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When Do Air Ducts Need Attention?

Metallic air ducts and ventilation system with textured ducting and grille vent for HVAC efficiency.

The Importance of Air Ducts

Central heating and cooling systems may look condensed but expand throughout the home. Central air conditioning units use air ducts to deliver air evenly throughout the house, typically made using fiberglass or sheet metal. Ductwork is essential for home comfort when a home has central AC, so it’s important for homeowners to know when they need attention in the form of repair, replacement, or cleaning and maintenance. This post will answer some common questions about air ducts, so homeowners know when they need duct services.

How Long Do Air Ducts Last?

replacementDuctwork can be designed using different materials, but generally, they last around 15 years before they start experiencing issues and may need replacement. Sheet metal ducts are considered highly durable and typically last 20 years before air duct replacement is necessary. Fiberglass ducts are less durable but insulate against heat loss and should be replaced around every 15 years. 

Homeowners can tell when air duct replacement is needed when their ducts are over 15 years old and they start to experience issues like uneven heating or cooling, high utility bills, or a significant amount of noise that can be heard from the system or ducts. If homeowners notice these signs occurring and they have old ductwork, they should have the air ducts inspected to see if they need replacing. 

What Are Signs the Ducts Need Repair?

Because most ductwork is hidden, most air duct damage is not noticeable from the vents. However, many signs of duct damage can be seen or felt inside the home. An increase in dust or dirt in the house is one clue. Ductwork may have gaps or pinholes that need to be repaired, allowing dust and debris to escape or come in without a filter. This type of damage also allows heated and cooled air to escape, which can raise utility bills.

More signs that air duct repair may be needed are a lack of airflow, some rooms being warmer or cooler than others, and strange noises from the air ducts. If homeowners notice these signs, their ductwork could be the cause and require inspection and repair from a professional. 

When Do Air Ducts Need Cleaning?

ductRegardless of how long it’s been since the last duct cleaning, homeowners should have their ducts cleaned if there is a pest or vermin infestation. Pests and small animals can cause health problems for the entire household since the ducts are in charge of airflow, which means airborne diseases can be spread.

Additionally, duct cleaning may be needed if homeowners notice signs such as excess dust around the house or on vents, high utility bills, mold on or near the vents, foul smells, and if the home has gone through a recent renovation or remodeling. Duct cleaning will help improve a home’s indoor air quality, reducing allergens and improving health.  

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned business serving Lansing and the surrounding areas since 1984. They offer superior customer service, fast response, and full-service solutions. Call them today for heating and air conditioning services in Lansing, MI.

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Defending Against Floods With Sump Pumps

Submersible and pedestal sump pumps for effective water management from The Meridian Company.

What Is a Sump Pump? 

When it comes to keeping nature out of the structures that people occupy, a lot of infrastructure is dedicated solely to this. One of the threats that is present in many homes is floods. Flooding in homes can be caused when rainwater or groundwater seeps back into the home. This can lead to all kinds of damage, from minor cosmetic damage to catastrophic structural damage. 

The first line of defense against flooding in homes and businesses are devices called sump pumps. When installed in homes, sump pumps can quickly remove flood water from basins that collect water flooding a property. This post will share important information about sump pumps, including how they work, the different types, and their benefits.  

How Do They Work? 

pumpSump pumps are part of a network of drains around a property. These drains can be located in basements, crawl spaces, and parts of landscaping where water may tend to pool due to gravity and the surrounding grade. The purposes of sump pumps are to overcome gravity and move water up and away from structures. 

Each drain is connected to a sump basin where water pools. Different kinds of sump pumps operate slightly differently, but the principle is the same. Once the water reaches a certain level in the sump pump basin, a motor will turn on and operate the pump. Piping attached to the sump pump then transports the water upwards, out of the basin, and away from the home. 

Different Types of Sump Pumps 

There are several types of sump pumps available, including: 

  • Pedestal Sump Pump: These units have a motor that sits out of the water basin and is cheaper than submersible ones but noisier to operate. 
  • Submersible Sump Pump: Submersible units have motors and pumps as part of a sealed unit located inside the sump pump basin. They are generally more expensive than pedestal ones but make up for it in reliability and effectiveness. 
  • Battery Backup Sump Pump: Sump pumps are most necessary during floods. But this may also be when power is least reliable. Battery backup sump pumps keep homes from losing protection during a power failure. 
  • Combination Sump Pumps: These units are the total package. They contain primary sump pumps with a battery backup. 

Advantages of a Sump Pump 

saveMost properties can benefit from the protection of sump pumps. By keeping the property free of standing water and flooding, homeowners can avoid resulting problems like: 

  • Water damage
  • Insect infestations
  • Foundation damage and structural integrity issues
  • Mold and mildew growth
  • Humid homes

Another significant benefit of sump pumps is preventing the costs and expensive repairs of all the issues listed above caused by flooding. Protect the home and install a sump pump or have existing sump pumps inspected and maintained by professionals for continued protection. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned business serving Lansing and the surrounding communities. They provide superior customer service, fast response, and the best brands. Call them today for sump pump installation and repair services in Lansing, MI.

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Take Refreshing Summer Drinks to the Next Level With Filtered Water

Water filter unit with copper tubing, white body, and GE logo for home maintenance and purification services.

Why Everyone Should Install a Whole Home Water Filter This Summer

Water filters are an essential and helpful tool for households interested in improving the quality of their tap water. Water filtration systems provide many benefits that can help people to create a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. This blog post will share three benefits of installing a water filtration system at home.

Improved Taste

waterOne of the primary benefits associated with water filtration systems is improved taste. Tap water from municipal sources often has additives, such as chlorine or fluoride, that have a strange, unpleasant taste. Water filtration systems can filter out these additives and contaminants to give water a better flavor. Installing a whole-house water filter can provide homeowners with better-tasting tap water, meaning that the water tastes better, as well as drinks made with water. It can improve the taste of coffee, iced tea, lemonade, and other popular summer drinks. 

Water filtrations systems can improve the taste of water (and other drinks) by:

  • Removing the chlorine and chloramines from the water
  • Reducing the sediment and particles in the water
  • Eliminating the heavy metals from the water
  • Reducing the organic compounds from the water
  • Creating a better pH balance in the water
  • Enhancing the overall purity of the water

Safer Water

Another benefit of water filtration systems is the improved health benefits of drinking clean water. After passage through a municipal water supply, tap water may contain trace amounts of minerals, chemicals, and other pollutants. A water filtration system removes these contaminants, ensuring people drink clean and safe water.

Many types of water filters exist for various applications, some utilizing physical barriers such as sediment filters or activated carbon and others using chemical reactions like reverse osmosis or ion exchange. Water filtration systems offer numerous benefits that help households improve their health and reduce their environmental impact. By investing in a water filter system, people can ensure that they are drinking clean, safe, and great-tasting water daily.

Save Money

saveWith the cost of groceries skyrocketing, buying bottled water for everyday use can be costly. So, in addition to health benefits, whole-house water filters also help households save money. By using a filtration system to purify tap water, households can reduce their spending on beverages rather than purchasing expensive bottled water from the store.

Finally, with water filtration systems, households can reduce their environmental impact. Purchasing bottled water contributes to the creation of plastic waste and pollution, while a whole-home water filter eliminates these risks and reduces a home’s plastic waste.

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned business serving East Lansing, MI, and the surrounding areas. They provide full-service solutions, fast response, and superior customer service. Call them today for water filtration system installation or repair in East Lansing, MI.  

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Summer is Coming: Signs That a Home's AC Unit Can't Take the Heat

Technicians from The Meridian Company servicing an air conditioning unit on a building exterior. Tools are visible nearby.

Symptoms of an AC That May Need Replacement Before the Summer

Nothing ruins a great summer day like an air conditioner going out. The heat can cause serious physical problems for people, including headaches and fatigue, not to mention the worst-case scenario of heat stroke, which can be extremely dangerous. Now is an excellent time for homeowners to verify that their system is working correctly and will be reliable throughout the summer’s hottest days. This blog will share common signs indicating an AC replacement may be needed before the summertime. 

The Age of the AC System

oldOn average, air conditioners can last 10 to 20 years with proper maintenance. However, older units may show signs of aging and require more repair before eventually needing replacement. In hot weather, it is essential that the air conditioning is properly functioning to keep a home cool and comfortable and prevent the dangers of being stuck in the heat without AC. 

If homeowners have an old AC unit nearing the end of its life, it might not be able to handle the heat, and they'll end up with an inefficiently cooled home or, worse, a broken AC in the summer. It's crucial to consider replacing an old air conditioner before it breaks down to save time and money in the long run. Investing in a new air conditioning unit can give homeowners peace of mind knowing they won't be left in the hot weather with a broken AC. It's also important to consider getting an energy-efficient model to save money on cooling bills every month. Replacing an old, inefficient unit can provide homeowners and their families with greater comfort and save them money.

Loss of Energy Efficiency

Another sign an AC unit may need replacement is a loss of efficiency that homeowners may notice through higher-than-usual energy bills. Air conditioners become less energy efficient and cost more to run as they age. Additionally, component malfunctions, dirty filters, neglected maintenance, and outdated systems can cause AC units to work harder than necessary and use more energy. All these things add up to higher operating costs for the homeowner.

If a newer air conditioner that has received routine maintenance begins to run inefficiently, it's likely an issue with a specific component or malfunctioning part requiring repair. However, an inefficient system can also lead to more wear and tear on the system, reducing its lifespan, so once a professional inspect the system for the cause of its inefficiency, the best solution may be to replace the unit. 

Home Fails to Reach the Right Temperature

hotIf the house never seems to get as cool as it should or warm air blows from the vents instead of cool air, this can indicate a serious issue with the AC unit that may require replacing it. Many things can cause such a problem, including: 

  • Bent coil fins
  • Broken thermostat
  • Dirty coils
  • Dirty air ducts
  • Electrical issues
  • Leaky coolant
  • Malfunctioning blower

Depending on factors like what is causing the problem and the age of the unit, the solution may be AC replacement or repair. HVAC contractors can advise homeowners on the best solution to their air conditioning problems. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a family-owned plumbing, HVAC, and remodeling business serving Lansing, MI, and the surrounding areas. They provide full-service solutions, fast response, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for AC replacement and installation in Lansing, MI. 

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Remember Water Heater Maintenance During Spring Cleaning This Year

Person using an adjustable wrench on a water heater with copper pipes, part of The Meridian Company plumbing services.

The Importance of Water Heater Maintenance 

Spring cleaning is a big job that requires lots of time and effort. The home can suffer from general clutter and disrepair when spring cleaning is neglected. To prevent the house from becoming neglected, homeowners should have an airtight spring cleaning plan that includes water heater maintenance. 

The water heater is responsible for a considerable portion of monthly energy bills, providing the family with hot water. When water heater maintenance is neglected, water heating costs rise, and the family may get stuck without hot water from a surprise malfunction. Here is a quick guide to water heater maintenance to help homeowners understand its importance and benefits. 

Flush the Water Heater to Remove Sediment 

flushDraining and flushing a water heater regularly is essential to maintain its optimal performance. Over time, sediment and mineral can accumulate inside the tank of the water heater, which can cause damage to the system itself. This buildup can also significantly reduce efficiency, leading to higher energy costs and more frequent repairs. 

Furthermore, if the sediment and minerals are allowed to build up, it can lead to corrosion of the tank's inner walls over time, which may result in leaks or additional damage to other components. It’s recommended that water heaters be drained and flushed out regularly, at least once a year, as part of routine maintenance to prevent this.

Other Steps for Reliable Water Heaters 

maintenanceDraining and flushing the water heater is one essential practice carried out during water heater maintenance, but that isn’t all. Water heater maintenance is a comprehensive service that makes water heaters last longer and perform better. To reach these goals, plumbers will also perform tasks like:

  • Checking the anode rod for corrosion and replacing it when needed
  • Inspecting the hot water tank for leaks and corrosion
  • Testing safety devices, especially the valves
  • Inspecting and cleaning the burner or heating elements
  • Checking electrical connections 

Benefits of Annual Maintenance 

When all these maintenance tasks are completed by a professional, homeowners gain numerous benefits that make the cost of annual water heater maintenance worth it. The first way homeowners save money with routine water heater maintenance is with lower utility bills. When water heaters are well maintained, they have better energy efficiency, reducing energy usage and saving homeowners money every month. 

Regular maintenance can also help identify potential problems before they become bigger issues, saving homeowners time and money. Additionally, professional water heater maintenance helps preserve the longevity of the equipment and can help avoid costly repairs or early replacements. Maintaining a water heater is critical to ensuring a water heating system runs at its best and that homeowners get the most out of it, so add it to the spring cleaning checklist!

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a family-owned local business serving Lansing and the surrounding areas. They provide fast response, full-service solutions, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for water heater services in Lansing, MI. 

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