Blog - Page 3 of 16 - Central Carolina Air Conditioning

Best Ice for Cold Drinks

Posted on June 20, 2020 - outdoor living, Central Carolina Plumbing, Blog

Entertaining family and friends is a fun way to spend the season, and creative and cold drinks make any party festive. Is your ice maker in working order? Is it serving what you want in your glass? Just as there are dozens of decisions to make when buying a refrigerator, now there are decisions for cold beverage lovers to make when it comes to the shape of ice they prefer! What’s the best ice for cold drinks?

Here’s a look at some of the most popular options out there.

Pellet ice (crushed ice)

This ice is popular for an icy soda. It melts quickly, so it’s best for those who don’t mind a little water dilution in their drinks. Many refrigerator-installed ice makers produce these cubes which are round on one side and flat on the other. Did you know the shape is also designed to prevent splashing when liquid is poured on top of it? Pretty smart!

Two cold beverages in glasses with cubed ice

Large clear cubes

Due to their larger size, these slow melting cubes are perfect for straight liquid drinks like whiskey. They create a bubble-free ice cube that is tricky to produce and requires a specific mold.

Ice rods

Special ice trays are made to create these cylindrical shaped pieces, and are a very popular way to keep water bottle water cold.

Crescent cubes

These cubes are found mostly in portable ice makers or under-the-counter machines. It’s called “gourmet ice,” and is round and hollow in the middle.

Types of Ice Makers

For people who like to entertain or that have several people in the house who are into fitness or spend time outdoors with multiple ice-filled water bottles each day, under-the-counter ice machines might be the best choice. Because of all the gadgets that come in modern refrigerators, built-in ice makers tend to take a back seat. They just can’t keep up with high demand. But, if you do go with an under the counter machine, you will need a professional plumber to hook up your machine.

If you decide the shape of ice and type of machine is one you don’t have, make your purchase and make the water connection you need to make it happen. Connecting your water line should be a task completed by an expert to make sure your appliance doesn’t leak. It’s really a matter of opinion when it comes to the best ice for cold drinks.

Whether you are upgrading to a refrigerator with an ice maker that fits your needs, need help with the malfunctioning one you have or want to install an under counter model, contact a professional to get the job done right. Call Central Carolina Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical at 800.461.3010 for assistance from a professional plumber.

7 Most Common Plumbing Problems

Posted on June 19, 2020 - Plumbing Repair, Central Carolina Plumbing, Blog

Plumbing problems often come with home ownership. Some problems come with aging fixtures or normal wear and tear, but other problems may be caused by how the systems are used or maintained. Let’s take a look at the seven most common plumbing problems.

1. Weak water pressure

Weak water pressure can challenge any plumbing system. It’s usually a sign of a bigger problem like hidden water leaks, drain or sewer clogs, cracked or backed up sewer lines, or pipe corrosion.

2. Dripping faucets

Dripping faucets are wasteful, annoying and costly. Sometimes, these drips can be the result of a worn-out washer, which is easy to replace. Other times; however, corrosion or poorly installed faucets can be the problem.

3. Leaking pipes

Leaking pipes are the result of one of many sorts of problems, including: corrosion, clogs, damage to pipe joints, excessive water pressure or cracked seals or pipes.

No matter what’s the cause, this common plumbing problem needs attention fast! Leaving leaking pipes ignored only creates more damage, therefore, causing trouble for your plumbing system and to your home itself.

4. Clogged or slow drains

Drainage problems can cause health hazards and major plumbing disasters if left undone. In general, one slow or clogged drain in the home means the problem is localized to that area. Typically, these clogs are the result of soap or hair, for instance, and other build-up over time. Routine drain cleaning can solve this problem. Multiple slow or clogged drains typically mean you are dealing with sewer line problems.

5. Water heater problems

Hot water is necessary in every home, so when water heaters can’t work properly, then homeowners can be dealing with a crisis. Usually, when water heaters have problems they are caused by issues like loose or broken electrical connections, improper water heater installation, heating element issues, or corrosion buildup in systems.

6. Running Toilets

Running toilets may waste up to 200 gallons of water per day! In most cases, the issues that cause running toilets include: corroded toilet handles, refill tube problems, improperly sized flapper chains or worn out seals or valves.

7. Sump Pump Failure

This plumbing issue can be related to a problem with the unit or an outside issue. In most cases, sump pump failures include aging (sump pumps around 10 years old or more), clogged discharge pipes, stuck switches, a large amount of water, like after a heavy rain storm, or improper installation.

Sometimes the most common plumbing problems can still be too big for a DIY homeowner to handle. For help from a professional plumber, call Central Carolina Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical at 800.461.3010.

Add an electrical outlet to your island

Posted on June 17, 2020 - energy conservation, Electric Service, Blog

The kitchen island in a home is more than a design feature, it’s functional, too! As the centerpiece of your room it becomes the main point and hub for flow, design and creativity. To add the most functionality, add an electrical outlet to your island. You’ll be able to make the most of your counter space and maximize the efficiency of your kitchen.

Running electricity to your kitchen island may feel like an overwhelming project, so be sure to get the job done right with an experienced electrician.

Before you begin, decide the type of outlet that will meet your needs. There are multiple options available, including:

Pop-up outlets

This outlet style stays low profile until you need to use it. When it’s not in use, the outlet lays flat on the island countertop. When you are ready to use it, push on the outlet to “pop it up” and plug in.

Recessed outlets

A recessed outlet has a faceplate that is set deeper into the island than a regular outlet. This type of outlet will hide protruding connectors and plugs to create a streamlined look for the island.

USB outlets

You can create a universal and convenient charging station to your kitchen island with a USB outlet. There are a variety of finishes to fit with your décor. You can also use a pop-up outlet that includes USB charging to give you added functionality and still have a discrete finish.

Smart Outlets

With a smart outlet, you can use WiFi or Bluetooth technology to control your devices. For convenience and energy efficiency, smart outlets allow you to control them (and the devices plugged into them) remotely or on a timer.

Contact an electrician

Now that you’ve selected the right outlet for your space, it’s time to contact an electrician to add an electrical outlet to your island. An electrician will drill a hole through your kitchen floor to run the wiring from your crawl space or basement. It’s important to choose an experienced professional who will, not only properly wire the outlet, but will also be careful not to damage your island or flooring.

Call Central Carolina Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical at 800.461.3010 for expert assistance with your electrical projects.

Outdoor lighting for style and safety

Posted on June 5, 2020 - electrical, electrical service, outdoor living, Blog

Outdoor lighting allows you to boost your outdoor space creatively and functionally. There are lots of great ways to update and improve your outdoor areas using different types of lights and features. From accent lighting to uplights and motion-sensored lights, you can create a more appealing and safe space with just a few well placed bulbs.

What do you want to improve? There are two primary ways to look at how outdoor lighting can work for you. One is the most obvious, aesthetics. The other is safety. And you can do both, but make sure you know what you are trying to achieve before you get started on a lighting project. That way you’ll save money, time and frustration by trying to do too much at once.

Outdoor Lighting for Aesthetic Appeal

Want to use outdoor lighting to highlight and bring beauty to your

space? Lighting is excellent because it can work anywhere, in any kind of outdoor design. It can be the primary focus, or just highlight areas of your outdoors that you particularly love.

Accent lights can highlight the spaces you love most in your landscape. Choose from lamps, pendant lights, and uplights to feature the most attractive aspects of your landscape. These lights can create a striking look in the evening hours.
Driveway and path lighting creates a more welcoming feel. One of the most common mistakes homeowners make outdoors is they have beautiful, well-designed, and well lit home exterior lighting, but only darkness throughout the yard. One simple fix of using path/drive lighting can fix this.
Uplighting is a great way to highlight trees and hardscapes. Do you have a beautiful tree or fancy gazebo? Uplighting adds nighttime visibility and a stunning look.
Like to entertain? Give guests safety and an appealing view with carefully planned patio or pool lighting. You’ll host the best parties and allow people to spread out instead of huddling up around one outdoor lamp or fire pit.

Outdoor Lighting for Safety & Security

Adding lighting for security can also bring many benefits. Done correctly, security lighting can also add beautiful aesthetic value at the same time.

Motion lighting is an excellent way to deter vandalism. Set near entryways and windows, these lights can surprise intruders and send them running!
Flood lighting also adds to your outdoor safety. Not only do flood lights near buildings or areas you tend to frequent in the evening reduce tripping hazards, they also help you navigate your yard safely. Adding path lighting can also give you additional safety and offer aesthetic beauty.

For expert assistance, call Central Carolina Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical at 800.461.3010.

Installing Solar Panels – Pros and Cons

Posted on May 28, 2020 - energy efficiency, energy conservation, Blog

If you are looking for ways to be environmentally conscious, installing solar panels in your home might be a good start. While upfront costs may be high, using solar energy can be a way to save on energy expenses in the long run. Using solar power will lower your electricity bills, earn tax incentives and add value to your home because the panels are exempt from property taxes.

Consider these advantages of using solar energy when deciding if installing solar panels makes sense for you.

Energy independence

The sun is an infinite source of energy, unlike coal and natural gas, and solar panels can be installed practically anywhere. Using solar panels allows you to reduce dependence on foreign oil and fossil fuels, leading to a more stable and predictable energy bill, especially during times when the demand for energy is high.

Reduced electricity bills

Over a 20-year period, you can save from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on where you live, electricity usage and the size of your home. Unlike paying traditional utility bills, paying off a solar panel system makes you money on the investment. You can also sell solar energy back to the grid, allowing you to earn while you save.

Federal and state tax benefits

The government will offer you benefits when you install solar panels in your home, potentially allowing you to claim 30 percent of the installation costs, with benefits that vary state to state.

Reduce your carbon footprint

Since solar energy generates power without giving off any dangerous emissions, the energy produced from solar panels is clean. It doesn’t emit greenhouse gases. For examples the average American home produces 14,920 pounds of carbon dioxide a year. A family who installs solar panels can reduce its carbon footprint by more than 3,000 pounds.

Longevity with little maintenance

With most systems lasting for more than years, solar panels and equipment require little maintenance. Additionally solar energy is always improving, so a panel you installed last year is even better today.

While there are many benefits to using solar power, there are also disadvantages to consider. Some disadvantages include:

Expensive initial costs

You will experience reduced electric bills when using solar panels, but there are initial costs for the equipment and installation. This could add up to more than $20,000. Also, any devices that you run on DC currents will be more expensive to power directly.

Inability to take it if you move

Once panels are installed it is nearly impossible to transport to another location. Even transferring PV solar panels is never advised. It would have to be dismantled from your roof and retrofitted to your new property, most likely causing extensive damage.

Limitations based on your surroundings

The solar energy industry continues to grow, but most companies serve a particular geographic region or state. If you live in an area outside of a solar energy company’s coverage area, you’re out of luck. Additionally, if you live in a rural area and far away from your solar provider, you could have trouble reaching customer services when you need assistance.

Weather dependence

To power your solar panels you need the sun. If you live in a cloudy area or have days of storms, this will negatively impact how the system runs. If your region has a dark winter season, your system will likely be less productive at that time.

Inconvenience in areas with limited space

You will need a decent size space to install a solar system and have it run smoothly. Solar panels might be inconvenient in inner cities and other areas with limited space. If your roof is small (less than about 100 square feet of roof for every 1 kW of panels) you might not have the space for all the solar panels that you need to power your house.

Advantages and disadvantages of installing solar panels seem to have a tradeoff. Solar panel technology isn’t perfect, but it is constantly improving. You’ll get a return on your investment, but it takes a while. Energy produced from solar panels is plentiful, clean and renewable, but the infrastructure that manufactures and delivers them leaves its own carbon footprint.

When you understand how solar panels work and what are the best panels for your home, you will need to talk to a solar energy company. Talk to them about what makes the most sense for your home and region.

If you’re looking for professional guidance about energy savings, contact Central Carolina Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical at 800.461.3010.

Dishwasher safe? Refer to this list

Posted on May 27, 2020 - Blog

A dishwasher is one of the most-used and convenient appliances in any home. However, it may be too rough for some of your favorite kitchen items. So, if you’re wondering “Is it dishwasher safe?” then check out our list. Stay tuned to the end. We’ve also included many items most people wouldn’t think are dishwasher friendly! Did you know you can clean outlet covers, car mats, nail clippers and garden tools in there?

If you ever have doubts about washing a particular piece in the dishwasher, even if it’s generally considered dishwasher safe, check with the manufacturer.

In general, these items are dishwasher safe:

Crystal

You’ll still want to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some types of leaded crystal can etch over time.

Sterling silver or silver plated

You should not mix sterling silver or silver-plated silverware with stainless steel flatware. This can cause a reaction causing permanent pitting of the sterling.

China/ stoneware

Generally, okay. But, antique or hand-painted patterns may fade. You may also see gold-leaf patterns to discolor or fade.

Glass

Glass is dishwasher-safe.

Aluminum

Aluminum is safe, but repeated exposure to high heat and detergents can affect the finish of anodized aluminum.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is safe.

Plastics

Plastics are safe. Place plastics in the top rack.

These items are generally considered not to be dishwasher safe:

Gold
Pewter, brass and bronze
“Good” knives
Crystal
Disposable aluminum
Disposable plastics
Bottles and cans
Cast iron
Hollow-handle knives
Tin
Wooden ware
Nonstick pans
Insulated mugs
Anything containing adhesives

Household Items

Surprisingly, some household items, as long as they don’t break the rules above, can also be cleaned in the dishwasher. These include fixtures, bathroom accessories, personal care items, sports items, car accessories, kids’ toys and garden tools.

Exhaust fan filters and covers
Kitchen sponges and brushes
Silicone oven mitts and trivets
Microwave turntables
Refrigerator shelves and bins
Light fixtures
Switch plates and outlet covers
HVAC vent grates
Desk accessories
Soap dishes and toothbrush holders
Rubber tub mats
Shower poofs, sponges and brushes
Hairbrushes and combs
Manicure and pedicure tools
Plastic toys and building blocks
Pacifiers and teething rings
Pet toys and food bowls
Collars and leashes – excluding leather
Shin guards
Mouth guards
Golf balls
Baseball caps – Purchase a form to help the cap hold its shape.
Garden tools
Flower pots
Grill grates
Rubber boots
Flip flops – Not for shoes with fabric cording or leather.
Keys – Remove electronic keys or openers.
Hubcaps
Rubber floor mats
Cup holders

Need professional help with your plumbing or electrical needs? Call Central Carolina Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical at 800.461.3010.

How to dispose of coffee grounds

Posted on May 26, 2020 - plumbing, Plumbing Repair, Central Carolina Plumbing, Blog

You may have heard that putting coffee grounds down the sink (or garbage disposal) can clean and freshen the scent in the drain. While they won’t harm the garbage disposal, and they will help eliminate odors, grounds will accumulate in drains and pipes. This will lead to clogs, so it’s best to avoid. Your garbage disposal is not a trash can, and shouldn’t be treated that way. There are better ways to dispose of coffee grounds.

Why can’t coffee grounds go down the drain if food can?

Unlike most foods, coffee grounds clump together in water while many foods break down. Over time the grounds will build up and create clogs that don’t allow the drains to properly move water.

While we’re on the subject, other items that should go in the garbage and not in the sink include:

Starchy foods like potatoes, rice and pasta
Eggshells, fish skins, celery and banana peels
Grease, oil and fats
Anything that is not food! Never dispose of metal, wood, glass, and cigarette butts in the sink.

The rule of thumb is – when it doubt throw it out (in the trash).

When to call a professional

There are signs you need help with a clogged drain or glitchy garbage disposal; they include:

Food particles in the sink after the dishwasher has run
Slow draining water
A gurgling noise coming from the drain
Water backing up
Odor of rotting food coming up from the sink

Better ways to dispose of coffee grounds

So, if you can’t flush your grounds, are there things you can do to make the most of this waste? Yes!

Other ways to dispose of coffee grounds include: coffee grounds being scooped into a potted plant

Garden – They are a nice fertilizer for your garden if you have a green thumb. Plants benefit from coffee grounds. And even if you do not have a full compost, grounds will work by themselves. In addition to providing nutrients, grounds spread in your garden repel insects such as slugs and ants.
Indoor house plants – The same goes for indoor plants!
Exfoliate skin – You can scrub away dead cells from your skin when you mix used coffee grounds with coconut oil.
Cleaner hair – Take a handful of grounds and massage them through your head and rinse. This will clean out built-up remains from styling products.
Absorb food odor – An opened container of coffee grounds may also help to absorb stinky smell from a refrigerator, in the same way baking soda works.

Need help from a professional? Call Central Carolina Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical at 800.461.3010.

Installing a Hot Tub

Posted on May 25, 2020 - plumbing, electrical service, Electric Service, Central Carolina Plumbing, Blog

Unwind, soak your muscles, decrease stress and relax – all in your own hot tub! Spending time in a hot tub is a great way to unwind. You can soak to soothe your mind and body, spend time and reconnect with your family, and even get some great health benefits, too. Soaking regularly may even improve your sleep. Installing a hot tub is not difficult, but you need to check your homeowners’ association rules and local zoning laws. Once you have all the requirements, just follow these steps to create your own spa setting right in your backyard.

Follow these five easy steps for installing a hot tub:

1. Find a location.

Choosing the best location to install your hot tub is the most essential step. Try to envision your new oasis in your yard. Take into consideration neighbors, traffic flow, and anything that may disrupt a peace time. Also consider these questions:

How will you move the tub off the delivery truck to the location you selected? Will you need tools, more manpower or even a crane? Be sure to plan ahead so you don’t end up spending unnecessarily.
Do you want your hot tub in the shade or in the afternoon sun?
If privacy is an issue, do you need a fence or gazebo? If you are in the sun do you want to block it out with an awning?
Are you creating a space to be a focal point or do you prefer privacy in a quiet corner of your yard?

Remember, your space will need:

Easy access via a walkway from the house. You won’t want grass, dirt or sand in the tub.
Flat, firm ground or surface.
Easy access to a water source and a dedicated GCFI electrical circuit for power.
An area that doesn’t collect leaves, limbs or excess rainwater.
A space that is at least 10 feet away from overhead trees and power lines.

2. Select a foundation to build on

It’s not advised to install a hot tub directly on the ground. When the tub is filled with water the weight may cause the tub to shift and become uneven. If you are installing on an existing deck be sure of the weight limits and strength of the foundation. A concrete slab is a good long-term choice. If you are pouring a new slab be sure the concrete is fully dried before installing the tub. You can also use a foundation of paver stones, gravel or hot tub pad. Just make sure that the ground underneath is on hard-packed dirt and that materials are level.

3. Use upgraded, dedicated electrical outlets

Check that the electrical system you are using can safely power the unit. A lot of electricity is used when running heating components and pumps. Installing the hot tub circuit and GCFI outlet should only be done by a licensed electrician.

4. Place the tub in the desired position

Orienting your hot tub on the foundation is a crucial step. Steps or entry ladders should be placed away from obstacles. Make sure the tub is in a position that provides quick, easy access to control panels. You will also need plenty of room to easily remove the cover. If you have children, add safety measures locks on covers or alarm

5. Just add water!

Once your tub is in place, follow manufacturer instructions to begin operating. Turn off electricity that powers the tub at the circuit breaker. Check that the drain valve is closed, the filters are in place and that the tub is clean by using a non-foaming cleanser. Use the garden hose to fill the tub with cold, clean water. to the fill line. Once filled to the fill line, check for leaks. When you are certain everything is holding up properly, turn on power at the breaker. You’ll then set the controls for the unit and treat the water with chemicals. About eight hours later the water will be warm and ready to enjoy!

Don’t be afraid to call the professionals at Central Carolina Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical at 800.461.3010 for expert assistance.

Can COVID-19 spread through plumbing?

Posted on May 24, 2020 - plumbing, Central Carolina Plumbing, Blog

We are all aware of the basic guidelines to follow during the COVID-19 pandemic. Maintain six feet of distance between others. Stay home as much as possible. Practice excellent hygiene like washing hands frequently. But, are there other ways the virus might spread that we don’t fully understand? Could COVID-19 spread through plumbing?

According to the Center for Disease Control, it is possible that coronaviruses can be transmitted through the sewage system, affecting tenants and plumbers. But the current science on COVID-19 shows so far that the risk of the virus transmitting through the plumbing is very low.

Precautions

Nonetheless, if you’re in an apartment building or other multi-tenant dwelling and you want to take extra precautions with your plumbing, here’s a list of tips to prevent COVID-19 transmission through your pipes:

Be sure to schedule routine plumbing inspections as they are key to finding problems that could spread the coronavirus or any other virus.
Keep bathroom fixtures and surfaces clean. Disinfect with an antiviral non-toxic solution.
Cover and fix any issues with the septic tank.
If you have an overflowing toilet quickly handle it to avoid fecal contact. Eliminate any standing water immediately.
Dry pipes may have an odor. Be aware of any foul odors coming from a drain that may signal dry pipes.

Solid Waste

When it comes to how COVID-19 might spread through your plumbing, solid waste is the main issue you want to be aware of, not water. The odds of airborne transmission through sewage pipes is low. Poop may be a problem.

There is some science that supports the fact that coronavirus can be transmitted through contact with infected feces. While it is believed the virus can be spread in stool, many factors are still unknown. Scientists don’t know how much of the virus is shed from the body through stool and whether the virus in stool is infectious. Wash hands to prevent spread of COVID-19

It is widely accepted that COVID-19 is mainly transmitted orally. Droplets spread the virus through sneezing or coughing. The poop theory is weaker, meaning there may have to be fecal-oral transmission. To mitigate this possibility wash your hands after using the bathroom. So if there were disease particles on the toilet it would have to make it to your mouth. This would not be possible if you are thoroughly washing your hands.

Water

There have also been concerns from Americans about water transmission. At this time it is not believed to be possible to get COVID-19 from a hot tub or pool. Treated and chlorinated water eliminates disease and therefore the possibility of water being affected.

When it comes to plumbing, the bottom line – the way to keep coronavirus out of your pipes is consistent plumbing maintenance and excellent personal hygiene.

Routine plumbing inspections can be done at minimal time and cost, but people often find this a chore and overlook the importance of it. However, in pandemic conditions we should not be complacent. Just be sure your plumber wears protective gear and takes personal hygienic precautions that are in line with the CDC’s measures to stop the spread. For professional plumbing assistance, Central Carolina Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical at 800.461.3010.

Do I need a water softener?

Posted on May 14, 2020 - plumbing, Central Carolina Plumbing, Blog

What’s the difference in soft water and hard water? Are both kinds of water safe? Do I need a water softener?

Talking about water in these terms can be confusing. The terms certainly aren’t descriptive enough to know what they mean and what to do about them! But, if you have hard water, you may be having issues that need to be addressed for the longer term condition of your home.

What causes hard water?

In route to your home, water can pick up sediments and minerals that can wreck your appliances with build up over time. If this is a problem you have, you may want to install a water softener. Having hard water is very common, only about 15% of households have soft water flowing without being treated. And having hard water is actually more expensive than using a softener.

Why get a water softener?

The reason to address hard water isn’t necessarily about your health. It’s more dangerous for your plumbing appliances than anything. Water that has a higher level of minerals and sediment in it, including calcium and magnesium, can become a problem by collecting in the pipes, drains, and on faucets. If those deposits build up they can restrict water flow or permanently damage plumbing. If limescale solidifies in your pipes, you will need replacements, which are far more expensive than just a good cleaning. In this case, the use of a water softener can control the situation much more easily and cost-effectively.

How do water softeners work?

Water softeners are systems that help each tap and faucet as part of your plumbing system. They eliminate mineral contents and also protects your pipes. Softeners have benefits like delivering better tasting, cleaner water that is also easier on your clothes and dishes. You may notice your shampoo and soap don’t lather like they should. Maybe you’ve noticed stiff fabrics and discoloration of clothing coming out of the wash. Freshly cleaned dishes are spotty and grimy. Or maybe your food doesn’t taste quite right. These are all signs that hard water are the culprit. You probably need a water softener.

Call a professional

If the sound of a water softener in your home appeals to you, call a professional. Don’t try to install one on your own. You want to make sure the installation is done correctly and without problems that can lead to damages to plumbing. A DIY water softener install can end up costing you far more, so let a professional plumber help you get softer water that will treat your pipes better. Call Central Carolina Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical at 800.461.3010 for assistance.