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How to Install Instant Hot Water Heaters

December 30, 2023
How to Install Instant Hot Water Heaters

Installing an electric tankless water heater requires technical knowledge and experience in plumbing and electrical work. Before you install your electric tankless water heater, you should consult with an experienced professional to determine which parts and accessories are needed for your specific system. It’s also important to read all instructions carefully before beginning installation.

The following steps provide an overview of the installation process:

Choosing a Location

The unit should be located in an area that is close to the necessary piping connections. This area can be in a small and unobtrusive spot, such as in a pantry, under the stairs, or next to a sink.

Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for safety reasons when installing an electric tankless water heater. Ventilation requirements may vary depending on the specific model, so it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions before starting the installation process.

Gas and Electrical Connections

The appropriate electrical connections must be made in order for your electric tankless water heater to function properly. All connections need to be done in compliance with local codes and regulations. If there are any questions or doubts about this step, it’s strongly recommended to consult with a qualified professional for assistance.

Installation Tips

Although installing an electric tankless water heater can be done by a qualified DIYer with basic plumbing and electrical skills, this complex project should only be attempted by those who have experience with similar projects. Always read all instructions carefully before beginning any project and follow local codes and regulations when making any electrical or gas connections. If you have any doubts or questions about the process, it’s best to leave it to a professional installer or licensed contractor to ensure the safe operation of your system.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your electric tankless water heater can help prolong its lifespan and prevent unnecessary repairs down the road. To keep your system running smoothly and efficiently at all times, make sure that you follow your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. This includes flushing out sediment build-up every two years as well as regular inspections by qualified professionals for potential problems, including leaks or improper functioning of parts such as thermocouples or gas valves. It’s important to replace worn-out parts immediately if there are signs of wear and tear to minimize repair costs down the road.

Conclusion

When installing an electric tankless water heater in your home, it’s important that you understand all the necessary steps involved to make sure that the process goes smoothly without any setbacks or safety risks involved. With proper knowledge of installation processes and regular maintenance practices, you can enjoy the advantages offered by an electric tankless water heater while minimizing repair costs down the road!

Toshack Tankless Water Heaters

Our team at Toshack works diligently to help homeowners capitalize on the many benefits of electric tankless water heaters. We work with the very best systems and train our team on the latest installation requirements for work in our clients’ homes. To begin reviewing your electric tankless water heater options, contact our team online to see how we can help with your Brockville or Kingston area installation.

Common Furnace Issues

December 20, 2023
Common Furnace Issues

While your furnace is designed to have a long, useful life, there is a chance that something will go wrong with it. In a lot of instances, a furnace problem is relatively easy to fix. A trained technician can correct the problem quickly, or a homeowner might be able to do some troubleshooting on their own.

Dirty Air Filter

This one is by far the most common furnace problem, but luckily, it’s also one of the easiest to fix! When the air filter in your furnace gets clogged, it makes it harder for your heater to draw air into the mechanical components. This causes your furnace to work harder than usual. Given enough time, your furnace may even shut off to protect itself from damage. This scares homeowners because, at first glance, it looks like the furnace died. Before you panic, try changing the air filter. Simply shut off the furnace, remove the old filter, and insert the new one.

Broken Thermostat

The thermostat is a device that communicates with your furnace to let it know when it should turn on and how hot it should make your home feel. If the thermostat stops working properly, it can seriously impact your furnace’s performance output. You may notice problems like sporadic heating, short cycling, or the inability to turn it on or off. Your home may feel unusually cold or excessively hot. It’s possible that your thermostat has died and needs to be replaced, but the problem could be as simple as dead batteries. Swap out the old batteries for a fresh pair to see if that helps.

Pilot Light Issue

One of your furnace’s most important components is the pilot light, sometimes referred to as the ignition control or the ignitor. When the furnace kicks on, the pilot light produces a small flame that burns natural gas to generate power and heat. Without a pilot light, your furnace won’t be able to produce heat. You may hear your furnace repeatedly trying to turn on over and over again without successfully running through a full heating cycle. Contact Toshack if this issue occurs.

Normal Wear and Tear

Over the years, your furnace will begin to wear out. Components that have gone through years of heating cycles may become dull, bent, slow, or jostled out of place. If just one of these components fails, it can cause the entire unit to stop working. Figuring out exactly what component is damaged is difficult without an untrained eye. Many furnace repairs can be completed in just one visit from a technician.

Lack of Regular Maintenance

Without routine maintenance, your furnace will begin to break down and age much more rapidly than a well-maintained furnace. We recommend performing at-home maintenance like changing the air filter and updating the thermostat batteries once every three months. On top of DIY maintenance, you should have professional maintenance performed annually. During a professional furnace tune-up, a technician will clean, lubricate, and calibrate the entire heating system from top to bottom.

Need Furnace Repair? Contact Our Heating & Cooling Contractors for a Quote Today!

Toshack is proud to serve clients in the Brockville and Kingston areas. For furnace repair services and more, contact us today for a quote!

How to Fix Common Plumbing Emergencies

December 10, 2023
How to Fix Common Plumbing Emergencies

There’s never a convenient time for plumbing emergencies. Knowing what to expect and what to do when they happen will help you minimize their impact on your life and property. Here are six of the most common plumbing emergencies.

Overflowing Toilet

Whether your toilet is clogged or has a malfunctioning float mechanism, the first step to take is shutting off the water flow. The water valve is located at the bottom of the water line on the side of the toilet and should be turned counterclockwise. Once you stop the water flowing into the toilet, the mechanism failure or clog can be addressed. Unclogging a toilet may be as simple as applying firm vertical pressure with a plunger.

More severe clogs may require an auger (or “snake”), which can be used to fish out debris blocking the flow of water. Once the debris is eliminated, twist on the water valve and reset the float device.

Clogged Sink Drain

The primary way to avoid a clogged sink drain is to deter people from dumping coffee grounds, grease, and other dense waste down your drain. Unfortunately, even the most careful homeowner sometimes has to deal with this nuisance.

If using a plunger to clear material from the drain does not work, you may require an auger. An auger is simple to use with a bit of practice and determination.

Burst Pipes

A burst pipe can release up to 100 gallons in eight hours, making it by far the most damaging plumbing emergency. Corrosion over the years can often lead to burst pipes. If a pipe does burst, shut off the water supply immediately. Relocate any furniture or other items, if possible, to minimize further damage.

Pipes are Leaking

Your approach to repairing a leaky pipe depends on where exactly the water is leaking. If the leak springs from the joint, first tighten the joint with a wrench. You may find that tightening one joint loosens another, so proceed with caution. If water leaks from the pipe, a rubber patch may do the trick. Another option is using waterproof tape over the leak.

Sump Pump Not Working

If the sump pump is not working, remove the screen to make sure debris is not preventing impeller movement. If the impeller is clear, your pump may not be receiving enough electricity or have a faulty float switch. If the pump has been running for an extended period of time, it may be shutting down due to thermal overload.

Water Heater Issue

Frequent water heater issues include:

  • Water that is either too hot or too cold
  • Noises coming from the water heater
  • Water that has a strange color or odor
  • A leaking tank

If the heater is leaking, call Toshack for assistance. If there is no leak, flushing the water tank may solve color and odor problems and improve the heater’s efficiency.

SCHEDULE PLUMBING SERVICES TODAY!

For further information, Toshack is here to help! We have ninety years of experience serving Brockville, Kingston, and the surrounding areas. Generations of local families have relied on us for plumbing services, and we’re here for you as well.

Contact us to schedule a service appointment.

5 Tips for Choosing Duct Cleaning Services

November 30, 2023
5 Tips for Choosing Duct Cleaning Services

As you may already know, duct cleaning is a regular part of the home maintenance routine. However, the process can be time-consuming, frustrating, and costly. As an alternative, you might want to consider hiring a professional company to clean your ducts at least once every few years. In this article, we’ll give you some quick tips for hiring a duct cleaning company.

Check for Licensing and Insurance

Ensure the company you’re considering is properly licensed, insured, and certified. Certifications indicate that the company follows industry standards and best practices. Additionally, inquire about their experience in the field, as a well-established company is more likely to have the expertise needed to perform a thorough cleaning.

Ask About Equipment and Process

Inquire about the equipment the company uses. Professional-grade equipment, such as high-powered vacuums with HEPA filters, is essential for capturing and containing debris effectively. Ask about their cleaning process, including how they access and clean all parts of the ductwork, registers, and vents. A thorough and systematic approach is crucial for a comprehensive cleaning.

Ask About Cleaning Methods

Understand the methods the company uses for duct cleaning. Ideally, they should use a combination of mechanical agitation and high-powered vacuum equipment to dislodge and remove dust, debris, and contaminants from the ductwork. Avoid companies that rely solely on chemical treatments, as these may not effectively remove built-up dirt and can potentially introduce harmful substances into the air.

Check for References and Reviews

Once you find a company that seems legit, see what others say about them. You can usually see what past customers think by searching for online reviews. Alternatively, you can also ask the company for references. Generally, a company should provide you with three references upon request. If they refuse to do so, you may want to look for another technician.

Request a Quote

Ask for a detailed written estimate or quote that outlines the scope of the work, including the specific services they will provide, the cost, and any additional fees. Be wary of companies that offer extremely low prices, as they may cut corners or use ineffective cleaning methods. A reputable company will provide a transparent and detailed quote that aligns with the services they offer.

Need Duct Cleaning in Ontario? Give Toshack a Call Today!

Toshack offers professional duct cleaning services for customers in Ontario and the Kingston and Brockville areas. Delivering quality HVAC services and meeting the needs of each customer is always a top priority. We also provide services for other systems, such as heat pumps, furnaces, hot water boilers, ductless AC, and much more. Our team is also available to answer all of your heating and cooling questions.

Reach out to our team at Toshack today to schedule a no-cost consultation.

Is it Worth Installing a Heat Pump In Canada?

November 26, 2023
Is it Worth Installing a Heat Pump In Canada?

Are heat pumps worth it in Canada? This is a question that many homeowners consider when upgrading their home’s HVAC system. With Canada’s diverse environment and differing energy costs, it’s crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages.

What Are the Advantages of Heat Pumps?

If you’re on the fence about whether a heat pump may be suitable for your home, you’ll be happy to know that these types of HVAC units offer several benefits compared to regular cooling and heating systems:

  • Heat pumps are exceptionally economical due to their ability to transfer heat instead of having to generate it, which can result in significant savings on utility bills.
  • Heat pumps can be used to cool as well as heat your home, so you only need a single system to keep your residence cozy throughout the year.
  • Heat pumps provide consistent, even temperature control throughout your home.
  • Heat pumps are more resilient and typically last longer than traditional cooling and heating systems, which may save you money on maintenance expenses throughout the years.

What are the Disadvantages of Heat Pumps?

While heat pumps offer many benefits for Canadian homeowners, there are also some disadvantages. Here are some of the crucial disadvantages of using heat pumps in Canada:

  • Heat pump installation can be more expensive than traditional HVAC systems, making them less accessible for some homeowners. However, the energy savings may offset the initial investment over the long term.
  • In frigid temperatures, heat pumps may struggle to provide adequate heating. While this is less of an issue in Canada’s milder climates, it can be a concern for homeowners in the coldest regions of the country.

Will Heat Pumps Still Work During Canada Winters?

Heat pumps work in Canadian climates and are designed to operate efficiently in temperatures as low as -25°C. They work by transferring heat from the outside air into your home during the winter and from inside your home to the outside during the summer. This means that heat pumps provide both heating and cooling in one system, making them an excellent investment for Canadian homeowners.

Does Having a Heat Pump Save You Money?

One of the most compelling reasons to consider investing in a heat pump in Canada is the potential for significant cost savings. Certain provinces and utilities offer rebates and incentives for making the switch to a heat pump, further enhancing the cost-saving benefits. By carefully considering your specific circumstances and understanding the potential savings, you can decide whether a heat pump is worth the investment in Canada.

Learn More About the Benefits of a Heat Pump?

Want to learn more about the amazing heating and cooling benefits you can get from a new high-quality heat pump? The expert staff at Toshack will help you find the perfect heat pump for your needs, and will coordinate the installation for you. Book your appointment today to start getting the energy-saving benefits of a Toshack heat pump.

Comparing Your Tankless Water Heater Choice: Propane vs. Natural Gas

November 11, 2023
Comparing Your Tankless Water Heater Choice: Propane vs. Natural Gas

When considering tankless water heaters, you’ll encounter several options, beginning with the choice of energy source. You can select from gas-powered, electric, or heat-pump water heaters. Within the gas-powered category, there are natural gas and propane variants. Toshack weighs the differences between propane tankless water heaters and their natural gas counterparts.

Comparing Propane Tankless Water Heaters with Natural Gas

With an understanding of propane and natural gas, it’s time to delve into the question of whether a propane tankless water heater or a natural gas tankless water heater makes more sense for your needs. To aid in your decision-making process, let’s explore several key factors that should be considered when choosing between these two options for your water heating system.

Natural Gas is the More Affordable Option 

Propane tankless water heaters are more efficient but can have higher operational costs than natural gas models because natural gas is generally more affordable. While propane’s efficiency is an advantage, it’s balanced by the lower cost of natural gas, potentially reducing the energy savings gained from propane’s efficiency.

Propane is the More Efficient Option 

Propane stands out as a more efficient fuel compared to natural gas, offering a superior heat output per unit consumed. This fundamental difference implies that propane tankless water heaters would require significantly less fuel than their natural gas counterparts. However, does this necessarily translate into lower operating costs? Not exactly.

Propane is Environmentally Friendly

Both natural gas and propane are greener energy options, but propane is the more environmentally friendly choice. While natural gas has lower carbon dioxide emissions during combustion, propane emits fewer greenhouse gases throughout its lifecycle, as natural gas can release methane during refining.

Comparing Installation and Sources 

Choosing between a natural gas or propane tankless water heater depends on fuel availability. Using your existing fuel supply is practical. Areas with natural gas access usually have gas lines for water heaters, but installation is costly without one. In areas lacking natural gas, propane tankless heaters are a suitable option, although they require periodic tank refills, which can be inconvenient. This choice depends on fuel access, installation costs, and your willingness to manage propane refills and potential delivery delays.

Which Option is Better? 

Choosing between a propane and natural gas tankless water heater hinges on fuel availability. If your property already has a natural gas connection, it’s cost-effective and efficient to opt for natural gas. However, without a gas line, a propane tankless water heater avoids installation expenses. If environmental concerns weigh on your decision, propane’s slightly better eco-friendliness might make it more appealing. Ultimately, the choice depends on fuel access, cost considerations, and environmental priorities.

Contact Toshack for Questions About Our Tankless Water Heaters!

Toshack offers quality tankless water heater installation in Kingston and Brockville. We’ll do an evaluation of your home and help you decide between a propane or natural gas system. Contact us today to get started!

Debunking Common Myths About Propane Tankless Water Heaters

November 5, 2023
Debunking Common Myths About Propane Tankless Water Heaters

When it comes to water heating solutions, propane tankless water heaters often find themselves shrouded in a cloud of misconceptions and myths. This can discourage homeowners from considering the benefits of propane tankless units, preventing them from making energy-efficient and cost-effective choices for their homes. Join Toshack on our latest blog where we will uncover the misconceptions surrounding propane tankless water heaters and shed light on the real facts. We’ll look at the truth about their efficiency, installation, venting, and more, providing you with the knowledge needed to make the best decision about upgrading your water heating system.

Tankless Systems Can’t Heat Water Well 

Propane tankless water heaters remain an excellent choice, regardless of the water source for your home. Residences dealing with harder water or increased usage may experience a higher buildup of scale. Fortunately, many contemporary tankless water heaters come equipped with notification systems that alert homeowners when it’s time for a flush. Homeowners also have the option to install a water softener, which can help minimize scale buildup and extend the time between required flushes.

Tankless Systems Are Not Affordable

The regrettable truth about traditional electric water heaters with storage tanks is their tendency to be inefficient, resulting in occasional hot water shortages and a potential need for replacement every 10 years. While switching to a tankless water heater might involve a higher initial replacement cost compared to a storage unit, this upgrade has the potential to save homeowners a significant amount of money per year. These savings can offset the initial investment in as little as three to four years.

Tankless Systems Always Run on Propane 

In addition to propane systems, natural gas tankless water heaters are a very common choice when it comes to tankless systems. They heat water on demand, eliminating standby heat loss, which is a common issue with storage tanks. Standby heat loss arises from the continuous heating of water within the tank, resulting in energy wastage even when no hot water tap is in use. Many companies, including Toshack, offer natural gas tankless water heater installation at unbeatable rates.

The Venting is Too Complicated with Tankless Systems 

Transitioning from an electric tank-style water heater to a propane tankless unit might involve some additional preparation, but high-efficiency models can be conveniently vented directly through a wall using cost-effective PVC piping. Unlike conventional storage tank water heaters, propane tankless systems do not necessitate roof venting. Instead, their combustion fans expel exhaust horizontally. Various venting choices are available, including pipe covers and termination points, eliminating concerns about the visual impact of the venting system within a home.

Get Propane and Natural Gas Tankless Water Heaters with Reliable Contractors at Toshack

Are you considering replacing your storage tank with a tankless water heater? At Toshack, we specialize in providing heating and cooling solutions to our clients in Brockville and Kingston. Ask us about our propane and natural gas tankless water heaters and get an estimate on installation in Ontario!

Everything You Need to Know About Tankless Water Heaters

October 8, 2023
Everything You Need to Know About Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are often a great option due to their wide range of benefits. Learning all about tankless water heaters is important if you are thinking about making an upgrade. An experienced technician in Brockville and Kingston can answer all of your questions to help you determine if a tankless water heater is the best option for your home.

Understanding How Tankless Water Heaters Operate

Tankless water heaters are different from traditional heaters, which keep a reserve of hot water. A tankless system warms water immediately as it flows through a pipe by using natural gas or propane. The hot water is delivered straight to your shower or faucet, eliminating any waiting time.

Tips on Choosing a Tankless Water Heater

Keeping some things in mind is key if you are thinking about a tankless water heater. For example, residents in Kingston and Brockville may require a more powerful unit because of the colder climate. You should also calculate your hot water needs to help you determine the size. Checking out the local codes is also a good idea before you make any final decisions.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless systems offer instant hot water, and they are also more energy efficient. The compact size of these units makes them a good fit for smaller homes. However, the cost of the unit and installation can be high. Tankless water heaters may also struggle to supply hot water for multiple tasks at once.

Setting Up and Taking Care of Your Tankless Unit

After choosing the right system, it’s important to have it professionally installed. Regular maintenance is also key to maximizing the lifespan of a tankless unit. These maintenance tasks include descaling and leak inspections.

Steps to Boost Energy Efficiency

Buying a tankless water heater is a step towards a more energy-efficient home. You may want to consider installing low-flow fixtures that use less water, as it requires less heating. Insulating your pipes can keep hot water hot for longer periods, reducing the work your heater has to do.

Need to Learn More? Contact Toshack Today

Toshack specializes in tankless water heaters for many customers living in Kingston and Brockville. Our team can discuss all of the benefits of using these systems and answer any of your questions. Feel free to contact Toshack today to learn even more about these systems.

How Often Do You Need to Clean Your Air Ducts?

September 24, 2023
How Often Do You Need to Clean Your Air Ducts?

A common guideline suggested by experts is to have a duct cleaning every 3-5 years. However, this timeline can change based on several factors, including the age of your home, the amount of dust in your area, and whether there are pets in the house. It is always a good idea to contact an HVAC company offering professional duct cleaning services to establish a cleaning schedule that suits your home’s specific needs.

When is the Best Time to Clean Your Air Ducts?

Knowing the right time to clean your air ducts is crucial for the best results. Often, people wait until there is a noticeable issue, which is not usually the best approach.

Here are a few common signs that it might be time to schedule professional air duct cleaning services for your home.

  • Visible dust and debris around the vent covers.
  • Unusual noises coming from the ductwork.
  • An increase in respiratory problems or allergies among household members.
  • A noticeable spike in heating and cooling bills.

Typically, it’s recommended to schedule duct cleaning during the early fall or late spring to get rid of accumulated dirt and help prepare the system for the changing weather.

What Are the Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning Services?

Regular duct cleaning has numerous advantages for homes. These benefits include improving the efficiency of your HVAC system, which can often lower energy bills. Air duct cleaning also helps in reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses by removing allergens and pollutants from the air. These services can even extend the lifespan of your HVAC system by decreasing the strain on the machinery.

Always Choose Wisely

Selecting a reputable service for duct cleaning in Ontario is key to maximizing the longevity and efficiency of your system. Do thorough research, seek recommendations, and choose a local company with experienced technicians who use environmentally friendly products. You should also be wary of companies offering extremely low prices as they might not provide thorough services. It’s essential to choose a company that not only cleans but also inspects the ducts for any damages or potential issues.

Need Duct Cleaning in Ontario? Give Toshack a Call Today!

Toshack offers professional duct cleaning services for customers in Ontario and the surrounding areas. Delivering quality HVAC services and meeting the needs of each customer is always a top priority. We also provide services for other systems, such as heat pumps, furnaces, hot water boilers, ductless AC, and much more. Our team is also available to answer all of your heating and cooling questions.

Reach out to our team at Toshack today to schedule a no-cost consultation.

How to Prevent These Common Plumbing Problems

September 17, 2023
How to Prevent These Common Plumbing Problems

Homeowners know that plumbing issues can be a nuisance and difficult to resolve. Fortunately, many issues can be avoided with the right preventative measures. Reaching out to a local company offering plumbing services is always recommended if you are dealing with any major issues. Keeping a few things in mind can keep your plumbing system working at an optimal level while also saving you from a lot of stress.

Here are a few tips on how to prevent these common plumbing issues.

How to Avoid Tub & Shower Issues –

Keeping the tub and shower in great condition is easier than you might think. Apply these tips, and you might save yourself a call to local plumbing services.

Install a Strainer –

Install a strainer to prevent hair and other debris from causing clogs in the drain. Regular cleaning of the hair catcher will keep the water flowing smoothly.

Clean Shower Heads –

Shower heads can eventually become clogged because of mineral deposits. One way to avoid this issue is to flush the head with water and use vinegar to soak it overnight to loosen mineral buildup.

Check Tub Drain Stoppers –

Make sure that the tub drain stoppers are properly sealed. You can fill your tub with some water, mark the level of the water, and return at a later time to see if the water level is the same.

How to Avoid Bathroom Sink Problems –

The sink in a bathroom often sees a lot of use, and it can eventually experience problems. Fortunately, you can keep these issues to a minimum by following a few tips.

Regular Cleaning –

It’s vital to clean the sink regularly to prevent the buildup of any grime that can cause blockages. A clean sink is not only pleasing to the eye but can also prevent undesirable odors.

Check for Leaks –

Leaks can eventually happen over time. It’s a good idea to check your faucet and drainpipe for any potential leaks. Reaching out to local plumbing companies is important if you find any leaks or other issues.

How to Avoid Toilet Issues –

Toilet troubles can lead to a lot of headaches, but following these strategies can help you sidestep potential issues.

Proper Disposal of Waste –

Only toilet paper and human waste need to be flushed. Avoid disposing of other items, such as wipes, even if they are labeled as flushable. Following this rule will reduce the chances of experiencing a toilet clog.

Check for Any Leaks –

You will need to check around the base and the water tank for any signs of leaks every now and then. Early detection of leaks can save you from costly repairs in the future.

Need Plumbing Services? Reach Out to Our Team

Toshack offers a wide range of plumbing services. Our company has over 90 years of experience in the industry. Delivering quality plumbing services is always a priority.

Contact our team today and see why we are one of the leading plumbing companies!

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