Plumber, Heating Repair HVAC Specialist

Warming Up For Winter!

Steven Cox — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:13:00 GMT

Winter is upon us! Tis’ the season for Christmas caroling, gift giving, and enjoying the cool weather indoors....wait, that last part isn’t right!During the holidays, our homes are meant to be warm and inviting, yet some of us feel like we’re stuck in the North Pole with our teeth chattering, walking around the house in our heaviest coat. Maybe your house is old, or it could be that your heat never really worked from the time that slick realtor handed you the keys to this “once in a lifetime opportunity!”. Either way, if you are consistently turning your thermostat up, it’s time to update that furnace!

There are those of us who are naturally warm people and being in a chilly environment isn’t a problem. Of course, there are others of the more unfortunate sort who fall into that dreaded category of the “always cold” folks. We are the people who walk into the grocery store, vigorously rub our arms, turn to whoever we’re with and whisper, “It’s freezing in here!”. We are the ones who turn up the heat in the car when everyone else is rolling down the windows. Are you one of these people? Whether you prefer a normal temperature, or a toasty one, when you come home you like to know that the heat you feel is safe and cost effective. No matter what, no one wants their hard-earned money going to waste. So what is the solution? As we head into the coldest season, let us give you a tip about your gas furnace.

Many homes are heated by a standard efficiency gas furnace, but the fact is that they aren’t doing their part to put money back in your pocket. For those of us who like to save a buck (and that’s pretty much everyone), switching to a high efficiency heating system could be exactly what we’re looking for. Not only do these furnaces help save money every month, but they’re safer for the home. Since standard efficiency pipes are made of metal, they become extremely hot to the touch and can be dangerous. In contrast, high efficiency pipes are made of plastic, effectively keeping heat trapped inside. Financially, the higher efficiency gas furnace will make a difference because of a few tweaks in the design. The exhaust fans control the air flow, allowing the distribution of the air to be more precise. They are also equipped with two heat exchangers which condense gases, and smaller flue pipes, all of which help reduce the amount of energy needed to keep your home comfortable. The quality of your furnace may not be something you give much thought, until you notice that it’s on the blink! When you suddenly feel as though you’ve the become the resident of an igloo, you can be sure a furnace will make its way to the top of your Christmas list!

Fortunately, here at F.H. Furr, we understand the “always cold” people, and we want to do our best to make your home a comfortable one. In fact, we’ll come out and give you a free home comfort system analysis. We’ll make sure your questions are answered and let you know about the best options for your home.

So if you’re beginning to feel that first chill and you’re not ready for a cold winter, give F.H. Furr a call and let us warm you up this season!

Thankful For Turkey Grease?

Steven Cox — Wed, 21 Nov 2012 12:02:00 GMT

Here at F.H. Furr, we understand the importance and value of being with family.We know that the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday is one of the best opportunities to share in that special time. We also know that every family member who walks through your door on Thanksgiving day only has one thing on their mind—the feast that they know awaits them! Let’s not kid ourselves, we’ve all been thinking about the food for weeks! We’re anticipating it from the moment we wake up and watch the Charlie Brown balloon make its way down 42nd street in the Macy’s parade, right up to the time when we actually sit down at the table to eat. We’ve had visions of mashed potatoes, mom’s famous macaroni and of course, that beautiful bird!

In the spirit of Turkey Day, we are often given helpful tips on how to survive the holiday; tips like cooking the perfect turkey, arranging our seasonal home decor, and the “how to’s” of putting up with your mother-in-law for the entire weekend of Thanksgiving! So with all these tidbits of information, why is it that someone forgot to mention the disaster that awaits when turkey grease hits the pipes of our garbage disposal? Sure, you’re thinking maybe this particular tip doesn’t really hold the same appeal, or seem quite as important as making yourself look like the family’s Martha Stewart, but trust us when we say...it is.

Watch this short video on the DANGERS of TURKEY GREASE!!!

The rush to get all of the food ready before the guests arrive can be stressful, and the last thing on your mind as you’re leaning over the sink, pealing dozens of potatoes, is what those skins will become as they go down the drain. What was once a harmless starch is transformed into a gummy, sticky substance that clings to the pipes and blades of the disposal. And although everyone raves over that particular macaroni recipe, somehow there are always leftovers for days afterward, which are placed in tupperware and destined for the garbage disposal. This starch will wreak the same havoc as the potatoes, and let’s not forget about the turkey grease. Maybe the worst of them all is the left over grease we pour down our disposals, not realizing the effect it’s having on our system. We often hear how hard greasy foods are on our bodies, and the reality is that they work the same way when it they’re poured down the drain. The grease, which separates from water, can coat the pipes and clog them, making it impossible to function in the kitchen. Not only is this issue frustrating, but it can be much deeper than what we see on the surface. The substances creating the backup can continue down the drain, causing larger problems like blockage of the sewer lines. Let’s be honest, that’s a problem we’d all prefer to avoid. Thanksgiving is just the start of the holiday season, and we all know that finances will be tight. None of us wants to spend that Christmas money we’ve stowed away from our tax refund on new drain pipes!

So as much as we hope you’ve taken the proper precautions when it comes to the maintenance of your garbage disposal, we realize that there will be those who have heard the news too late.

For these individuals who will find themselves victims of this terrible holiday disaster, take a moment to pause and remember that this problem doesn’t need to get worse, F.H. Furr and our plumbing services are a only a call away. Now that’s something to be thankful for!

The Grinch Might Not Be The Only One Stealing Christmas!

Steven Cox — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 11:20:00 GMT

Christmas is nearly here, and although some folks have had their Christmas shopping completed since last month, the majority of us are just getting started! We have Christmas lists written in red and green crayon hanging on our refrigerators, waiting for “Santa” to check them off. Well I’m sure we can all agree that Santa’s budget is a bit tight this year. We all have our stash, that money we’ve set aside specifically for Christmas, and we’ve been saving it for months. We’ve sworn oaths not to touch it until the gift purchasing begins! But what if that money, which we’ve protected with our very lives, suddenly disappeared? What if it vanished—stolen by a mysterious thief? “Who would do such a thing?” you may ask, “Who would steal the money for my kid’s gifts? Who would steal Christmas!?” This thief is of the worst variety, trusted and unsuspected. It seems perfectly harmless until it comes from the shadows and sucks your pocketbook dry! It is none other than your HVAC system! Yes, that heat pump or furnace that has been humming in your basement for years could be your worst Christmas nightmare!

We often neglect maintenance on our heating systems, using the old phrase, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. But this line of thinking could end up costing us in the long-run. All throughout the year, your heating system is collecting dirt and dust, which causes it to run less efficiently. Without regular tune-ups, you can be sure that your furnace or heat pump will break down long before it should. Not only can it be costly to replace a heating system, but it can also come at the most inconvenient times, forcing you to dip into funds you’d prefer to leave untouched.

Here at F.H. Furr, we understand the importance of taking care of your heating system. We know that by scheduling regular maintenance and tune-ups, you can extend the life of your equipment, save money on your utility bills and improve the overall efficiency of your unit. Properly cleaning the equipment creates better indoor air quality, and by checking the system you can be assured that there are no carbon monoxide leaks, which could be extremely harmful to your family.

Christmas is a time for celebrating, being together and giving, that’s why F.H. Furr is giving you our 21 point Heating Tune-Up, (Valued at $115.00) for only $66 bucks! Who doesn’t like a little extra Christmas money in their pocket? By scheduling a Precision Heating Tune-Up, you can be sure that the only person you need to worry about stealing your Christmas is the Grinch! Don’t let your HVAC system ruin the holiday, let F.H. Furr protect you from Christmas theft!

Your Nine Most Important Steps  For Heating Assurance This Winter

Steven Cox — Sat, 03 Nov 2012 13:07:00 GMT

Cold weather is not far off—is your heating system ready? Now is the time to check it out. If you don’t, you may find yourself without heat on a cold night. Here are nine steps to take in advance of heating season.

Test your heating system
Give your heating a trial run beforehand and check to see if you can feel warm air coming from the vents. If you’ve turned the thermostat up and warm air is not apparent, call an HVAC professional for a system evaluation or repair. Whether warm or cold air…if there is a gas smell, shut it down and call an HVAC professional or the gas company as soon as possible. If there is a burning smell, it is probably just the dust and debris in the furnace burning off.
Check gas or oil connections
Faulty gas or oil connections are a fire hazard and can contribute to health problems. Check gas pressure, burner combustion and the heat exchanger. A dirty burner or cracked heat exchanger causes improper burner operation and dangerous carbon monoxide emissions. You may need an HVAC professional to make these checks.
Check all electrical connections and lube moving parts
Loose or corroded electrical connections can cause unsafe operation of your system and reduce the life of major components. Measure voltage and current on motors. Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors and increases the amount of electricity you use.
Clear heat pump obstructionsUnrestricted air flow is critical to efficient heat pump operation all year long. Avoid stacking anything against the heat pump or draping anything over it. In the least, hose the outside unit down to clear it of dirt, leaves and grass clippings. If you’re uncomfortable removing the housing for a good cleaning of the coil, call in an HVAC professional.
Make sure you're sealed up tight
Do an self inspection of your home to check for air leaks that will decrease your comfort and system efficiency. Hold a candle flame near windows, doors and light fixtures. Smoke moving in a horizontal direction indicates heat loss. Correct it by adding some caulking, weatherstripping or appropriate insulation. Be sure theflue is closed on unused fireplaces; install glass doors to minimize heat loss. Turn off bathroom and kitchen ventilation fans when they aren’t needed. Close drapes when it’s dark outside to reduce heat loss, especially if you have older windows. Open drapes to let in radiant heat during the daytime.
Adjust and clean air registers, replace filters
Check air vents for obstructions; close
registers located on high ceilings and open floor level registers wider to save both energy and money. Make sure filters are clean and clear to prevent restricted air flow that can cause damage to your furnace, making it work harder and use more fuel.
Replace carbon monoxide detectors
Although toxic carbon monoxide is an unavoidable byproduct of most furnaces, undetected leaks can be health-threatening. Making sure you have precautions in place will prevent you or your family from becoming sick. You may need to call an HVAC professional to carry out this step.
Test and lower your thermostat
If it has batteries, make sure they’re fresh. Turning the setting down just a few degrees can shave 5–10 percent off your heating bill. Also make sure that the differential setting is right for the heating season. The differential controls how many degrees of difference there will be between the temperature you set and the actually temperature in the home. Too wide and too narrow both have drawbacks on efficiency and maintenance.
Consider a programmable thermostat
They cost a little more than basic ones, but they usually pay your back over the course of a year in energy savings. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the differential and time of day settings, economizing when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping.

Need professional help?

You may decide you lack the ability or time to perform these tasks. If so, a good move is to learn more about the seasonal services available at nominal cost. Seasonal maintenance is an inexpensive investment that makes your equipment last longer and saves energy. It can reduce your annual HVAC costs by 5%-10%, fulfill your warranty obligations and prolong the life of your equipment.

5 Signs Your Garbage Disposal is On the Fritz

Steven Cox — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 17:35:00 GMT

Here at F.H. Furr we have a high opinion of the good people of the metro D.C. area, so we’re going to assume you know that if you put chicken bones down your garbage disposer, it’s not going to work – at least, not for long. If you’ve been following our plumbing advice, your garbage disposer should be working just fine.

Unfortunately, there is this little thing called the “aging process,” and much like it wreaks havoc on our own bodies, it also does a number on our homes. Your garbage disposer is not immune to its effects. If you’re wondering if it’s time to replace your disposer, read on for five helpful hints.

Food in your dishwasher. If your spouse swears s/he rinsed the dishes before putting them in but you’re still winding up with a dishwasher full of food, it may be your garbage disposer to blame. The two are connected, so when the garbage disposer is backed up or broken, the dishwasher takes the brunt.
Clank, rattle and roll. If you hear clanking or rattling, it means that something is down the disposer that shouldn’t be, and the disposer doesn’t like that. Or it can mean that one of the little metal pieces has worked itself loose and is rattling around in there. Either way, you need help. If you hear a buzzing or whirring noise, the foreign object has blocked the disposer from spinning. The good news? Your motor still works.
Funny smells. If there’s a permanent icky smell coming from your sink, that’s a good sign your garbage disposer isn’t working as it should. If food particles are stuck in the mechanism, or it’s not appropriately chopping and discarding your leftovers, food can build up in the nooks and crannies, causing a big stink.
Leaks. There are several common areas around a garbage disposer that can leak. One is at the sink flange. This can be a sign of a loose disposer, and you’ll need to tighten the screws. The other common area for leaks is at the discharge pipe. Often this is simply because of loose gaskets at the pipe, but if they are already tight or tightening them doesn’t work it may be time to call a professional.
Nothing happens. This is the big kahuna of drain pipe deaths – if you flip the switch and nothing happens, not even that half-hearted buzzing noise, it’s time to call in the big guns.

It’s possible you may just need to press the re-set button on your disposer, but more often than not it means your disposer has gone to the happy disposer farm in the sky. Cry a little, mourn, and give F.H. Furr a call.

Signs Your Water Heater is On the Fritz

Steven Cox — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 17:11:00 GMT

Oh, we’ve heard it all before: “But I didn’t even know anything was wrong,” you stutter, blue-lipped and shivering, having been unceremoniously forced out of your shower by a sudden and disturbing temperature drop in the water.

But Fairfax plumbers know better. Much like any other appliance, your water heater gives off subtle warning signs. And just like other appliances, you either may not notice them, or you may dismiss them as typical wear-and-tear. To avoid another unexpected Arctic shower, pay close attention if you notice any of these warning signs.

Water temperature problems. If your routine and family dynamics have stayed the same but the hot water just doesn’t stretch as far, it may be a warning sign of trouble to come. Don’t jump to conclusions just yet, though. Someone may have adjusted the thermostat on the heater, or all those houseguests you had may have sapped the hot water.
Rusty or dirty water. Much like Kryptonite is what always does in Superman, rust is the killer of all traditional water heaters. Minerals commonly found in the water supply in Virginia attack the steel of the tank and promote corrosion. That’s right – by virtue of living in this great state, your water heater is already doomed from the get-go. If your water is anything less than pristine, it’s time to call F.H. Furr.
Snap, crackle and pop. If your water heater is doing a very good impersonation of a popular breakfast cereal, it may be time to call in the pros. These noises are the result of years of water being heated and cooled. As water heats, it expands and hits minerals that have precipitated out over the years, causing a gravel-like sound. Strange noises are the long, slow death of a water heater, so if you begin hearing something funny, the time to act is now.
Water that smells funny. If your water smells metallic, sulphurous, or just strange in general, it may indicate that minerals have built up in the tank to an unhealthy level.
Leaks around your water heater. This is never, ever, ever normal. If you notice a puddle around your heater, immediately pick up the phone and give us a call. The corrosion inside your tank has now eaten its way through the steel, and you are very close to having a big problem. Hint: be prepared to write a check for a new water heater. You’re going to need it.

If you have any of these issues, it's just amatter of time before you are going to need a good, affordable Fairfax plumber. Especially one that can get out there the same day, so give F.H. Furr a call at 1-877-225-5387.

What Everyone Needs to Know About Rootering a Main Drain

Steven Cox — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 17:05:00 GMT

You don’t have to be a plumber in Alexandria, Va., to keep your pipes flowing smoothly. If you’re a die-hard DIYer, here’s what you need to know about rootering a main drain. First, make sure the problem truly is the main pipe. Clogs typically occur in smaller pipes close to the drain because of the simple fact that they’re narrower and more easily blocked. Before you undertake the task of rootering a main pipe, make sure the blockage isn’t easier to remove than you think. Try plunging, snaking and some good old-fashioned hot water to see if that helps eliminate the problem.

If you’ve ascertained that the problem is in the main pipe, you’ll need to go at it from the cleanout plug. Find the nearest plug that’s below the clogged drain. Newer homes have many of these (frequently under sinks), but in an older home there may only be one plug somewhere in the basement. Once you’ve found the plug, put a bucket beneath it. If the clog is below the cleanout plug, wastewater will pour out when you remove it. Use a wrench or large pliers to unscrew the plug – and be sure to stand back!

Once the plug is off and any wastewater has been expelled, begin by snaking the drain. Simply feed a snake into the cleanout until you hit resistance, and then pull back the tape to remove the clog. Replace the cleanout plug and run hot water through the drain to break up what’s left of the clog. If the water still runs slowly, try plunging. If necessary, use the snake again.

If you can’t find the cleanout plug or can’t remove it, look for a house trap in the basement. A house trap is a U-shaped section of pipe with a cleanout plug on each of the legs. Remove the plugs and snake the trap, then run the snake through the drain line on either side of the trap and remove any blockages.

Of course, it goes without saying that if after all that work your drain is still clogged, it might be time to call a professional plumber in Alexandria. We’ll be waiting for your call.

The 5 Early Warning Signs of a Plumbing Leak

Steven Cox — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:57:00 GMT

If there’s water all over the floor, well, that’s one sure-fire way to tell if your pipes are leaking. But here in Fairfax, Arlington or Northern Virginia area, plumbing is not just an all-or-nothing thing. Much like your body gives you small indications you’re getting sick, your pipes give off warning signs that all is not well.

Running water sounds. If you hear the sound of water even when no one in your home is doing the dishes or taking a shower, you may have pipes that are beginning to leak. You don’t just hear running water for no reason. If you hear it, it’s happening somewhere.
Unusually high water bills. Don’t just assume someone’s been taking too-long showers again. Water bills shouldn’t vary much from month to month. If you’re starting to see spikes, it may be due to a leak. Compare your water bills from the same month last year to see if it’s jumped.
Wet spots. Keep an eye out for wet or moist spots, or discolored areas in your flooring. If nothing has been spilled, these spots may be caused by leaking pipes. Take notice if the spots occur on the floor near sinks, tubs or other large pipelines.
Musty smells. Leaking pipes cause damp spots, and damp spots cause mold. And mold smells. If you’ve got a musty smell around your home despite frequent cleaning, you may have leaking pipes. Try to sniff out the source of the odor and see where it’s strongest. That can help you narrow down the source, or help you point an Arlington plumber in the right direction.
Foundation cracks. It’s normal for houses to settle over the years, but if you’re suddenly starting to notice cracks in your foundation it may be due to a leak. Water leached from leaking pipes can weaken foundations and structural components of your home, causing foundations or walls to crack.

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, you may have a leak in training. Don’t wait for the flood – call. F.H. Furr today to schedule a consultation to stop the problem before it starts.

The 5 Important Steps to Unclog a Drain From An Arlington Plumber

Steven Cox — Sat, 11 Aug 2012 23:39:00 GMT

If, despite your best efforts, you find yourself with a clogged drain, worry no more. There are a few key steps you can take to try to clear the blockage yourself. The good news? Should you fail, there are plenty of Arlington, Va's #1 plumber is but a phone call away.

Get it out. If you can see and/or reach the blockage, try to remove it. If there’s a massive hairball in the shower drain or your kid tried (semi-successfully) to flush a toy down the toilet, you may be able to remove the obstruction yourself. Sometimes plumbing is as easy as just getting rid of the problem.
Grab a plunger. Don’t automatically assume your plumbing problem means reaching for the Arlington phone book. Take it back to the basics and employ a good, old-fashioned plunger, particularly if you’re having a toilet problem. Plungers are also useful in sinks, as well.
Take it up a notch. If the obstruction is too far down the pipe or reach, try a cable auger, also known as a “plumber’s snake.” These devices, which are essentially long, flexible steel cables wound around a spool with a hand crank, are available in lengths up to 100 feet. These guys can help rid your pipes of blockages that are too far to see, much less reach.
Go au natural. Skip the harsh man-made chemicals and take a leaf out of Mother Nature’s book. For sink and tub clogs, try pouring ¼ cup of white vinegar down the drain and let stand at least 20 minutes before flushing with boiling water. For stronger action, pour ¼ cup of baking soda down the drain before adding the vinegar. The resulting foam should help clear the pipes.
Wave the white flag. As with any home repair situation, knowing when to call in the pros is a crucial step.

You may be tempted to use a store-bought drain cleaning chemical, but hold off. These cleaners may be effective, but they also filled with caustic chemicals that, over time, will wear down your pipes. Call F.H. Furr instead for all your Arlington plumbing problems and let us do your dirty work.

5 Essential Tips to Find a Plumber in Alexandria, Va

Steven Cox — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 11:25:00 GMT

Most people put a lot of work into finding a new dentist or hair stylist. They’ll ask friends, neighbors and coworkers, or even the checkout girl at the grocery store. They’ll obsessively read online reviews and maybe even do an office visit. But how much energy does anyone put into finding a plumber in Arlington, Va.? You already know the best way to find a reliable plumber – word-of-mouth. But if you’re new to the area or prefer to scour the internet, heed these five crucial tips to ensure your plumber is a good fit.

License and registration, please. The most basic rule of Arlington plumber shopping is to make sure your candidate of choice is licensed and carries enough insurance to protect your property in the event of disaster.
Turn the page(s). If you’re vetting someone off the Internet, you’re probably already reading reviews to find your plumber. But be sure to keep reading – many companies list reviews from best to worst, knowing that most people only click on a page or two. Dig deeper.
Make ‘em meet you. If a plumber gives you a quote over the phone, your antenna should automatically go up. No matter how basic your needs, insist on a home visit to determine pricing. You never know what hidden complications (and costs!) might be present.
Shop around. Fairfax plumbers are a dime a dozen. Even if one seems legitimate, always get a second opinion. You would do it for a doctor – why not for a plumber?
Hit the streets. If you’ve had other work done on your home, ask your contractor if he recommends anyone. Or check out hardware stores. Even at the big box stores, employees will know folks. Heed their advice.

For more information on finding plumbers in any other Northern Virginia area, click to contact us or call at (703) 491-1234. Also remember, a plumbing inspection in your Arlington, Alexandria or Fairfax home can extend your comfort and could potentially stop a costly disaster.

The 5-Part Recipe for Keeping Cool This Summer

Steven Cox — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 14:26:00 GMT

We’re willing to bet you’ve been swapping recipes with a neighbor or two here in Alexandria, VA…maybe for a crisp new cocktail, perhaps? We won’t deny that’s one way to stay cool this summer. But if you’re still feeling a little hot and bothered, try F.H. Furr’s 5-Part recipe for keeping cool. With only five “ingredients,” our recipe is simple, but will enable you to experience your most comfortable summer yet. If you want to thank us later, you can forward along that mojito recipe – or better yet, bring us a batch.

Close the blinds and let down the curtains. It’s tempting to celebrate summer by letting in as much light as possible. Just about every magazine ad features a summery-looking beach home with the windows and doors flung wide open. That isn’t reality, people. As soon as the sun hits your home in the morning, the blinds and curtains should be closed. You probably already have these forms of “insulation” in place, so utilize what you’ve got. Bonus: your nosy neighbor can’t see what you’re up to.
Use someone else’s AC. Here’s a little heating and air conditioning tip your HVAC guy didn’t tell you. The best way to save money on your AC is to not use yours – go use someone else’s! Instead of cranking up the AC to survive the hottest part of the day, head to a local museum or library to enjoy their air-conditioning…ahem, culture. If you’re willing to part with a few bucks, go see a matinee. It’s cheaper than the nighttime show and there are few places more pleasant than a dark, cold movie theater when it’s 100 degrees outside.
Don’t cook. Yes, ladies, that’s right – you heard it from us. Step away from that stove. Turning on the oven or stove generates a significant amount of heat. Serve cold soups, salads and raw veggies and fruits. Not only does it keep your home cooler, who really wants a big heavy meal when it’s 100 degrees, anyway? If you really do need to heat something up, give your hubby a cold beer and send him out to the grill.
Turn off the TV. And unplug the computer. These innocuous everyday electronics generate a lot of heat. Keep your home cool and your AC bill low by reducing – or eliminating – the amount of time they’re turned on. Plus, with all the electronics unplugged, you have more time for a good book, a chat with your neighbor, or playtime with the kids.
Call F.H. Furr. If you just can’t seem to cool off, there may be stealthy factors to blame – poor insulation in the attic, drafts coming in around windows and doors. The list is endless. Spend less time worrying about it and let a pro inspect your home. We’ve been performing heating and air conditioning repair in the Metro DC and Northern Virginia area for more than 30 years. We’ll make sure your home is up to snuff when it comes to keeping cool.

How to end the hot room/cold room dilemma

Steven Cox — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 14:35:00 GMT

Hot room/cold room: it’s the heating and air-conditioning repair industry’s version of good cop/bad cop. You know the drill. One room in your house is frigid, while another (usually a large and/or important room) refuses to cool off no matter what you do. Try these six tips to keep the battle of good versus evil at bay.

Close registers and doors. If, say, your tiny downstairs half-bath feels like an Arctic getaway, try closing the heat register in that room. There’s no reason to cool a room that you’re only in for 30 seconds at a time. By shutting the vent, it allows the cool air to flow more strongly to other (read: hotter) rooms in your home. Also, make sure not to cover your registers with furniture or decorations. They don’t do much good if you’ve got a desk or sofa on top of them!
Update attic insulation. If the second floor of your home stays consistently warm, despite closing registers on the ground floor and in unused rooms, your attic insulation may be to blame. By increasing attic insulation, you allow less cooled air to escape , which helps maintain a steady and comfortable temperature on all levels of your home.
Keep doors and windows shut. This seems like a “no-duh” suggestion, but most of us are guilty of such sins as leaving the door open to grab the second load of groceries or opening a window to air out a musty guest bedroom. In order to keep your home evenly cool, you can’t disrupt the air flow created by the HVAC unit. Make sure everyone in your house abides by this rule.
Consider a zoning system. There isn’t much use in having a large home if you’re not comfortable hanging out in parts of it. If you’ve only got one thermostat for a sizeable home, consider a forced air zoning system. Much like an air traffic controller, it tells the air where to go, and when. Although this heating and air service will cost some money up front, it will reduce your bills, make you more comfortable, and increase your energy efficiency.
Decorate. Invest in some good, quality blinds and/or some curtains. If you know a room gets a significant amount of sun during a particular part of the day, make sure it’s adequately closed off at that time. A general rule of thumb is that if the sun is shining on a room, blinds and drapes in that room need to be closed. Not a fan of the dark? Go sit in a room that isn’t receiving direct sunlight. You’ll still get plenty of light without the added heat.
Tint your windows. This may bring up bad mental images of cars you may have seen, but if you have one or two rooms that stay consistently hotter than the rest of the house, consider having the windows tinted. Tinted windows help reduce ultraviolet rays and glare from the sun. That not only keep your home cooler, but also keep you safer from dangerous, cancer-causing UV rays.

A residential zoning system makes use of motorized dampers that are controlled by room thermostats and can selectively control the temperature for each zone/room of the home. You can compare this to each room in a house having its own separate light switch rather than one master switch. A zoning system allows you to have that same control over the temperature for each room or section of house.

And, as a bonus, besides increasing comfort levels in your home, a zoning system can also substantially reduce your utility bills.

Contact us today to schedule a Comfort Consultant to provide you more information about zoned heating and air conditioning systems and will help you find an option that fits your home, your budget, and your heating and cooling needs.

Now You Can Have low utility bills AND a cool home.

Steven Cox — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 14:02:00 GMT

If you think having a cool home and a low energy bill is just an urban legend, think again. With these heating and air conditioning repair tips, you can survive the summer with minimal damage to your wallet.

Upgrade or replace your windows. Most of the “stray” air that enters your home comes through and around windows and doors. Make sure yours are up to snuff. If you own your home, consider replacing your existing windows with new e-Low models.
Buy a programmable thermostat. Instead of trying to remember to manually adjust the thermostat every morning before you leave for work, invest in a programmable version that you can pre-set ahead of time. Not only does this save money, it also eliminates one more thing from your morning to-do list. We call that a win-win.
Insulate. Insulation isn’t just for winter! This is one of the most important heating and AC services you can consider to keep cool this summer – don’t let that precious cool air escape. Pay special attention to basements and attics.
Plant a tree. One of the easiest heating and air conditioning repairs you can make doesn’t actually involve your HVAC system at all. Use well-placed trees and shrubs to block sunlight or create a barrier against wind. No matter the time of year, there’s a natural solution to fix your problem.
Close registers in little-used rooms. Your air conditioning system puts cool air wherever it detects hot air. If you close the registers and the doors to infrequently used rooms, your AC unit can more efficiently deliver cool air to the rooms you desire – without costing extra.
Turn off the fan. We know it’s tempting to do both, especially on scorching summer days, but pick a side: AC or fan. Your HVAC unit creates its own draft, so running a fan messes with the natural flow of your unit. Fan motors also generate extra heat.
Have your system checked regularly. By having your heating and air conditioning unit serviced regularly, you can avoid big problems and big headaches down the road. Think the cost of a checkup is expensive? Consider what you would have to fork out for a new unit.

For more tips, Call 1-877-225-5387 today for quick and dependable air conditioning repair, maintenance or replacement from our certified, professionally-trained technicians.

Top 10 Things You Get With A Plumbing Inspection

Steven Cox — Tue, 19 Jun 2012 13:20:00 GMT

Because we get emergency calls – serious emergencies – from people who had “no idea” of the threat. Yet in almost all the cases, the “pre-disaster” signs were everywhere. At least to a trained plumber. What kinds of emergencies do we see?

Things like soaked ceilings that fall; or bulging walls that spill themselves into living rooms; or uncooperative toilets, blocked drains, flooded basements… you name it, we’ve seen it go from a cheap repair to an expensive nightmare.

Test your toilets. Could be “dye-testing” for cracks, flusher inspection, or anything that tips us off to a hidden problem. You don’t want a failure here, I promise.
Inspect faucets for leaks. No need to put up with that water wasting nuisance!
Check Washing Machine hoses. These are the ones that give homeowners fits since this isn’t a “trickle”… it’s an indoor flood.
Inspect sink piping and garbage disposal. You spend a lot of time here, so let’s make sure this is working well, and will continue to for a while!
Test Water pressure. Sometimes it’s a supply problem, sometimes a simple calcium problem with a super-easy cure.
Check water heater temperature. No need to have either a cold or scalding shower! We can easily adjust it while we’re there.
Check burner, pilot light/heating element in your water heater. A malfunction here can be inconvenient at best… lethal at worst. Have this checked.
Check drains. Don’t fall for the expensive “drain rebuild” that some may recommend… we have a method that can speed up your drains almost instantly!
Inspect exposed water lines. These can get cut, frozen, or develop leaks that can turn into “yard ponds” that do more damage over time. No fun.
Test and tag emergency shut offs. Just knowing this can help you and your family know what to turn off if a pipe bursts. (This is worth the trip to us… and to you.)

How many people in these emergencies do you think say, “Gosh, I wish I’d known how to prevent this before now?” Almost every one. In fact, most can be avoided with an inspection that alerts you, and gives you peace-of-mind about your home investment.

For more information on plumbing inspections, click to contact us or call at (703) 491-1234. A plumbing inspection in your Arlington, Alexandria or Fairfax home can extend your comfort and could potentially stop a costly disaster.

Five Ways to “Green-Up” Your Utilities

Steven Cox — Thu, 31 May 2012 11:30:00 GMT

Sure, you know to recycle that water bottle instead of chucking it in the trash, but when it comes to intangible services, such as electricity, many folks are clueless. If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint (and your utility bills!), follow these five tips to get started.

Invest in new appliances. Installing energy-efficient dishwashers, refrigerators and washing machines is a great way to make your home greener and more energy efficient. Although this requires some money up front, you can potentially save a significant amount of money on utility bills over the life of the machine. If the idea of purchasing a houseful of new appliances is daunting, take it a step at a time: pick the most outdated appliance and replace it first. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Any steps toward greener living are good for the planet and your wallet, too.
Inquire about “green” utilities. Many local utility companies offer green energy and electricity options that are provided from 100 percent renewable sources (such as wind). Give your company a call to see if this is an option in your area. The best part: you’d be spending money on utilities anyway, so you might as well make it green energy.
Cut down on electricity usage. If you’re not sure you’re ready to take the plunge for new appliances or green energy, cut back on the energy you do use. Hand wash that batch of dishes instead of putting the through the dishwasher. Unplug those vampire appliances. Line-dry your clothes (bonus: it’s better for your clothes!). Small steps add up to make a big impact.
Insulation, insulation, insulation. Make sure your home and your appliances are properly insulated. Check for drafts, leaks, and any other means in which water or energy can escape. Make sure that everything in your home is running at peak efficiency – which means not letting any of that air-conditioned air escape.
Turn down the AC (or the heat). The biggest percentages of power generally goes into heating or cooling a home. With a long, hot summer looming on the horizon, it’s tempting to crank up the AC as far as it will go. But adjusting the thermostat by just a couple of degrees can make a big impact in your energy usage – and your utility bill! Put on a pair of shorts and pour yourself a big glass of water. You’ll be fine, we promise.

Contact F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning at (703) 491-1234 to learn more about "Greening-Up" your utilities for maximum savings. Visit us online and schedule an appointment.

Garbage Disposer 101

Steven Cox — Fri, 25 May 2012 13:23:00 GMT

It’s a pretty safe bet you learned a lot during your educational career, but sometimes algebra or English lit just don’t cut it when you’re faced with day-to-day issues. If you find yourself scratching your head when it comes to that garbage disposal thing in your sink, consider this your cheat sheet. The best part? There’s no test afterward.

Never, ever, ever put your hands in or near the disposer, even when it’s not running. This one is self-explanatory.
Always run a steady stream of cold water while the disposer is running. Hot water makes food particles mushy, which in turn makes them cling to the blades.
Do not put lemons down the garbage disposer. If you spent more time dozing than listening in chemistry class, you may have forgotten one crucial piece of information: lemons (and other citrus fruits) have a high acidity content. Over time, the acid will corrode your disposer and pipes, leaving you with a much bigger problem.
Not all foods can go down the disposer. Stringy items such as celery and corn husks bind up the motor. Bones, coffee grounds and eggshells dull the blades. Leftover bacon grease congeals and clogs the pipes.
Bigger (and more expensive) means better. The key to garbage disposers is to consider your household needs. A big fancy disposer isn’t necessarily better if you live by yourself and rarely cook. Conversely, a cheap disposer will wind up being more expensive in the long run due to clogs and repairs if you use it frequently.
If your house doesn’t already have a disposer, you’re not out of luck. Most new homes are being built with disposers already in place, but if you live in an older home you may not have one. They can be added after the fact. That brings us to our next point…
Don’t try to install or replace a disposer if you don’t know what you’re doing. Be honest with yourself. If you don’t have the slightest clue what to do and the instruction manual looks like Greek, hire a professional.
Pour a generous amount of boiling water into the drain once a week. The boiling water helps flush the pipes and keeps things clear without using abrasive chemicals.
Run the disposer a few seconds after grinding to make sure everything is adequately disposed. Similarly, after you turn off the disposer, run cold water for a few seconds to make sure everything flushes through.
Use ice cubes to eliminate odors. The bigger, the better! Toss a handful or two in the disposer, turn the water on to a slow trickle, and run the disposer. It will get rid of particles that build up on the blades and cause odors.

F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning proudly serves Fairfax and the surrounding area. Call us at (703) 491-1234 to learn more about garbage disposers.

How to Change the Look of your Kitchen In Alexandria, VA

Steven Cox — Mon, 21 May 2012 11:16:00 GMT

It’s spring: skies are blue, flowers are in bloom, rain showers dot the afternoon. It’s the time of growth and change. If your kitchen is stuck somewhere back in 1970, never fear. With just a few easy upgrades, you can bring this overlooked room into the new millennium.

Paint. Why is this the #1 suggestion on our list? It’s cheap and easy. All it takes is a few gallons of paint and a weekend (along with some patience) to make a noticeable difference in the look of your kitchen. If you have a small and/or dark kitchen, go for light colors, such as sage green or buttery yellow. If you want to add a little life to an otherwise dull room, go for red. Avoid burnt orange at all costs.
Update your fixtures. Ditch the shiny faux-gold fixtures so inexplicably popular among designers and construction companies. Instead, opt for something a little more subtle. Not sure how to switch out these fixtures? Give F.H. Furr a call and let a pro handle it.
Think about the smell. When doing renovations, people tend to think more about the visual aspects of a room, but one of the first things we typically notice when walking into a room is the smell. Invest in a better garbage disposer, along with garbage cans and recycling bins with tight lids. And please, please, keep the litter box elsewhere.
Replace your appliances. If you bought your refrigerator when you got married and your firstborn is now headed off to college, it’s time to say goodbye. Bonus: newer appliances not only look sleeker, they are often more energy efficient. It may require forking out a little money up front, but the savings will be well worth it.
Install new cabinets or countertops. This isn’t an easy or cheap upgrade, but the results will be well worth it if you’re looking to do a sizeable overhaul of your kitchen. If purchasing entirely new cabinets is out of the question right now, consider staining the ones you already have.

If you've been neglecting your kitchen, this is the perfect time to show it some TLC. Call us today to find out ways you can improve your home's efficiency and comfort! If you’re interested in further information, contact F.H. Furr at (703) 491-1234.

Ways to unclog a drain by some of the best Arlington VA Plumbers

Steven Cox — Mon, 14 May 2012 20:49:00 GMT

Despite being given little attention, pipes are a vital component of a home’s integrity – not to mention the comfort of its occupants. If you find yourself with an unwanted back-up, try one of these little-known remedies to keep everything flowing smoothly.

"For a moderately clogged drain, pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Replace the drain cover loosely, then let it sit for three hours before running water. Bonus: these two ingredients create lots of foaming and fumes, so keep that in mind if your kid is in need of a science fair project. If you know the clog is from grease, use half a cup of salt and half a cup of baking soda, followed by a generous amount of boiling water (a teakettle or potful should do it). Let it sit overnight." – Curtis L., Woodbridge
"If you don’t necessarily have a blockage at the moment but have noticed water isn’t flowing quite as well as it has in the past, try this preventative measure. First, combine one cup of baking soda, one cup of table salt and one-fourth cup of cream of tartar in a large jar. Pour one-fourth cup of the mixture into the drain, followed immediately by one cup of boiling water. Wait 10 seconds, then rinse with cold water. Can’t be bothered to get out all the ingredients? Simply flush out your pipes once a week with boiling water (and no, hot water from the sink doesn’t count – come on, boiling water isn’t so difficult)." – Steven M., McLean
"If a sink is clogged, fill the basin with enough water to cover the head of a plunger. Here’s the important step: coat the lip of the plunger with Vaseline – it helps create a better seal. Then slide the cup of the plunger over the drain opening, then rapidly pump the plunger up and down. With repetition, this movement can build up enough force to dislodge the blockage. Pump the plunger about a dozen times, then jerk it up quickly. Water should flow out. If it doesn’t, repeat the same steps two or three more times." – Mike D., Alexandria

If these simple home remedies don’t work, it’s time to call F.H. Furr and let a professional take a look. You may be tempted to use a commercial drain cleaner but resist the urge. Although they may be effective, they’re often filled with caustic chemicals that will, over time, wear out your pipes. Corroded pipes are a lot more difficult and expensive to fix than a mere blockage. Let us keep your home running smoothly instead.

Ways to Save Money On Air Conditioning And Utility Bills This Summer

Steven Cox — Thu, 10 May 2012 11:59:00 GMT

Utility bills can consume a very large portion of your paycheck. Wouldn't it be nice if you could pay 25-50% less on these bills? There's a number of ways you can. Don't worry you won't find any low flow toilets on this list! Find out how to stay cool this summer without burning a hole in your wallet.

Use fluorescent bulbs. They’re more expensive than the regular old incandescent bulbs, but they last 10 times longer and can save you up to $60 in electricity over the lifetime of the bulb! Not a fan of fluorescent lighting? If you prefer the softer glow of incandescent bulbs, look for a fluorescent bulb that has a Kelvin temperature between 2,600 – 3,000.
Bundle up. New water heaters are plenty insulated, but most heaters prior to 2004 are lacking. Invest in an insulating jacket, which can save you about 10% a year on your water-heating bill.
Turn down the AC. For every degree you raise your home’s temperature, you save about 5% from your energy bill. An Energy Star programmable thermostat will adjust the temperature automatically while you’re asleep or away – which means one less thing on your to-do list.
Adjust your washer and dryer. Use cold water to wash your clothes and save 50% of the energy you would otherwise use for hot water. Bonus: it’s better for your clothes, too. Want to take things a step further? Set your dryer on the moisture sensor, not the timer, and cut energy use by 15%.
Insulate, insulate insulate. Insulation isn’t just for keeping things warm – it also helps your home retain all that cool air you’re paying for. By simply putting a weather strip around the frame of your doors, you can save up to $30 per year in energy costs.
Adjust your water heater. An optimal temperature for your water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Come on, you don’t really need the water to be scalding, anyway.
Fix your leaky faucet. Here’s a scary statistic: a leaky faucet can waste as much as 2,700 gallons of water in a year, not to mention the annoying noise when you’re trying to sleep. Get that leak fixed and rest easy – for several reasons.
Fix your leaky toilet, too. There’s an easy test to tell if your toilet is leaking. Put a drop of food coloring in the tank. If the color shows up in the bowl, your toilet is leaking. A leaky toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day.
Be careful with landscaping. Drag yourself out of bed and water the plans in the early morning before the sun has a chance to burn off the moisture. And don’t over-water: if you step on the grass and the blades spring back up, turn the hose off for a day. They’ve got plenty of moisture.

F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning can help you stay efficient and lower your costs this summer, especially in Arlington, Fairfax and surrounding Northern Virginia areas. Contact us today at (703) 491-1234 to schedule an appointment or visit our website for more information.

Beware of Shady HVAC Installers (and how to spot them)

Steven Cox — Tue, 01 May 2012 17:01:00 GMT

Sure, there are tons of heating and air conditioning repair guys in the Fairfax area, but how do you know which to hire? They may say they’re licensed, but do they keep up with the latest industry trends and advances? Do they do quality work? And most importantly, do you trust them enough to let them into your home?

A little common sense goes a long way when choosing an HVAC installer.

Don’t trust anyone who doesn’t come to your house to look at the project before giving you an estimate. Even if yours is a fairly routine repair or installation, there may be unexpected complications that cause the final price to be much higher than anticipated. You should not have to pay for any home visits or estimates that may be performed.

Be sure to get a written, itemized estimate.

You should know exactly what you’re paying for and how much it should cost. To take it a step further, shop around. Get written estimates from several companies – otherwise, how will you know if a price is too high? If the estimates you receive are wildly different, don’t be shy about asking why the price is so high (or low!). A company may have missed something in the estimate that would cause the final price to be just as high as its competitor.

One of the best ways to find a reliable HVAC installer is to ask friends and family.

They can tell you who you should hire or, even better, they can tell you who to avoid – both are equally valuable! Word-of-mouth is the best way to get honest reviews. That’s why Web sites such as Angie’s List are gaining in popularity. People who have had particularly good or bad experiences are usually more than willing to tell others about them.

If you can’t find a recommendation and are going straight out of the phone book, be sure to vet the company carefully. Find out how long the company has been operating in the city under the same name and whether or not it has operated under any aliases or other corporate names.

A company with a physical address is preferable – don’t trust a guy who only gives you a cell phone number.

If reviews are available on a Web site, read all of them. Companies often list reviews from best to worst, knowing that prospective clients may only read a few before making a decision. If possible, check with the Better Business Bureau to find out if a company has received any complaints.

If you follow these rules, you should be able to easily find an HVAC installer that’s not shady – of course, if you’re reading this blog, you’ve already found the best Fairfax heating and air conditioning installer, anyway!

F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning proudly serves Fairfax, Alexandria and the surrounding area. Call us at (703) 491-1234 to learn more about what we can do for your home!

A Few Quick Tips to Help You Find the Best Plumbing Company

Steven Cox — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:25:00 GMT

Okay, we do have to offer a caveat here: if you’re reading this blog, you’ve already found the best plumber in Alexandria, Va. But in case you aren’t convinced – or if you live in, say, Texas, but somehow stumbled upon our blog, we’ll tell you how to find the best plumber in your area.

DO ask for referrals. People who have received either really good or really bad service are usually happy to share their experiences with you. This is the most important step you can take. Whether good or bad, personal experience is the best indicator of what to expect from your plumber.
DO ask for recommendations from other contractors who have worked on your house. The guy that did a great job on your flooring probably knows a good plumber. If you haven’t had much work done on your home, ask someone at a local hardware store. They may be able to supply you with the name of a trustworthy plumber.
DO insist on a free home visit for an estimate and DO get an estimate in writing. If a plumbing company refuses to do this for you, refuse to do business with them. Period.
DO get several estimates and DON’T be swayed by a low price. One company may have noticed something another plumber missed that could cause the final price to be the same.
DON’T make an advance payment. Some plumbers may require a small deposit up front, which is completely kosher, but NEVER pay in full until the work has been completed to your satisfaction.
DO ask how long they’ve been in business. While newer companies may still do a good job, a company that’s been in business longer is more likely to perform quality work.
DO ask how long the particular plumber has been with the company. While this is not a foolproof indicator (young guys can do great work, too!), it can give you an idea of the plumber’s experience and of his satisfaction with the company.
DO ask if they have a guarantee. Reputable companies want you to be satisfied and will generally offer a guarantee.

Use these guidelines, and you‘ll be well on your way to finding a great plumber. And if you live in Alexandria, Va., or the surrounding areas, contact F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning – we can isolate, repair, and prevent leaks in the future with the best equipment and experience around.

10 Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient In Virginia

Steven Cox — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 18:39:00 GMT

Going green doesn’t mean parting with your hard-earned green, or worse, living uncomfortably. These non-invasive steps can help you leave a smaller carbon footprint and enjoy a lower utility bill.

Unplug devices and chargers when not in use. The phone charger you leave plugged into your wall 24-7 draws electricity, adding to your bill. Once your phone is charged, unplug the charger. Shut down your laptop at night and unplug the cord. Not only does this help save energy, it’s better for your electronics.
Upgrade or replace windows. A lot of air that enters your home comes through and around your windows. If you own your home, consider replacing your existing windows with new e-Low models. Although this requires money up front, you’ll appreciate your new energy bill.
Upgrade your appliances. “Energy-efficient” does not translate to “inefficient” when it comes to the efficacy of an appliance. Those low-flush toilets work just as well as your old dinosaur and newer refrigerators use four times less energy than your old ones – but still keep your food cold.
Landscaping. A well-placed tree to block afternoon sunlight can work wonders in keeping the heat down in the summer. Or try using shrubs as a barrier against winter wind. Nature knows what it’s doing – listen to it, won’t you?
Insulate walls and attics. Insulation (or lack thereof) is one of the largest culprits of energy inefficiency. Make sure that heated or cooled air you paid for isn’t escaping. Basements and attics are two of the worst offenders, so check those first.
Buy a programmable thermostat. Instead of remembering to manually adjust the thermostat, buy a programmable one that you can set ahead of time. Your house should only fluctuate a couple of degrees during the day, even if you turn the thermostat off while you’re at work.
Fluorescent lighting. We know it’s gotten a bad institutional rap, but today’s fluorescent lighting is a lot better than the stuff they used in your junior high school and a lot more energy efficient. C’mon, give it a shot.
Air-dry your laundry. Not only does this save tons on your energy bill, it’s also better for your clothes.
Be conscious. Turn off lights when you leave a room. Don’t leave unnecessary electronics plugged in. Close doors and registers to rooms you don’t use frequently. Don’t leave the door open while you grab the second load of groceries. Little adjustments go a long way.
Seek and fix drafts. If air is coming in, no matter the time of year, it’s fighting against the regulated temperature you’re striving for, making your HVAC unit work harder.

For your Whole Home Energy And Duct Performance Audit investment, we will show you how to achieve the following:

Uniform temperature and humidity year round
A fresh feeling, healthy indoor air quality and interior cleanness
Low utility bills

Call 1-877-225-5387 or schedule your energy audit online today!

Top 10 Heating And Air Conditioning Repair Myths

Steven Cox — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:14:00 GMT

There are a lot of things that make your home comfortable, but your HVAC system probably ranks pretty highly. Unfortunately, your electricity bill in the summer can make you more hot and bothered than the temperature. Read on to find out the skinny on keeping your home cool this summer.

Myth #1: It’s better to leave the AC on at a low level all day than to shut it off and re-cool the house later. The fact is, if your AC is on, it’s using electricity. And if electricity is running, you’re paying for it. If your house is well-insulated, it should only fluctuate a couple of degrees during the day. If your home temperature changes that dramatically while the AC is off, have your home inspected for insulation problems.

Myth #2: To cool off your home faster, turn the temperature a few degrees below the temperature you actually want. Sounds logical, right? Sorry – air conditioners just don’t work that way. Your AC unit takes hot air in your home and replaces it with cool air at a set rate, and you can’t make it work any faster by lowering the temperature dramatically.

Myth #3: Keep registers and doors open to promote cool air flow through the house. Your AC puts cool air wherever it detects hot air. If you close the registers and the doors to less-used rooms, your AC unit can more efficiently deliver cool air to the rooms you desire.

Myth #4: Bigger is better. A unit that’s too big for a home or room will work harder and cost more money than a smaller model.

Myth #5: Air conditioners are energy guzzlers. HVAC systems have gotten a bad rap over the years, but newer systems are designed to be more energy-efficient. If it’s costing an arm and a leg to heat or cool your home, other factors may be to blame. A whole home comfort checkup from F.H. Furr can help you determine where all that cool (or warm) air is going.

Myth #6: Run a fan to “help” the AC unit. Air conditioners are designed to create their own drafts, so running a fan throws the airflow out of whack. Plus, the heat of the motor can be counterproductive to the AC unit’s work. Fans are not designed to cool spaces – they’re designed to cool people. Turn the fan off, especially if no one’s in the room.

Myth #7: There’s no real need to change your filters regularly. Dirty filters can cause up to a 10 percent increase in your heating or cooling bill. Don’t discount this easy fix!

Myth #8: There’s no need to have your system checked unless there’s a specific problem. Do we really need to explain to you how wrong this is?

Myth #9: Freon should be added to your unit regularly. Refrigerant does not need to be added unless there’s a leak. If you think your unit is leaking, call a pro.

Myth #10: The location of your thermostat isn’t important. The environment in which your thermostat is located determines how the unit functions. They function best when positioned near the areas you want to keep most comfortable, such as bedrooms.

Contact or call us at 1-877-225-5387 to discuss further HVAC myths. Industry experts are forecasting that energy prices are going to skyrocket in the months ahead. Electric power rates have already risen this year and are expected to continue to rise in the future. A precision tune-up and cleaning helps your Heating And Air Conditioning system run more efficiently and use less energy…saving you money. It’s the best thing you can do to guarantee a cool, worry-free, energy-efficient home through the last few weeks of Spring and into the Summer season!

10 Higher Utility Bill Creators With Heating and AC Service

Steven Cox — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 18:05:00 GMT

Culprit #1: Houseguests. In addition to causing your stress level to rise, houseguests can also cause your energy bill to spike. More people in the house means more dishes to wash, more folks taking showers (we hope) and more bodies creating heat, causing you to lower the air conditioning to keep those pesky guests comfortable. Next year, insist on going to their house.

Culprit #2: Electronics. If you used your recent bonus to buy a fancy new TV, stereo system or computer, you may be in for a disturbing energy bill. Not only are these devices energy hogs, you’re likely to spend a lot more time playing with your new toy than you did with the old one.

Culprit #3: “Vampire” appliances. Most gadgets in your home suck electricity even when they’re turned off. That’s because most appliances don’t truly turn off; they simply go into standby mode so they can be turned on more quickly or carry out a pre-scheduled task such as DVRing a show or brewing a cup of coffee at a set time.

Culprit #4: Old appliances. Although purchasing new energy-efficient appliances means parting with some money up front, you can save more in the long run. A newer refrigerator uses about four times less electricity than an older model.

Culprit #5: Inappropriate clothing. If you like to snuggle with blankets in the dead of summer or walk around in a t-shirt and shorts in the winter, you’re more likely to adjust your thermostat accordingly. Making appropriate clothing choices can make a big impact: a light long-sleeved sweater adds about 2 degrees in added warmth.

Culprit #6: Faulty equipment. Air-conditioning units and hot water heaters are the two biggest offenders. Hot water heaters are particularly bad because they don’t make noise to indicate they’re running. Make sure these two big guys are up to snuff.

Culprit #7: Improper insulation. How many times can we say this? Insulation is important in keeping your home both comfortable and energy-efficient. Both the structure of your house and the appliances within it need to be insulated.

Culprit #8: Neighbors. This one is unlikely, but if you feel you’re taking appropriate preventative measures and your utility bills are still high, you may want to keep an eye out. People who live in apartments, townhomes or closely packed neighborhoods are at risk for suspicious neighbors to snitch a little energy here and there.

Culprit #9: Estimated electricity bills. Nearly all gas and electricity companies use estimates because it’s too expensive and labor-intensive to read every single meter, especially when many are difficult to access. If you feel your “estimated” bills are unfair, schedule an appointment for your meter to be read when you’ll be there to let the employee in.

Culprit #10: You haven’t called F.H. Furr yet. Okay, this one is a little self-serving. But our whole house comfort checkup can find tiny leaks and other problems that contribute to big utility bills.

Call us today at 1-877-225-5387 to see how we can save you money.

The 10 Biggest Problems For Plumbers In Arlington

Steven Cox — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 15:41:00 GMT

There are a lot of home improvement problems that aren’t a big deal. Plumbing isn’t one of them. At the first sign of trouble, these issues often send homeowners straight to the phone book to find the nearest professional, and rightly so. Plumbing issues can make life inconvenient (a kitchen sink disposal that doesn’t quite work) or downright miserable (toilet issues – enough said). If you recognize any of the 10 problems below, it may be time to call for help.

Running toilets. Your toilet is running, you better go…never mind, we won’t finish that. But while appliances that “run” may spawn jokes, they also cause bills that are anything but funny. Running is caused by faulty or broken internal parts, and can be either a small matter or a sign of a larger problem. Your best bet? Shut the water off and contact us immediately.
Water temperature fluctuation. If someone flushes a toilet while you’re in the shower, does temperature spike in one direction or the other? This isn’t just the symptom of an inconsiderate spouse. Extremely hot or cold bursts of water during showers indicate clogged or corroded water pipes, a swollen or closed hot water shutoff valve or sediment buildup in the hot water heater.
Blocked drains. The probability for a blocked drain is pretty high in most homes. Accumulation of body fats and greases, soap scum and hair can cause major backups in bathtubs. For kitchen sinks, putting expandable foods like rice and pasta down the drains can cause blockages later on, especially if you don’t rinse them down with enough water.
Low kitchen water pressure. If you turn on the kitchen faucet and someone using the bathroom sink finds himself with only a trickle of water, it can signal major internal problems. It’s possible you only have defective plumbing parts, but low or fluctuating water pressure can also indicate improper sink installation or rotting hot/cold water pipes.
Low hot water supply in the heater. Unless you’re housing the cast of 19 Kids and Counting, your water heater should be able to supply enough hot water for you and your family. Sediment build-up and a defective dip tube in your hot water heater can be to blame. The size of your heater may also be a problem. Talk to a professional about estimating your family’s hot water needs to ensure you have the right model.
Whistling pipes. If you want to whistle while you work, that’s between you and your boss, but your pipes shouldn’t be whistling while they work. This problem is more irritating than dangerous, but it can signal defective valves or sediment buildup in your pipes.
Basement flooding. Big red flags here. Nothing in your house should be flooding – ever. Repeated exposure to basement flooding can eventually cripple the integrity of the entire house. If you see pooling after large rains, or an excess buildup of moisture in your basement, call your plumber immediately.
Rust in water. If dirty water is coming out of your faucets, your pipes may be filled with rust, dirt, or harmful minerals. It also may indicate corroded or compromised pipes. Because this is a problem you want fixed quickly, particularly if it’s occurring in your kitchen, skip the DIY project and call a pro to assess the damage.
Leaks around faucet spout and handles. This isn’t the most dangerous of problems, but it can become annoying. Sitting pools of water can attract critters and contribute to overall dampness and mold. Luckily, this one has an easy fix. If your faucet leaks after usage, it’s almost always because of worn-out or missing “packing material,” which is easily replaced.
Kitchen sink and washing machine backups. Your overall plumbing is one big system, and kitchen sinks and washing machine drains are connected in many homes. Lint from the washing machine and garbage and grease from the kitchen disposal can create a thick buildup, affectionately referred to as “gunk” – which usually requires a professional to remove.

These problems don't just effect Arlington plumbers, but Alexandria plumbers as well. And if you experience any of these issues, and are not comfortable fixing them on your own give us a call at 1-877-225-5387 or click to schedule us today!

What Happens During an Energy Audit And HVAC Systems?

Steven Cox — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:01:00 GMT

People put off going to the doctor for many reasons, including fear of what procedures will be involved and fear of possible results. Don’t put off a home energy audit for the same reasons. A typical home wastes 25 – 45 percent of its home heating system. Don’t let your system get off so easily.

At F.H. Furr, we call the energy audit a “whole house comfort checkup” - nothing scary, intimidating or unexpected. And to prove it, we’ll walk you through the typical steps of our checkup. It’s much less painful than the dentist, we promise.

First, a trained professional will interview you to see if there are any specific problems. That’s right –our first step is to ask you what needs or concerns YOU have. Dust, humidity, allergies? We’ll make it our priority to address those concerns.
We’ll then do a thorough inspection of your existing heating and cooling system, paying special attention to safety, installation, and what kind of filtration is used.
Your consultant will manually inspect the insulation levels in your home and look for hidden problems.
Once the manual inspection is completed, we’ll start introducing some technology. The machinery may sound scary, but we start slowly: an infrared camera will be used to locate problem areas in walls, ceilings and floors. Tell your home to say cheese!
After that, we will temporarily install an infiltrometer (or blower door) to your front door to determine how much air leaks into and out of your home. No matter how small the leaks are, our infiltrometer can find them.
We’ll use an electronic airflow capture hood and a dust blaster to determine if your duct system is leaking. Did you know that leaking ductwork can reduce the efficacy of your heating and cooling system by as much as 30 percent? Now you do.
Once all the data has been collected, your consultant will sit down with you to explain the results. No diagnose-and-dash here – not only will we thoroughly review your problem areas, we’ll also give you a plan of recommended improvements. The best part? Many of these are improvements you can do yourself, such as insulation and sealing of windows and doors.

By having an audit, you’re under no commitment to purchase additional products and services from us. The whole audit takes about three hours, and the technicians even wear footies so as not to damage your floors. Not that scary, right? You can save between 20 and 50 percent on your home energy bills, not to mention eradicate problems such as allergies and household pests. So don’t let fear of the unknown keep you from having your home inspected.

What is the need of an Energy Audit and air conditioning repair?

Steven Cox — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 12:35:00 GMT

You get regular check-ups for your car, your finances, your job performance, your kids’ behavior at school and especially for your body. Why wouldn’t you get a check-up for your home? “Audit” may be associated with “unpleasant” in your book (especially if you’ve ever tangled with the IRS), but an energy audit may be the very thing you need to efficiently solve problems you didn’t know you had.

Talk about false advertising: research has proved that so-called “high-efficiency” heating and cooling systems don’t deliver the comfort and lower energy bills they promise. A typical home wastes 25 – 45 percent of its home heating system. An energy audit can inform you why this happens and how to avoid it.

Insulation, orlack thereof, is a major factor in reduced energy efficiency and is a big point of concern during energy audits. Air, heat and moisture are three major problems that can be reduced or eliminated entirely with proper insulation.

First, air: you don’t want it blowing freely through your home. Homes should be “tightened” to guard against drafts, which waste energy. Second is heat. By sealing leaks and improving insulation, you can make your home more comfortable and – you guessed it – save energy. Third is moisture. By managing air and heat flows in your home, you can reduce the amount of moisture caused by fluctuating temperatures.

Still not seeing how an energy audit can help you? We do both manual and machine-run inspections to make sure your insulation is properly installed and performing at its best. An audit can catch everything from hollow wall cavities to a tiny leak in your ductwork. You can save anywhere from 20 – 50 percent on your home energy bills by implementing the improvements we recommend, many of which you can do yourself. For those improvements that require a trained professional, we stand ready to help.

Call us today at 1-877-225-5387 and see how the F.H. Furr Difference can make a difference in your home!

“Why Is It So Painful to Pay $4 for a Gallon of Gas…

Steven Cox — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:18:00 GMT

But ‘no big deal’ to pay nearly $20 a gallon for bottled water?”

Packaging perhaps? Or because it “seems” healthy? Maybe you feel bottled water is something exotic and superior to common tap water. Big news here: When you see the phrase “Purified by reverse osmosis” on your bottled water, it sure sounds impressive, but it means only one thing: filtered tap water.

Yes, it’s basically Municipal Water that’s been re-filtered and nicely bottled. Is that worth $20 a gallon? Not if you can have bottled quality water at your own tap using the same “reverse osmosis” process ... for about 4 cents a gallon!

Here’s what else you can have, right at your tap:

Bottled water taste coming from every tap – with 99.98716% of bacteria and impurities removed.
Less dry, itchy skin & allergic reactions from chlorinated water. You won’t believe what “real” water feels like!
Appliances and pipes that last longer, since particles that reduce flow and damage parts won’t be in there! (This means less need for a plumber, darn it!)

Endless supply! So no trips to the store which also means…

No lugging jugs of water
No delivery or rental fees
No scheduling refills

No crazy maintenance. The self-cleaning system means minimal maintenance for thousands of gallons!
And all the water you want for about 4 cents a gallon, whenever you want. Is this even possible? Yes, plus another huge bonus -

Best of all, it takes only a couple of hours to install.

In two hours, you can have bottled quality water for a lifetime. The small investment can easily pay you back dozens of times versus any other bottled water alternative!

So if you’re tired of paying sky-high prices for bottled water that’s no better than what you can have right at your tap, here’s what to do right now.

Call F.H. Furr, Alexandria Va's Plumber, for a Free, No-obligation Water Quality Survey. We’ll perform a simple test (takes about 18 minutes) of your water and give you a quote on an amazing whole house filtration system.

Then you choose if you want the financial, health, and convenience benefits of this system in your home.

What Should A HVAC Maintenance Tune-up consist of?

Steven Cox — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 20:30:00 GMT

Corwin L. of Centreville, VA asks, "When is the best time to schedule your Heating And Cooling Maintenance Inspection and Tune-up? And what does it consist of?" Corwin, first off, welcome to fhfurr.com. Traditionally, the best time to get maintenance done in a timely manner is during the Spring and Fall seasons. Most HVAC contractors are slow at that time, and have a more flexible schedule that can accomodate you better, and also that is typically when you are going to get your best deal on a 21-Point Tune-up.

For the second part of your question, I am going to turn to the Energy Star website.

From The Energy Star Website:

Maintenance Checklist

A typical maintenance check-up should include the following.

Check thermostat settings to ensure the cooling and heating system keeps you comfortable when you are home and saves energy while you are away.
Tighten all electrical connections and measure voltage and current on motors. Faulty electrical connections can cause unsafe operation of your system and reduce the life of major components.
Lubricate all moving parts. Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors and increases the amount of electricity you use.
Check and inspect the condensate drain in your central air conditioner, furnace and/or heat pump (when in cooling mode). A plugged drain can cause water damage in the house and affect indoor humidity levels.
Check controls of the system to ensure proper and safe operation. Check the starting cycle of the equipment to assure the system starts, operates, and shuts off properly.

Cooling Specific

Clean evaporator and condenser air conditioning coils. Dirty coils reduce the system's ability to cool your home and cause the system to run longer, increasing energy costs and reducing the life of the equipment.
Check your central air conditioner's refrigerant level and adjust if necessary. Too much or too little refrigerant will make your system less efficient increasing energy costs and reducing the life of the equipment.
Clean and adjust blower components to provide proper system airflow for greater comfort levels. Airflow problems can reduce your system's efficiency by up to 15 percent.

Heating Specific

Check all gas (or oil) connections, gas pressure, burner combustion and heat exchanger. Improperly operating gas (or oil) connections are a fire hazard and can contribute to health problems. A dirty burner or cracked heat exchanger causes improper burner operation. Either can cause the equipment to operate less safely and efficiently.

Actions To Do Yourself

Inspect, clean, or change air filters once a month in your central air conditioner, furnace, and/or heat pump. Your contractor can show you how to do this. A dirty filter can increase energy costs and damage your equipment, leading to early failure.

As the old saying goes, An ounce of prevention now is more than worth a pound of cure later, especially when demand for air conditioner service and repair is at its peak, and contractors can charge

So call us and get the air conditioning peace of mind that you deserve by scheduling a thorough precision tune-up and cleaning of their air conditioner…and have it performed by a seasoned F.H. Furr air conditioning professional!

The Importance Of Spring Air Conditioning Maintenance

Steven Cox — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 22:17:00 GMT

During the year, your air conditioning system accumulates dust and dirt, making it less efficient and costing you additional money in utility bills. Add on lack of regular HVAC tune-ups and maintenance, and you can count on your heat pump or air handler breaking down before you can say, “Summer vacation!”

The benefits of maintaining your air conditioning equipment:

Fewer Breakdowns – 90% of breakdowns can be avoided with regular maintenance
Equipment Longevity
Lower Operating Costs – Save money on your utility bills
Improve the efficiency of the unit
Potential danger of carbon monoxide leaks
Improved indoor air quality
Peace of mind system will work when you need it
Provides warranty protection
Provides documentation

With forecasters predicting an early Summer, and rising energy prices, maintenance could mean the difference between a nice 7-day vacation with Mickey Mouse in Orlando, or Bob in Accounting.

If you'd like to hear more about how you can save this Summer and FUTURE Summers, give us a call at 1-877-225-5387, or Schedule an appointment today!

HVAC maintenance is very important, Don't let YOUR AIR CONDITIONING STEAL YOUR VACATION!

Ask The Plumber: Why Does My Kitchen Faucet Have Low Water Pressure?

Steven Cox — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 21:45:00 GMT

Welcome back! Today’s question comes from Dan K. in Fairfax, Virginia. Great question, Dan! And I tell you, we’ve gotten a ton of calls on this very thing! Today’s faucets are designed to conserve water and almost always include aerators. The aerators are made up of a disk with many extremely small holes with which the water must flow through. Often times, these tiny holes get clogged with lime and/or sediment buildup which will block the water flow and minimize water pressure.

Thankfully, this is pretty simple to resolve. Follow these steps to remove and clean the aerator:

Unscrew the aerator from the faucet by turning counterclockwise. If it will not unscrew by hand, cover the jaws of your pliers with masking tape (so as to not damage the faucet) and loosen the aerator. Once it is loosened, continue remove with your hand.
Take apart the aerator and/or spray head.
Dip a small brush in vinegar and gently scrub the parts clogged with sediment/lime.
Reassemble the pieces and screw back onto the faucet.

Dan, I hope this helps with your issue, and should clear it right up! If not, you can always take advantage of our “Plumber In Your Home For Free!” that we have.

Guys, keep the question rolling in and see whose question makes next weeks blog! Until then, stay warm, stay dry…and keep your ductwork clean!

"I need more Insulation?" Get an instant savings on heating

Steven Cox — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:26:00 GMT

What "R" you talking about?

April S. of Ashburn, VA asked this question recently after receiving a Whole Home Energy And Duct Performance Audits. Climate, home construction, life style and utility prices all impact the costs to heat and cool your home. Adequate insulation can be a great equalizer. With our Thermal Imaging technology, we can actually see where you are either lacking or missing insulation altogether.

Is your home properly insulated? (Image from home energy thermal scan.)

With our Thermal Imaging technology, we can actually see where you are either lacking or missing insulation altogether. Houses constructed more than a decade ago probably don’t meet the U.S. Department of Energy’s Thermal Resistance (R-value) guidelines for insulation. These houses can lose heat in the winter and gain heat in the summer, wasting precious energy dollars and natural resources.

Adding additional insulation is a cost effective way to make your home more comfortable year round. For instance, adding blown attic insulation from the typical 5” up to 18”, (upgrading from R-15 to R-38 or R-49) can save up to 20% on your heating and cooling energy bills.

Blown-in, loose-fill insulation is usually made of fiberglass, rock wool, or cellulose, taking the form of shreds, granules, or nodules. This blown-in material conforms readily to building cavities and attics. It is especially well suited for limited-access places, and it can be blown over existing insulation for cost-effective improvements.

Insulation is used to slow the transfer of heat through walls and ceilings. The reduction in heat loss and heat gain reduces energy usage and helps maintain a uniform temperature.

April, I hope this clarifies a little about what and why you need an ample amount of insulation in your home.

If you'd like to learn more about the Whole Home Energy And Duct Performance Audit, click the button below. Until next time, stay warm!

Head to Head Comparison of Water Heaters to Tankless Water Heaters

Steven Cox — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 18:57:00 GMT

Sometimes called an on-demand water heater, tankless water heaters operate differently than traditional storage tank heaters. Instead of the always-on, finite supply of hot water that conventional tank heaters provide, a tankless system uses energy only on demand, providing hot water when needed.

Watch this video for a head to head, or rather a gut to gut comparison of traditional water heaters to tankless water heaters. You'll see how tankless heaters can lower water use by up to 20 percent and save 60 percent of energy compared to conventional water heaters. If you haven't trouble deciding between the two systems, this comparison should help.

Sill undecided? To learn more about tankless water heaters and if they’re right for your home, contact F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning today at (703) 496-5016. A professional Fairfax plumber can further explain the differences and walk you through the benefits of an on-demand water heater.

Could a Ductless HVAC System Be the Right Option for Your Home and Budget?

Steven Cox — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 07:04:14 GMT

Traditional air conditioning and heating systems use forced-air ductwork that is typically installed in attics or crawlspaces, taking up lots of room. While these systems are appropriate for a large variety of applications, your home may benefit from a ductless heating and cooling system instead.

How Ductless Systems Work

Split-System Nature: These systems are versatile, because the individual interior units can be connected to one or more exterior components. This gives the homeowner freedom to choose how flexible they want their heating system to be, allowing for further tailoring, control, and energy efficiency.
Easy Installation: Ductless systems are relatively simple to install. The outdoor units are typically less than eight inches deep and mount readily to walls, while the wiring and refrigerant lines can be run throughout a home wherever they are needed. This also means that homes that formerly used window air conditioning units can once again have windows free.
Zoning: Because ductless systems can be arranged to deliver air to specific rooms, you can tune each system to a comfort zone. Bedrooms can be kept separate from living areas, or each room of the house can have individual levels of hot or cool air.

Could My Home Benefit from a Ductless HVAC System?

Homes that currently use space heaters or don’t have existing ductwork can greatly benefit from one of these systems. Your air conditioning and heating professional can work with you to examine your home and indentify the right size of the system that works for each room. It’s important to note that homes with high ceilings will need an appropriately powerful ductless system, because cold air naturally sinks as warmer air rises. In general, ductless systems offer an efficient and compact way to stay comfortable in your home.

Find out how a ductless HVAC system can benefit your home by calling F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning at (703) 496-5016. Check out our website to explore the workings of these systems and the advantages they have to offer. Already have a gas furnace? We offer the best furnace repair Fairfax, Va has to offer! Call us to schedule an appointment.

More from Plumber, Heating Repair & HVAC Specialist: Ductless Air Conditioners Fairfax, Heating System Fairfax, Furnace Repair Fairfax

Leave a comment »

What to Do if You Suspect Your Plumbing Has Developed a Leak

Steven Cox — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 22:43:43 GMT

Detecting leaks can be a difficult proposition for homeowners without the technology and experience available to professional plumbers. Some leaks are easy to spot—dripping plumbing fixtures and puddles of water are more evident, but there are leaks that take place under your floor, in the piping outside your home, or even within your walls that can be hard to detect until they’ve already done damage. If you suspect a leak, follow these steps.

Contact your plumber immediately. Time is of the essence in terms of keeping your costs down when you have a leak that is within your walls or under your floor. A dripping faucet, running toilet, or small puddle in the laundry room might not be as dramatic, but the sooner your plumber can fix the problem, the sooner you can begin using your appliances again.

Begin damage control. If necessary, use towels and other measures to contain spilled water. This can lower your costs for floor or carpet cleaning caused by spreading water. Wrapping and securing a towel around a leaking pipe can prevent damage to your walls, but any time you encounter a high-pressure leak, leave it alone to avoid injury and let your plumber handle the job.

If the leak is an emergency, shut off the water to your home. Before disaster strikes, it’s always a good idea to ask your plumbing professional to show you where the main shutoff is for water in your home, as well as individual valves that you can use to stop smaller leaks in their tracks.

Identify the cause of the problem and act accordingly. If the leak was caused by piping or plumbing in poor condition, have your plumber inspect the rest of your home for potential accidents waiting to happen. This can keep you ahead of costly repairs with preventative maintenance instead.

Contact F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning at (703) 496-5016 if you think you have a leak in your Fairfax home’s plumbing. We can isolate, repair, and prevent leaks in the future with the best equipment and experience.

More from Plumber, Heating Repair & HVAC Specialist: Plumber Fairfax VA

Leave a comment »

Frequently Asked Heating Questions

Steven Cox — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 22:34:40 GMT

Getting familiar with your heating system can help you recognize when it requires attention, thereby avoiding costly repairs from an unknown problem, and also save energy with lower utility costs. Contact your furnace repair specialist for more information, and you can enjoy lower heating bills and increased efficiency with the right knowledge.

Will my heating system require regular maintenance? Absolutely. Your furnace repair specialist can perform all the necessary routine measures to keep your heating system up and running throughout the winter. A pre-season inspection is always a good idea, because it will catch any small issues and ensure that your furnace is ready to go for the winter.

What’s involved in filtration? Your heating system uses an air filter that should be changed about once a month. This keeps dust and particles from clogging and damaging the components of your heater or furnace’s blower motor, and it also removes pollutants, pet dander, and other allergens from the air inside your home. You might also consider speaking with your heating and air conditioning specialist regarding an air filtration system for your home.

What should I know about the dangers of CO and gas? Any fuel-burning heating system can produce carbon monoxide or present the risk for a gas leak. Have your heating components inspected at least annually by a qualified furnace repair professional, and be aware of the symptoms of CO poisoning. If you ever suspect the presence of CO or smell gas, evacuate your home immediately and contact emergency services.

What should I know about heat pumps? Heat pumps are versatile systems that can both heat and cool a home, making them operable all year. One thing you should do if you have a heat pump system is have it inspected for leaks a few times during the year. At no time should your heat pump leak refrigerant.

Get all of your heating questions answered by the experienced heating professionals at F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning. To learn more or for heating repair in Fairfax, VA area, give us a call at (703) 496-5016 or visit us online today.

More from Plumber, Heating Repair & HVAC Specialist: Heating repair Fairfax, Heating re, Furnace Repair, Fairfax

Leave a comment »

Can a Water Heater Explode Through Your Roof? Watch MythBusters Test the Theory to Find Out!

Steven Cox — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:53:56 GMT

It may sound fanciful, but water heaters regularly build up steam pressure within as a part of their daily operation. Relief valves are designed to let off excess pressure and keep the water heater within safe limits, but is it possible for a faulty water heater to actually explode?

Explosions aren’t an entirely accurate term, but in short, yes. Water heaters that are not able to relieve the pressure that builds up inside can turn into virtual rockets, presenting a very real and destructive risk to homes and their inhabitants. Watch this video to see the MythBusters confirm that water heaters under pressure do, indeed, go off like rockets.

To prevent this kind of disaster from ever happening in your home, follow the regular maintenance procedures outlined in the manual for your own water heater, and let professional plumbers with F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning inspect and repair your plumbing equipment for safety. Call us at (703) 496-5016 for more information.

http://www.youtube.com/v/jbreKn4PoAc?hl=en&fs=1

More from Plumber, Heating Repair & HVAC Specialist: Plumber Fairfax, Tankless waterheater Fairfax

Leave a comment »

How Getting Your Plumbing Ready for Winter Can Lower Your Energy Bill

Steven Cox — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:28:45 GMT

As cold weather sets in, you’ll want to make sure the plumbing in your home is ready to withstand its effects. Burst pipes and frozen water lines are always a risk for unprotected homes, and you could face high utility bills due to energy loss without the proper insulation. An experienced plumber can help you get your home prepared for the coming winter in just a few steps.

Insulation and Weatherization

Many of the pipes in our homes run through unheated crawlspaces, which makes them very vulnerable to freezing. Freezing doesn’t always lead to bursting, but it creates an interruption in your water service, which can make your home unlivable until it thaws. In the worst case, frozen plumbing does result in burst pipes and costly repairs to the plumbing itself and any damage done to your home.

Weatherizing and insulating your crawlspaces can make them better able to resist falling to dangerously low temperatures, but insulating your pipes themselves is the best measure of protection. Combining these actions can keep your water supply lines from freezing in the winter and provide uninterrupted water flow.

Energy Savings

Another advantage to insulated plumbing is that energy loss is greatly reduced and even prevented entirely. As hot water travels from your water heater to the appliances and plumbing fixtures in your home, the heat can be quickly dissipated through unprotected pipes in crawlspaces or in exterior walls. This means you receive water that’s less comfortable, and your water heater needs to keep working hard just to make sure that the water stays warm. This energy loss results in higher utility costs. By having a plumber insulate your piping and potentially your water heater, you can save money on your water heating costs this winter.

Contact F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning at (703) 496-5016 to schedule a consultation with a Fairfax plumber. We can show you how pipe insulation and other measures will help your plumbing withstand this winter’s weather.

More from Plumber, Heating Repair & HVAC Specialist: Plumber Fairfax

Leave a comment »

Ask a plumber: How many years does a typical water heater last?

Steven Cox — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 20:00:00 GMT

"... and what can I do to extend its life?" Submitted by Wanda W. of Fairfax, Va. Most tanked water heaters last a little over 10 years, but in my opinion, it’s a good idea to start researching for a replacement after about seven years, especially when it comes to repairs for that age of heater. For the second part of you question, tanked water heaters, like anything else, can be made to last longer with proper care and maintenance.

I have a couple of suggestions that could potentially make your heater last a bit longer, try reducing the temperature to no more than 115°F. This will provide comfortable hot water for most uses and add a few extra years onto the life of your water heater. Another great way to extend the life of your water heater is to remove sediment that gets in the way of heat transfer and lowers the efficiency of your heater. To do this, drain about a quart to a quart and a half of water from your tank every three months.

Because each water heater could be different, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations based on the type of water tank you have. But remember, if you need our help, we offer a plumber in your home absolutely FREE. So just give us a call at 1-877- 225-5387 or email us at customerservice@fhfurr.com

Thanks Wanda for that great question! Next time, we will be talking about Whole Hiome Energy And Duct Performance Audits. And if you have a question, feel free to submit below, and if your question is picked WIN a FREE Giftcard to Outback!

Check Out This Green Tip For Cleaning Your Plumbing Hardware

Steven Cox — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:56:33 GMT

Have you noticed your water pressure getting weaker over time? The mineral-rich waters often deposit sediments into the pores of your showerhead and sick faucets. Here’s another plumber tip for you: There’s a simple solution that only costs a few cents, and is actually safe for the environment. “A green cleaning product?!” you ask. Yes, there is a simple disinfectant that actually removes minerals that is sitting in your kitchen right now. For most surfaces in your bathroom, especially your plumbing hardware, a mixture of white vinegar and water will do the trick.

A gradual decrease in water pressure usually is a sign that the minerals have built up in your faucet aerator. The aerator is the small disc that your water streams through that adds air bubbles to your water. They are included in most faucet designs to conserve water. When they collect minerals, however, it’s time to clean them with the simple vinegar solution.

For Cleaning Sink Faucets:
To clean the aerator on a sink faucet, simply unscrew the spray head from the faucet and pop out the small aerator. Then soak it in the vinegar solution for a few minutes to loosen the sediments. Clean it with an old toothbrush to make sure it’s clean. If you notice the mineral deposits have dirtied your spray head, it may be a good idea to soak and scrub that as well.

For Cleaning Showerheads:

Because the mineral deposits in a showerhead are usually deeper in the spout, you’ll want to soak your showerhead in a container of the vinegar solution for a few hours to overnight. The acid in the vinegar should remove all lime and sediments on its own. Be sure to rinse it clean before putting it back to remove the smell.

Vinegar is quite an amazing bathroom cleaning tool. It kills germs, cuts through soap scum and kills mold. Be sure to take advantage of its fighting power to save money and to go green. If these tips down solve your water flow problems, feel free to call our Fairfax plumbers for professional help. The problem may require a replacement faucet or the sediment may be in your pipes. As always, you can get a plumber in your home for free, so there’s no need to put it off. Call F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning at (703) 496-5016.

More from Plumber, Heating Repair & HVAC Specialist: Green Living, Plumber Fairfax

Leave a comment »

Top 10 Ways to Keep Your Home Warm and Pockets Full This Winter

Steven Cox — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 16:21:55 GMT

We all know the energy bill reaches steep peaks during the summer and winter months. So to help you all out, we’ve put together a list of some simple ways to lower your bill this winter while staying warm. We hope you enjoy our list of cheap heating tips and tricks, but of course, you’re welcome to give us a call if you’re looking for more ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. For all your Fairfax, VA heating needs, call us at (703) 496-5016.

Take advantage of the daylight hours by opening the curtains and blinds for the sun-facing windows. Be sure to close them when it gets dark to provide as much insulation against the cold as possible.
Cover the cracks and air spaces around your home with caulk or weather stripping. For bigger gaps under doors or at the bottom of old windows, lay a towel or a blanket to keep warm air from seeping out.
Utilize your winter wardrobe. Pull out the sweaters and sweatpants this season to stay warm. Always remember to wear socks and even a comfy hat to bear the cooler weather.
If you have hardwood or tile flooring, cover large areas with rugs. This is a great way to mix things up with your home décor every season as well.
Install a programmable thermostat to lower the temperature at night and while you’re away at work. There’s no need to keep your heater on full force when you’re not using it, and using a programmable thermostat can pay for itself in just one month. More importantly, they can save you money year-round.
Bake a pie. This one sounds a little funny, but when you do bake cookies or a pie, or cook something on the stovetop let the heat warm the house. Leave the oven door open as it cools and avoid turning on the vent for your stove. Just be sure to warn others and keep children out danger from hot oven doors.
Change your furnace filters monthly. Changing your filters will improve the efficiency of your heater and extend its life. A happy heater means a low bill.
Congregate in rooms with others. During the holiday season, the easiest way to stay warm is to spend time with your friends and family, (OK maybe not the EASIEST way). All joking aside, be sure to keep unused rooms closed to keep the heat from dissipating throughout the house.
Pile on the blankets every night. There’s nothing better than cuddling up under a heap of blankets on a cold night. Doing this will allow you to lower the temperature on your programmable thermostat and bear the lower night-time temperatures.
Get a furnace tune-up. One of the best ways to lower your energy bill is to make sure your heating system is working properly. Right now you can get a 21-point heater inspection and tune-up from F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for only $67. Doing this will allow you to catch minor problems early and have them repaired, or find major deficiencies that are raising your heating bills.

More from Plumber, Heating Repair & HVAC Specialist: Heating Maintenance Fairfax, Energy Saving Tips Fairfax

Leave a comment »

'How It Works' Shows Us The Inner Workings of a Traditional Hot Water Heater With a Great Video!

Steven Cox — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 09:12:02 GMT

Have you ever wondered how your hot water heater is able to heat your water so quickly and keep it hot? How It's Made had a great episode on water heaters and completely deconscruted one to illustrate the science behind these machines we use every day. As the cooler weather approaches, it’s important to make sure that your hot water heater is working properly. Watch this video to learn more about the function and efficiency of your home’s hot water heater.

In a gas water heater, a burner flame serves as the heat source. Above the burner flame is a chimney that extends to the top of the water heater. Cold or room temperature water enters the water heater, descends through a pipe, and becomes heated by the burner flame. Then, the water exits the pipe into your shower or sink.

To learn more about hot water heaters or have your water heater evaluated by a professional, contact F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. We offer water heater services as well as air conditioning and plumbing repairs in Fairfax, VA and surrounding areas. Call us today at (703) 496-5016.

http://www.youtube.com/v/gQIatogID5c?hl=en&fs=1

Leave a comment »

Getting Your Home Ready for Winter

Steven Cox — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 14:59:23 GMT

As the fall months come to a close, is your home ready for the Fairfax winter weather ahead? Check out the following tips for preparing your air conditioning unit to rest and your heating system to go to work.

Clean Your System
As you winterize your air conditioning unit, make a thorough cleaning of all of the equipment. Drain the hoses and ensure there is no remaining water in any part of your air conditioning unit. Remove dirt, leaves, and other debris from your air conditioner before covering it for the winter.
Have Your Heating System Inspected
Call your air conditioning or heating specialists to inspect your heaters, fireplace, furnaces and other heating home appliances for the winter. While you can do most of the home preparation yourself, it’s still essential to receive a professional maintenance check for any precautionary repairs or concerns.
Change the Filters
Although you may not be planning to use your air conditioning during the winter, it’s still important to change out the filter. This way, your old filter doesn’t collect dust over the next few months and potentially spread bacteria to the rest of the unit. Also, changing your filter gives you the ability to run your air conditioner at a moment’s notice. Be sure to change and check the filters of your furnace or heating pump before the winter months as well.
Prepare Your Water Heater
As you complete your preparation in shutting down your air conditioner for the winter, it’s equally important to prepare your heating appliances for the coming winter months and frequent usage. Turn down your water heater to save extra money on energy bills during the winter. Especially since you will have the heat running more, lower the temperature of your water heater to conserve energy.

To schedule a servicing appointment for your heater and air conditioner in the Fairfax area, call the experts at F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. We offer air conditioning, heating, and plumbing services and repairs. Call us with your questions or to schedule a visit from one of our trained professionals at (703) 496-5016.

More from Plumber, Heating Repair & HVAC Specialist: Heating and Cooling Fairfax

Leave a comment »

Check Out This Green Tip For Cleaning Your Plumbing Hardware

Steven Cox — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:33:00 GMT

Have you noticed your water pressure getting weaker over time? The mineral-rich waters often deposit sediments into the pores of your showerhead and sick faucets. Here’s another plumber tip for you: There’s a simple solution that only costs a few cents, and is actually safe for the environment. “A green cleaning product?!” you ask. Yes, there is a simple disinfectant that actually removes minerals that is sitting in your kitchen right now. For most surfaces in your bathroom, especially your plumbing hardware, a mixture of white vinegar and water will do the trick.

For Cleaning Showerheads:

Plumber, Heating Repair HVAC Specialist

Warming Up For Winter!

Thankful For Turkey Grease?

The Grinch Might Not Be The Only One Stealing Christmas!

Your Nine Most Important Steps For Heating Assurance This Winter

5 Signs Your Garbage Disposal is On the Fritz

Signs Your Water Heater is On the Fritz

What Everyone Needs to Know About Rootering a Main Drain

The 5 Early Warning Signs of a Plumbing Leak

The 5 Important Steps to Unclog a Drain From An Arlington Plumber

5 Essential Tips to Find a Plumber in Alexandria, Va

The 5-Part Recipe for Keeping Cool This Summer

How to end the hot room/cold room dilemma

Now You Can Have low utility bills AND a cool home.

Top 10 Things You Get With A Plumbing Inspection

Five Ways to “Green-Up” Your Utilities

Garbage Disposer 101

How to Change the Look of your Kitchen In Alexandria, VA

Ways to unclog a drain by some of the best Arlington VA Plumbers

Ways to Save Money On Air Conditioning And Utility Bills This Summer

Beware of Shady HVAC Installers (and how to spot them)

A little common sense goes a long way when choosing an HVAC installer.

Be sure to get a written, itemized estimate.

One of the best ways to find a reliable HVAC installer is to ask friends and family.

A company with a physical address is preferable – don’t trust a guy who only gives you a cell phone number.

A Few Quick Tips to Help You Find the Best Plumbing Company

10 Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient In Virginia

Top 10 Heating And Air Conditioning Repair Myths

10 Higher Utility Bill Creators With Heating and AC Service

The 10 Biggest Problems For Plumbers In Arlington

What Happens During an Energy Audit And HVAC Systems?

What is the need of an Energy Audit and air conditioning repair?

“Why Is It So Painful to Pay $4 for a Gallon of Gas…

But ‘no big deal’ to pay nearly $20 a gallon for bottled water?”

What Should A HVAC Maintenance Tune-up consist of?

Maintenance Checklist

Cooling Specific

Heating Specific

Actions To Do Yourself

The Importance Of Spring Air Conditioning Maintenance

Ask The Plumber: Why Does My Kitchen Faucet Have Low Water Pressure?

"I need more Insulation?" Get an instant savings on heating

What "R" you talking about?

Head to Head Comparison of Water Heaters to Tankless Water Heaters

Could a Ductless HVAC System Be the Right Option for Your Home and Budget?

What to Do if You Suspect Your Plumbing Has Developed a Leak

Frequently Asked Heating Questions

Can a Water Heater Explode Through Your Roof? Watch MythBusters Test the Theory to Find Out!

How Getting Your Plumbing Ready for Winter Can Lower Your Energy Bill

Ask a plumber: How many years does a typical water heater last?

Check Out This Green Tip For Cleaning Your Plumbing Hardware

Top 10 Ways to Keep Your Home Warm and Pockets Full This Winter

'How It Works' Shows Us The Inner Workings of a Traditional Hot Water Heater With a Great Video!

Getting Your Home Ready for Winter

Check Out This Green Tip For Cleaning Your Plumbing Hardware

Your Nine Most Important Steps  For Heating Assurance This Winter