Homeowners across Dalton rely on their HVAC systems to keep their indoors cool during the summers and toasty warm when the winter strikes. As the HVAC unit runs all year round, regular system maintenance is vital. Unfortunately, many homeowners overlook the need for regular system maintenance because of their busy schedules or because they think that it’s not needed as the HVAC unit is working efficiently.

Is this approach right? No, because if the system is not serviced regularly, problems may arise eventually and to fix them you may have to schedule heating and AC repair in Dalton, GA.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the HVAC problems that trigger the urgent need for heating and air conditioning repair in Dalton, GA

•  Inconsistent Air Flow

Inconsistent or poor air flow through your HVAC unit is a sign that your system needs to be serviced and requires repairs. Poor air flow is easy to identify if the system is not producing sufficient cool or warm air.

It is important to schedule for heating and AC repair in Dalton, GA because poor air flow can occur due to several reasons such as:

• Low Freon
• Failed compressor
• Ductwork issues
• Clogged or blocked air ducts due to debris accumulation inside the vents

•  Problem with the Thermostat

A malfunctioning thermostat can also lower the performance of your HVAC unit and require the need for heating and AC repair in Dalton, GA. Sometimes, resetting the thermostat may resolve the problem but if the malfunctioning of the thermostat is associated with issues like poor placement, miscalibration or connection loss, then you will have to call a professional to fix the problem.

Miscalibration—This is a common HVAC thermostat issue that requires repair work. Miscalibration occurs when the thermostat of the HVAC unit starts to misread the temperature of the home, and as a result, creates an uncomfortable environment inside the home. If this is the problem, the technician will check the thermostat to detect the underlying with issue and even replace the old thermostat with a new digitally programmable unit.

Poor Placement of the Thermostat—If the thermostat is not installed properly and in the right position, it may fail to record the temperatures accurately. For example, if the thermostat is placed far away from the center of your home, it will never be able to pick and reflect the right temperatures. Likewise, if placed near drafts or in direct sunlight, the thermostat of your HVAC unit will show temperatures higher than the actual.  Poor placement of the thermostat will lower the performance of the HVAC system.

Connection Loss—Problems with the thermostat can also occur due to the connection loss. The old models are wired with the HVAC unit that controls the fans and the compressor. Connection loss may fail to turn on or off the system.

•  Sky-Rocketing Energy Bills

You may require heating and air conditioning repair in Dalton, GA if your energy bills have spiked all of a sudden. Sky-rocketing energy bills indicate that there might be cracks, drain tube leaks or refrigerant leaks in your HVAC system, because of which your HVAC system is working harder to maintain the ideal indoor temperature. An HVAC technician can come over to your place for inspection and determine the exact cause.

•  Dirty Filters

If the HVAC system releases dust when you switch it on, then it means that the filters are in need for repair. The HVAC unit uses its filters to keep harmful dust and debris out of the system. The filters collect the dust particles and pollutants to ensure the system runs efficiently. However, if the system is not serviced regularly, dust and debris may buildup, making the air difficult through the filters. So, schedule heating and AC repair in Dalton, GA and get your HVAC system checked right away.

•  Pungent Smell or Bad Odor

Unpleasant smells or bad odor coming out of your HVAC means trouble and makes it absolutely necessary to schedule for heating and air conditioning repair in Dalton, GA. Bad musty odor is indicative of mold or mildew growth that can cause serious health problems such as allergic reactions, and respiratory disorders. So, it’s extremely important to get rid of it.

Similarly, strong chemical smell is indicative of fluid or gas leak which is also dangerous. It can also mean that the wire insulation of your system has burned out. No matter what the reason may be, it should be fixed immediately.

•  Strange Sounds

Strange sounds like grinding or squealing noises indicate that there is a problem with your HVAC unit and that it needs repair. Squealing noise usually means that the belt inside the system needs lubrication. On the other hand, the grinding sound is indicative of some underlying problem with the bearings. It is important to get your HVAC unit checked and repaired right away if you hear such sounds because over time these small problems can become serious issues, and lower the performance of your HVAC system greatly.

Call Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air, and Schedule for Heating and Air Conditioning Repair in Dalton, GA

If any of the problems discussed in above sound familiar, then call Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air today and schedule for heating and AC repair in Dalton, GA. Their experienced technicians can visit your home and inspect your HVAC unit to determine the exact cause and problem with your unit, and repair it quickly.

Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air has been serving homeowners in Dalton and other areas like Cleveland and Chattanooga for more than 2 decades. Their strong commitment towards customers and exceptional services has earned them a stellar market reputation. Try their services today.

Summers are simply brutal in Chattanooga, TN.  Therefore, all residents of Chattanooga want to make sure that their air conditioners are functioning at optimal levels so that they can beat the heat and stay cool & comfortable throughout the summer season. Where many homeowners focus on AC repairs and maintenance, some decide to replace old air conditioning systems with the new ones.

Replacing your current units with more efficient and new air conditioning systems is definitely a good idea if they have aged or require frequent repairs. Once you buy a new AC, it is important that you hire a professional and an experienced company for air conditioner installation in Chattanooga, TN.

Proper air conditioner installation in Chattanooga, TN is not just important but crucial to ensure that the new AC unit works efficiently and seamlessly for years. Remember that compromising on the installation in the quest of saving a few dollars can cost you big in the long run. And that is not an overstatement. Continue reading to learn why proper air conditioner installation in Chattanooga, TN matters…

•  Improved Energy Efficiency

Did you know that new air conditioning systems are deployed with advanced technologies for improved energy efficiency? And these new models can trim down utility bills up to 30 percent?

However, to enjoy this great benefit proper, air conditioner installation in Chattanooga, TN is a must. According to a recent research study by the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology), faulty installations lead to efficiency losses and consideration energy waste. And more energy consumption means high energy bills and adding to your cost. So, to enjoy big cost savings and improved energy efficiency, make sure that your AC unit is installed properly.

•  Extends Equipment Life

Proper air conditioner installation also helps increase equipment life. Here’s how, an experienced professional can install your new AC unit according to your space requirements and manufacturer’s specifications. This ensures that the unit runs reliably and efficiently with less wear and tear. And you know what that means? Fewer breakdowns and extended equipment life.

Faulty air conditioner installation in Chattanooga, TN can lead to more frequent wear and tear of different parts and components of your air conditioning unit because they are not installed the way they should have been. Frequent wear and tear of important parts like the condenser, compressor, and fan motors require costly repairs and also, reduce the life of the air conditioner.

•  Ensures Comfort

When purchasing a new air conditioning system, all buyers perceive it as a long term investment in comfort. However, a faulty air conditioner installation in Chattanooga, TN can take that away as it can lead to several problems like humidity issues, temperature variance problems and carbon monoxide leaks. Due to these problems, your system may never be able to work at its optimal level and keep your surroundings cool and comfortable, the way you want and expect it to.

To avoid all these problems, it is important to ensure that the settings of the unit including duct work, ventilation and drainage, all are done correctly. This ensures that the air conditioning system works flawlessly and helps you create a cool and comfortable indoor environment quickly. Therefore, you shouldn’t compromise on the installation service of your air conditioner.

•  Enjoy Proper Airflow without Noisy Sounds

To ensure proper airflow through the equipment and in your home, without any rattling sounds, proper air conditioner installation in Chattanooga, TN is important. Faulty installations can reduce the airflow and even lead to early air conditioning system failure.

Problems with airflow occur when the ducts are not installed correctly which leads to leaky ducts. When the ducts leak, it substantially increases indoor humidity level which thereby lowers human comfort. Leaky ducts also sap about 40 percent of the energy from the AC, making them run longer than they should which further adds to your energy bill.

Besides this, problems with the ductwork can also identified by noisy sounds that you may start to hear when the system starts and runs. Continuous rattling sounds can be irritating and frustrating. So, avoid all this by making sure that your air conditioning unit is installed correctly.

•  Avoid Frequent Air Conditioner Repair

Poor AC installation can cost you big as you may have to call a professional every now and then to repair problems like duct and refrigerant leakage, fan motor failure, condenser problems and etc. Instead of saving money by replacing your old unit with a new AC, you may have to spend more money on repairs of different components if the unit is not installed correctly.

Therefore, the best way to avoid frequent air conditioner repair in Chattanooga, TN is to get it installed by an experienced professional.

Call Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air, and Schedule Air Conditioner Installation in Chattanooga, TN

For air conditioner installation in Chattanooga, TN call Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air. Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air is an experienced and a well-reputed plumbing company, providing a wide range of HVAC specialized services under one roof. The company specializes in air conditioner installation, repairs, and maintenance. They have been serving homeowners in Chattanooga, Cleveland and Dalton for more than 2 decades.

Their success can be gauged by an ever-increasing customer base that has several satisfied customers as well as referrals. They have a team of friendly, skilled and experienced professionals who are trained to install air conditioning unit according to the manufacturer’s specifications and requirements. The company offers excellent services backed by award winning customer support, and 24x7x365 emergency assistance.

Rest assured, your peace of mind and comfort are guaranteed! So, contact Metro Plumbing, Heating and AC today to schedule for AC installation service in Chattanooga, TN.

The drainage system of your home requires the same level of attention, care and maintenance as other areas of your home, like the roofing system or HVAC units. Unfortunately, the maintenance of the drainage system is most often neglected or overlooked until the kitchen or the bathroom drain gets clogged. It becomes difficult for the water to pass through when the drains are clogged, and if not addressed timely, it can lead to serious problems like burst pipes.

Therefore, it is important to keep your drains well-maintained by getting them cleaned regularly. Schedule for a drain cleaning service in Chattanooga, TN with a professional and experienced plumbing company like Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air!

Let’s take a closer look at why do drains get clogged and why is it important to consider a drain cleaning service in Chattanooga, TN

Common Causes of Clogged Drains

The drain system of a home often gets clogged because of the following:

Cause #1— Food Debris

Many homeowners use garbage disposals to shred food waste, and then wash it down the kitchen drain. They think that the pipes will not get blocked and remain clean as long as they don’t directly drain greasy food, which is not true. Greasy and fatty food particles tend to line the drainage system pipes slowly and gradually.

With time, the greasy layers begin to thicken as more food particles get trapped—reducing the diameter of the pipes. When the pipes become narrower, the kitchen sink’s ability to drain decreases and is compromised. This clogs the drains and it becomes extremely important to call a plumbing service in Chattanooga to check and clean the drainage system.

Cause #2— Roots

One of the most common causes of blocked drains is the roots of plants and trees. The roots simply love sewer lines as they are full of nutrient rich wastewater. If the drains are not well-maintained, roots of the plants and trees can penetrate into the pipes and grow there. You may not realize it until the drain system of your home is blocked, completely.

In such as situation it is advisable to hire a professional drain cleaning service in Chattanooga, TN as they have the equipment and tools to destroy roots of the plants and trees clogging your drainage system.

Cause #3— Hairballs

Hair can also clog the drains. As the hair passes through the bathroom drain, it begins to collect inside it. As the hair is not water tight, the water will tend to pass through even when the hair is present inside the drain. However, the movement of the water may slow down with time as the hair begins to accumulate and eventually, a time will come when the flow of water through the drain becomes practically impossible. And this is when you might want to consider a drain cleaning service in Chattanooga, TN.

Besides these causes, other reasons why you should call a plumbing service in Chattanooga, TN for drain cleaning are that clogged drains can:

•  Damage Your Pipes

Greasy food particles and hair clogging your drain can damage your pipes badly as the clogged drains can drop the balanced pressure levels. This then forms cracks in the drain pipes and they burst eventually. All this can be extremely costly to repair and stressful.

Besides this, clogged drains can wreak havoc as the contaminated water seeps through the cracked pipes into your house. Therefore, it is advisable to get your drains checked regularly, so that such issues are dealt with in a timely manner.

•  Pose Serious Health Risks

Blocked drainage pipes can also pose serious health risks. It can expose the plumbing system to bacteria and germs. Also, blocked drains are breeding grounds for water borne diseases which can cause health related problems to those living inside the home.

To lower this risk and keep your family healthy and safe, consider drain cleaning service in Chattanooga, TN. Proper maintenance of the home’s drainage system is the best way to ensure that your home is germ-free and the healthy water reaches to you through the pipes without fail.

•  Contribute to Environmental Damage

Many homeowners don’t know and realize this that dirt and debris that goes into the drain pipes flows into the main sewer lines. It accumulates here and then eventually drains into the river or sea. This debris and dirt endangers the sea habitats and causes serious environmental damage. However, if regular drainage system cleaning is undertaken by homeowners, it can significantly lower environmental damage.

Call Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air to Schedule for Drain Cleaning Service in Chattanooga, TN

As it is said, prevention is better. Thus, to avoid drains from clogging, it is best to keep your pipes well-maintained by getting them checked regularly by a professional plumbing company in Chattanooga, TN. These professionals have advanced technologies and wealth of experience that allows them to easily identify, locate and diagnose drainage system problems. This helps ensures that your drainage system is kept clean.

Besides this, by having your drains including bathroom, and kitchen drains cleaned on a regular basis, you can also spare yourself from costly damages like pipe burst and cracks. And catch clogs early, preventing them from causing serious back-ups and damaging your plumbing system.

So, get in touch with Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air and get your drainage system checked today. The company has been serving homeowners in Chattanooga since 1978, providing them with the best plumbing services and solutions at cost effective prices. They also offer 24/7 emergency services for situations like pipe bursts.

A garbage disposal is a great addition to the kitchen as it provides unmatched convenience to homeowners. When working at its optimal level, it becomes super easy to cook food and clean up the mess by tossing the waste like peels and scraps into the garbage disposal. However, with time, the performance of your garbage disposal may lower, and this is when you should call a plumbing service in Cleveland, GA to get your unit inspected and repaired.

Here are more signs that indicate the urgency to hire a plumbing company in Cleveland, GA to repair your garbage disposal:

Sign#1—It Makes Strange Noises or a lot of Noise

You may have to call a plumber in Cleveland, GA if your garbage disposal begins to make loud and strange noises, when it is being used. Repairs are also needed when the garbage disposal starts to make rattling and grinding sounds. These sounds occur because the metal object like a spoon that you might have accidentally dropped inside the garbage disposal unit obstructs the unit to function properly.

Other reasons for such sounds can be loosened or damaged components. The underlying reason of the noisy unit can only be determined by a professional and experienced plumbing company in Cleveland, GA.

Sign#2—Leaky Garbage Disposal

If you see water leaking out of your garbage disposal, then this indicates an urgent need for repair. Sometimes replacing a seal resolves the problem but in most cases, leaks indicate serious problems and therefore, it is advisable to get your unit checked by the experts. Water leakage may occur at the rings which are normally installed at the sink flange (the drain hole).

Upon inspection, the plumber in Cleveland, GA will determine whether it is a quick or a serious repairing job, such as does it require tightening or does the putty need to be applied again and correctly.

Water leaks can also occur if there is a hole in the garbage disposal. This happens when the wall of the unit tears and wears down or an object gets stuck inside it. Other reasons can be loosening of the dishwater connection or a damaged gasket.

Sign#3—Clogging

Tossing potato peels, starchy food items, banana peels, fibrous foods and even coffee grounds can clog and block your garbage disposal unit. And as a result, it stops to function at its optimal level and even shuts down, automatically.

In such a situation, it makes sense to call a plumbing service in Cleveland, GA and get the unit inspected. A plumber can easily fix your unit and unclog it right away.

Sign#4—Garbage Disposal Unit Gets Jammed

Another sign that may trigger the need for repair is when your garbage disposal unit gets jammed. This happens when something comes in the way and blocks the unit’s flywheel.  The blockage is mostly because wrong food items are pushed down and through the garbage disposal which get stuck inside the machinery.

When the unit gets jammed, it starts to make a humming sound. To fix this issue, you will have to schedule for a plumbing service in Cleveland, GA. A plumber will visit your home and determine the main reason why your unit is jammed and fix it accordingly.

Sign#5—Your Disposal Unit Smells Awful

Most homeowners use chemical agents and hot water to beat the bad odor when their garbage disposals begin to smell awful. If your unit also smells bad and you’ve tried using chemical agents to get rid of the stinky odor and have had no success, then you might have to call a plumber in Cleveland, GA for the job.

The bad smell from your garbage disposal basically means that your unit is not properly chopping the food and that there are some drainage issues with it. Other reasons for this can be that the blades or components of the garbage unit have worn out.

Calling a professional plumbing company to inspect your garbage disposal is important as only a professional can pinpoint the real cause of the bad odor. If the problem is due to worn out components or drainage problems, the plumber can repair or replace the components, and fix the drainage problems immediately. Getting your garbage disposal unit checked for repair immediately is important to avoid bigger and serious problems.

Sign#6—To Use the Garbage Disposal You Have to Press the Reset Button Frequently

You may have to schedule a plumbing service in Cleveland, GA if you have to press the reset button of your garbage disposal unit every time you have to use it. The need to press the button frequently every time you want to dispose the garbage indicates that there is a problem with your unit. Getting it checked timely will help you understand the real cause of the problem.

Usually, this happens when the wiring is insufficient or the garbage disposal is starting to age. The plumber can inspect your unit and determine whether it needs a repair or you may have to replace it completely.

Call Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air, and Schedule a Plumbing Service in Cleveland, GA

Whether your garbage disposal has stopped working, making humming or strange grinding sounds, get in touch with Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air to get your unit inspected for repairs. Remember that timely repairs can spare you from costly garbage disposal replacements.

Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air is an experienced and a well-reputed plumbing company serving homeowners in Cleveland, GA for more than two decades. They offer a wide range of plumbing services including garbage disposal repairs, that too, at competitive prices.

Though April is filled with several memorable events, one of the most important (yet least heralded) is coming up soon. Earth Day is April 22 – and Metro wants to make sure that our Chattanooga neighbors are ready and motivated to take part! The annual celebration, marking the anniversary of the environmental movement in 1970, has become an international event. Coordinated celebrations take place all over the world, with more than a billion people actively participating. Metro wants to help our neighbors live more efficiently while simultaneously helping the environment. We’ve compiled some tips from various Earth Day initiatives for making homes more eco-friendly. Celebrate Earth Day everyday by implementing these simple suggestions:

Outside:

Create an Herb Garden

Start an herb garden in your backyard and enjoy fresh, natural herbs while cutting out the waste of product packaging.

Start Composting

Starting a compost area in your back yard will help reduce the use of your compactor, reduce the amount of trash your home produces and will help to inexpensively fertilize that new herb garden.

Benefits of Composting

Outside Fire Alternatives

That wood you burn in the fire pit or chimenea can release harmful toxic carbon monoxide into the atmosphere. Consider burning alternative products made from soy, coffee beans and recycled sawdust (wood pellets).

Hang Dry Your Laundry

The spring and summer are the ideal seasons for drying your clothes outside. Hang drying clothing helps to reduce carbon emissions and will keep darks from fading. Modern collapsible clothes racks are less conspicuous than clothes lines – and can be folded and put away after use.

Native Plants

Consider planting flora that is native to your area. This will protect the local environment and ensure a healthy yard. Local Tennessee plants include: Blazing Star flowers, Tickseed flowers, Jacob’s Ladder flowers, Red Maple trees, Yellowwood trees, Buttonbush shrubs and many more.

Inside:

Recycle/Reuse/Repurpose

Be mindful of the products that are thrown away on a daily basis on your home. Try to wash and reuse glass jars and plastic bottles. Bags – both paper and plastic can be used to line garbage cans. carboard boxes and other receptacles can be reused to carry or store items.

Buy Bamboo Products

Bamboo is the fastest growing plant on Earth. The products made from it are durable and age better than wood. Help to save our forests and put your money behind bamboo dishes, furniture and other home essentials.

Low Flow Fixtures

Replace the water fixtures in your kitchen and bathroom with modern low-flow fixtures. EPA WaterSense-approved fixtures use less water, but perform just as well as similar (less efficient) designs on the market.

LED Bulbs

Replace the incandescent bulbs in your home with LEDs. LED lightbulbs are 85% more efficient than incandescents and can last for up to 9 years. The huge savings in electricity and longevity more than make up for their higher retail price.

Benefits and Drawbacks of LEDs

Install Energy Efficient Windows

If your windows are 20 years or older, consider replacing them with energy efficient models. New windows will help maximize your heating and cooling system – while saving energy and lowering utility bills.

Clean Green

Stop using toxic cleaners to clean countertops, sinks and the bathroom. Make your own powerful cleaner with natural ingredients that you already have in your home. Baking soda and vinegar is an effective cleaning alternative – and has been a household staple for decades.

Non-Toxic Home Cleaning

Market Totes

Keep your market tote bags (the ones you never use) by the front door so that they aren’t forgotten on the next trip to the store. Always make an effort to use your own bags to cut down on the consumption of paper and plastic.

Keep your home environmentally safe and running efficiently all year with these Earth Day tips – and the professionals at Metro. Remember that an eco-friendly home also encompasses plumbing and HVAC systems that are running efficiently. Metro can help you with all of your essential home maintenance needs – including indoor air quality solutions. Call us at 423-616-1025 or 706-516-1980 to schedule a maintenance appointment or an IAQ assessment.

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Early Spring IAQ in Your Chattanooga Home

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Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is the service company you want!  Call us today at (423) 616-1025!

The post An Eco-Friendly Home appeared first on Metro Sewer & Plumbing.

It’s spring again in Chattanooga, which means warmer temperatures, vibrant, blooming flora – and a wide variety of allergens. Chattanooga was rated the third worst city in America for allergy sufferers last year. It is “worse than average” for both pollen levels and the amount of people on allergy medication. If you are an allergy sufferer in the area, you are probably already aware of this fact. It isn’t something that you can easily overlook.

While the home service experts at Metro can’t help you with your allergies outside of the home, we can definitely give you some tips for dealing with them indoors. We have been assisting our Chattanooga neighbors with allergy triggers for years. Our indoor air quality solutions and practical tips for combatting allergies in the home can help drastically minimize the symptoms. Last month we went over strategies for creating a better IAQ after the long winter. This month we specifically target indoor allergens; which can be even more extreme if your household is not prepared.

We’ve complied a short list of indoor spring allergy tips for you to consider:

• Annual HVAC Maintenance: It’s spring – the recommended time for an annual HVAC tune-up. A clean HVAC system can help combat the amount of allergens that are cycled into your home. Havin the unit thoroughly cleaned and inspected will help ensure that it cycles out the indoor air effectively. Also, changing out the air filter (making sure that it’s MERV-rated from 8-13) will help to catch pollen and mold spores. During allergy season, try to change out the filter once a month.

MERV Ratings: What Do They Mean?

• “Unwelcome” Mats: Consider buying new door mats for the season to show those tracked in allergens that they are “unwelcome.” Door mats have proven beneficial for reducing the amount of pollutants that shoes can into the house. Keep a mat at both the front and back doors and remind everyone to use them regularly. You might also go the extra mile and, during peak allergy season, ask that everyone remove their shoes before entering the house.

• Clean After Outside Activity: If you have been outside for a prolonged period of time, such as a walk in the park or working in the garden, taking a shower once you return home is good practice. In addition to hair and skin, allergens can infiltrate your clothing, so make sure that change clothes as well. Contain your dirty clothing in a hamper or plastic bag until they can be properly washed.

• Fresh Air: During peak allergy seasons, opening a window is not recommended. But proper air circulation is key in fighting indoor allergies. If your home doesn’t have central air and an open window is the best way to circulate the air – use this “window:” The allergen levels outside are highest in the morning and in the evening. Try opening the windows in the late morning and early afternoon for about a half an hour or so.

• Run the A/C – If you have central air, try to keep the windows closed during peak allergy seasons. This might be difficult on particularly beautiful spring days, but will help greatly in keeping the indoor allergens at bay.  Run the air conditioning or fan cycle if it begins to get a bit warm inside the house. The new filter with that high MERV rating will help contain whatever allergens have found their way into the house.

• Vacuum Regularly: If your allergies are severe, consider vacuuming regularly. Many allergens thrive indoors where they can accumulate and develop concentrated levels well beyond anything found outside. Vacuuming your home on a regular basis with a HEPA filter will help keep the contaminants from overpowering your home. If you have pets or wall-to-wall carpeting (or both), try to vacuum daily during the peak season.

HEPA Vacuum Cleaner Buying Guide

• Buy a Pollen Mask: Do you do a lot of yard work in the spring? If you have tasks that keep you outside for long periods of time, stock up on some pollen masks. Before you leave the house, check the pollen forecast for the day. If a high alert has been issued in Chattanooga (which is often), wear the mask while outside.

• Schedule an IAQ Assessment: If someone in your household suffers from extreme allergies, consider scheduling an indoor air quality (IAQ) assessment from Metro. One of our professional technicians will perform a detailed inspection of your air quality and review the results with you. They can help create a proactive solution that will best suit the needs of your home.

Dealing with outdoor allergies in Chattanooga is difficult enough without having to deal with them in your home as well. Being proactive about your indoor air during allergy season will help minimize those allergy triggers. Above all, keep your home clean and be mindful of outdoor activity and what you could be bringing inside the house. If these DIY solutions are not enough to reduce your symptoms, remember that the Metro experts can help with additional IAQ solutions. Call us at 423-616-1025 or 706-516-1980 to schedule an assessment today!

Related Blogs:

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Looking to remove indoor allergens from your Chattanooga home? Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is the service company you want!  Call us today at (423) 616-1025!

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One of the recurring plumbing problems that our plumbers experience in Chattanooga homes is a clogged drain. While this won’t come as much of a surprise, the fact that most of them are preventable is worth discussing. A clogged drain can be a huge inconvenience; it can upset daily schedules and prevent essential cleaning and hygiene care. For most homeowners, the first, best solution is to purchase a product filled with harmful chemicals to remove the clog. Most of these brands are not only harmful to the environment, but they are highly abrasive and can hurt your plumbing.

The more stubborn clogs need the assistance of a professional plumber, which is great for our business – but not so much for the homeowner. Metro believes in educating our neighbors on sensible plumbing maintenance, so that when you do need us for a job, it’s a problem that was unavoidable. Most issues are the result of homeowners putting things down the drain that simply shouldn’t be there – in addition to the hair and soap residue commonly cycled through baths and showers. We have compiled a short guide of helpful actions to help keep your plumbing clog-free.

Mesh Drain Screens

One of the easiest, most effective ways to keep drains free from clogs is to install mesh drain screens throughout the home. Drain screens are ideal for catching hair, soap scum, food and debris that can compromise your plumbing. They are also very inexpensive and easy to install.

Weekly Maintenance

Once a week clean the drains in your home by removing any excess debris from around the pop-up stoppers, drain covers and sink strainers. This is especially important for the drains in your bathroom, which can be compromised by the combination of hair and soap buildup.

Preventative Cleaners

Once a month it’s good practice to clean the drains with a homemade, nontoxic formula. This preventative method will help keep grease, hair and debris buildup to a minimum. One of the simplest recipes for a non-invasive cleaner is to combine one cup of baking soda and one cup of cider vinegar. This recipe also works for clogged drains, but is ideal as a preventative cleaner for every drain in the house.

Wash Pets Outside

When the weather permits, always try to wash your pets outside. Pet hair in the bathtub and shower can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. If you have to bathe them inside, make sure that the drain is covered with a cloth when draining. Fine pet hair can get through mesh screens and can end up clogging your plumbing. Consider investing in a wash tub or pet bath to ensure your drains are completely free from hair.

Mindful Brushing

If you have a healthy head of hair (and a family with equally impressive locks), making a habit out of brushing your hair before a bath or shower is a good idea. Brushing your hair will get rid of lots of follicles that were loose and would otherwise float down the drain. Mesh screens are good at catching (human) hair, but they don’t catch everything. Consider making this a ritual before every bath or shower.

Throw Trash in the Garbage

Make sure that everyone in the family understands that a sink is not a trash can – and neither is the garbage disposal. The bathroom sinks are for washing and grooming only, while the kitchen sink disposal is only for minor dish and cookware detritus. Metro has blogged about garbage disposal tips before; read our previous blog for more information.

In addition to investing in some mesh drain screens, keeping a sturdy plunger around is always a good call. Catching slow drainage with a plunger before it can back up entirely is another good way to keep clogs at bay. Remember that the professionals at Metro can assist you with every plumbing problem in your home. If you ever do experience a clogged drain that you can’t fix yourself, our experts have the skills and experience to help. Call us at 423-616-1025 or 706-516-1980 today to schedule an appointment.

Related Blogs:

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Have a clog that requires the assistance of a professional? Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is the service company you want!  Call us today at (423) 616-1025!

The post A Guide to Clog-Free Drains appeared first on Metro Sewer & Plumbing.

Tips for Deep Cleaning Your Bathroom

Your bathroom has probably received a lot of attention these past few months with holidays and events being so close together. From Thanksgiving to Christmas and Hanukah all the way to New Year’s and the Super Bowl, your friends and family have become closely acquainted with your home’s bathroom. More holidays are on their way for the Summer and family vacations are right around the corner. Give your bathroom some love with a few of these deep cleaning tips.

Shower

If you had multiple guests use your shower, chances are it’s not looking the best. In order to get an effective clean, you’ll need to start from the top and work to the bottom. Pour some white vinegar into a plastic zip lock or grocery bag (enough to submerge the showerhead nozzle) and tie it over the nozzle overnight to soak.

While the showerhead is soaking, grab your plastic shower curtains and liners and throw them through the wash with a few towels and your regular detergent (the towels will act as scrubbers to help get rid of soap scum and mildew).

If you have fiberglass showers and glass doors, be careful with how you clean these surfaces. You will need to clean them with a nonabrasive cleaner (all-purpose bathroom cleaner, pine oil or baking soda). Do not use abrasive cleaners and avoid scrubbing pads because they can scratch or dull the finish.

Fill your tub with hot water to warm the tub and drain it before spraying a bathroom cleaner and cleaning the tub. This doubles the effectiveness of alkaline cleansers. Use abrasive scrubbing pads to remove bathtub rings and deposits on shower floors.

Scrub tile grout with tile brushes dipped in bleach. Grout is susceptible to bacterial growth. To help prevent moisture and grime from infiltrating grout, seal it every six months.

Toilet

Pour a cup of baking soda into the bowl and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it. If there are still spots, you can find a pumice stone to scrub the rest of the spots off.

Spray a vinegar and water solution on the base of the toilet as well as the outer bowl, tank, toilet seat and lid before wiping it down with a cleaning cloth.

For an added measure, you can clean your toilet cleaning wand by soaking it in a bleach/water solution.

Sink and Faucet

To help clear out the drain, pour white vinegar or baking soda down the drain and flush with hot water. The best way to clean your faucet is to use disposable disinfecting wipes. Cloths can move the bacteria around rather than disposing of it.

Use your vinegar and water solution to spray down the sink and wipe clean with a cleaning cloth. For hardened deposits, you can use abrasive or soft-scrub cleaners along with cleaners formulated with bleach. This will help remove toothpaste spots and sanitize at the same time. Don’t forget to clean your mirror! You can use a typical class cleaning spray and wipe down with a paper towel or microfiber cloth (or a newspaper). Using a wash rag will create smudges and streaks.

Floor

Your bathroom floor should be the last thing you clean. Mop with a cleaning solution that has bleach in it to help sanitize your floors. If your bathroom floor has tile on it, scrub out the grout with a small brush and bleach. If you don’t want to use bleach, mix a solution of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. As you mop, start at the furthest end of your bathroom and work your way towards the door. This will make sure you are not having to walk over the spots you just cleaned and ruin the great job you did of mopping. Once you are done, let the floor dry and give yourself a pat on the back!

If you come across any plumbing issues during your deep cleaning, give us a call at 423-616-1025. Our Clean Guarantee ensures that our plumbers work with cleanliness or you will receive a $50 Cleaner Gift Card!

Check out these other tips for a bathroom deep cleanse:

28 Ways To Make Your Bathroom Cleaner Than It’s Ever Been

16 Ways To Deep Clean Your Bathroom (And Keep It Clean!)

Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is the service company you want!  Call us today at (423) 616-1025!

The post Tips for Deep Cleaning Your Bathroom appeared first on Metro Sewer & Plumbing.

If you’re looking for a home maintenance project over the long Spring Break, flushing out your tank water heater is a simple and effective way to ensure peak performance. If you own an insulated tank water heater (like the majority of homes), minerals from the water, in addition to sand and debris from the water line, will eventually start to settle at the bottom. This sediment build-up happens over time and can affect the water quality and performance of the unit. Sediment can also clog up the drain and complicate annual maintenance – which essential for an extended life.

A typical gas or water heater should be flushed every couple of years, depending on the mineral content in your water. If your source is a well or your city water supply contains a high percentage of sediment, you should flush out your tank every year. A typical water flush shouldn’t take more than a couple of hours to complete. If you’ve never attempted it before, give yourself a longer window to make sure that each step is performed correctly. Some water in tank heaters can remain scalding hot for several hours after the unit has been turned off, so either turn it off the night before – or wait a few hours before maintenance. Always read the manufacturer’s directions before attempting any DIY work on your water heater as some might have different design components.

Supplies:

Gloves

Hose

Bucket (Optional)

• Turn off the Water Supply

The first step is turning off the water supply to the tank. The cold water supply valve is located at the top of the unit. Simply turn it clockwise to shut it off. Wearing work gloves to protect your hands is recommended.

• Turn off the Water Heater

If you own a gas unit, set the thermostat to the “pilot” setting. An electric water heater must be turned off at the breaker box.

• Attach a Hose

Toward the bottom of the tank you will find the drain valve. Some units may have a cover to protect the valve, so a bit of searching might be involved. Once you locate the valve (which is similar to a water fixture outside your home) attachment a common garden hose. Place the other end of the hose near a drain or a driveway; somewhere the hot water can flow safely. Some people use a bucket to catch the water if there isn’t a convenient place for the water to drain. Make sure to take extra precautions if using a bucket.

• Open a Nearby Tap

To alleviate pressure and to ensure that the water drains quickly, find the nearest sink and turn on the hot water tap.

• Open the Drain Valve

After you have alleviated pressure in the system, open the drain valve. Now the water should flow freely from the tank – unless there is sediment blockage. If the water doesn’t flow at a good pace, the drain valve might be clogged. If you have any issues with the drainage you should call a plumbing professional to assess the problem. Once all the water has been drained, add some more water by turning on the cold water supply. This will help stir up the remaining sediment at the bottom. Watch the water coming from the hose and make sure that it runs clear. If there appears to be more sediment, turn on the cold water again. Repeat this step until the water coming from the hose is clear.

• Refill the Tank

After the water has been drained successfully, close the valve and remove the hose. Turn on the cold water supply and begin to fill up the tank. Check the hot water tap that was opened and, when it starts to run cold water, turn it off. Make sure that the drain valve is shut off and not leaking any water.

• Return Power

Once the tank is filled, switch the gas valve from the pilot position back to “on” – or restore the power back to the electric unit.

Remember that if you ever have a problem with your tank or tankless water heater, our licensed, experienced staff can help! We can also flush the tank for you if you’d like a professional to oversee the job. Call us at 423-616-1025 or 706-516-1980 to schedule an appointment today!

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Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is the service company you want!  Call us today at (423) 616-1025!

The post Flushing Out Your Water Heater appeared first on Metro Sewer & Plumbing.

The history of plumbing is a long and complicated one. Industrious minds created the first true advances centuries ago beginning with clay sewage pipes. The trajectory of the growth and domination of the industry encompasses the entire globe, with innovation coming from the Egyptians, Romans, French and many other societies around the world. Plumbing has provided the world with easy access to one of our most precious resources: water. It has kept civilizations from deadly epidemics, furthered international industry and ensured the propagation of society as we know it.

Today, as we celebrate World Plumbing Day, Metro looks back at some of the major milestones in the history of plumbing.

4000 – 3000 B.C.

The first known water pipes, made of clay, were discovered in the Indus River (in India) by archeologists. The remnants date back from 4000 – 3000 B.C.

2500 B.C.

Sophisticated plumbing systems were developed by the Egyptians for the pyramids. Copper pipes were used for intricate irrigation and sewage system for the dead to use in the afterlife.

1500 – 1000 B.C.

Industrious minds in Crete invent complex underground sewage and drainage systems.

500 B.C. – 455 A.D.

The Roman Empire was responsible for some of the most complex plumbing systems up to that time. They created bronze and lead piping that fed aqueducts, public baths and underground sewers.

What Toilets and Sewers Tell Us About Roman Sanitation

1644 A.D.

The first cast-iron plumbing line was created at the behest of King Louis XIV. The plumbing delivered water over 155 miles for disbursement to the palace fountains.

1775 A.D.

Scottish inventor Alexander Cummings developed the prototype for the modern toilet. One important advancement made by his design was the inclusion of the S trap – which keeps a small amount of water in the bowl. This kept the smell of sewage down to a minimum – and allowed for easier cleaning.

1833  

Plumbing is introduced to the White House on the first floor.

1885  

The first city in the country to install an extensive sewer system was Chicago.

A Partial History of the Bathroom

1890

Massachusetts builds the world’s first drinking water treatment systems.

1904

The elevated water tank becomes the most popular design for closed toilets. This is still the most common toilet found in homes today.

1966

A copper shortage leads to the manufacturing of plastic and non-metallic plumbing.

1978

To conserve water, California enacts a law that prohibits the use of toilets that use more than 3.5 gallons per flush (gpf).

1986

Japan introduces the first sensor-flushing toilets. This technology is later utilized for other service fixtures.

1992

The Environmental Policy Act of ’92 was passed by Congress to help conserve water. The policy mandated a maximum amount of water consumption for fixtures.

2006

The EPA creates the WaterSense program providing performance standards for fixtures that conserve water.

About WaterSense

Metro is proud of our plumbing professionals and celebrate their work today – and every day. Since 1989 we have been committed to providing the most efficient and experienced plumbing techs in Chattanooga. If you ever need plumbing repair or service, call us at 423-616-1025 or 706-516-1980 and we’ll schedule an appointment today!

Related Blogs:

Importance of Annual Plumbing Maintenance

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Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is the service company you want!  Call us today at (423) 616-1025!

Photo Source

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