Team Toshack, Author at Toshack

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

November 11, 2023 Team Toshack

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 Team Toshack

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 Team Toshack

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 Team Toshack

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 Team Toshack

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!

7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Air Duct Cleaning Company

September 10, 2023 Team Toshack

Selecting the right air duct cleaning company can sometimes be difficult due to all of the available options. Asking a few questions is essential in selecting the right company. Keeping a few tips in mind can make it much easier to choose the best company offering air duct cleaning in Ontario.

Here are a few questions to always ask an air duct cleaning company.

Do I Need my Air Ducts Professionally Cleaned?

Professionals can inspect your air ducts to determine if they need cleaning. Typically, it’s a good idea to consider these services if you notice visible dust emissions from the ducts. Most HVAC companies recommend that you hire professionals to clean your air ducts every three to five years.

How Does Air Duct Cleaning Actually Work?

Understanding the process of duct cleaning is key before hiring a company to handle these services. An HVAC company should be able to clearly explain the steps involved, including the inspection phase, cleaning, and post-cleaning procedures. A detailed explanation will also give you an insight into their knowledge in the field.

Will the Entire Air Duct System Be Cleaned?

It’s always a good idea to confirm whether the company will clean the entire system, including the vents, coils, and motors. Cleaning the entire system is always recommended. This question will help you weed out any companies that only perform a superficial cleaning, which might not address underlying issues.

How Long Has Your HVAC Company Been in Business?

Experience often speaks volumes when it comes to the quality of service. Asking about the company’s history can provide you with a better understanding of its reliability and reputation. Established companies are likely to have garnered reviews that you can check for further assurance.

Can Your Business Provide Proof of Insurance?

Before hiring a duct cleaning company, make sure that they have valid insurance to protect your property during the cleaning process. Insurance serves as a valuable safety net to guard against potential liabilities, and it will also provide you with peace of mind throughout the process.

Is Your HVAC Company NADCA-Certified?

NADCA certification is a testimony to a company’s commitment to quality and adherence to the latest industry standards. Asking this question will help you gauge the credibility of the company and its dedication to providing top-notch services.

Do You Have Any References?

References can be a great source of information about the company’s work ethic and quality of service. Do not hesitate to ask for a few references and take the time to contact them for an honest opinion about their experience with the company.

Need Duct Cleaning in Ontario? Give Toshack a Call!

Toshack specializes in professional duct cleaning services for many customers. Our company also provides heating and cooling services. Delivering quality work at a fair price is always a priority. Contact Toshack today to learn more about using professional duct cleaning in Ontario!

How Can You Avoid a Furnace Repair?

August 27, 2023 Team Toshack

Furnaces help make your home warm, especially during fall and winter. Unfortunately, your furnace can develop issues during the spring and summer seasons when you don’t use it regularly. Luckily, there are essential tips that you can use to maintain the integrity of your furnace throughout the year. The following are several things you can do now to prevent a furnace repair in the future.

Keep the Supply Vents Open

You might have heard that you can cut costs by closing supply vents in rooms that aren’t used frequently. One can face a lot of drawbacks to doing this. Vent closures disrupt this balance and waste energy. Your ducts’ trapped air pushes outward, which can cause leaks. The furnace and fan will have to work harder since the cold air in the empty room will seep through uninsulated walls nearby.

Keep the Vents Clean

It’s important to keep your vents clean, like air filters. Cleaning them will enable them to run more efficiently and stop the stench of burning stuff. Here are some cleaning tips for your vents:

Completely turn off your HVAC system
The wall’s vents should be taken out
Remove any extraneous things, such as toys or food remnants
Clean up your ducts and vents
Put them back on the wall
Restart your HVAC system

Replace the Air Filter

A dirty air filter can bring on numerous issues in your home. Your indoor air quality will decrease as the heater and fan will have to work harder to maintain heat. The lower airflow through the filter may also raise the expense of heating your home.

When an HVAC filter becomes very unclean, the issue becomes more serious. The blocked hot air might cause the heat exchanger to overheat if it becomes so clogged that it is difficult for air to move through. This can result in a possible emergency furnace repair, or your furnace can completely turn off until you change the air filter and restart it.

Examine the Intake and Exhaust Pipes

Your HVAC system’s intake and exhaust pipes control how much air enters and leaves your house. These pipes can become blocked by debris and accumulation like leaves, pine needles, or a lot of snow, which could lead to your HVAC system malfunctioning. Additionally, it may lead to a buildup of carbon monoxide in your house. Clear away any obstructions surrounding the pipes and keep an eye on them throughout the season when it snows to keep your family safe and avoid furnace repairs.

Schedule Duct Cleaning in Ontario Today!

For furnace repair and maintenance services in Ontario, 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 furnace repair services, and we’re here for you as well.

Contact us to schedule a service appointment.

Is it Time to Clean Your Air Ducts?

August 20, 2023 Team Toshack

Just like your car or any major appliance, your home’s cooling system will perform better with regular maintenance, and air duct cleaning is just one of the services to consider ensuring the longevity of your entire HVAC system.

Despite routinely replacing filters, your home’s HVAC system gets dirty with regular everyday use, and unfortunately, your air ducts are a favorite hiding place for dust, dirt, and allergens to linger. That dust and dirt is filled with contaminants and air pollutants that can not only harm your indoor air quality but can also cause your system to work harder. This not only increases your energy bills, but it can also significantly shorten the lifespan of your system.

Appearance of Mold

The appearance of mold is never a good sign. It could mean a number of issues with your ducts. It’s important to check for mold for a variety of reasons, most prominently, to protect your health. Mold can cause breathing and other health-related problems. If you notice any mold in your ducts, call our duct cleaning service in Ontario immediately.

You See Rodents or Insects

Wildlife in your ducts is a big problem. If you notice any signs that there might be an infestation in your ducts, it’s definitely time to have your air ducts cleaned by a professional. Look out for small scratches, insect husks and shells along with rodent droppings. All could be signs that you have a couple of unwanted house guests living in your vents.

Higher Than Normal Energy Bill

Your heating and cooling costs should be relatively predictable from year to year. If you receive a bill that is noticeably high, especially compared to the same time a year ago, dirty ductwork might be to blame.

At times, ductwork can become so dirty that air isn’t able to flow freely and efficiently through your home’s HVAC system. When this happens, both your furnace and air conditioner are forced to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. This added energy expenditure means higher utility bills for you and your family.

Dust and Debris When Starting Your Heating Unit

One of the best ways to tell if your ducts need cleaning is to check how much dust and debris are blown out when starting your heating unit. Sometimes an accumulation of dust will make it seem like your ducts need to be cleaned, so be sure to perform this check only after a fresh filter has been installed. It’s important that your ducts be free of these substances as they can cause issues with energy efficiency and air quality throughout your home.

Schedule Duct Cleaning in Ontario Today!

For duct cleaning services in Ontario, 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 duct cleaning services, and we’re here for you as well.

Contact us to schedule a service appointment.

Smart Plumbing Technologies and Trends

August 13, 2023 Team Toshack

Over the past few years, the plumbing industry has seen several trends come and go. From innovative tools improving work efficiency to advanced technologies employed for convenience, plumbing professionals have been using these trends to guide their core business decisions.

The invention of smart plumbing technologies has brought about a significant change in how homeowners and landlords handle plumbing problems through plumbing automation. By investing in this technology, whether you own a home or a rental property, you can potentially enjoy a range of benefits.

Benefits of Smart Plumbing Services and Technologies

Modern plumbing technologies are making it easier and more efficient to use water. Intelligent toilets and faucets are designed to reduce water waste, while advanced pipes made from materials like PVC or PEX are resistant to corrosion, leaking, and bursting. It means longer life spans for your fixtures and lower repair costs in the long run.

In addition to reducing water usage, modern plumbing also helps improve sanitation. For instance, hands-free faucets can prevent the spread of germs by eliminating contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.

Finally, new technologies like augmented reality (AR) allow plumbers to diagnose problems faster and avoid making physical visits, saving time and money. AR allows technicians to analyze an issue remotely using their smart device to gain a visual understanding of the problem.

Current Smart Plumbing Services and Technologies

Plumbing technologies have come a long way in recent years. From modern smart toilets with heated seats, bidets, air deodorizers, night lights, and remote controls to touchless faucets that operate with just a wave of one’s hand, the latest advancements are designed to make our lives easier and more efficient while also helping us conserve water.

Smart toilets even offer automatic cleaning features and other valuable functions to help eliminate germs. However, these pieces of technology come at a cost. Nevertheless, the convenience and comfort they provide may be well worth it.

Trends in Smart Plumbing Services and Technologies

Voice-activated systems are becoming increasingly popular in the plumbing industry. From controlling your shower temperature to starting a cycle in your washing machine, voice commands can make life easier and more efficient.

On top of that, gadgets like leak detectors and water shutoff valves allow you to monitor your water usage from anywhere in the world. These devices can be connected to a smartphone or other smart device and programmed to alert you when there is an issue with your system.

The benefits of these technologies don’t stop there; some even come equipped with sensors that detect movement, temperature, and humidity levels – which can help protect your home from floods or fires caused by water damage.

Schedule Plumbing Services Today!

Those are the basics of smart plumbing services and technologies. 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.

How Does an Electric Tankless Water Heater Work?

August 6, 2023 Team Toshack

Electric tankless water heaters, also known as demand-type or instantaneous water heaters, provide hot water only as it is needed. They don’t produce the standby energy losses associated with storage water heaters, which can save money. Here you’ll find basic information about how they work.

Electric tankless water heaters heat water instantaneously without the use of a storage tank.

When a hot water faucet is turned on, cold water flows through a heat exchanger in the unit, and either a natural gas burner or an electric element heats the water. As a result, electric tankless water heaters deliver a constant supply of hot water. You don’t need to wait for a storage tank to fill up with enough hot water. However, a tankless water heater’s output limits the flow rate.

Typically, electric tankless water heaters provide hot water at a rate of 7.6–15.2 liters per minute. Gas-fired tankless water heaters produce higher flow rates than electric ones. Sometimes, however, even the largest, gas-fired model cannot supply enough hot water for simultaneous, multiple uses in large households. For example, taking a shower and running the dishwasher at the same time can stretch a tankless water heater to its limit. To overcome this problem, you can install two or more electric tankless water heaters.

The panel adjusts the electric valve, the mixing valve, and the water flow to achieve the desired temperature setting.

Most tankless water heaters have a front-facing panel that allows the user to control its settings. This panel enables homeowners to adjust the gas to exactly how much they’d like to use. For electric tankless water heaters, panels can also control the amount of electricity. This allows homeowners better to manage their water, electric, or gas bill.

The electric tankless water heater panel also allows personalized settings, such as the mixing value and the amount of water flow. When installing a tankless water heater, homeowners should discuss with their plumber what their preferences are and ask them to set the water heater accordingly. Homeowners should avoid drastically changing their settings if they do not have a precise reason for the shift.

Outstanding Service and Repair with Toshack

Our team at Toshack works diligently to help homeowners capitalize on the many benefits of 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 tankless water heater options, contact our team online or give Toshack a call at 1-888-547-6162 or at 613-342-9381 to see how we can help with your Brockville or Kingston area installation.