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2021 Residential Contractor of the Year Aware Winner

Like most kids after graduating high school, Larry Shoemaker went to college. However, he came home after about a year, and started working in his father’s plumbing business, Deluxe Plumbing & Heating.

“I wanted to be a forest ranger, right?” Shoemaker says laughing. “But I came back and worked here and just kept going — I never went back.”

The rest, as they say, is history. After working in the business with just his father and himself, Shoemaker purchased the company in 2003. He spent the first six years working in the field with his wife, Kim Shoemaker.

The second-generation family business has built a reputation for being the go-to company for plumbing, heating and electrical service in Lehigh Valley and the surrounding areas. Deluxe Plumbing & Heating is dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest technologies through continuing education and training for its employees. The company’s commitment and passion for both training and apprenticeship have nabbed Deluxe Plumbing & Heating accolades as Plumbing & Mechanical’s 2021 Residential Contractor of the Year.

Solid foundations

Founded by Shoemaker’s father 1984, Deluxe Plumbing & Heating has a rock-solid foundation in the communities it serves. In 2007, Shoemaker started hiring employees to help grow the business. In 2009, he decided to add an HVAC department, and started attending HVAC classes.

Today, the company boasts 37 employees and 19 fleet vehicles offering residential and commercial plumbing service and installation.

“I like the people we work with — they’re great,” Shoemaker says. “Fixing problems and seeing something different every day — that’s the best thing. And our customers love us. We do what we say we’re going to do, and we back it up.”

Last month, Deluxe moved into a new 12,000-square-foot location after outgrowing its former building.

“When we moved into the other place six years ago, it was the perfect size for us,” Shoemaker notes. “We had 14 people then, and actually, the 4,000 square feet was a little big for us. Now, with the number of trucks and employees, we just outgrew it.”

Shoemaker is also very active within the industry as a member of PHCC — National Association, PHCC of Pennsylvania, OESP, Success Group International and National Comfort Institute. He also happens to be the current president of his state PHCC chapter.

“The contacts and networking are excellent,” Shoemaker says about his association memberships. “Knowing people on local, state and national levels is a great way to do business. And the training is incredible. I’m still going to a lot of classes myself, and I send all of our people through classes.”

Home growing employees

When Shoemaker starts talking about training, you can see his passion for the industry shine through. Deluxe Plumbing & Heating features a full apprenticeship program, Shoemaker notes.

“I’m one of the oldest people in the company, and I’m 47,” he says. “Most of our people are in their 20s or early 30s. We get them from high school, train within and bring them up through both HVAC and plumbing.”

Unlike most plumbing and heating contractors around the country, Shoemaker says he is not having any trouble recruiting new employees.

“There’s a trick to it,” he notes. “Being part of all those associations helps. I’m on the boards of four different schools, and I go to each one of them and talk. All the students know who we are and what we’re about. We bring in students every year for summer internships, co-ops and job shadows. They go through the process and we find great people.”

Shoemaker explains it all starts with high school students doing a job shadow.

“For every four to five students we see job shadowing, we bring one on board — it starts as a co-op,” he says. “After the co-op, they do a summer internship. Sometimes, we get them young, coming out of their freshman year and heading into sophomore year. Once they have graduated, we put them through a four-year apprenticeship on the plumbing side, or a three-year apprenticeship on the HVAC side. We do NATE certifications, NCI certifications and utilize ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) and PPATEC (a local trade school). Some of the classes are local, but others are not — we fly our people all over the U.S. for those types of trainings. We also send them to manufacturer training sessions, like the three-day Navien class or up to New Hampshire for Laars training. As long as they’re with us long enough and have a good attitude, we put money into them.”

All this training is important at the end of the day for one reason: To reduce callbacks and phone calls to Shoemaker himself.

“It’s less phone calls for me, and it’s better for the customer,” he says. “The customer gets an overall better experience. We train soft skills a lot with SGI, things like how to talk to customers, how to run a service call and more. The tech training is great for the customer as well. And it’s beneficial for the techs — they’re not calling on the phone when they don’t know something, so they don’t look bad in front of the customer. The job runs smoother, and there are less issues out in the field. You have to put money into your people. It’s well worth it.”

Family culture

Deluxe has truly built a family atmosphere and culture within the business. It’s the thing 24-year-old Alejandro (Alex) Fritz appreciates most about working for the company. Fritz was one of those high school students that got his start through a job shadow about eight years ago. Now, he’s a licensed master plumber and new construction crew leader for Deluxe.

“I knew when I was in high school that I didn’t want to go to college,” Fritz says. “When I started the technical school program, I originally wanted to go into nursing or physical therapy. The way the program worked is you would spend 15 days in one area to learn about the job, then transfer to another area and so on. When I got to nursing and physical therapy, I knew I didn’t like it at all. Plumbing was one of the areas I liked, which is funny because I don’t even know how it got on my list. I didn’t pick it. When I got to the class, it was really hands-on and the teacher liked me.”

While Fritz really enjoyed the class, he notes he probably wouldn’t have stayed in plumbing after graduating if he hadn’t landed at Deluxe.

“I had went on a few job shadows at a few other companies, but I didn’t like the people I was working with,” he says. “I really like the culture here at Deluxe — it’s a nice place to work. It’s very family-oriented and everyone is really close. We all get along really well, and there are no issues or drama. I love what I do — it’s fun seeing it from start to finish.”

Fritz also has a deep respect for Shoemaker and his leadership.

“Larry is a really cool guy — you can call him for anything, it doesn’t have to be work related,” he says. “He helped me get my first car. He took me to the dealership and helped me go over all the numbers. He also helped me — and all the other guys here — get my journeyman license, and then my master plumbing license as well.”

Fritz laughs and notes their relationship was a little rough in the beginning because “Larry didn’t work with a lot of kids, and didn’t really know how to get through to us at first. He’s really good at learning on his feet, though. It’s funny because about a month ago, I was asking him how he dealt with us because now I’m in his shoes and training the new guys coming up.”

Chad Haberle, Deluxe’s plumbing service manager, has been with the company for the past nine years. He got his start in the industry in his 20s apprenticing with a small plumbing company.

“Deluxe Plumbing differs from other companies because of our atmosphere and Larry’s vision and drive to advance all of our employees in their careers,” Haberle says. “We have nearly 40 employees and everyone between departments get along extremely well. I love that we are able to help customers in their time of need by sending professional technicians to provide immediate relief while providing options for permanent solutions to their issues.”

Haberle also boasts about the Deluxe’s mentoring, internship and apprenticeship programs.

“We combat the labor shortages by utilizing many avenues,” he says. “Several of our current techs have gone through this program and have been with us for many years. They get to learn how we operate, our systems and what is expected of our technicians. Also, word of mouth locally has allowed us to become a place of business that people want to be a part of. Our mentoring doesn’t end when students finish high school. We offer a four-year night school apprenticeship program that allows our technicians to get technical training as well as receiving journeyman and master plumbing licenses.”

This is important, Haberle notes, because a majority of plumbing companies usually have only one master plumber on staff. Deluxe Plumbing & Heating currently has six employees with master plumbing licenses, and several others with journeyman licenses.

“Larry has a strong belief in advancing our employees in their careers,” he says. “Training is a big focus here at Deluxe. My greatest accomplishment is seeing our younger employees go through the apprenticeship program, setting themselves up for success throughout their lives for themselves and their families.”

Haberle adds he hopes to continue to help build Deluxe into the premiere plumbing contractor in Lehigh Valley.

“We not only want to become larger, but we want to maintain a level of commitment to our customers that they can trust we are providing the best service and warranties around,” he says.

Shoemaker notes that management is fun, and he tries to be open with his employees.

“Our people are great — there’s nobody I would want to push out the door,” he says. “Building a culture is all about picking the right people. It took us a long time to get it right. And some of our young people actually pushed some of the older ones out, and it was just because they didn’t have the right mindset. Finding the right mindset is key.”

“Our people are great — there’s nobody I would want to push out the door. Building a culture is all about picking the right people. It took us a long time to get it right. And some of our young people actually pushed some of the older ones out, and it was just because they didn’t have the right mindset. Finding the right mindset is key.” – LARRY SHOEMAKER

Rolling with the punches

Like every other service contractor, Deluxe Plumbing & Heating had to pivot when COVID-19 hit last year.

“My crew did not want to stay home at all,” Shoemaker says. “So they came in. We still had our trainings and in-house stuff. And we did a whole bunch of training over Zoom. In the very beginning, Pennsylvania shut down for about nine weeks, and our construction just halted. The service side slowed down for the first two months, but we were still running about five or six service calls a day. We did our best to keep everyone busy with training and to just keep them all positive. That was the biggest thing.”

By mid-June last year, the calls were picking up again. And Deluxe has had a stellar 2021 so far, Shoemaker notes. His team is back to running an average of 30 calls per day.

“People are at home using things more,” he says. “When you’re at home all the time, you want to be comfortable. Previously, if something wasn’t working right, let’s say an air conditioner, they wouldn’t mind it for a few hours each night. But when you’re there all the time, it becomes a problem. And everything is getting used more. All the fixtures and toilets are getting used more, so there are more backups and things like that going on.”

Looking ahead

When asked about the future, Shoemaker says he is looking for steady growth for his company that will enable him to bring up more people.

“I don’t want to bring in outside people,” he explains. “I want our people to be able to move up into open positions and be able to prosper. I’m so proud of the group we have — they’re great. They’re driven. They do well, and they care about each other and what they do. That’s all I can really ask for.”

Author

Nicole Krawcke is chief editor of Plumbing & Mechanical.

issue October 2021

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/knowledge/2021-residential-contractor-of-the-year-aware-winner source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2021/10/2021-residential-contractor-of-year.html

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Our New Location

We invite you to our OPEN HOUSE and to celebrate with us!

We are a family owned and operated business in Bethlehem, PA. As a thank you for welcoming us into your house for all of your whole home needs, we would like to welcome you into ours on October 30, 2021.

Food provide by

Poster Details of our Open House Event

Directions to Deluxe Plumbing & Heating New Location

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/knowledge/our-new-location source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2021/10/our-new-location.html

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How Do I Replace My Cast Iron Drain Pipe In My Basement

Replacing a basement drain pipe can be a costly project. Depending on the circumstances, it can require part of your foundation, walls, and basement floor to be removed, and you’ll be unable to stay in your home while the project takes place.

But luckily, full-scale replacement isn’t the only choice when it comes to cast iron drain pipes. Pipe lining repair is usually an option, too. In this blog, we’ll look at the basics of cast iron basement drain pipes, discuss signs that you may need a repair or replacement, and go over your options for repairs, such as trenchless pipe relining.

Do I Have A Cast Iron Drain Pipe?

If your house was built before the 1970s, you probably have a cast iron drain pipe. Cast iron was widely used for drain pipes and water mains before the 1970s, when plastic materials like PVC became more popular.

Cast iron pipes can easily last up to 80 or 100 years, but they do tend to corrode and rust over time, and will eventually wear out and fail.

Not sure if your pipe is made of cast iron? It can be hard to tell on your own. We recommend contacting a plumber in Lehigh Valley to check on your pipes and determine the material they’re made of.

Signs Your Cast Iron Drain Pipe Needs to Be Replaced

If you suspect you need to replace your basement drain pipe, there are a few signs you should look out for.

● Nasty smells in your home – Sewer gas or other foul odors can indicate damage in your basement cast iron drain pipe.

● Sluggish drains – If more than one or two of your plumbing appliances is draining slowly, this usually indicates a crack, damage, or other issues with your sewer drain pipe.

● Lush patches of grass – Very lush, green patches of grass over the drain pipe usually indicate that sewage is leaking from your pipe.

● Cracks in walls or foundation – This may indicate prolonged basement drain pipe issues. Over time, leaking sewage and/or water can cause damage to the foundation of your home.

Trenchless Pipe Relining Is the Best Way To Replace Your Basement Drain Pipe

So, what should you do if you think your cast iron drain pipe needs to be replaced in Lehigh Valley?

First, don't think - what's this gonna cost?! Call an expert plumber to come look at your basement slab and pipes.

In many cases, there are only a few problematic areas that are damaged and need replacement. If this is the case, trenchless pipe relining is the best option to repair your cast iron drain pipe.

In the pipe lining repair method, a plumber uses a flexible camera to identify damage to your pipe. Then, they will use special tools to place a fiberglass felt liner in the damaged area, and inject it with resin.

This essentially creates a “pipe-within-a-pipe,” sealing the leak and damage without requiring you to dig up and replace the entire pipe.

The only reason we would have to dig would be if the pipe is offset so much so that we can’t level it out before lining.

So, if the pipe is completely cracked and one part of the pipe is substantially lower than the other part - In this case we would put a leveling agent in that area to make up for the difference, but that is only able to be done when its minor. Otherwise we would have to dig.

Fully Replacing A Basement Cast Iron Drain Pipe Is A Last Resort Option

In some cases, it may not be possible to reline the cast iron drain pipe.

Significant damage may require one or several sections of the pipe to be removed. If this is the case, it’s usually a good idea to completely tear up the pipe and replace it with a modern PVC sewer pipe.

This is a long, complex, and difficult process, which often requires the removal of walls, flooring, and even digging up your front yard. Usually, you and your family will need to stay at a hotel or somewhere else since the plumbing will be inoperable throughout the process.

Replacing your drain pipe is definitely worth it if there are serious problems with your cast iron drain pipe – but due to the cost and complexity of this process, it’s best to explore other options like trenchless pipe relining first.

Got Sewer Drainage Issues? Contact Deluxe Plumbing & Heating Today!

At Deluxe Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in repairing and restoring cast iron pipes that are under concrete basements and foundations.

We offer 24/7 service, and are always prepared to help you restore your plumbing in Lehigh Valley. Contact us online or give us a call at 610-628-1724 to get the service you need right away.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/how-do-i-replace-my-cast-iron-drain-pipe-in-my-basement source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2021/07/how-do-i-replace-my-cast-iron-drain.html

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How to Remove Calcium Buildup from A Water Heater?

Got no hot water at your house? There are a lot of different reasons your water heater may not be working, and if you have hard water, one of the most common causes is calcium buildup on heating elements.

Calcium is found in many municipal water supplies in small amounts. Over time, calcium will collect with other sediments in your water heater. If your water heater is not working or the hot water is strangely colored, this may be the cause of your issue.

How to Remove Calcium Buildup from A Water Heater?

Here are two common ways to remove calcium buildup from water heaters.

Flush the water heater – This should be done once per year to reduce calcium buildup. This simply involves turning the water heater off and letting all of the water (and sediment buildup) drain out.

Use chemical treatments – If you already have a lot of calcium in your heater, you can flush the tank, then pour vinegar into the hot water tank, and let it sit for a few hours. Then, just flush the tank thoroughly to remove the vinegar and calcium.

If flushing the heater and using chemical treatments does not work, you may have too much calcium buildup, or the issue may be unrelated to calcium deposits. Contact a plumber to get to the bottom of the problem.

Prevention Is Better Than Removal – Keep Your Water Heater in Good Shape

Ideally, you should avoid calcium buildup on heating elements completely. If you have hard water that’s high in calcium, you should use a lower temperature for your water heater. Keep it closer to 120 degrees, as higher temperatures tend to leave behind more calcium.

An even better option is to invest in a water softener if you have hard water. A water softener will remove calcium and other minerals like magnesium from your water, which will prevent calcium buildup on heating elements. With a water softener, you won’t have to worry about having no hot water due to mineral deposits in your hot water tank!

Got Hot Water Heater Issues? Get Help from Deluxe Plumbing & Heating!

At Deluxe Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in plumbing as well as water treatment services, including water softener installation. If you think your hot water heater is having issues due to calcium deposits, contact us online or call us at 610-628-1724 to get the assistance you need.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/how-to-remove-calcium-buildup-from-a-water-heater source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2021/05/how-to-remove-calcium-buildup-from.html

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How to Light A Hot Water Heater – Your Step-By-Step Guide

If you have a gas water heater and no hot water, you may be wondering how to light a hot water heater.

In some cases, it’s possible that your water heater is in perfectly fine shape, and the pilot light has simply gone out.

All-righty, in this blog from Deluxe Plumbing & Heating, we’ll discuss a few steps and precautions to take when lighting a gas hot water heater.

Let’s get started.

1. Turn Off the Gas and Open the Pilot Light Access Door/Cover

First, turn off the gas to your hot water heater for about 5 minutes.

Then, check your owner’s manual to find the pilot light access door or cover and open it.

This is usually located right below the gas valve.

2. Find the Burner Inside

You will want a flashlight or headlamp to identify the pilot light burner. You’ll see two small gas tubes leading to it.

3. Turn the Gas Knob To “Pilot”

In some water heaters, this may be done using a separate button, usually colored red, which you’ll need to press and hold as you light the pilot light.

4. Light the Pilot Light

Some units may have an igniter button. If this is the case, use it. This will usually create a small electrical short that ignites the pilot light.

If your unit does not have this, you can use a long gas grill lighter or a long grill match. Don’t try to use a short cigarette lighter or match, or you’re likely to burn yourself.

While holding down the pilot button or keeping the gas knob open, carefully place the flame near the pilot light.

Once the pilot light is fully lit, continue to hold the knob or gas valve open for at least a minute. Release it slowly, and make sure the light is still lit.

5. Turn the Gas Back on Completely

Turn the gas to your gas hot water heater back on completely, and listen for the “whump” or “whoosh” sound of the main burner igniting.

This will be familiar if you’ve ever used a gas-powered grill or fireplace.

6. Replace the Pilot Light Access Door or Cover

Close or replace the pilot light access door or cover completely. Your pilot light is fully lit – you’ve just learned how to light a hot water heater!

Got Pilot Light Problems? Contact Deluxe Plumbing & Heating

A pilot light can be extinguished by natural changes in gas pressure, but if your pilot light keeps going out, this likely means there’s an issue like a bent or dirty thermocouple, a small device that detects flame outages and automatically turns the gas off when the pilot light turns off.

If your gas hot water heater is acting up, Deluxe Plumbing & Heating is here to help. We’re fully certified with the cities around the Lehigh Valley to work on gas lines!

Contact us online or give us a call at 610-628-1724 to get the help you need right away.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/how-to-light-a-hot-water-heater-your-step-by-step-guide source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2021/05/how-to-light-hot-water-heater-your-step.html

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My Plumbing Work Didn’t Pass Inspection – Here’s What Happened

If you’ve recently had to get a plumbing permit for a home renovation or other serious plumbing work, you may be wondering how you can make sure you pass a plumbing inspection. What are some common issues with plumbing changes that can make your home fail an inspection?

Find out below or watch this funny video of plumber causes major flood in apartment

1. Problems with Plumbing Traps

House traps for plumbing are a type of pipe that creates a water barrier under a drain, trapping water to prevent nasty and potentially-dangerous sewer gases from escaping into your home. There are lots of different types of traps in plumbing, but some of them are not allowed due to Pennsylvania building codes.

This includes “S” traps, which are shaped like a horizontal S. Your plumber may use under sinks and in other areas either without realizing they violate the plumbing code, or because they don’t care that it’s a violation.

S traps are not allowed because, when draining a lot of water, they may cause a “siphoning” effect that eliminates the water barrier and allows dangerous sewer gases into your home.

You need to make sure that you or your plumber uses P traps or another type of plumbing trap that is allowed by the Pennsylvania Residential Code of 2009.

2. Test Leaks in Plumbing Systems

If you have hired a plumber who doesn’t know their stuff or you try to take on a plumbing job yourself, you may end up with a leaky plumbing system.

If your pipes are leaking in Pennsylvania when the plumbing inspector shows us, you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll fail the inspection.

3. Improperly-Sized Pipes & Drains

Pennsylvania, like all other states, has strict requirements outlined in the building codes relating to the proper width and diameter of pipes, drains, and other plumbing elements. If you do plumbing work yourself or hire a plumber who is not familiar with local building requirements, improperly-sized pipes could lead to a plumbing inspection failure – and the entire project may need to be replaced or reworked.

4. Failure to Use Nail Plates & Guards Near Important Pipes

Building codes in most states require nail guards to be installed anywhere water pipes run through or near wall studs. These metal plates protect the pipe from damage if a nail or screw is driven through the stud during a remodel or some other project.

They are required because nails driven into unprotected studs that contain or are near pipes could pierce the pipe. This is particularly dangerous for plastic pipes made of PVC.

Here are a few other reasons you may fail on your plumbing:

https://youtu.be/xpsLXmntINE

Turn to A Pro for Plumbing Work & Make Sure You Pass Inspection!

At Deluxe Plumbing & Heating, we’re intimately familiar with plumbing and building codes in Bethlehem and Pennsylvania. If you need some plumbing work done, don’t try to do it yourself, or hire an unlicensed plumber. Contact the pros – give us a call at 610-628-1724 or get in touch online, and we’ll provide you with the professional plumbing services you need!

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/my-plumbing-work-didn-t-pass-inspection-here-s-what-happened source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2021/02/my-plumbing-work-didnt-pass-inspection.html

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Understanding Your Bethlehem Water Utility Bill – Your Quick Guide

If you live in Bethlehem, PA, you may have found that your water utility bill looks a bit different.

So, in this guide from Deluxe Plumbing & Heating, we’ll take a look at your Bethlehem water bill and discuss what it means.

Section A – Header

This section is located at the very top of your bill. It includes your basic personal information, including:

Service address

Date of billing

Due date for payment

Account number

Total amount due

Section B – Account Summary

This section is located directly under Section A, and includes an overview of your past bills and payments.

Section C – Current Charges

Located directly beneath Section B, this section of your Bethlehem water bill has a detailed breakdown of your total charges for the current billing period.

Section D – Message Center

This is located to the upper-left of the bill, and contains any special messages about your services, as well as contact information for the Bethlehem Sewer and Water Resources Department.

Section E – Total Amount Due

This shows the amount you owe to the city on or before your water bill’s due date. It’s located just below section C.

Section F – Water Consumption Graph

Located just below Section D on the lower-left, this graph lets you get an “at-a-glance” look at your water consumption compared to your previous billing periods. Be on the lookout for big spikes. This could indicate a water leak or another such issue if your water use has not changed.

Section G – Meter Readings

This section is located just below Section E, and it details your last two-meter readings, and your units and usage for the current billing period.

Section H – Payment Coupon

Located just below section G, this is where you’ll detach the bill and return it in the envelope along with your payment.

Pay Attention to Your Water Bill

It’s always a good idea to pay attention to your water consumption to save money, and if you notice major spikes in water usage, this may indicate unnoticed leaks in your home, and you should call Deluxe Plumbing & Heating right away for help.

Call today at 610-628-1724 or contact us online for the assistance you need.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/understanding-your-bethlehem-water-utility-bill-your-quick-guide source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2021/02/understanding-your-bethlehem-water.html

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Should I Purchase A Water Softener from Lowe’s Or Home Depot?

Water softeners are an excellent addition to your home, and can remove calcium, magnesium, and other minerals from your water, resulting in water that tastes better, is more effective for home cleaning, and doesn’t form soap scum in the shower.

But you may be wondering where to buy water softeners.

And if you’re DIY’er, your thoughts have probably already turned to Lowe’s water softeners or Home Depot water softeners.

But should you buy one of these units?

Let’s find out now!

Should I Purchase A Water Softener from Lowe’s?

Lowe’s has a lot of different water softeners for sale, but the principal brand they sell is A.O. Smith, which offers 35,000 to 50,000 grain water softeners.

The “grain” capacity refers to how much water the softener can treat in a day. The cost of these water softeners ranges from $357 to about $797, which is not bad!

However, it’s important to note that, when choosing a Lowe’s water softener, the employees at Lowe’s are far from specialists.

They may not be able to guide you toward the right unit for your needs – so you’ll need to do plenty of your own research and come prepared.

Should I Purchase A Water Softener from Home Depot?

Thinking about browsing Home Depot water softeners instead? Like Lowe’s, Home Depot has plenty of units available. Its most popular units are from GE, which is definitely a reputable manufacturer.

Again, like Lowe’s, the GE water softeners from Home Depot are available in a wide variety of sizes ranging from 30,000 to 40,2000 grains, with prices varying from $397 to $799, so you have lots of options to choose from.

You Can Save With DIY Installation, But You Can Also Get Installation Services

The low cost of Lowe’s or Home Depot water softeners may make them seem appealing, but unless you’re an experienced DIY’er, you may not be able to handle the installation and setup on your own.

In that case, you’ll need to hire an installation company to install and set up your Home Depot or Lowe’s water softener. You can hire an installer through Lowe’s or Home Depot, but it’s important to note that these are just contractors – not employees of the company.

They are not affiliated with the business at all, and their level of experience installing water softeners can vary quite a bit.

You’ll Be Responsible for Maintenance If You Choose Lowe’s Or Home Depot

Home Depot and Lowe’s may be able to help you with water softener installation through contractors, but that’s where support ends. You’ll be responsible for maintaining your water softener on your own if you choose the DIY route and buy a Lowe’s or Home Depot water softener.

This can be time-consuming and difficult if you have no past experience with water softening units.

In almost every case, when the water heater breaks down you need to call the 800 number on the pamphlet and troubleshoot the problems with phone support – have you ever had to do that before? Ouch - what a time waster!

If you don’t maintain your water softener properly, you could even shorten its lifespan, so make sure you read the instructions carefully and service your unit regularly.

Buying A Lowe’s Or Home Depot Water Softener Isn’t Always A Great Idea

If you’re an experienced DIY’er, have worked with water softeners before, and don’t mind a bit of troubleshooting and routine maintenance, you may want to buy a Home Depot or Lowe’s water softener to save some money.

But if you’d prefer to leave everything up to the experts, it’s best to hire a professional plumbing company like Deluxe Plumbing & Heating.

We can handle it all – from testing the hardness of your water and choosing a properly-sized unit from Puronics Water Treatment Solutions, to installing and setting up your water softener, and maintaining the water lines to and from the water softener system.

So, if buying a Home Depot or Lowe’s water softener is beginning to sound like more trouble than it’s worth, don’t bother with the headache.

Get in touch with Deluxe Plumbing & Heating Services to explore your water softening options today by contacting us online or calling us at 610-628-1724.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/should-i-purchase-a-water-softener-from-lowe-s-or-home-depot source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2021/02/should-i-purchase-water-softener-from.html

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Are There Home Air Purification Systems That Can Install into Your Existing Duct Work?

Whether you have allergies, lots of pets, or just want cleaner, purer air in your home, home air purification systems are a great option.

But you may be worried that you’ll need new duct work to install a whole-home air purification system – and that can be expensive.

Don't worry, though!

There are plenty of air purifiers that can install into your existing HVAC system.

Learn more and see how they work below!

Don’t HVAC Air Filters Purify My Air? Yes – But Not Completely

First, you may be wondering if you really need a home air purification system. After all, you swap your home’s air filter regularly.

Isn’t that enough? Not quite.

https://youtu.be/4cVIDbn2bWk

Your HVAC filter is designed to filter out a lot of different large particles such as pet hair and dander, dust, and other particles that could clog up your ventilation ducts.

These filters do not capture tiny particles like allergens, microbes, and contaminants like VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which can reduce the quality of your indoor air.

If you want to eliminate these particles, an air purifier that uses a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter or similar technologies to purify the air. Dedicated air purifiers filter out much smaller particles, eliminating up to 97% or more of contaminants in your air.

Using a dedicated air purifier has lots of benefits. You can reduce odors from smoke and pets, breathe more easily if you have asthma or allergies, and even reduce your risk of contracting airborne diseases.

Understanding How Clean Air Defense Products Purify the Air

There are a lot of different types of air filters. But the simplest type of filters, such as Clean Air Defense filters, don’t require any ductwork or additional equipment at all.

Instead, these filters slide into the existing slot where your traditional HVAC filter would go – requiring absolutely no modifications, but providing much better filtering power. Just slide it in, and you’re good to go.

Air filters use what’s known as “electronic polarized-media technology” to capture small particles. An electric current is sent through the filter, which attracts tiny particles and captures them, attaching them to the filter media and preventing them from getting into your indoor air.

Clean Air Defense products capture 97% of all particles up to .3 microns in diameter, and this includes smoke, dander, mold, and other such hard-to-capture particles.

https://youtu.be/bgEd_lZR8PE

Interested in A Whole-Home Air Purification System? Contact Us Now!

If you’re looking for an air purifier that can clean the air for your entire home, Deluxe Plumbing & Heating is here to help. We offer Clean Air Defense products that can be easily installed into your existing HVAC system – with no ductwork modifications. That makes it the best air purifier on the market for people on a budget.

Interested in learning more? Contact Deluxe Plumbing & Heating to get more details, and see if a home air purification system may be right for you and your family.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/are-there-home-air-purification-systems-that-can-install-into-your-existing-duct-work source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2021/02/are-there-home-air-purification-systems.html

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How to Prepare Your Home for Freezing Weather

“Helpful tips and preparations to alleviate emergencies and protect your home.”

Update: 01/27/2021

At Deluxe Plumbing & Heating, we are not only passionate about our work, but we are passionate about arming our customers with insight to better prepare you home for freezing temperatures and the havoc it can do to your home’s plumbing & appliances.

We feel it is our top priority to send this to you due to local forecast predicting temperatures under 20 degrees for 72+ hours. What does this mean for you? This is our greatest window that we see an increase in emergency calls. We never like to see anyone faced with an emergency situation, especially when a large part of the issues we see can be prevented by simple preparations and general awareness.

We would like to go through a list of common factors that you can easily go through your home and take care of. Please be mindful not every home has the exact items or situations we are going to cover! As always, if you have any feedback for us how we can improve our service to better serve you, please feel free to reach out!

Why Should I be Concerned?

Frozen pipes are not only a temporary nuisance, but can also cause catastrophic damage to your home- often times without you even knowing! The type of piping your home has will better aid us in how to best fix the issue.

Metal pipe: galvanized and/or copper we utilize a machine that connects to your home to thaw the freeze.

Pex pipe: the only way to thaw is with a heat gun or hair dryer. *Be cautions: if you attempt this yourself, you may overheat the pex, causing it to melt or split open.

Did you know hot water lines will freeze quicker? Or a slight breeze can also create frozen pipes? Taking the time to block any breeze or draft can make all the difference. Something as simple as silicon can do the trick!

Don’t overlook lines on outside or close to the foundation walls! We have seen a lot of older homes with water lines running up an outside wall. This is a recipe for disaster in cold climates! If you have lived in your home for a while, you will know if this is a reoccurring issue, but if you are new to your home this may be something you’ll want to look at. The lines on an outside wall need to be well insulated and close to the interior wall. They should also be free of drafts hitting the lines directly.

What to Look For:

We cannot cover all areas of concern for cold weather, but a few key places to start are:

Outside faucets: make sure your hose is disconnected. If it is an anti-freeze spigot, you should be fine as long as it was installed with the proper pitch to the outside. If it is a sillcock, there should be a shut off valve inside, but typically most homeowners have an anti freeze model. Please reference the photos below.

Condensate Drains

If you have a 90+ gas furnace or boiler, there will be a condensate drain. Make sure it does not exit the home through a small hose. This may freeze and completely shut down the entire system. If we installed your system, do not fret, this is not a practice we do.

Coal Cellar

Most homes built in the early to mid 1900’s (like most row/twin homes in Allentown, Easton & Bethlehem) have a old coal cellar near the front of your home, typically underneath your front porch. In present times, this may house your water service. Try to keep that room warm and free of draft from windows. If you wrap the pipe in heat tape, double check to make sure the heat tape and outlet are in good working order!

Baseboard Heat & Radiators

If you have a boiler heating system, you want to check a few things. First, you want to make sure the location of your boiler isn’t too cold- even if this is in a room that you typically do not mind if it gets a bit cooler.

If you have a radiator near a window that is cracked open, it has the potential to freeze and crack! Definitely not a sound you want to hear!

You will want to make sure there are no exposed spots around your home where outside air can hit your heat lines directly. Look for cracks or separations in the walls!

General rule: hot lines will ALWAYS freeze first!

Heat Pumps

If you have a heat pump, make sure your indoor filter is new to ensure your system is working as efficiently as possible. The less strain on your system, the better!

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-freezing-weather source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2021/01/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-freezing.html

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Winter To-Do List for Your Partner Before Temperatures Really Start to Drop

Winter is now here and most homeowners will be busy getting the house ready for the changes that come with freezing temperatures.

The cold season can take a toll on various systems, including your water heater, air conditioning, drains and pipes.

If you are preparing a honey-to-do list for your significant other, we have put together some of the crucial things to focus on.

Here's a quick overview of 16 things your better half should do to get the home and family ready for winter.

CHECKLIST

1. Put Lawn Furniture Away

If you have furniture on your lawn, open decks and other exposed outdoor spaces, you should put them away- considering you won't need them until winter is gone. Freezing temperatures and increased moisture can quickly damage lawn furniture.

2. Get Your Heating Ready

Depending on the heating unit you have, you should schedule an inspection and service to make sure it is ready for winter. You ,should clear your vent pipes of all obstructions. Boilers require annual cleaning accomplished before temperatures start dipping. Other preparations include inspecting the radiators, changing furnace filters and setting ductwork damper to "winter" and fixing thermostat issues.

3. Clean Your Roof

If your partner is up to the task, you can have them get on the roof and blow off the sticks and leaves. Also, while they are up there tell them to hang the Christmas lights and other decorations - if you are into that of course!

4. Clean Out the Gutters

The gutters will have dust, leaves and debris buildup leading into winter. As such, you should have them cleaned to remove all obstructions. You don’t want to have a Clark Griswold moment and send ice flying out of your gutters into the neighbors entertainment center do we? “Honey, just clean out the gutters - okay?!

5. Check Smoke and Carbon Detectors

Up to 27% of winter fires result from heating, so it is important to ensure your systems have adequate protection and circuit breakers. You should check all smoke and CO detectors and install them in all rooms. Make sure the batteries have enough power to last all winter.

6. Brush Out the Fireplace and Chimney

You should have your fireplace cleaned using a chimney sweep to remove any bird nests, debris and creosote buildup. It is wise to have a technician check for cracks and other issues that require repair before temperatures get really low.

7. Protect Pipes from Freezing

Freezing water expands and is the leading cause of ,winter pipe bursts in Bethlehem, PA. You should disconnect the garden hose from the outside spigot, apply heating tapes and be sure to set the temperature never to go below 55 degrees.

8. Inspect Insulation

Proper insulation will reduce heat exchange, preventing heat loss and cold air from entering the house. You should check the insulation and fix all damages before winter, or your system will be forced to work extra hard to maintain comfortable temperatures. When setting the thermostat, don't make changes more than 2 degrees at a time. Also, just because you set the temp low doesn’t mean you save money on your electric bill - you can let you partner know it’s okay to set the temperature above 64 degrees

9. Reverse Ceiling Fans

Reversing the ceiling fan to run in a clockwise direction helps to push warm air downwards. Warm air tends to rise above cold air, making this technique effective in distributing warm air across the room and giving your HVAC unit a helping hand.

10. Test the Sump Pump

The sump pump collects water from around your foundation and basement and pumps it to a designated drainage location. Regardless of the time of year, you should test the sump pump by pouring some water in the pump area to hear that the pump is working.

11. Drain Sediment from Your Water Heater

Water heater sediments can result in system inefficiency and more energy consumption. In worse-case scenarios, the buildup can lead to hot spots and premature failure. You should drain some of the water in your heaters to remove sediments that coat the lower heating element.

12. Install Storm Windows and Doors

Using storm windows and doors is one way to insulate your home and prevent heat loss during colder months. They are easy to install and provide an extra pane that traps air and prevents heat exchange through your windows and doors.

13. Remove Dead Branches and Trees

Dead branches and trees can fall on your roof and cause major damages that require costly repair. To avoid this, you should trim trees close to your home and remove all dead limbs. If you plan to remove big branches or the entire tree, make sure you hire professional tree removers.

14. Protect Steps and Entryways

The steps leading to your home should be free from tripping hazards. If possible, repair the concrete and reinforce the handrail to make sure they are properly anchored to prevent slips and falls. You can also purchase mats to place on our doorways and entries. This makes it easier to clear snow.

15. Consider Getting A Generator

Eastern Pennsylvania sees some strong winds and storms that tend to cause power outages. With most people expected to continue working from home, this may be a good time to invest in a power backup system and a generator is an ideal solution for winter. You can also use rechargeable batteries.

16. Check Outdoor Lighting and Cameras

You should inspect the outdoor lighting fixtures and cameras to ensure they are in perfect working condition. More importantly, they should be secured and protected from the winter effects.

There are several other things to do in readiness for winter, including cleaning the dryer hose and window weep holes, covering pool water pumps and outdoor ac units, and sealing cracks around your basement and garage.

Once your other half is completed with their honey-to-do list meet them with a cold one and say - “great job honey!”

Be sure to have someone like Deluxe Plumbing and Heating in your back pocket. In the event something were to go wrong or see/hear something your systems shouldn’t be doing - you can always count on a whole home service provider like us!

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/winter-to-do-list-for-your-partner-before-temperatures-start-dropping source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2020/12/winter-to-do-list-for-your-partner.html

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Winter Storm Gail: Emergency Storm Preparations for your HVAC system

Update: 1:35 PM EST

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/baa61d_7f6fafc0d9b54a40bef266ad07f027a2/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Winter Storm Gail is fast approaching with an anticipated 2 feet of snow and 35 mph winds. Deluxe Plumbing and Heating want to make sure you are comfortable- and prepared to withstand the storm!

Be mindful that most of today's high efficiency appliances are vented through the sidewalls of your home. Most vents are approximately 12-18 inches off the ground, so with heavy snowfall these vents will likely become obstructed. By keeping these vents and/or air intakes free of snow accumulation and ice buildup will keep your systems and appliances running optimally by not having to work harder. When the opportunity is safest, take note of these areas and how to keep them free of excessive snow and ice.

The risk: If vents are blocked or pugged by heavy snow, the appliances won't work and/or Carbon Monoxide may build up inside the home, so be sure that the vents and gas meter are checked and cleared of any snow covering.

Also, please disconnect your hoses from the house.

Deluxe Plumbing and Heating are always here to offer assistance- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! We are accessible by phone: (610) 628-1724 or virtually via our website chat and scheduling options.

Stay warm and stay safe!

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/winter-storm-gail-emergency-storm-preparations-for-your-hvac-system source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2020/12/winter-storm-gail-emergency-storm.html

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What Temperature Is A Heat Pump Not Effective? How Cold Will A Heat Pump Work?

Heat pumps are an excellent choice if you want to maximize efficiency in your home. A heat pump is a special type of HVAC unit that uses refrigerant to move hot and cold air throughout your home.

A heat pump can pump cool air into your home in the summer, and then be reversed in the winter to heat the interior of your home.

Heat pumps are very efficient and mechanically simple, making them very popular for mini split HVAC installations.

But you may have heard that there are no heat pumps that work below freezing.

How cold will heat pumps work, and does it make sense to get a heat pump in an area with cold winter, such as Bethlehem, PA? Find out now!

Why Do Heat Pumps Work Less Effectively When It’s Extremely Cold?

To understand why a heat pump doesn’t work as well in the cold, it’s important to understand how a heat pump functions.

Essentially, a heat pump uses a “refrigerant” to transfer heat from inside your home to the outdoors – and vice versa.

When it’s hot in your home, the refrigerant in the heat pump absorbs the heat, and vents it outside. The hot refrigerant is then expanded, which cools it down significantly. Then, a fan blows over this cool refrigerant, pumping cool air back into your home.

In the winter, this process is reversed. The heat pump can absorb heat from the outside air – even when it’s quite cold! Then, the hot refrigerant from the outdoors is pumped into your home, and a fan blows across it to provide heat to the inside of your home.

The refrigerant cools off again, and is pumped back outside to be heated once again.

Even in very cold weather, there is enough heat outside for your heat pump to absorb it and continue heating the inside of your home.

https://youtu.be/wzqTWv8zGlM

However, this is only true to a certain extent – when temperatures get very cold, there may simply not be enough ambient heat to keep the pump running efficiently.

If you have a heat pump and your thermostat is not reaching a set temperature heat when it’s very cold outside, this is likely what is happening. It may be so cold that your heat pump is not operating efficiently.

This is why, traditionally, heat pumps are only recommended for climates where the temperature rarely dips below freezing during the winter. They are not as effective when it’s very cold, in most cases.

However, most heat pumps can be modified with electric “heating strips.” When switched on, these strips provide an extra source of heat for the pump, allowing it to work efficiently at any temperature - this could add more money to your power bill.

What Temperature Is A Heat Pump Not Effective? It Depends on Your Heat Pump!

How cold will a heat pump work? That’s a great question, and it mostly depends on the model of your heat pump. Most standard heat pumps will function at 100% efficiency until the outside temperature reaches about 40° F.

However, when the temperature dips below this, most heat pumps are not able to maintain efficiency. They become much less effective at temperatures between 20° F to 30° F. At lower temperatures, the heat pump will use a lot more energy and will not heat your home as efficiently.

Brands like Mitsubishi are perfecting the efficiency below 30° - ask us about these systems when looking for a new HVAC system install quote.

There are a few stereotypes to heating installation, but this is an exception when it comes to how cold heat pumps will work, though. There are some heat pumps that will work below freezing. For example, there are Mitsubishi H2i heat pumps, which use Hyper-Heat INVERTER technology.

Using a powerful pump unit and a special “flash injection” circuit that injects more refrigerant into the system, these Mitsubishi heat pumps deliver up to 76% efficiency at outdoor temperatures as low as -13° F, and 100% efficiency at temperatures between 0° F and 5° F. In contrast, most conventional heat pumps won’t work at all at temperatures that are this low.

In addition, this system is a ductless “mini-split” system, so it does not require costly ductwork throughout your home. If you’re interested in replacing your HVAC system with an efficient and simple heat pump – or you want to retrofit an older building that doesn’t have room for ducted HVAC – Mitsubishi heat pump products are a great option.

Need Heat Pump Installation or Repairs In Bethlehem, PA? We’re Here to Help!

Whether you want to install a new heat pump like a Mitsubishi H2i in Bethlehem, PA, or you live in the area and have been Googling “heat pump repair near me,” Deluxe Plumbing & Heating is here to help.

We carry and install high-quality Mitsubishi heat pumps that work in even sub-zero temperatures, and we can service and repair all makes & models of heat pumps in Bethlehem.

If you’re having issues with your heat pump during cold temperatures, we can repair your unit and even modify it with electric heating strips to keep it functioning all-year-round. To learn more about our heat pump installation and repair services in Bethlehem, PA, just contact us online or give us a call at 610-628-1724.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/what-temperature-is-a-heat-pump-not-effective-how-cold-will-a-heat-pump-work source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2020/10/what-temperature-is-heat-pump-not.html

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Furnace leaking water when heat is on [4 possible causes]

Okay, so your Furnace is Leaking Water When the Heat Is On?

Heating is important for ensuring the comfort of a home. As a result, interested individuals should monitor their heating system for signs of serious issues that should be checked out by a heating professional sooner rather than later.

One excellent example of such issues would be a furnace leaking water when the heat is on, which could become something worse unless it is acted upon.

What Are Some Potential Causes?

Here are some of the most common causes of furnaces leaking water when the heat is on:

Condensing Drain Has a Problem

Some people have condensing furnaces, which are high-efficiency furnaces with a second heat exchanger that can extract extra heat from the water vapor vented out in the normal course of things.

If interested individuals are unsure, they can check the material of the vent. This is useful because condensing furnaces have PVC vents while other furnaces have metal vents.

In any case, a condensing furnace might be leaking water because there is a problem with the condensing drain contained therein.

https://youtu.be/v4WMZ5i4c3M

Condensate Pump Has a Problem

Generally speaking, condensing furnaces drain downwards. However, there are some setups in which the water vapor has to go upwards and outwards. Something that is made possible by the presence of a condensate pump.

Water vapor can't be pumped out when the pump has suffered a serious issue, thus resulting in an eventual leak.

Humidifier Has a Problem

Not every furnace has a humidifier.

However, those that do are very likely suffering from a humidifier-related problem when they experience a leak.

Unfortunately, there is a wide range of potential causes for said issue. For example, the pad might have become hard and crusty because of mineral build-up, thus making it incapable of absorbing water.

Likewise, the drain might have gotten clogged, meaning that it will need to be cleaned out before it can return to proper functioning.

Cracked Heat Exchanger

The heat exchanger is one of the most important components of a furnace. Thanks to this, heat exchanger-related issues are some of the biggest furnace problems.

For instance, a heat exchanger can crack, which in turn, can let out moisture as well as carbon monoxide. This is something that interested individuals should never attempt to handle on their own.

Instead, they should turn off their furnace before calling in heating professionals for a full list of options, which are very likely to boil down to getting a replacement for their broken furnace.

Experiencing furnace problems?

The best solution is to contact reliable and reputable heating professionals such as those with Deluxe Plumbing and Heating, who can handle a wide range of issues with a wide range of furnaces.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/furnace-leaking-water-when-heat-is-on-4-possible-causes source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2020/10/furnace-leaking-water-when-heat-is-on-4.html

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How long does it take an electric hot water heater to heat up?

Is anything as relaxing as a nice, hot soak after a long day?

Or perhaps you prefer to start your day energized by a quick, warm shower.

If you live with a big family, however, sometimes the water runs out too quickly. You may wonder if your water heater is broken or needs replacing. Here's a quick guide to water heaters.

Size First

The biggest question is, how big is your water heater?

Most single-family homes have 40-50 gallon water heaters. You may have to adjust the times given based on how big the water heater is. The times given are also for a complete refill. If you only use, say, half your water tank's capacity at once, the heating time will of course be much less.

⚡ Electric

A working electric water heater can heat 40 gallons of water in just under an hour and a half. More efficient heaters can bring this time down to around an hour.

Gas

A gas water heater in good repair can heat your water in much less time; it usually only takes about thirty to forty minutes.

️ Solar

Since solar generators are usually hooked up to an electricity source, they take the same amount of time as an electric water heater.

There's a couple drawbacks, however.

If your home's power source is completely solar, then you may be without hot water for a long time if the weather is overcast. So if the weather is cold and cloudy, you may end up having to go without hot water unless you have a secondary power system.

Emerging Energy

A few new water heaters on the market take advantage of emerging technology. One example is the tankless water heater. Rather than build up a store of hot water, a tankless heater instantly applies heat to cold water as it moves through your home's pipes and out the faucet or showerhead. These can be expensive, but since they don't have to keep water warm all day, they can pay off in the long run in terms of efficiency. Depending on where you live, a geothermal water heater may also be an option. Let the Earth itself warm your water!

Maintaining Your System

If your water heater is taking much more time than listed here to heat up, it likely needs to be repaired or even replaced. Beyond merely convenient, fixing an inefficient water heater can reduce your home energy bill by as much as 50%! Get ahold of Deluxe Plumbing for a quick and easy consultation.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/how-long-does-it-take-an-electric-hot-water-heater-to-heat-up source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2020/10/how-long-does-it-take-electric-hot.html

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Which is cheaper gas or electric heat in Bethlehem, PA?

Choosing between sources of energy to use for your home heating system can be a tough call.

Natural gas and electric heat both come with their own set of upsides and downsides, and it is up to the homeowner to decide which one to use.

Costs are often an imperative factor to homeowners, which will be outlined in this section.

Natural Gas Heating

Natural gas is considered to be an efficient method of heating up your home, which is an important factor to Lehigh Valley and to a greater extent, all northeast Pennsylvania residents, as winters are often times harsh and long here.

Because the state of Pennsylvania has a higher cost on natural gas compared to the national average, it can quickly become a financial liability to many homeowners, if left unbudgeted.

Nevertheless, thanks to technological developments, Pennsylvania residents have saved over $30 billion on natural gas over the past decade.

Despite speculation over the rising costs, it remains the most economical option (usually less than $500) for most residents, due to its competitive pricing scheme.

Electric Heating with Heat Pumps

Quickly becoming a new favorite among residents, it comes with several advantages over traditional gas or oil-based energy.

During warmer periods of the year, when weather conditions are milder, it can provide a sufficient level of heating to homeowners in and around Bethlehem and other parts of the northeast.

In addition, it produces less noise when compared to gas or oil heating, while also being eco-friendly and safer than combustion-based systems. Despite the 3% rise in costs over the past year, the price for electric heating in Pennsylvania still hovers around the national average of 500$ per annum.

It is important to keep in mind that the size of the house and its location will affect costs.

If you are in the market for a new heat system or thinking of switching - we believe heat pumps are the way to go. Heat pumps are quiet, efficient and ,easy to maintain for any age homeowner. The downside of this system is that they can be expensive to install pending on your current situation.

Electric Baseboard Heating

Although they are not as common as other home heating systems, baseboard heating remains in a lot of homes and businesses throughout the Lehigh Valley area.

Being far more discreet than anything else on the list, they make an excellent choice for those who may be disturbed by loud noises. With its simple installation process, alongside individual zone heating controlled by a digital thermostat, it has seen a rise in popularity over the past few years.

However, this method is expensive when compared to an electric heat pump or gas based heating, typically between $500 and $1500.

Fortunately, there are many calculators that can help you figure out the most efficient heating method for your home, such as this one. If you're in need of a heat pump install contractor, then contact the Deluxe Plumbing & Heating company via (610) 628-1724 to find out more.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/which-is-cheaper-gas-or-electric-heat-in-bethlehem-pa source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2020/10/which-is-cheaper-gas-or-electric-heat.html

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Why Does my Heat Pump Fan Not Turn On?

Homeowners often find themselves facing issues with their heat pump system. Those issues can extend from the fan or pump not working as intended, or a total failure of the heat pump system.

When the heat pump is running but the fans are not spinning, it is advisable to first check whether there is any debris.

This is not a complicated step, but you must turn off the power before attempting to remove any potential obstacles from the unit, as the fans could cause collateral damage to the user.

Then, remove the top of the heat pump cabinet and check for any potential sticks or critters blocking the fans. Once removed, do not forget to turn the power back on. If the issue persists, here are some potential problems that could cause your fan to not spin.

Sticky Fan Motor

It is possible that the fan is in the early stages of failing. In order to test this, use a stick to give the fan a push. Never use your finger as it can be potentially life risking. If the fan is up and running, motor replacement is needed.

Dead Fan

If the fan remains unresponsive despite giving it a nudge, then either the capacitator or motor has failed. It is not advised to run the heat pump system with defect fans, as they are necessary when cooling the compressor. A dead fan can lead to overheating and irreversible damage to the unit, which will require replacement.

Fortunately, capacitators cost in the range of $150-$275 to replace, which is less than replacing a fan. You may also wish to test the capacitator yourself, provided that you are comfortable working with electricity and have a tester at home.

Running Compressor but Slow Fan

You can check the capacitator yourself, or ask an HVAC technician to test it and determine the problem.

It is possible that your fan has a two stage (speed at about 60% and 100% of capacity) or variable-speed ( speed at about 40% to 100% of capacity) control function, in which case they are running at perfect speed.

If the fan is barely making a sound, then there is a problem, and you may wish to contact one of our HVAC technicians.

No Heat Pump or Fan

Check if your heat pump thermostat is on, and if it's set on the right mode. Ensure that the circuits to the air handler are on.

Your Heat Pump May Simply Be Too Old

If the heat pump is under warranty, meaning that it was purchased less than 12 years ago, then the most sensible option is repairing it.

However, if it was bought over 12 years ago, and has already shown signs of failure, then consider replacing it entirely. One of our HVAC professionals can evaluate which option is most suitable for your particular situation, so give us a call at (610) 628-1724 to receive a free quote or visit and learn more about our heating services.

source https://www.deluxeplumbing.com/post/why-does-my-heat-pump-fan-not-turn-on source https://deluxeplumbing.blogspot.com/2020/10/why-does-my-heat-pump-fan-not-turn-on.html