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Our Blog

• 3 Essential Tips to Make Your Water Heater Last Longer and Work More Efficiently

  Regular maintenance of a conventional tank water heater can significantly extend its lifespan and improve efficiency. Annual flushing of the tank removes sediment, enhancing burner efficiency. Checking and, if necessary, replacing the anode rod prevents internal rusting, prolonging the heater's life. Additionally, insulating the tank with a blanket of insulation boosts efficiency by up to 40%. These simple steps can help homeowners avoid premature water heater failure and reduce energy costs.
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• What Are the Benefits of Outdoor Lighting?

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• How Do Electrostatic Air Filters Work?

  Electrostatic air filters use multiple layers of vented metal to charge air molecules positively, causing dirt particles to cling to the filter and preventing them from passing through to the furnace and air ducts. Their main advantage is reusability, saving money over time, but they may need to be more effective at removing fine dirt particles compared to disposable media filters.
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• How Do You Prepare a Whole House Humidifier for Winter?

  To ensure reliable operation of your humidifier during the cold weather, perform regular maintenance.
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• Why Is My Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Working? Here's What to Check

  If your ice maker isn't making ice, check the water supply line and valve for blockages or kinks, ensure the shutoff arm is in the correct position, and verify the freezer temperature is around 5 degrees Fahrenheit. If these steps don't resolve the issue, test the ejector gear, motor, mold heater, holding switch, thermostat, and inlet valve for malfunctions.
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• Why Is Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve So Important?

  As temperatures drop, it's crucial to locate your main water shutoff valve to prevent frozen pipes and potential water damage. This valve controls the water supply to your entire house and can be found in various locations like the basement or near the front wall. Knowing its location and how to use it can help you quickly respond to plumbing emergencies and avoid costly repairs. If you're unsure about locating the valve, contact ABC Plumbing for expert assistance in Chicago and surrounding areas.
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• How Can You Prepare Your Home for Holiday Guests?

  As the holiday season approaches and guests are expected, ensure your home is ready by checking the thermostat, stocking up on bathroom essentials like a plunger and toilet paper, and maintaining drains with products like BioOne. Additionally, clean towels should be prepared for overnight guests, and water and energy should be conserved by running the dishwasher only when it's full.
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• What Foods Can and Can't Go Down the Garbage Disposal?

  As the holiday season approaches and you prepare to host gatherings, remember to avoid putting certain foods down the garbage disposal to prevent costly repairs. Items like vegetable peels, grease, meat scraps, and non-food items can cause jams and damage the disposal's blades. Instead, dispose of these items in the trash to avoid plumbing issues. If you encounter a disposal problem, rely on the experts at ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling, and Electric for assistance.
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• How Can You Reduce Air Drafts from Electrical Outlets and Switches?

  When addressing air drafts in the home, don't overlook electrical outlets and switches as potential sources. Gaps between the box and drywall around these fixtures can allow air to enter, especially in uninsulated interior walls or poorly insulated exterior walls. Installing pre-cut foam insulation pads behind outlet covers is a simple and affordable solution to seal these gaps and prevent drafts.
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• How Can You Prevent Fires This Holiday Season?

  Ensure a safe and joyful holiday season by following these decorating and entertaining tips: keep Christmas trees away from heat sources, choose flame-resistant decorations and LED lights, and be cautious with candles. Test smoke alarms before guests arrive, supervise cooking in the kitchen and ask smokers to use designated outdoor areas. For plumbing or HVAC needs in the Chicagoland area, rely on ABC Plumbing's trusted service with over 70 years of experience.
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