Company: Carmine's Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

The Three Benefits of Spring AC Maintenance

How to Prepare the AC System for Summer 

Many Connecticut residents are familiar with the term “winterize.” That means getting the home ready for winter. Now, meet “summarize.” This is when homeowners get their AC systems ready for summer. But what does that entail? 

By regularly changing the air filter, consulting with professionals, and promptly addressing malfunctions, one can get ready for some fun in the sun. They can also reap these benefits: 

Save On Electric Bill 

saveWasted energy equals wasted money––and nobody wants that. This is why scheduling annual maintenance visits is so important. When an AC professional evaluates a unit, they: 

  • Patch any leaks 
  • Replace any frayed or exposed wires
  • Clean the evaporator and condenser coils 
  • Change the air filter 
  • Remedy any mold or mildew growth 
  • Recommend replacement when necessary

The Environmental Information Administration (EIA) reports that Connecticut residents generally spend about $156 on their monthly energy bills. That’s already pretty steep, and that figure could get even higher by neglecting to maintain the HVAC unit. Lower electric bills mean money for vacations, date nights, and other adventures. 

Fewer Repairs 

hvacMany HVAC troubles are avoidable. When a skilled professional regularly evaluates the system (or a homeowner keeps up with maintenance), they can avoid the following: 

  • Problems with the heating or cooling element 
  • Mold and mildew growth 
  • Electrical hazards 
  • Fires 
  • A malfunctioning thermostat 
  • Dirty air ducts 
  • Leaks 

HVAC repairs create uncertainty. After learning of a problem, a homeowner may ask: “How much will the repair cost? How soon can it get done?” They can avoid these distressing questions by keeping up with AC tuneup measures. 

Longer AC Lifespan 

The U.S. Department of Energy notes that the average AC system lasts 15 to 20 years. Yet, that’s not a guarantee upon installation. Failing to maintain the AC unit could result in a shorter-than-average lifespan. Some benefits of keeping an HVAC around and functioning for a long time include the following: 

  • Not having to get a new unit. Getting a new HVAC unit can cost thousands of dollars. Nobody wants to deal with that. They’d rather pocket the money and keep the system they have. 
  • Some parts don’t remain in production for long. Consider an HVAC system that’s been around since the 1990s. Chances are, its manufacturer doesn’t produce parts for that system anymore. However, by keeping an older HVAC system in good shape, a homeowner doesn’t have to worry about scouring the internet for replacement parts. They can continue using the ones they have. 
  • Peace of mind. It takes time to get used to a new air conditioning system. However, if an HVAC system doesn’t need replacing in the first place, nobody has to deal with the stress of a new system. 

If a homeowner needs AC unit replacement, it’s not the end of the world. An AC servicing company can work with homeowners on getting, installing, and maintaining a new system. And, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, many energy-efficient AC units are now affordable. 

About Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning 

Looking for reliable air conditioner servicing in Danbury, CT? Meet Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. These professionals offer various services from A to Z. They also have over 30 years of experience, consistently delivering 5-star service. Call today for AC service!

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Women's History in Plumbing

Influential Women Plumbers

For several decades women have been shaping America’s plumbing industry. Thanks to the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers, equality in the business has changed for the better. Starting with the first master plumber, Lillian Ann Baumbach, the plumbing industry has grown more inclusive. 

Women Plumbers

plumbing As the economy changes, an increasing number of women are continuing to enter the plumbing business. Currently, it is estimated that 5% of all plumbers are female. Because of a few crucial plumbing pioneers, more women than ever are forging their history.

The women who enter the plumbing industry do so for the same reasons as men. In addition to job security, an average salary can start at $40,000 per year after training. This allows women in all communities to earn a steady income without needing to relocate. 

The career ladder is tall for plumbers who wish to earn more throughout their lifetime. Licensed local plumbers can diagnose plumbing issues and install fixtures, whereas a project manager can oversee multiple employees for residential and commercial plumbing businesses.

A plumbing schedule can be more flexible for women with families than for other careers. Depending on the level of training, women can own their businesses or work as a contractor on an as-needed basis. This is especially appealing to women with children. 

Women Plumbing Organizations

The Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers was created as a social group in the early 20th century. It was designed for the wives of plumbers to discuss their personal lives and support one another. Eventually, this club turned into a women’s activist group.

The auxiliary committee lobbied for a variety of issues, including labor laws. They were able to improve sanitation practices in grocery stores and gas stations. By making public bathrooms cleaner, this organization limited the spread of disease and increased its authority.

The committee supported female plumbers just one year before women could vote. Since then, the auxiliary has partnered with the National Association and is led by almost entirely women. 

The First Master Plumber: Lillian Ann Baumbach

lillianLillian Ann Baumbach was born in 1930s Arlington, Virginia. Her father founded the company W.J. Baumbach Plumbing and Heating with her uncles. Surrounded by a group of family plumbers, Lillian Baumbach began learning the trade as a child.

At age 12 she accompanied her father on local jobs during flooding emergencies. It was then that she received her first plumber’s kit. By the time Lillian Baumbach was 21 she was officially licensed as a master plumber.

Known as the “Pretty Plumber” she appeared on two television programs and was later interviewed by Walter Cronkite. She continued to help her father’s business throughout the ‘50s and ‘60s, even after earning her independent reputation. Today women are following Ms. Baumbach’s footsteps throughout the country. 

About Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has over 30 years of experience and offers 24/7 emergency services and straightforward pricing. Their expert staff provides honest advice, personalized solutions, and long-lasting plumbing repair and installation services. To learn more information about certifications and service times in Danbury, CT., call Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today. 

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Set the Temperature for a Valentine's Day Evening In!

3 Tips for Preventing Heat Loss and Getting the Most Out of a Home's Heating System

Planning the perfect romantic night at home should include not only candles, a bottle of wine, and soft music, but also make sure that the heating is working properly. While snuggling under a blanket is nice, no one wants to be forced under the blanket because of a chilly room. This article will give homeowners some ways to set the perfect temperature for date night and save energy costs in the process. 

Pro Tip #1: Track Down the Drafts

trippingWhile homes are not meant to be completely airtight structures, ensuring there is minimal travel of air in from the outside and vice versa is important to keeping a home comfortable and reducing energy costs. As a house grows older, insulation and the seals around windows and doors can break down, creating gaps that allow cold air to enter. Drafts are fairly easy to remedy as long as they are not a structural issue. A few of the quick ways to fix a draft include the following installations:

  • Apply Weatherstripping: These handy strips of foam or silicone typically have an adhesive backing and can be cut with a box knife or scissors. They can be installed around doorways and on the bottoms of window sashes to create a seal. This can add a bit of extra protection to aging windows and doors.
  • Insulate: A home may need more insulation if the chilly breezes seem to be seeping through the wall itself. When installing insulation, remember that the r-value indicates the heat loss protection the insulation provides. The higher the number, the more efficient the insulation.
  • Apply Caulking or Expandable Foam: Sometimes drafts come from a larger gap than can be dealt with by weather stripping, but the gap is too small for thick insulation. Expandable foam is the perfect solution. Caulk can also be used to fill in gaps that are too narrow for weatherstripping.

Pro Tip #2: Install Energy Star Windows

windowInstalling new windows may seem like an extreme measure for date night, but it may be something to consider if a person is in a long-term relationship with their home. Windows and doors are the weak points when allowing drafts into the home. And even great windows cannot last forever. Also, all windows are not created equal regarding heat loss protection. Energy star windows have been certified as energy efficient and can reduce energy spending by as much as 12%. Things to look for when preparing to install windows are:

  • A low U rating (0.3 or lower)
  • Multiple panes of glass
  • Noble gas-filled panes
  • Installation by a professional according to the manufacturer's instructions

Pro Tip #3: Get Maintenance Done By a Reliable Heating Contractor

If a problem is noticeable with a home's heating, homeowners need to hire an HVAC technician to maintain, repair, or replace the unit. An HVAC unit may do a simple job, but it is a complex machine and requires proper training and an understanding of that training to make it function properly. Homeowners should find a company with mostly good reviews and willing to answer their questions without hesitation.

About Carmine's Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

Offering 24/7 emergency service and NATE-certified technicians, Carmine's Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has been working with the people of Danbury, CT, and the surrounding areas for more than 30 years. Call them today for HVAC service!

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Raise Property Values With New Plumbing Installations This Year

New Year Renovations

Updating old plumbing fixtures can boost the value of any home. In addition to adding luxury, new installations can save money every month. Environmentally friendly toilets and shower heads are just two examples of efficient bathroom installations for the new year. 

Kitchen Upgradeskitchen

Kitchen sink faucets are commonly upgraded for multiple reasons. There are several types of faucets to choose from, and installation can be done in under one day. Since the pandemic, touchless faucets are especially popular for the new year. 

A motion sensor triggers touchless faucets. Much like napkin dispensers in public restrooms, touchless sinks work when a hand is placed directly below the faucet. The temperature of the water can be adjusted for sensitive skin. This is ideal for multi-member households or for those who like to cook. 

Smart kitchen faucets are slightly more advanced than touchless sinks. Instead of manually adjusting temperature, smart faucets can be programmed before use. Many smart faucets are also voice-activated. For homeowners looking to save money, smart sinks can also monitor the amount of water used regularly. 

Gooseneck spouts are also known as pull-down faucets. These are easy to use and designed to clean the basin thoroughly. Because the spout can be aimed in any direction, it is adept at dislodging grime and grease from all sink areas. A gooseneck spout can be used in multiple kinds of sinks but usually works best with deep basins. 

Bathroom Upgrades

bathroomBathroom remodeling can make a huge difference in comfort and space. By redesigning the bathroom faucets and showers, bathrooms can dramatically boost property values. 

Copper bathroom sinks are a popular trend this year. These are typically handcrafted and promote a sense of well-being and calm. Copper is also easy to clean and can stand the test of time. Most trained technicians can directly install these basins.

LED showers are increasingly popular. This involves using a showerhead that is directly installed into the ceiling. Colored lighting is controlled with a remote or a smartphone depending on the brand. In addition to the new light source, LED showers can come with separate water pressure options.

A free-standing bathtub can provide extra depth for household members who prefer baths. Free-standing tubs do not necessarily require extra space. Vertical tubs that focus on depth instead of width can be installed in apartments. Free-standing tubs are usually easier to clean and come in various materials. Less expensive tubs are typically made from acrylic and fiberglass.

Bathrooms with minimal space can benefit from corner tubs. Corner tubs are triangular and tend to be made from durable materials like cast iron. Depending on the brand, many corner tubs feature extra perks such as air jets and whirlpool features. This is ideal for those who primarily use baths to relax. 

Taller toilets are beneficial for older household members with limited mobility. Installing a specialty toilet typically takes the same time as installing a standard fixture. While a standard toilet is usually 15 inches tall, a specialty toilet can be up to four inches higher. 

Hiring a licensed and insured plumber is always recommended when installing plumbing fixtures. Plumbing mistakes are easy to make, and fixtures may malfunction without the proper equipment. 

About Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning

Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning has over 30 years of plumbing and installation experience. Their plumbers are fast, friendly, and always on time, offering upfront pricing before starting any work in the home. To learn more about their financing options and plumbing service in Danbury, CT calls Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning today. 

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This Winter, Find a More Efficient Way to Heat Your Home

Heat Pumps Make Home Heating Easier

A heat pump is not the same as a furnace. Although furnaces and air conditioners are the most common choices for homeowners to keep their homes comfortable, heat pumps can be less expensive and much more environmentally friendly. As more people become aware of heat pumps, they are converting to them to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint.

Heat pumps are popular systems in areas where the winters are mild. They work similarly to air conditioners by drawing heat from one location and transferring it to another. Heat pumps are also more energy efficient than gas or electric furnaces.

How Does a Heat Pump Work?heat pump

A heat pump is an all-in-one replacement for existing HVAC systems that heats, cools, dehumidifies, and purifies the air.

A heat pump controls the climate by redistributing the heat already in the air. It extracts heat from the outside environment and moves it inside during the winter. During the summer, the process is reversed. What’s the result? The home feels wonderful all year. It’s a simple concept that results in comfortable, energy-efficient climate control. 

Heat pumps may not have received much attention over the years, but that doesn’t mean they are novel. A traditional air conditioner is a heat pump - both systems work by extracting heat energy from the home and transferring it to another location.

The main difference is that the heat pump can also transfer heat into a home, allowing it to replace both heating and cooling systems - and do both jobs much more efficiently than traditional HVAC systems.

The Advantages of Ductless Heating

Ductless heating systems have been around for a long time. They’ve grown in popularity with new home construction and add-on rooms, and more and more homeowners are opting for systems that use forced air but don’t require a network of ventilation ducts. Some benefits of ductless heating include:

  • Heating and cooling: Because ductless systems are a type of heat pump, they have the same major advantage as all heat pumps: the ability to function as both air conditioners and heaters. Going ductless does not affect this.
  • Better air quality: Because of the dust, dirt, and other contaminants that collect inside the ventilation system, forced-air heaters that use ducts cause a reduction in indoor air quality. Ductless systems, on the other hand, are not affected by dirty ductwork. Homeowners will have cleaner air, which is especially beneficial if they have allergy sufferers in their homes.
  • Zone control heating: By using individual blowers throughout a home, homeowners can control the temperature in separate rooms. Instead of heating the entire house every time the heater is turned on, as with a central heating system, a ductless system allows homeowners to choose which rooms to heat.

Energy Savings Equal Money Savings!

saveHeat pumps can save money because they don’t require much energy to run, but how much depends on the type of heating system currently in place.

A heat pump will help save money if the homeowner is switching from an electrical system, such as baseboard heating or space heaters. Heat pumps use significantly less electricity than other heating and cooling systems, making them far more cost-effective and resulting in lower electricity bills.

About Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has a sense of urgency to quickly and accurately handle plumbing and HVAC repairs and installations. Working with them means that the plumbing or HVAC issue is solved fast and done right. Call Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for HVAC services in Danbury, CT.

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