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How Much Compost Do I Need?

. Posted by in , • San Antonio

Key Takeaways

Too much or too little compost can hurt your lawn or garden, so getting the amount right matters. The right amount depends on whether you’re working with a lawn, garden bed or clay soil.

Curious about nourishing your garden with compost, but not sure where to start? If you’re wondering how much compost you need, it depends on three things:

  1. The size of your space
  2. How deep you want to apply the compost
  3. Whether you’re working with a lawn, garden bed or heavy clay soil

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about applying the right amount of compost. This guide includes a simple calculation formula, a compost calculator, a compost depth chart, a lawn versus garden breakdown and how to adjust for Texas’s clay soil.

It also includes expert insights from J Zambo, Lawn & Tree Division Manager at ABC Home & Commercial Services. He is … Read Full Post »

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Why Does My Furnace Smell Like Burning?

. Posted by in • San Antonio

Key Takeaways

A burning smell from your furnace isn’t always cause for alarm, but knowing the difference between a harmless startup smell and a serious warning sign is helpful. This guide breaks down the most common causes and when to call in a professional.

If your furnace smells like burning and you aren’t sure why, you’re not alone. It’s normal to feel concerned.

The good news is that in most cases, the burning smell is harmless for Texas homeowners. When you turn your heat on for the first time after months of inactivity, a burning smell is normal. The smell is due to the dust that’s collected on the internal components of your furnace, and it should go away after a few hours.

If that’s not the case, you may have more cause for concern. If it smells like burning plastic, melting wires or electrical components, … Read Full Post »

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My Garbage Disposal Is Jammed: Troubleshooting & Prevention Guide

. Posted by in , • San Antonio

Key Takeaways

A jammed garbage disposal is often something you can fix yourself, but knowing when to stop and call a plumber is just as important. This guide walks through how to safely troubleshoot the problem, what causes it and how to prevent it from happening again.

You flip the switch and hear that low humming sound, but nothing spins. Maybe the sink starts backing up. Maybe the disposal shuts off completely. Either way, a garbage disposal jammed in the middle of dinner cleanup is annoying, and it can feel urgent when water is sitting in the sink.

In Texas homes, garbage disposals can take a beating. Hard water buildup, older plumbing systems and busy kitchens can all play a role. Around the holidays, when more food scraps, grease and leftovers make their way toward the sink, disposal problems can pop up fast.

The good news is that some jams can be fixed with … Read Full Post »

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EV Charging at Home: The Complete Texas Homeowner’s Guide

. Posted by in • San Antonio

Key Takeaways

Charging your EV at home is more accessible than ever, but most Texas homeowners will need a Level 2 charger and a licensed electrician to handle the installation safely and up to code. Before getting started, it’s worth checking your electrical panel capacity and looking into local utility rebates that could help offset the cost.

Across the Lone Star State, more and more homeowners are opting into electric vehicles. No longer a niche trend, driving an EV is now more affordable and accessible than it’s ever been.

However, as with any new technology, Texans also have plenty of questions, especially when it comes to charging EVs at home. Homeowners often wonder if they need special wiring, if their electrical panel is sufficient and what rebates and other incentives are available. 

This guide answers these questions and more, making it easier for homeowners to decide … Read Full Post »

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What Is a Slab Leak?

. Posted by in • San Antonio

Key Takeaways

A slab leak happens when pipes under your home’s foundation start to leak, and Texas homes are especially prone to them. If you notice higher water bills, warm spots on your floor or the sound of running water when nothing is on, it’s time to call in a plumber.

Is a slab leak causing severe structural damage to your home’s foundation?

A slab leak occurs when the concrete pipes beneath your home’s surface leak water. Unfortunately, slab leaks are common in Texas homes built on slab foundations. They can cause serious structural damage if left untreated.

This comprehensive guide covers what slab leaks are, their causes, warning signs, how they’re repaired and more. It also features expert insights from Michael Marugo, Plumbing Operations Manager at ABC Home & Commercial Services, who has both his Journeyman Plumber and Master Plumber licenses.

What Is a Slab Leak?

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Low Hot Water Pressure? Here’s What It Means (and How Texas Homeowners Can Fix It)

. Posted by in • San Antonio

Key Takeaways

Low hot water pressure is often caused by mineral buildup, a clogged showerhead or aerator, a partially closed shut-off valve or an aging water heater. Texas’s hard water makes these issues more common, so routine maintenance is the best way to stay ahead of this problem.

When you want to take a relaxing hot shower after a long day, nothing is more frustrating than low hot water pressure.

Plus, the issue doesn’t stop at lukewarm showers. Low hot water pressure can cause slow-filling tubs and poor appliance performance.

This comprehensive guide covers the causes of low hot water pressure so that homeowners can get to the bottom of the issue. You’ll learn quick checks you can perform to solve the problem, and if those don’t work, when to call in the professionals.

For Texas homeowners, issues like hard water, aging infrastructure and slab homes can … Read Full Post »

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The Complete Guide to Air Conditioner Preventive Maintenance in Texas

. Posted by in • San Antonio

Key Takeaways

Preventive AC maintenance helps extend the life of your system, lower energy bills and reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Scheduling service once or twice a year, ideally before summer, gives an HVAC technician the chance to catch small issues before Texas heat puts extra strain on your system.

In Texas, air conditioners often run eight to ten months a year, sometimes more. That means many systems are already working hard by early spring and still running deep into fall. Over time, that long stretch of use puts steady strain on major parts, especially the compressor and coils.

Extreme heat makes that workload heavier. When temperatures stay high for days at a time, the system has to cycle longer and work harder to hold a steady indoor temperature. At the same time, dust, pollen and humidity add wear in ways most homeowners don’t … Read Full Post »

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What Smells Do Mosquitoes Hate? A Texas Homeowner’s Guide to Natural & Proven Repellents

. Posted by in , • San Antonio

Key Takeaways

Scents like citronella, lemon eucalyptus and lavender may temporarily repel mosquitoes, but they won’t solve an infestation. For effective mosquito control in Texas, focus on removing standing water and professional mosquito treatment.

Mosquitoes can be a persistent problem in Texas because of year-round heat, humidity and standing water. If you’re looking for natural ways to repel these pests, you might have come across methods that use certain scents. While some smells do help repel mosquitoes, none solve infestations, so a layered approach is best. 

So what smells do mosquitoes hate that are backed by science, and what works in Texas specifically? To help separate myth from fact, we spoke with Alan Brown, Board-Certified Entomologist and Technical Director at ABC Home & Commercial Services. Here’s a closer look at what actually works and when it’s time to call a professional.

Why Smell Matters: How Mosquitoes … Read Full Post »

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Why Does My Air Conditioner Smell Musty?

. Posted by in • San Antonio

Key Takeaways

A musty smell coming from your air conditioner is usually caused by moisture buildup, clogged drain lines or mildew growth. While some fixes like replacing your air filter can be done on your own, ongoing odors are best handled by a professional HVAC technician.

Have you noticed an unpleasant, musty odor in your home when you turn on the air conditioning? It may smell like dirty socks, a damp odor or another foul smell. 

You’re not imagining things. There are a number of reasons why your AC can create a musty smell in your home. Even if the smell isn’t too strong, it’s important not to ignore it. The odor can eventually lead to bigger problems, such as poor air quality, mildew and low efficiency. 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about musty air conditioning odors, including causes and fixes. Additionally, … Read Full Post »

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Water Heater Making a Popping Noise: What’s Wrong?

. Posted by in • San Antonio

Is a noisy water heater causing you trouble? The first thing to know is that noises coming from your water heater are normal, but they can point to maintenance needs. 

As a homeowner, you might notice that the noises get worse when your water heater’s burner is on. This is also normal, but it’s important to understand what’s going on.

This guide covers the most common causes of water heater popping noises, how to diagnose what you’re heating, DIY fixes and when it’s time to call in a professional. 

It also includes expert insights from Michael Marugo, ABC Home & Commercial Services’ Plumbing Division Operations Manager and a licensed plumber with over 30 years of experience in the plumbing service industry.

Is a Popping Noise Dangerous?

If your water heater is making a popping noise, it can indicate a sediment buildup or an overheating risk. Over time, these issues can reduce your water heater’s efficiency … Read Full Post »

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