Team Toshack, Author at Toshack

How Long Do Tankless Water Heaters Last?

June 18, 2023 Team Toshack

Electric tankless water heaters continue to become more popular. Unlike traditional tank water heaters that heat and store water continuously, these energy-efficient alternatives only heat water whenever it’s needed. Understanding how long these tankless water heaters last and tips on how to keep them well-maintained is essential if you are considering this appliance.

The Lifespan of a Tankless Water Heater

On average, electric tankless water heaters usually last between 20 to 30 years. This lifespan significantly surpasses the usual 10-15 years you might expect from traditional tank models.

Here are the key factors impacting the lifespan of a tankless water heater.

Usage

Just like any other appliance, the longevity of a tankless water heater is dependent on its usage. A unit that’s constantly working to provide hot water for a large family will wear out faster than one serving a smaller household.

Water Quality

The quality of your water can also influence your heater’s lifespan. Hard water, laden with minerals, can cause deposits to build up inside the unit, impacting its efficiency and its lifespan.

Regular Maintenance

Tankless water heaters require regular maintenance to maximize their lifespan. Annual servicing can help identify and repair any issues before they get worse, potentially adding years to the unit’s life.

Increasing the Lifespan of Your Tankless Water Heater

Even with these factors in mind, there are ways to ensure you get the most out of your tankless water heater. For starters, invest in a model from a reputable manufacturer. These companies invest in research and development, as these products are designed for longevity.

Regular maintenance is a must. At least once a year, have a professional inspect your heater to ensure it’s in top working condition. These professionals will check for any build-up of mineral deposits and perform a comprehensive system flush if necessary.

If you live in a region with hard water, consider installing a water softener. Reducing the mineral content in your water helps to prevent deposits from accumulating in your water heater, which allows it to run smoothly.

Need an Electric Tankless Water Heater? Give Toshack a Call!

Toshack specializes in plumbing and HVAC services for customers in Kingston and the Brockville areas. Our company has decades of experience in delivering quality services at an affordable price. Feel free to call Toshack if you are in need of an electric tankless water heater!

Cleaning and Maintenance Tasks to Do for Your HVAC System

June 11, 2023 Team Toshack

Spring and Summer are ideal times of the year to maintain your HVAC system to ensure it’s well-prepared for the summer months. You can do quite a few of these tasks on your own, but it’s also a good idea to reach out to an HVAC company for additional assistance. These professionals can perform maintenance and other tasks, such as furnace repair, AC installation, and much more.

Why Cleaning of HVAC is Crucial

HVAC systems operate nearly all of the time to keep your home feeling comfortable. Just as with any hardworking machine, regular check-ups and clean-ups are vital. These regular upkeep activities not only optimize system performance but also decrease the risk of unexpected malfunctions and costly repairs.

Cleaning the HVAC system after winter is especially important. The cold season often results in the accumulation of debris and dirt, which can strain your system and reduce air quality. Performing cleaning of your HVAC equipment enables a smoother transition into the warmer months.

Here are the key things to remember for HVAC maintenance

Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Leaves, twigs, or other debris can accumulate around the outdoor unit. Clear any obstructions to prevent overheating and maintain optimal performance.

Replace Filters

Air filters trap dust and allergens, contributing to cleaner indoor air. Over time, they become clogged and reduce the efficiency of your system. Change these filters every three months or even monthly during high usage periods.

Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

While some tasks are doable at home, others need professional expertise. HVAC technicians can conduct a thorough system check and address small issues before they become much bigger problems.

Benefits of Keeping Your HVAC System Clean

Regular cleaning of your HVAC equipment offers many benefits. These tasks help to improve air quality, reduce energy bills, and will even prolong the lifespan of your system. Not to mention, they can spare you the discomfort of a system breakdown during the hot summer days.

Need Furnace Repair Services or HVAC Maintenance?

Toshack is an HVAC company that’s been serving a wide range of customers since the 1930s. We offer a variety of services, whether you need annual tune-ups, furnace repair, air conditioning installation, heat pump cooling services, and more.

Feel free to give Toshack a call and take advantage of our cleaning promotion!

Clogged Drains in Restaurants and What Causes Them

May 11, 2023 Team Toshack

Clogged drains can be a nightmare for any restaurant owner or manager. They disrupt operations, cause unpleasant odours, and create unsanitary conditions. When faced with a drain blockage, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly and effectively. That’s where professional plumbing services come into play. With their expertise and specialized tools, experienced plumbers can quickly diagnose and resolve drain clogs, restoring the smooth operation of your restaurant’s plumbing system.

On this page, Toshack, a professional plumbing company in Ontario, dives into the common causes of clogged drains in restaurants and highlights the importance of relying on professional plumbing services to tackle these challenges.

What Causes Clogged Drains in Restaurants?

Clogged drains are common in a restaurant setting. Here are the two most likely reasons a restaurant may experience clogged drains:

Grease build-up. This can occur from washing dishes in the sink or from untouched food being thrown out.
Garbage disposal. Garbage and other waste may go down the drain of restaurant sinks which causes build-up and eventual clogging.

What to Do When Your Drain is Clogged

To maintain the proper functioning of drains in your restaurant, it’s important to remember that they are designed solely for wastewater disposal. Kitchen drains should never be used as a dumping ground for food scraps, and toilets should only be used for flushing toilet paper. To avoid kitchen drain clogs, ensure thorough employee training on proper waste disposal. Similarly, prevent toilet clogs by equipping bathrooms with suitable disposal units and politely reminding customers to dispose of garbage and sanitary items appropriately.

Despite training and customer reminders, grease-related drain clogs can still occur. Grease traps can be effective in preventing such blockages, but regular cleaning is essential. To tackle grease-related drain issues, it’s advisable to hire a professional plumbing company like Toshack in Ontario. They can clean your restaurant’s grease trap every few months, ensuring optimal drain functionality and preventing potential blockages caused by grease buildup.

Do You Need Plumbing Services at Your Restaurant?

Call us at Toshack! Whether you have a minor plumbing issue or a major project, our team is ready to assist you every step of the way. Our experienced and licensed plumbers are equipped to handle a wide range of plumbing needs, from installing complete bathrooms to repairing leaky faucets, upgrading kitchens, or even facilitating hot tub installations.

At Toshack, we also collaborate closely with various insurance companies in the Kingston, Brockville, and Smiths Falls regions, offering plumbing repair services in the aftermath of residential or commercial insurance claims. Rest assured that our expert plumbing professionals are dedicated to providing top-notch service and solutions tailored to your specific requirements. Reach out to us today for a free quote!

How to Tell Whether You Should Get Duct Cleaning

April 30, 2023 Team Toshack

When it comes to maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment, the condition of your home’s air ducts plays a crucial role. Over time, dust, allergens, and other contaminants can accumulate in your ductwork, potentially impacting indoor air quality and the performance of your HVAC system. But how do you know if it’s time to schedule a professional duct cleaning?

Toshack provides you with valuable insights and indicators to help you determine whether you should get duct cleaning.

What is Duct Cleaning?

Duct cleaning involves the thorough cleaning of heating and cooling system components, including air ducts, registers, grilles, heat exchangers, coils, and more. These components can accumulate dust, debris, and potentially harmful contaminants, such as pollen or mould. If not properly cleaned, these contaminants can be released into the living space, leading to allergic reactions or other health issues. Qualified duct cleaning service providers use specialized tools to dislodge and remove dirt from the ducts, employing high-powered vacuum cleaners to ensure effective cleaning.

Signs You Need Duct Cleaning

1. Vermin in Your Ducts

One clear indication that your ducts may be in need of cleaning is if they are infested with vermin, such as rodents or insects. While it may not be immediately visible to the naked eye, the presence of these unwanted pests can lead to several problems within your ductwork. When rodents or insects make their way into your ducts, they can leave behind droppings, nesting materials, and even carcasses. These contaminants not only pose health risks but can also negatively impact the air quality in your home.

2. Mould Growth

Visible mould growth inside hard surface ducts or on other components of your HVAC system is a clear indication that duct cleaning is needed. It’s important to understand a few key points about detecting mould in your heating and cooling system. While some sections may be inaccessible for visual inspection, ask the service provider to show you any mould they claim exists. Keep in mind that only an expert can definitively determine if a substance is mould, which may require laboratory analysis. Insulated air ducts with wet or mouldy insulation cannot be effectively cleaned and should be replaced.

3. Dust and Debris

If your ducts are congested with an excessive accumulation of dust, debris, and particles being released into your living space through the supply registers, it is a clear indication that duct cleaning is necessary. Over time, dust, pet dander, pollen, and other airborne particles can build up in your ductwork, hindering proper airflow and potentially compromising indoor air quality. When your ducts become clogged with an excessive amount of dust and debris, the effectiveness and efficiency of your HVAC system are significantly impacted.

Get a Quote on Our Duct Cleaning Services in Ontario Today!

If after reading this page you think you may be due for duct cleaning services, reach out to our team at Toshack for more information on getting a quote!

What to Check if Your Furnace is Giving You Trouble

April 20, 2023 Team Toshack

Is your furnace causing you headaches instead of cozy warmth? A malfunctioning furnace can quickly turn into a chilly ordeal, leaving you yearning for a solution. Before you panic or start dialling for professional help, it’s worth taking a moment to investigate the issue yourself. Toshack, an HVAC company in Ontario, guides you through the essential steps to troubleshoot your furnace and whether you need furnace repair services.

1. Furnace Filter

It is important to regularly inspect your furnace filter. When your furnace filter becomes clogged, it can lead to overheating, triggering a safety mechanism that shuts off the furnace. A blocked filter impedes the furnace’s ability to generate and distribute heat effectively. Regularly checking your furnace filter allows you to prevent these issues and ensure the optimal functioning of your heating system. When the filter gets clogged with dust, debris, or other particles, it restricts the airflow, hindering the cooling process of the furnace. As a result, the temperature within the furnace rises, potentially causing overheating.

2. Thermostat

It is crucial to verify and adjust your thermostat settings correctly, specifically ensuring that it is set to the “heat” mode. If the thermostat is not switched to the appropriate setting, it will fail to signal your furnace to initiate the heating process. To guarantee proper communication between your thermostat and furnace, take a moment to review the thermostat settings regularly. Ensure that the mode is selected as “heat” rather than “cool” or any other setting that might be available.

3. Furnace Switch

It is important to inspect and verify the position of the furnace switch, which is typically located on or near the furnace and resembles a standard light switch. Ensure that the switch is in the “up” or “on” position to activate the furnace. If the switch was previously turned off, allow a few minutes for the furnace to start running after flipping it back on. Locating the furnace switch is the first step in troubleshooting potential heating issues. The switch is responsible for controlling the power supply to the furnace which allows electricity to flow to the furnace, enabling it to operate.

5. Circuit Breaker

It is essential to inspect and assess the circuit breaker associated with your furnace, as it may have tripped and disrupted the power supply. Locate the specific breaker on your home’s electrical panel that corresponds to the furnace. If you find it in the middle or “off” position, resetting it can restore power to the furnace. The circuit breaker serves as a safety mechanism to protect electrical circuits from overloading or short circuits. In the event of an electrical issue, the breaker will trip and automatically cut off the power supply to prevent potential damage or hazards.

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

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

Debunking Common Myths About Duct Cleaning

April 5, 2023 Team Toshack

Keeping our indoor environment clean is a key component of taking care of our health and safety. Part of this is ensuring that the quality of indoor air is pure, making duct cleaning essential. Over the years, however, there have been many myths that have developed around duct cleaning. Toshack debunks these myths and tells you why duct cleaning services are necessary for your home.

Getting duct cleaning might not get you clean air.

This may have been true back in the day when traditional methods of cleaning ducts were used, such as using a broom or vacuum cleaner. Lucky for us, new methods of duct cleaning use advanced technology and tools to clean ducts effectively and thoroughly to allow for clean air which is safe to breathe to circulate through your home.

Duct cleaning companies are too expensive.

Contrary to popular belief, hiring a professional duct cleaning technician such as ours at Toshack in Ontario actually does the opposite of what this myth implies. Having a technician clean your ducts instead of trying to clean them out yourself can save you money in the long run as attempting to clean your system without the proper cleaning equipment could damage your system without you knowing. Getting duct cleaning in Ontario also helps to reduce energy costs.

Duct cleaning is too difficult of a task.

It is true that duct cleaning is not a simple task, especially for larger homes. It requires a certain level of expertise to clean a ducting system thoroughly. Hiring a professional duct cleaning service ensures that your system is properly cleaned and minimizes the risk of damage that may come with attempting to clean the system on your own. Experienced technicians are trained to perform cleaning with national safety standards in mind.

Duct cleaning is only required when your system isn’t operating well.

This is partially true, however, homeowners should have their systems cleaned regularly rather than only when a problem arises. As ducting is hidden behind the walls and floors of your home, you are unable to see how much dust and debris can accumulate over time. These particles can build up and cause blockages throughout the system, eventually leading to larger problems down the line as well as increasing the risk of developing illnesses. Keeping your ducting system clean is key to ensuring good indoor air quality.

Air duct cleaning services leave your home a mess.

As long as you hire a professional duct cleaning service such as Toshack in Ontario, a mess after the job is the last thing you need to worry about. Experienced technicians with a good reputation know how to provide the best service from the moment they walk through the door to start the job to the moment they leave. They take the necessary steps to ensure that you feel secure about getting duct cleaning services.

Contact Toshack to inquire about receiving a free quote on our duct cleaning services in Ontario!

Everything To Know About Electric Tankless Water Heaters

March 30, 2023 Team Toshack

Electric tankless water heaters are an efficient way to provide hot water in your home. This blog tells you all about what they are, how long they last, and how regularly maintaining your system is crucial.

What Is It?

Tankless water heaters are water heating systems that operate without the need for a bulky tank. A traditional water heater stores water in its tank after it has been heated, restricting your home to a limited amount of hot water that can run out fast. A tankless water heater, on the other hand, allows water to move through a line of pipes inside the system that is constantly being heated, providing your home with an endless supply of hot water and reducing the likelihood of running out of hot water. These systems heat water on demand so that hot water is available whenever you need it.

What Is The Lifespan Of Electric Tankless Water Heaters?

The lifespan of an electric tankless water heater depends on the type of heat exchanger involved. If the system has a copper tankless heat exchanger, it can typically last between 12 to 15 years. But with annual maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of a tankless water heater up to 20 years.

A stainless steel heat exchanger increases the lifespan of a tankless water heater to 25 years. Similar to copper heat exchangers, tankless systems with stainless steel heat exchangers can last about 25 to 30 years with regular maintenance and water treatment.

When Should I Get Maintenance?

HVAC technicians recommend that you have your tankless system serviced once a year. However, there are a couple of ways to tell that your system may need maintenance promptly:

If an error code appears on your unit. You will need to get in contact with your local HVAC technician to come in and examine the issue.
You run into problems and you need to reset your water heater. This should be done by a licensed, professional HVAC technician as they have the necessary equipment, knowledge, and expertise to do this effectively.

How Can I Extend The Lifespan Of My Electric Tankless Water Heater?

Here are a few ways to prolong the life of your tankless system.

Treat hard water: Avoid developing extreme issues in your tankless water heater by ensuring that hard water is treated. Ask your HVAC technician about water treatment from hard water. If hard water is left untreated, this can cause leaks in the heat exchanger and the risk of developing serious issues inside your tankless system.

Get regular maintenance: Regularly maintaining your electric tankless water heater reduces the chance of developing major problems in your unit down the line. Some systems may need a quick fix such as flushing out the water heater, while others may need a full clean-up using professional equipment.

Call Toshack About Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Whether you require maintenance for your existing system or want to install a new one, Toshack has what you need. Call our technicians to request a free quote!

The Benefits of Furnace Repair And Replacement

March 25, 2023 Team Toshack

As a homeowner, you may have a million things to think about when it comes to making sure your home is in good condition and your family has all the things they need to keep themselves comfortable. Furnace repair and replacement is among one of those things as it ensures that your HVAC system operates properly and provides heat efficiently in your home. Toshack explores a few reasons why furnace repair is crucial to your home and what it can offer.

Why You Should Get Furnace Repair Or Replacement

A furnace is a crucial appliance in any home as it can often be the primary source of heating which allows people to live comfortably, especially during the colder months. Upgrading your heating system is key. Here are a few reasons why:

Your furnace does not comply with safety regulations and it has been red-tagged by a technician.
Your utility bills are extremely high as a result of your furnace having to work overtime to operate and provide heat in your home.
Your oil tank is near the end of its 10-year lifespan and needs to be replaced.
Your furnace has existing issues that hinder its ability to perform efficiently and has an increased risk of breaking down completely, which may result in an even larger and more expensive replacement project down the road.

Healthier Air

Getting furnace repairs or replacing your old furnace with a new heating technology can offer cleaner and healthier indoor air circulation. This is because newer technologies have innovative air technology that allows air to run through a filter that can effectively remove air pollutants such as pollen, dust, and other irritants. Not only does this offer clean air in your home, but it also can reduce the risk of developing illnesses, especially in children and elderly people who may be living in your home.

An Even Distribution Of Heat

Old HVAC systems that need to be replaced or require major repairs may not be distributing heat as effectively as they should. When you get furnace repair or replacement services, you ensure that all areas in your home are receiving a consistent distribution of warm air from your furnace all while functioning quietly and comfortably.

Operates Silently

An old furnace that has likely developed many issues over the years and has reduced functionality can be loud while operating as it may need to work overtime. This could be uncomfortable for families who may be wanting to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet in their homes. Replacing or repairing your furnace ensures that your furnace operates smoothly and without extra effort. New technologies are much quieter than older furnaces. This reduces the likelihood of the furnace making loud noises while it operates, which helps to ensure quiet performance in your home.

Looking For Furnace Repair Services In Kingston, Smith Falls, Or Brockville?

We’ve got just what you need. Contact our expert HVAC technicians today to request a free quote!

Electric Tankless Water Heaters and Their Benefits

March 20, 2023 Team Toshack

Have you ever looked at the big, hot water heater in your basement and thought that there really should be a better option for providing hot water? In fact, there is! Electric tankless water heaters are already becoming standard in other areas of the world, including Europe and Japan, and now they’re gaining popularity in the Brockville area.

Tankless water heaters aren’t for everyone, but in many cases, they make a lot of sense – especially in the long term. So let’s talk about how they work, and why you might want one.

How Electric Tankless Water Heaters Work

As the name suggests, tankless water heaters don’t store hot water inside them. Instead, basically, they take incoming cold water and send it through a coiled pipe that winds around a central heating element. When you turn on the hot water tap, the tankless heater springs to life, producing hot water seconds after you ask for it.

Yes, there is a short delay, but it’s typically no longer – and often much faster – than how long it takes for hot water to be delivered from a basement hot water tank.

The Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Energy efficiency

This is the biggest reason to switch. Because these heaters only create heat on demand, there is far less energy waste compared to traditional water heaters. You’re virtually guaranteed to use less energy. Gas-powered units are also an option.

Small size

Tankless water heaters typically only take up around a square foot on the wall, rather than requiring a huge appliance in your basement. That creates more floor space you can use.

Rebates reduce the costs

Governments and power companies both love tankless water heaters, because of the energy savings. So, there are a range of rebates and other incentives you may be able to take advantage of to reduce upgrade costs.

Is An Electric Tankless Water Heater Right for You?

The big reason to not get a tankless model is if you have a large home, as they do have a limit to how much hot water they can supply at once. Of course, this could be mitigated by installing more than one, such as having one per floor – but that drives up costs, as well as potentially requiring electrical upgrades to power them all.

If you’re looking for a new water heater in Brockville, Toshack has 90 years of experience helping people find the best option for their needs. Contact us to discuss the possibilities!

Why Choose a Ductless Air Conditioner in Brockville

March 15, 2023 Team Toshack

If you’re thinking about installing a new air conditioner in your Brockville home, there are several options – and the newest invention might be just right for you: ductless air conditioners!

Ductless A/Cs are a new type of heat pump, sometimes also called a mini-split. They work on the same principle as regular heat pumps but are miniaturized so that each room gets its own independent heating and cooling unit. As the name suggests, no ductwork is needed – just a small copper pipe running to an outdoor unit.

This is by far the best choice for an A/C upgrade if you’re in an older home without central ductwork, which is incredibly expensive to retrofit. However, ductless air conditioners offer numerous benefits to everyone else as well.

Four Big Benefits of Ductless Air Conditioners in Brockville

Extreme energy efficiency

Mini-splits are the most energy-efficient option for heating and cooling that’s been developed yet. Heat pumps, in general, are becoming the most popular type of home HVAC system, and mini-splits take that to the next level. The higher initial installation costs will be quickly balanced out by their long-term cost savings.

Plus, of course, that’s good for the environment as well!

Customized home climate control

With a ductless air conditioning system, there’s no more arguing over the thermostat. Since each blower only serves one or two rooms (at most) everyone can set their own climate according to their tastes.

This is also great if you happen to have rooms in your home with specific climate requirements, such as for growing plants or keeping exotic pets.

No more huge, noisy burners and condensers

Ductless A/C completely reimagines home climate control, eliminating the need for large heating and cooling units in your basement. This frees up floor space, and also typically reduces maintenance costs long-term because heat pumps are easier to maintain than older HVAC systems.

Rebates and incentives can cut costs further

Power companies, as well as government at all levels, are implementing incentives for people to move towards more energy-efficient HVAC options like heat pumps. Depending on your situation, the upgrade could be cheaper than you realize!

Toshack has been at the forefront of heating and cooling in the GTA since the 1930s, and we always keep up with the latest technology. If it’s time for an A/C upgrade in your Brockville home, contact us to discuss whether ductless air conditioning is right for you!

Team Toshack