Posts

Why Are Plumbing Vents Necessary for Your Home?

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  When most people think about plumbing, they often focus on the visible parts like pipes, faucets, and drains. However, there’s an unsung hero in your plumbing system that you probably don’t think about much— plumbing vents . These crucial components play an essential role in maintaining your home’s plumbing health, preventing common issues like slow drains, foul odors, and backed-up pipes. In this blog post, we’ll dive into why plumbing vents are so important, how they function, and the potential issues that arise when they don’t work as they should. Whether you’re dealing with a clogged vent or tackling a home renovation, understanding plumbing vents can help you avoid costly repairs and headaches down the road. What Are Plumbing Vents? Plumbing vents (often called vent stacks ) are pipes that extend upward from your home’s drainage system, typically reaching your roof. Their primary job is to regulate air pressure within your plumbing system and vent sewer gases outside of yo...

Why Did My Water Pump Stop Working? Common Issues and Solutions

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  A reliable water pump is essential to your home’s plumbing system, especially if you rely on a well or tank to supply water. When your pump suddenly stops working, it can disrupt your daily routine and leave you scrambling for answers. But don’t panic—most water pump issues can be resolved with the right knowledge and professional help. In this blog, we’ll cover the most common reasons your water pump may stop working, along with tips on how to troubleshoot and fix the issue. If you need professional assistance, Gleason Plumbing is here to help with all your water pump and treatment needs. 1. Power Problems The first thing to check when your water pump stops working is whether it has power. Water pumps require electricity to operate, so if there’s a power issue, the pump won’t work. Possible Causes: Tripped circuit breaker Blown fuse Power outage Loose or damaged wires What to Do: Head to your electrical panel and check for any tripped breakers or blown fuses. If th...

Can Plumbing Solder Be Used for Electronics?

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  Soldering is a crucial technique in both plumbing and electronics, but the type of solder you use matters—especially when working on delicate electronic components. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can substitute plumbing solder for electronic projects, the short answer is: no . While both types of solder perform a similar function, they are designed for very different applications, and using the wrong one can lead to major issues, including potential damage to your electronic components. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between plumbing and electronics solder, why they aren’t interchangeable, and what type of solder you should use for your next electronics project. What is Solder? Solder is a metal alloy that melts and is used to bond two materials together. While it’s used in both plumbing and electronics, the properties of the solder vary greatly between these two fields: Plumbing Solder : Used to connect metal pipes and fittings, forming a leak-proof se...

How To Program Honeywell Thermostat

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Did you know that properly programming your thermostat can save you up to 10% annually on heating and cooling costs? That’s hundreds of dollars in savings just by adjusting your settings! If you own a Honeywell thermostat, or recently had one installed, learning how to program it can significantly improve your home's comfort and energy efficiency. Whether you're braving the scorching summer heat or enduring a cold winter, understanding your thermostat’s settings can help you maintain the perfect temperature in your home without wasting energy. In this blog, we'll break down the simple steps for programming your Honeywell thermostat, regardless of the model you own. Why Proper Thermostat Programming is Important Before we dive into the “how-to,” let’s quickly explore why programming your Honeywell thermostat is worth the effort: Save Money : Proper programming helps reduce unnecessary energy consumption, which means lower utility bills. Boost Comfort : Customize y...

How to Fix a Blank Honeywell Thermostat

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  It can be unsettling to walk over to your Honeywell thermostat and find that the screen is blank. After all, the thermostat is your home's control center for heating and cooling. Without it working properly, your home could become too hot or too cold, which is never fun. But don’t panic just yet! A blank thermostat doesn’t always signal a serious issue. In this blog, we’ll walk you through several troubleshooting steps to help fix a blank Honeywell thermostat, and even explain how to reset it if needed. 1. Check the Batteries One of the most common reasons for a blank Honeywell thermostat is dead or low batteries. Many Honeywell models are battery-powered, and if the batteries die, the screen will go dark. How to Check and Replace the Batteries: Remove the Thermostat from the Wall : Gently detach it from its mounting plate. Depending on your model, you may need to lift it off. Locate the Battery Compartment : Look on the back of the thermostat for the battery compartment. ...

What Is Freon and Why Is It Crucial for Your HVAC System?

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  If you’ve ever had an air conditioning or refrigeration system, you’ve likely heard the term "Freon" tossed around. But what exactly is Freon, and why is it so important for maintaining your home’s comfort? In this post, we’ll explore what Freon is, how it works, and why it plays a vital role in your HVAC system’s efficiency and longevity. What Is Freon? Freon is a trademarked name for a group of refrigerants, mainly composed of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) . These compounds are commonly used as refrigerants in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. For years, the most commonly used form of Freon in residential HVAC systems was R-22 . Known for its reliable cooling power, R-22 was a go-to choice for many years. Freon works by circulating through your HVAC system, absorbing heat from indoor air and releasing it outside. This process, called heat exchange , is what cools your home and keeps indoor temperatures comfortable—especially o...

When Is AC Repair Considered an Emergency?

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  Air conditioning is more than just a luxury; it’s a necessity, especially during the scorching summer months. But what happens when your AC suddenly decides to stop working? While some issues can wait for a routine repair, others require immediate attention. Knowing when to call for emergency AC repair can save you from uncomfortable temperatures and prevent further damage to your system. Let’s dive into the common signs that indicate your AC repair needs are urgent. What Qualifies as an AC Emergency? Not all AC problems are created equal. Some issues can wait for a scheduled appointment, while others need immediate action. Here are the top signs that you should call for emergency AC repair services : 1. Complete AC Failure in Extreme Heat If your air conditioner completely breaks down during a heatwave, it can put you and your family at serious risk, especially for children, the elderly, and pets. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to dangerous conditions like heat exha...