Team Toshack, Author at Toshack

What are the Benefits of a Ductless Air Conditioner?

July 30, 2023 Team Toshack

If you live in a small space and want a more efficient way to stay comfortable during those hot summers, a ductless air conditioner is ideal. Ductless systems, also called ductless mini-split systems, are becoming popular as a simpler, quieter, and a more compact way to cool a home.

How Do Ductless Air Conditioners Work?

A ductless air conditioner works differently than a traditional HVAC setup. Instead of using ducts that travel throughout your home, a ductless system uses several indoor units plus a main outdoor unit to heat and cool your home. They break the home up into zones, with each one independently climate-controlled by an indoor unit.

The Benefits of a Ductless Air Conditioner

They Improve Indoor Air Quality

You know that traditional HVAC systems rely on airflow to heat and cool your home. With that airflow comes dust and allergens that can cause upper respiratory issues. Duct cleaning is a key part of HVAC maintenance to cut down on these pollutants. Ductless systems, on the other hand, include multi-stage filtration processes that cut down on dust, pollen, and other allergens present in your indoor air. Keeping these air filters clean and replacing them as needed ensures that your air stays as clean as possible.

Ductless Air Conditioners Lower Your Carbon Footprint

Improving your home’s energy efficiency lowers your bills, but it also reduces your carbon footprint. Modern ductless air conditioners help achieve this goal thanks in part to their use of R410A, a refrigerant that doesn’t impact our planet’s ozone layer. R410A also absorbs and releases heat better than its predecessor R22, which improves cooling system efficiency.

Ductless Systems Can Save You Money

If you’re like many homeowners, you want an energy-efficient heating and cooling solution. Besides better climate control, you also wish to lower your energy bills. A ductless system saves you money with separate heating and cooling for each zone. You may prefer your bedroom to be cooler than the rest of your house, for instance. A ductless air conditioner lets you set your bedroom’s thermostat lower without affecting the temperature in other rooms.

Ductless Systems are Quick and Easy to Install

Forced air HVAC systems require a lot of time and work to install. Depending on the system, it may take several weeks. That’s especially true if the home does not have existing ductwork: But a ductless heating and cooling system can be installed quickly — within one day, in many cases. Only small pipes are needed, usually measuring less than 3 inches in diameter. No major wall modifications are required to install the pipes or the individual indoor and outdoor units.

Get Ductless AC Installations & Repairs with Toshack

Our long history of excellence means that everyone in Brockville and Kingston can trust Toshack with their home climate control needs. To learn more about the benefits of ductless air conditioning installations and heat pumps, contact our team today.

Finding Top Quality Duct Cleaning in Ontario

July 23, 2023 Team Toshack

If your home relies on central ductwork for moving air around your Ontario home, it’s important to have periodic duct cleanings. Otherwise, dirt and grime – and other nasty materials – will build up in your ducts, and eventually start getting spewed around your home. Clogged ducts will also reduce your heating/cooling efficiency, wasting energy while decreasing your climate control.

Unfortunately, it can be tough to find good duct cleaning service in Ontario, as it’s a somewhat specialized service that requires specific tools. Plus, it’s a service you shouldn’t pay that much for. So here are the important things to look for when you start searching.

What You Want in An Ontario Duct Cleaning Service

Full licensing, certification, and insurance

Never allow a duct cleaning service to work on your home unless they are fully licensed and permitted for the work. Also, it’s important that they carry insurance. Otherwise, any damage done – or any harm from accidents – could become your responsibility to pay for!

A long history

There are plenty of HVAC startups that don’t last long, including companies offering duct cleaning services. If the company has only been in business a few years, they don’t have enough of a history to fully trust. Look for a service that has at least a decade of solid work, and you’ll know they’ve proven themselves.

Strong reviews

Whenever looking at HVAC companies for duct cleaning, or anything else, be sure to read their reviews. Ideally, you should check multiple sites, including places like Google and Yelp. If a company has less than a 4/5 rating, chances are there’s something wrong and you should look for a service with better reviews.

Fair price quotes

Don’t settle on the first company you call. Whenever hiring for any home HVAC service, it’s a good idea to get at least three quotes from different companies. Then you can compare them to see what the prices look like. Stay away from lowball bids; they’ll almost always cut corners, and potentially cause more problems than they fix.

In some cases, competing bids can even be used as leverage, if there’s one company you want to work with, but you want them to lower their price a bit.

Fast service

You shouldn’t have to wait weeks for a service appointment, especially if your ducts are already overdue for cleaning. If they can’t get to you within a few days, maybe a week, you should probably look for another service that’s less busy. (They’ll probably charge less too!)

Professional Duct Cleaning

Toshack has 90 years of experience serving the greater Brockville and Kingston area, and we offer top-quality duct cleanings in Ontario! Contact us to schedule a service visit.

Is a Ductless Air Conditioner Right for Your Brockville Home?

July 16, 2023 Team Toshack

At this point, most people have heard of heat pumps. Heat pumps were first developed in the 1980s-90s, as an alternative to the standard air conditioner + heater combination for home climate control. A heat pump is basically a reversible air conditioner. Where standard ACs pull heat from the home and move it outdoors, a heat pump can go in either direction – so it can also heat a home by pulling outdoor heat inside.

So, a heat pump is an all-in-one unit that does the job of two appliances, while also offering superior energy efficiency compared to older technology.

Now, there’s a new type of heat pump on the market: the ductless air conditioner, also called a “mini-split.” Mini split heat pumps work on a room-by-room basis, where every room has its small blower which handles local heating and cooling. These units attach to small outdoor units via tiny copper pipes and offer even better efficiency than full-size heat pumps.

Would this be a good upgrade for your Brockville home? Here are the benefits!

Perfect for older homes

A lot of older homes were built without central ductwork, which greatly limits their options for heating and cooling. And installing new ductwork is extremely expensive! Upgrading to ductless air conditioners allows you to move away from flaky window-mounted fan units and space heaters and embrace a far better form of home climate control.

Ditch your ducts

On the other hand, if you rely on ducts for central air, you know that the ducts themselves can be a problem. They get dirty, and can even become home to vermin, requiring them to be periodically cleaned out. Also, the ductwork metal tends to absorb a lot of the cold or heat coming through the system, reducing efficiency. With mini split heat pumps, you could close off your ducts for good and never have to worry about them again.

Individualized climate control

Possibly the best part of ductless air conditioners is that you never have to fight over the thermostat again. Every room can have its own climate settings, based on what the occupant wants at the moment. It’s also great if you have rooms with specific climate needs, such as a room with a lot of plants, which can get the heat they need without heating the rest of the house.

Cutting energy costs

It’s true that mini-split systems cost more to install initially, compared to centralized units. However, they will pay for themselves. Ductless air conditioners are the single most energy-efficient form of home HVAC on the market and can substantially reduce your home’s energy use year-round. That’s also great for the environment!

Reach Out to Toshack Today!

If you’re considering a ductless air conditioner for your Brockville home, Toshack can help! For 90 years, we’ve stayed on the cutting edge of home HVAC systems, and now install and service mini-split systems.

Contact us to discuss your options!

The Main Components in Your Home Plumbing System

July 9, 2023 Team Toshack

Have you ever thought about how the plumbing in your home actually works, such as how water moves in and out? It’s good to have a basic idea of your plumbing setup, especially if you need to call for plumbing services in Kingston. That will help you understand what’s going wrong, and potentially help the plumber know where to start looking.

So, let’s talk about how typical home plumbing systems are built.

An Overview of Your Home Plumbing System

To begin, it’s best to see your home plumbing as being two separate systems: one for bringing clean water into your home, and another for taking dirty water away from it. These systems do not directly connect, except via fixtures and appliances where you use water – such as clean water coming from your faucet, and dirty water draining out.

1. Incoming Water

Water entering your home comes in through a single large pipe, called the main water supply line or, more often, just the “water main.” This water is under pressure from the source so that it can circulate freely around your house.

The source is typically from a local municipal water treatment plant, although it could potentially also come from a private well or other natural sources.

One of the first stops of this incoming water flow is your water heater, typically in the basement. The water flow splits, so that some is diverted into the heater, while the rest of the water remains “cold” and ready for easy access. If you have a water softening system, or other in-home water treatment, incoming water is passed through it at this point as well. From here, the pipes in your home are split in two, with one set of lines carrying cold water and the other carrying hot.

If you use a tankless water heater, the setup is a bit different, as tankless heaters just pull from the cold water as needed. Either way, at this point the water is ready to use!

2. Outgoing Water

The wastewater system in your home is relatively simple. A separate set of pipes connecting to all your various water-using fixtures and appliances funnels all the wastewater into a single large pipe, which then sends the wastewater away from your home.

However, many people don’t know there’s a second set of pipes for gas venting. Wastewater, especially material coming from the toilet, generates gases that are unpleasant, or even dangerous. So, there are smaller pipes coming off of the wastewater pipes which lead upwards to your attic or roof. These open into small vents which release the waste gas harmlessly into the outside air.

Those are the basics of how your plumbing system works – and if you ever have problems with any of it, 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.

Find Out the Truth About Air Duct Cleaning Services in Ontario

June 25, 2023 Team Toshack

Clean air is essential for our health and well-being. Air ducts play a vital role in maintaining air quality in our homes and workplaces. As the ‘lungs’ of any building, air ducts require regular cleaning to ensure the air we breathe remains as fresh and clean as possible. Working with a company offering duct cleaning in Ontario is always a great choice. Unfortunately, many myths about air duct cleaning abound.

Here are several common myths about air duct cleaning.

Myth 1: Duct Cleaning is a Difficult Task

Fact: While it’s true that duct cleaning can be challenging, this doesn’t mean it’s impossible. With the right equipment and trained professionals adhering to the standards of the National Air Duct Cleaning Association (NADCA), your air ducts can be cleaned thoroughly without any harm to your system.

Myth 2: Duct Cleaning Doesn’t Ensure Clean Air

Fact: With the use of modern technology, this myth is now outdated. Advanced tools and techniques are available for comprehensive duct cleaning, removing even the tiniest dust particles to ensure you breathe fresh air.

Myth 3: Duct Cleaning Services Are Overpriced

Fact: It’s a common misconception that hiring a professional duct cleaning company will break the bank. In reality, employing a professional service can often save you money. Experts in the field have the knowledge and tools to clean your system efficiently, ultimately saving you on energy and maintenance costs.

Myth 4: Duct Cleaning is Only Necessary When There’s a Problem

Fact: Regular maintenance, typically every three to five years, is crucial to prevent problems from arising. Dust and contaminants can accumulate over time, leading to clogs and potentially unhealthy living conditions. Regular cleaning ensures good indoor air quality.

Myth 5: Duct Cleaning Doesn’t Save Money

Fact: Contrary to this myth, clean ducts can indeed save you money. Debris in your ductwork can often force your HVAC system to work much harder than necessary. According to NADCA, a clean, unobstructed duct system can reduce long-term costs by allowing the system to operate more efficiently.

Choosing a Reliable Duct Cleaning Specialist

Toshack offers duct cleaning in Ontario and the surrounding areas. Our company also specializes in heating and cooling solutions for customers in Kingston and Brockville. No task is ever too big or small for our company. Reach out to Toshack today to learn more about our duct cleaning services!

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!

Team Toshack