on, it is burning the existing dust within the motor, heating elements, and other components. The burning that takes place after a while of inactivity is considered normal and nonthreatening. Still, that does not mean that all burning smells are natural.

What Smells Are Not Normal?

Whether dealing with residential or commercial furnace repair, some odours are unnatural and require the attention of a seasoned expert. Some smells can indicate problems with specific components, and others can represent issues with entire systems. Homeowners must know the differences between these odours to explain the scent to a technician and determine the feasibility of a repair. Depending on the severity of the damage, a new system might be advisable.

1. Rotten Eggs

Most HVAC systems use natural gas to operate. Natural gas is odourless, which is dangerous, so gas companies add mercaptan to it, producing a rotten egg smell. Without the rotten egg odour, people may not realize they have a gas leak, which can result in death or severe injury.

If you smell rotten eggs when you turn on your furnace or HVAC unit, you should shut it off immediately and call the gas company or a licensed HVAC professional. A crew should arrive on the scene quickly to inspect and repair any issues.

2. Mustiness

Sometimes, homeowners will turn on their furnace and notice a strong musty or mouldy smell coming from the vents. The odour usually indicates mould growth in the ductwork or evaporator coil. The vents and system will need to be cleaned to eliminate the odour.

Unfortunately, depending on how bad the mould growth is, it often represents more significant problems. You might want to hire a mould remediation company to assess the rest of the property for mould. Sometimes, mould remediation is the only way to rid an entire property of mould risks.

3. Electrical, Metallic, or Plastic

Electrical and metallic burning smells can indicate an overheated blower or another component. The best thing you can do is shut down the system and ask an HVAC technician for assistance. If you continue to run the system with malfunctioning parts, you risk damaging the heat exchanger or other critical components.

The smell of burning plastic is not typical, and it can be hazardous. Plastic and similar materials can release fumes into the air that are toxic. If you smell plastic, shut off the HVAC system, open windows, and contact an HVAC specialist.

Have you noticed strange odours coming from the vents in your home or facility? If so, contact CJ Brubacher Ltd. and schedule an assessment. The HVAC, Plumbing, and electrical specialists will send out a qualified team member as soon as possible.

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