Arnie's Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

Home Plumbing Tricks

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 00:05:45 GMT

Home Plumbing Tricks

We’re in business for one reason – to help you with any and all plumbing needs. But we know your money and time are hard-earned, and if we can help you avoid an unnecessary visit, we want to do that. There are a few preventative measures you can take so that you can save your call for the big problems.

As a general rule, seeing water anywhere water isn’t supposed to be is never a good thing. Don’t shrug it off – take a second look. Around the base of a toilet, under a sink, spots in a first-floor ceiling under the bathroom…all could be indicators of a leak easily fixed if it’s caught early enough.

If you never heard it from your parents, you likely heard it from a landlord – please don’t pour grease down the drain! It may take a little more time and effort to get that bacon fat into the garbage, but it’s more than worth it to keep your pipes clean and clear. It doesn’t take much to build up and cause some big problems.

Ever wonder why those pipes under the sink are curved? They keep sewer gas from leaking into your home, while still allowing water to pass and drain. Most people store cleaning supplies and other household items under sinks, but that can turn into a headache. Over time, those pipes can get knocked loose, allowing gases and water to leak slowly into your home. It’s a good idea to find some closet or pantry space to store those supplies.

Finally, never attempt a big and/or complicated plumbing job yourself. There are projects that are better left to the professionals, and we would love to help you. Not sure if you need us? Give us a call! We’d love to discuss your plumbing questions!

Attic Insulation

springfieldmarketingco@gmail.com (Springfield Marketing Services) — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 12:28:16 GMT

SIMPLE CHANGES TO YOUR ATTIC CAN SAVE YOU MONEY EVERY MONTH

Your attic is not simply a place to store seasonal items, heating and cooling equipment, or other materials. It’s actually designed to provide your home protection against extreme heat, cold and moisture. However, to do this properly without big problems, your attic should be properly ventilated and insulated. If done correctly, your attic could actually save you money every month by conserving warmth in the winter to heat your home, and block out extreme heat in the summer so your cooling system(s) don’t have to work as hard. Efficient attic insulation relies on the following three areas:

Attic Insulation: If you want warm or cold air generated by your heating and cooling system to stay in your home, instead of dispersing into your attic, proper attic insulation is a necessity.

Attic Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation using such things as attic fans could prevent expensive damage to your home.

Radiant Barrier: A spray that can prevent 80% of the sun’s radiant heat from entering your attic in the summer, as well as up to 80% of the warmth generated by your heating system from escaping your home through the attic in the winter.

Arnie's was very professional, knowledgeable and eased our mind with new attic insulation. Can't thank them enough.

- John Williams

Shower fixture maintenance

springfieldmarketingco@gmail.com (Springfield Marketing Services) — Mon, 08 Apr 2019 13:14:59 GMT

Keep your home in top shape with regular maintenance and professional care. A small leak can grow into a major problem if you don't take care of it quickly.

New HVAC Equipment

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 13:14:59 GMT

NEW HVAC EQUIPMENT WILL SAVE YOU MONEY

If you’re considering the investment of a new furnace installation, boiler or heat pump replacement to reduce your energy usage, or if your system is inoperable, the experts at Arnies can help you determine the most efficient and effective HVAC solution for your home in Springfield, MO and the surrounding areas. Our Comfort Consultants are true experts in the industry and will answer any questions you may have.

Our consultants will listen to your comfort needs, examine your home’s floor plan, and much more. Our new heating system recommendations are tailored to every customer since every home is different. We will provide you with various options for your new furnace, boiler or new heat pump, and inform you on the differences and benefits to each.

Since up to 50% of your home’s energy costs may go towards the heating and HVAC system in your home, we may recommend high-efficiency equipment, programmable thermostats, or zoning control. Not only are many of these systems applicable for tax credits and utility rebates, but they will also save you every month on energy bills. A high efficiency system can pay for itself in utility savings over the life of the equipment.

In addition, if you have air quality or moisture control issues, or if anyone in your family has allergies, respiratory issues, or dry scalp and skin, we may recommend such things as humidifiers, air filters, and more. These items don’t cost much, but they provide substantial benefits for particular situations and families.

A new heat pump, boiler or furnace replacement can provide the comfortable environment and energy savings you’ve been searching for. Call 417-865-8847 today or request an appointment online. We offer FREE estimates on a new heating system and will schedule your appointment promptly!

Home Plumbing Tricks

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 16:19:00 GMT

Plumbing Efficiency

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 16:16:00 GMT

Plumbing isn’t all wrenches and burst pipes. Just like any other industry, efficiency is king, and there are some up-and-coming ways to improve on your existing plumbing or make some advanced choices for new plumbing or improve on existing plumbing . According to the EPA, the average American family uses 400 gallons of water a day. That’s a bit staggering, but there are some things homeowners can do to conserve water and energy.

Showerheads

Showerheads have taken on a reputation of their own as tools of efficiency. With standard showerheads using 2.5 gallons per minute, it’s a good idea to install an efficient one that not only uses less water, it’s much more aesthetically pleasing, and often includes advanced options like heat retention and updated spray patterns that create a luxurious shower sensation.

Tankless Water Heaters

Hot water sitting in the tank loses heat, and that can easily make up 20 to 60 percent of your annual water-heating costs, and hot water energy use amounts to about 15 percent of a home’s total energy use – but a tankless water heater can cut way down on those losses. They cost about the same as a high efficiency tank style water heater, and can be a great investment to help lower your costs over the years.

Toilets

Did you know that older toilets can use up to seven gallons of water per flush?! That seemed ridiculous to the EPA too, and now regulations are in place that allow only 1.6 GPF on new toilets, and some manufacturers are going even lower, with models that use only 1.28 GPF. This is good news for homeowners, as a simple, lower-cost way to invest in water conservation.

Whatever method you choose, saving water and energy is a noble goal. Start small if you need to, but every step makes a difference, and Arnie’s can help you every step of the way.

Summer is here! Read our quick “check list” to keep your AC running smoothly

Fri, 15 Jun 2018 15:26:00 GMT

Southwest Missouri summers are known for their heat and humidity, and we’re approaching the dog days. There’s only one worse feeling than realizing your central air system isn’t working, and that’s getting the utility bill when it hasn’t been working efficiently. If you haven’t had a chance to check out your central air conditioning unit yet, there’s still time! Here are a few things you can focus in on yourself to reduce the chances that you’ll have to sweat it out unexpectedly.

Please always remember to make sure your AC unit is turned off before performing any maintenance checks!

Check Your Filters

Clogged or dirty filters can drive up your utility bills, force your unit to work harder (which adds to wear and tear), and exacerbate allergies. Filter replacement schedules vary over units, but most professionals recommend replacing them about every month during heavy use.

Clean Your Coils

If the coils of your air conditioner are dirty, they can’t absorb heat as well. You can easily clean your coils with a garden hose; just make sure you don’t get any of the electrical connections wet. Take a look at the fins while you’re doing this, too; if you notice any bent ones, you may want to straighten them using a fin comb.

Check Your Wiring

Might be a good idea to take a look at the wiring in the condensing unit, too. Make sure the power’s off, then look around for any signs of corrosion or burnout. It’s always a good idea to get in touch with a professional, like Arnie’s, to repair electrical wires and connections.

Check Your Insulation

Anything you can do to help your air conditioner cooling power is a good idea. The insulation on the coolant pipes of your unit can get torn or broken down by the elements, and it’s easy to replace them.

These are just a few DIY checks you can easily perform on your own. But if those checks turn up something that’s a little more intensive, you know just who to call! Arnie’s Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency service and free estimates if anything goes wrong. We’ve got you covered!

Leave the sand OUTSIDE this summer – Summer Plumbing Tips!

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 23:11:00 GMT

Ahhhhh, summer. Days on end of sun, time by the pool, fresh green grass, gardens, and vacations. Plumbing problems are probably not first and foremost in your mind, but a little bit of forethought can help prevent some unexpected and unwanted pauses in the summer fun.

There are likely more people in your house over the summer months; kids are out of school and friends are coming to visit. It’s always a good idea to make sure your septic system is working well, from the toilets to the tank, and friendly reminders about keeping toilet paper usage to a minimum never hurt. Experts also recommend having your septic tank checked every 3 years.

Did you know sand can wreak havoc on drains and pipes? If you’re just coming back from the lake with a bag full of sandy clothes, make sure you rinse them outdoors before tossing them in the washer (same goes for sandy people).

And as long as we’re talking about checking underground, trees pose a greater problem during the summer as roots go deeper seeking water. Be on the lookout for signs of pipe blockage and slow drainage, and be prepared to call a professional at the first sign of trouble.

Your pool is the place to be during the summer. The average American in-ground pool contains about 20,000 gallons of water and given that volume, leaks in the plumbing and circuitry can and do occur. Make sure you’re keeping an eye on the water levels and signs of water leakage, and call a professional if you find something you can’t troubleshoot yourself.

We hope you have a summer to remember, with no major plumbing issues to report. But if the worst happens, just remember Arnie’s has a 24/7 emergency line and we’re there whenever you need us!

Replacing a Toilet Ring, Part 2

Fri, 16 Mar 2018 01:44:00 GMT

Once the toilet bowl and tank are set to the side, grab your putty knife and settle in for some hard work!

Use the putty knife to remove as much of the old toilet ring as you possibly can from the bottom of the toilet and the pipe that goes into the floor.

The pipe going into the floor is called a toilet flange and it should be completely dry and clean before you move on to the next step. It’s important to note: if the flange appears damaged, you’ll need to call in a specialist from Arnie’s Plumbing to assess the condition before proceeding. Overlooking a damaged flange can lead to serious issues for the homeowner.

When you’ve made sure the the flange is clean and dry, take a look at the wax ring packaging to see if it’s a self-adhering ring or what the instructions say. Wax rings will differ slightly in design, but most can be attached to the bottom of the toilet or the top of the flange. Giving you the ability to choose what they’re most comfortable with.

When the wax ring is centered, CAREFULLY lower the toilet back onto the flange. You’ll need to make sure the bolt holes are lined up with the holes in the flange during this step.

Once it’s lined up and centered, take a seat! Your body weight will press down on the wax ring and push the toilet back into it’s place. You’ll need to sit and shift several times in order for the toilet base to end up flush with the floor.

If the toilet is flush with the floor and in place, all you’ll need to do now is replace the bolts and covers, reconnect the water supply to the tank, and open the supply line valve. Once you’ve given the toilet a few test flushes to make sure there aren’t any leaks, you’re officially done!

Make sure you call in the professionals at Arnie’s if at any point you have questions or end up with damage or leaks.

Replacing a Toilet Wax Ring: Part One

Fri, 02 Mar 2018 20:31:00 GMT

Over time, these sticky rings can go bad and need to be replaced. Most will last up to thirty years, but sometimes the rings can fail by drying out or crumbling. When this happens, water will leak out the bottom of the toilet or the toilet will feel a bit wobbly.

Replacement of the wax ring is super simple and cheap. The rings can be found at hardware stores and you’ll just need basic tools: paper towels or towels, a putty knife, a bucket, and an adjustable wrench.

To start the replacement, disconnect the water supply line that comes in through the wall. Then flush the toilet to let out as much water as possible. You’ll either have to suction out the remaining water with a wet/dry vac or remove the water with towels so the bowl is completely dry.

Now take an adjustable wrench and and remove the bolts and washers at the base of the toilet. Then gently rock and twist the toilet to help loosen it. Next, get a tight grip at the center of the toilet so the weight is distributed evenly, pull the toilet up, and set it to the side.

Semi-Annual Maintenance and Safety Practices for Your Home HVAC Unit

Tue, 20 Feb 2018 20:15:00 GMT

When it comes to your HVAC unit, there are a few things you can do to make sure your home stays as safe as possible.

Clean your air filters: If your air filters are clogged, you’re at risk for carbon monoxide fumes to leak into your home. Filters should be checked, cleaned, and replaced at LEAST every 3 months.

Have carbon monoxide and smoke detectors installed (and maintained): The batteries in the detectors should be checked monthly and changed once a year, as well as tested when they are changed. Almost all home appliances can cause electrical fires, and your heating and air systems are no exception. Carbon monoxide gas is extremely dangerous and can be fatal when inhaled.

Schedule bi-annual maintenance with Arnie’s: Having your system serviced is an important part in increasing the longevity and efficiency of your furnace. It is industry standard to have your system checked twice a year in order to sustain optimal performance and detect any potential threats.

For a professional, timely inspection of your furnace, boiler, or heating and air conditioning system, contact us today @ 417-865-8847. We take our work seriously and are committed to excellence. You can trust us to give you prompt and courteous service with thorough and clean work.

Your Plumbing Summer Workout

Wed, 05 Jul 2017 11:24:00 GMT

As a homeowner, you should prepare for potential plumbing issues. To prepare adequately for the possible occurrence of plumbing problems, it is important to remember that plumbing issues go beyond clogged toilets and leaking pipes. In summer, a time when you may take time off to go to the beach, you will not be around to detect plumbing issues and call for the necessary professional help. This may result in you needing extensive extensive water damage repair to your home and belongings if something arises while you are out of town.

Tips to Avoid Summer Plumbing Problems

Several summer plumbing tips can help you keep your home in quality condition. Let’s take a look at what can help you this time of year…

Water Heater

During summer, you can adjust the thermostat of your water heater so that you can save money related to energy costs. This will also go a long way in reducing the wear and tear on the piece of equipment. Such wear and tear can result in leaks, a serious plumbing issue in any home.

Washing Machine

Sprinklers

Working sprinklers play an important role in keeping your lawn beautiful and functional. This is why you should check the sprinkler heads for any debris and blockages. You should also ensure that the sprinkler heads are not up whenever you mow the lawn. This will help you to avoid damages that would result in the lawn flooding and affecting the foundations of the different structures in your home.

Disposal During and After Summer BBQs

It is likely that you will want to entertain your guests with get-togethers and cookouts. Whenever you are doing this, you should ensure that everyone in the home is familiar with the different garbage disposal procedures. When you let them know the items that should not be put down the disposal, you will avoid blockages in various parts of the plumbing system.

Outside Flooding

To eliminate the possibility of the lawn flooding, you should have several downspouts on the lawn. These pipes should be clear and have the ability to drain the water as far away from the house as possible. They should also be pointed away from the foundation of your home so that the accumulated water does not weaken your foundation.

Drains and Sewers

With the various plumbing issues you may experience during summer, it is important to have your drains and sewers professionally inspected. Any defects that are identified during inspection should be addressed in a timely manner. Problems such as clogs and cracks will cause serious problems if they are left unattended and get out of control.

Toilets

Need A Springfield, MO Residential Plumber?

Regular inspection and maintenance of your plumbing system will keep your home safe and save you the costly damages that plumbing problems will cause. In summer, you should ensure that plumbing systems both inside and outside the house are working effectively.

Preventative HVAC Maintenance in Heating Season

Tue, 25 Oct 2016 18:54:00 GMT

Your cooling system is probably the LAST thing you’re thinking about with the pending winter, but winter is a great time to upgrade, repair, or reset your system! A cooling adjustment during heating season offers two large advantages to customers: our Arnie’s certified HVAC technicians have more availability in the off-season and a tune-up during fall/winter will help you avoid a costly summertime emergency!

Summer Energy Efficiency Tips, Part 4 of 4

Tue, 19 Jul 2016 15:40:00 GMT

We’re continuing our series of energy efficiency tips for summer with tips on appliances and lighting, as well as some information about keeping hot air from leaking into your home.

Remember that almost 20% of energy consumed in your home is attributed to water heating. Keep the temperature of your water heater at 120 degrees, or the warm setting.