San Antonio - ABC Home and Commercial Services of Texas

Use the Sun to Cool Your Home This Summer

April 23rd, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

solarpower istock1 300x143 Use the Sun to Cool Your Home This Summer pic With another scorching San Antonio summer approaching, you’re probably not looking forward to seeing your electric bills escalate from using your air conditioner. We have a solution that can not only lower your power bills, but also use those sizzling rays to your advantage: a cooling system powered by solar panels.

How Solar Panels Work

Our cooling systems work with photovoltaic panels, also called PV panels, which consist of silicon and non-reflective glass. The PV panels harness and store photons from the sun’s rays and then convert these particles into electrical power. Similar to a battery, the PV panel first converts the photons into DC power, which is sent to an inverter that converts it to AC power that can be used to run an air conditioning unit, as well as other household devices.

How Solar-Powered Cooling Systems Work

Most of our residential customers choose a grid-tied PV system, which uses a combination of solar power and traditional power sources from the utility company. This system is a much less expensive option than stand-alone PV systems, which rely exclusively on solar power and are not connected to the utility grid. Grid-tied systems utilize power from the sun during the day and from the utility company at night to keep the air conditioning unit running. When the air conditioner is not running, the solar power can be redirected to other devices in the home. Any unused power that is collected during the day can actually be fed back to the utility grid, which causes your electric meter to spin backwards for an energy credit.

Benefits of a Solar-Powered Cooling System

Using solar power to fuel your air conditioning unit offers many advantages over relying solely on the traditional power grid. These benefits include:

Cost: After the initial installation costs, powering your air conditioner with solar energy is free and using grid power only when solar energy is not available will dramatically reduce your utility bills.
Renewability: While fossil fuels are becoming scarcer every day, the sun is an infinite source of power.
Environmental Impact: Solar power is a clean source of energy, as opposed to oil, gas and coal, which produce carbon dioxide.
Reliability: The sun rises every day and is very likely to continue doing so even after the entire world’s nonrenewable sources are depleted.
Tax Incentives: Many areas offer tax credits and utility company incentives for using solar energy.

Solar Panel Installation in San Antonio

We know that our customers are looking for the most cost-effective way to make the switch to renewable energy sources. Our SunSource Home Energy System by Lennox fits the bill. This energy-saving unit runs on the traditional power grid, will save you money on your utility bill and is also solar ready. You can have our San Antonio HVAC specialists at ABC Home & Commercial Services install your PV panels at the same time we install the unit or have it done later when it better fits your budget.

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Hidden Dangers in Your Home: Outdated Breaker Panels

April 18th, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

Most homeowners know where to find their circuit breaker panel or box, but not everyone is aware of how important this box is in your home. All of the electricity that is supplied to your home runs through that panel. The breakers are designed to automatically shut off in dangerous situations like an electrical short or overload. But some older panels may not have the same safety features that newer models have and can even make some electrical issues worse.

Most concerning is the fact that older panels can actually be a fire hazard. If an older panel is overloaded, it may generate enough heat to start a small fire. Electrical fires are notoriously difficult to put out, and a small fire can spread rapidly. Since most breaker panels are in garages or other remote locations in the home, a fire can get out of hand before it is even detected.

Older panels also require more upkeep and maintenance. It’s vital that homeowners know the layout of the breakers, and older panels can be difficult to use and understand. Newer panels are designed to minimize shocks while being cleaner and clearer. If a circuit does trip, you don’t want to have to guess what happened or worry about safety or inconvenience. Old panels may also slowly wear out. Wires and fuses will need to be checked and replaced periodically, and this process can be a dangerous endeavor if attempted on your own. Even if you don’t plan on getting your breaker panel replaced, it’s a good idea to seek a professional electrician to check your panel for loose wiring, corrosion and missing pieces.

Breaker panels that are located in garages are also susceptible to dirt and pests. Dust and grime buildup can prevent a breaker panel from working smoothly, and some pests like mice can chew wires and cause extensive damage. If you see evidence of any pests in your home, be sure to check your breaker panel. Often, chewed panels will need to be replaced entirely. Use extreme caution when examining a panel with frayed or exposed electrical wires. The risk of an electrical accident is very high in these situations, and crossed wires can blow fuses or cause further problems.

If you suspect that your breaker panels are dated and may need maintenance, call us at ABC for help from a San Antonio electrical professional. Our experts can determine the age of your breaker panel and help you determine if your panel just needs a little upkeep or an entire overhaul. We are also experts on local building codes. Often, building codes are updated to encourage builders and contractors to make homes safer. A breaker panel that no longer conforms to code might be unsafe or simply inefficient. Electrical systems can be confusing and unsafe, so don’t hesitate to ask for a professional opinion. When it comes to electrical safety, there’s no such thing as being too careful.

The Relationship Between Plumbing and Pests

April 10th, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

Most homeowners are unaware of the association between plumbing and pests, but the fact is that the two are intertwined. Problems with a home’s plumbing can attract certain types of pests. Not to mention, the presence of pests in the plumbing of a home can cause some serious plumbing issues. Lowe’s notes that pests ranging from rodents to snakes can find their way into the plumbing of a building and wreak havoc.

How Do Plumbing Problems Attract Pests?

When a home has leaky plumbing, pests may move in because they detect a water source and are attracted to the area where the leak originates. Homeowners should be aware that standing water attracts pests including mosquitoes, so having a simple leak can lead to a serious pest problem in your home.

Pests that eat wood are particularly interested in moist wood because it is easier for them to chew, and they rely on moisture in the wood as a source of water. Termites could become a problem when a plumbing issue causes wood structures within a building to become damp. Termites contribute to the existing leak problem when wood is saturated from a leaky pipe.

Carpenter ants may also be attracted to leaks that saturate wood. These pests are known for burrowing through wood and forming a nest inside wood structures.

Once holes are made because pests have found weakened spots, rodents may follow and enter the home through these gaps. Homeowners should be sure to have crawlspaces checked for pests when plumbing problems are detected.

How Do Pests Cause Plumbing Problems?

Rodents in a home have been known to exasperate plumbing problems or even cause issues by gnawing on plumbing seals. Plumbing related to toilets can also be damaged when rodents find and chew through it while roaming in the crawlspaces of a building.

Rats may even block pipes when they enter a building’s plumbing through the sewer system.

Plumbing issues should be promptly addressed to discourage pests from entering a home. If you’re looking for superior service related to pest control in San Antonio, ABC Home & Commercial Services offers the expertise and experience that you need. Not only does ABC offer pest control services, but we also specialize in plumbing within San Antonio. For pest control issues that originate in the plumbing of a building, ABC is the ideal resource.

Ever Heard of Dirty Sock Syndrome?

March 21st, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

dirtyvent istock 300x199 Ever Heard of Dirty Sock Syndrome? pic Have you ever turned your heater on as the weather cools down and been hit with an odor that is reminiscent of dirty socks? Does turning on your air conditioning in the summer months cause a smell of mildew? You may be dealing with an HVAC issue that’s commonly referred to as Dirty Sock Syndrome.

What is Dirty Sock Syndrome?

Dirty Sock Syndrome involves bacterial growth that can be the result of improper maintenance of the HVAC system in a home. While the problem has been detected in heating and cooling system in all states, Dirty Sock Syndrome is most common in hot and humid climates. These types of climates give bacteria the best chance to rapidly grow inside a home.

While the odor associated with Dirty Sock Syndrome can be very unpleasant, health problems have not been connected with the HVAC issue.

Causes of Dirty Sock Syndrome

Dirty Sock Syndrome is caused by the growth of bacteria within the coils of both air conditioners and heating units. Homeowners may not realize there’s a problem with bacterial growth until the system is turned on when the weather changes.

The first indication that a homeowner is dealing with Dirty Sock Syndrome is a smell of mildew that is noticed when a heating or cooling unit is turned on.

Treating the Problem

An HVAC professional will start treating Dirty Sock Syndrome by applying a disinfectant to the bacterial growth. This disinfectant must be constantly in contact with the bacteria for a minimum of 10 minutes, and reapplications to ensure that the area stays wet with disinfectant will probably be necessary to properly treat the issue.

The disinfectant will be rinsed once the cleaning process in finished. Any mildew smell that was noticed while a heating or cooling system was experiencing Dirty Sock Syndrome should subside once the coils have been cleaned.

Prevention of Dirty Sock Syndrome after the problem has been treated can be done with the assistance of San Antonio heating and air conditioning specialists at ABC Home & Commercial Services. Contact ABC today to discuss San Antonio HVAC repair options and learn about how regular maintenance can prevent the need for repair in the future.

What To Do When Drain Clogs Keep Coming Back

March 11th, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

Most people are familiar with clogged drains. Over time, soap, food and other residue builds up in pipes. Homeowners notice this when their bathtubs or sinks drain slowly. Some may find themselves unclogging drains frequently, which is the sign of a bigger problem or bad habits. While some home solutions may work for minor drainage issues, there are some deeper clogs that demand the attention of a professional plumber. Many experts recommend avoiding the frequent use of harsh chemicals. They also recommend taking steps to prevent future clogs. For example, a drain cover can be used to keep hair or debris from entering a pipe.

Why Clogs Can Be Disastrous

When most people notice water draining slowly, they ignore it until the problem is unbearable. At this point, the clog has become worse and will be more difficult to fix. Drain pipes back up with water, which can cause pressure that results in a leak. When water leaks from pipes, homeowners may not notice it until it has caused damage below the sink or below a bathroom fixture. Mold, mildew, rotting wood and several other problems can result from an ignored leak. If the leak is ignored for a long period of time, a pipe could burst and cause major water damage. Both mold and water damage can be very expensive problems to fix.

Remedying Clogged Drains

Homeowners who do not know what types of pipes they have should avoid using harsh chemical mixtures or unclogging tools. Chemicals and tools can damage some types of pipes. Hot water, baking soda and vinegar may work for minor clogs caused by soap scum or cooking oil. However, difficult or frequent clogs need professional attention. Many professionals perform a video pipe inspection, which is an examination of the inside of the pipes using a camera device. This helps pinpoint problems to decide on an effective solution.

The most important step to take is to contact a reliable San Antonio plumbing specialist. ABC Home & Commercial Services offers a variety of plumbing services and uses modern technology to solve problems effectively. Since time is an important factor in treating a clog, call us for quick and reliable service.

The Integrated Pest Management Approach

March 5th, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

Many people have concerns about the hazards associated with the overuse of pesticides. This has caused a number of pest control companies to take a new approach to treating pest infestations. ABC Home & Commercial Services uses integrated pest management to regulate, treat, and prevent future infestations. The strategy involved in the IPM approach is based on practical procedures that present the least amount of risk.

Integrated pest management is an effective way to respond to pest issues. By understanding the life cycles and behaviors of insects and vermin, specialists can use a holistic method to control invasions. ABC San Antonio exterminators utilize the latest data regarding pest habits and pesticides, in order to provide clients with the most comprehensive treatment system possible.

The first step in the IPM approach is determining the level at which action should be taken. This involves deciding when pests will become an environmental or economical threat. Seeing a few insects doesn’t always necessitate action. Once the volume of pests exceeds a certain limit, treatment and prevention methods are taken. The main goal is to curb the negative impact the pests have on the environment.

Not every insect, vermin or organism needs to be eliminated and many are beneficial to the ecosystem. The integrated pest management program monitors all potential problems and identifies whether control is required. By observing how the target interacts with the environment, IPM specialists can prevent the unnecessary use of pesticides.

If certain pests require control, preventative measures may be taken. In residential areas, food and water sources, entry points and housings for pests may need to be eliminated. Crop growers can learn about applicable IPM methods at http://www.ipminstitute.org/faq.htm. In many cases, infestations may still occur even after preventative actions are taken. Additional control methods may be necessary, including trapping the pests, interfering with their mating habits or using pesticides effectively.

IPM is essentially a series of assessments, prevention procedures and control techniques. This system focuses on the source of the problem. It is based on managing pests in the most economical way and with the least amount of risk to people, pets, properties and the environment. To take advantage of this innovative approach to pest control in San Antonio, contact our experts at ABC Home & Commercial Services.

Stay Comfortable While Lowering Utility Bills

February 27th, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

When cooler temperatures arrive, it can be tempting to turn up the heat in order to keep your home warm and comfortable. While raising the thermostat will keep your house warmer, you will also pay more in utility costs. However, by making some simple changes, you may be able to use less energy and still maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. Here are a few tips for lowering your utility costs and saving energy.

Inspect Your Windows and Doors

Even the smallest cracks around your doors and windows can let cold air into your home and cause your HVAC unit to run more often in order maintain the ideal temperature. Inspect the areas around your windows and doors for signs of cracks or drafts. Sealing the area will help your unit to run more efficiently and make it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home.

Change Your Air Filters

To keep your heating system working properly, make sure to change your filters regularly. Warm summers and cold winters mean that San Antonio HVAC units are constantly in use and it’s common to find a buildup of dust and debris on the filters. Dirty air filters cause your system to work inefficiently and may decrease the air quality inside your home.

Check Your Insulation

The right amount of insulation acts as a protective barrier against the elements by keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. If your home’s insulation is inadequate, your HVAC system may be working too hard and your utility costs are probably too high.

Consider a Space Heater

Using a space heater is a good way to increase the temperature in a single room, without adjusting the thermostat. If you’ll be spending a few hours in one room, this may be the right option for you to try.

Have an Evaluation Done

The best way to ensure that your heating unit is functioning properly and efficiently is to have it tested. The professionals at ABC Home & Commercial Services can help keep costs associated with the use of air conditioning and heating in San Antonio as low as possible. We can evaluate your system’s performance to help you maintain a comfortable home. Contact our experts today.

Enhancing Your Home with a Natural Gas Fireplace

February 22nd, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

There is something about curling up next to a fireplace that induces instant relaxation. However, why should you limit your leisure time to the cold winter months? With a gas fireplace, you can enjoy the cozy ambiance of a real fireplace during any season. A gas fireplace can be installed during a home remodel and does not require your home to have any special equipment. Because a gas fireplace is self-contained, it can be installed in virtually any room of the house.

Gas fireplaces are fire-safe boxes that contain a gas burner and imitation logs. They can be turned on and off by flipping a switch. Gas fireplaces don’t burn wood, so they don’t result in a mound of ashes. Although the logs don’t need to be replaced, a gas tank must be connected to the fireplace for it to operate. Gas fireplaces are more eco-friendly than their wood-burning counterparts because gas burns cleanly. Direct-vent gas fireplaces draw in air from the outside to help the flames burn and the emissions are returned outside. Although they emit a small amount of carbon monoxide, gas fireplaces are still safer for the environment than wood fireplaces.

There are different types of gas fireplaces available to suit individual needs. Factory-built fireplaces are normally fitted at the time a house is built or renovated. Freestanding units are exposed on all sides and can be positioned in any room. Inserts fit into the opening of a wood-burning fireplace and transform it into a safer, more eco-friendly option. Homeowners can choose to connect the fireplace to their ductwork, dispersing the heat throughout the house. Many fireplaces can be turned up or down to control the level of heat given off. For more information about selecting a gas fireplace, visit doityourself.com.

No matter what kind of fireplace you use, find a licensed professional to install it. When you install an insert, the chimney has to be relined and the correct type of vent must be used. A builder/remodeler can recommend the most appropriate type of fireplace for your home, and a San Antonio plumbing specialist can assist with the installation if you decide on a natural gas fireplace. Also consult a San Antonio HVAC expert to make sure that your other heating and air conditioning equipment is functioning properly so that you use all of the heat sources in your home most effectively.

Contact us at ABC Home & Commercial Services for more information on gas fireplaces and let us make installation easy and stress-free.

Can I Prevent Stinging Insects from Nesting Around My Home?

February 15th, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

San Antonio is home to a number of stinging insects. Local homeowners must contend with yellow jackets, paper wasps, and carpenter bees. Such insects have the potential to deliver painful stings and cause allergic reactions. Some species can also damage the exterior of a home. It’s best to prevent them from nesting in the first place.

Homeowners can take steps to eliminate food sources and desirable nesting cavities. Stinging insects prefer to build nests in protected areas that shield them from rain and hail. When possible, it’s helpful to fill or block access to these cavities. Do not attempt to do this until a San Antonio exterminator has removed any existing nests.

It is also beneficial to store empty beverage cans and household trash in a solid container with a tight lid. Garbage and unwashed soda cans can attract various species of stinging insects according to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. They can easily chew through plastic trash bags. Some insects also become more aggressive near sources of food.

Most homeowners cannot eliminate all of the potential nesting areas or food sources near their homes. Fortunately, San Antonio pest control experts have a solution. Exterminators can apply strong insect repellents to eaves, walls and porches before wasps or bees take up residence. This eliminates the more costly and dangerous task of removing nests.

A pest control expert will select the most suitable treatment for the specific species of insect that builds nests on a home. Structures that protect nesting areas from the weather will also prevent rain from washing away the repellent. However, such treatments must be reapplied every so often to ensure that they remain effective.

Don’t let bees and wasps prevent you from enjoying your deck, patio or lawn. Homeowners can improve safety and limit pest control costs by taking action before insects build their nests. If one or more nests are already present, it is wise to remove them before they increase in size. Contact us at ABC Home & Commercial Services.

Is it Worth Switching to a Tankless Water Heater?

February 11th, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

Average Cost of Heating Water

Expenses for air conditioning and heating in San Antonio can be costly and the energy used to heat water can be expensive as well. About 20% of an average family’s energy consumption goes to heating water for household activities like dishwashing, clothes washing, showering, and bathing. Traditional water heaters that store water can cost around $450 to operate every year and about 20% of that cost goes to waste year after year. Those conventional water heaters waste energy because they keep heating water in storage tanks even when nobody is using the water.

Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater

You may qualify for a tax credit if you install an efficient water heater in your home.
When you turn on a tap, a tankless unit will supply hot water within five seconds.
You never run out of hot water with a tankless heater.
A tankless heater requires much less space and can even hang on a wall because of its small size and light weight.
Tankless heaters normally last more than twice as long as traditional water heaters.
Tankless water heaters are energy-efficient because they heat only the water you need.

Your San Antonio plumbing service representatives can help you determine whether the energy efficiency that a tankless hot water heater provides will make it financially worthwhile for you to switch.

When it is Best to Continue Using a Traditional Water Heater

Although a tankless unit can supply hot water continuously, it may not be suitable for a large family with several people using hot water at the same time. A traditional water heater with a storage tank may be better at supplying hot water for a dishwasher, washing machine and shower when they are all running at once.

A tankless water heater’s energy efficiency saves money through the years, but the initial cost of purchase and installation is higher, which may be a problem for some families.

For more information about both traditional and tankless water heaters, contact the professionals at ABC Home & Commercial Services and let us help you choose what’s best for your home.