Team Toshack, Author at Toshack

How Central Heating and Cooling Works: The Basics

May 29, 2022 Team Toshack

Do you know how your heating and cooling system works? If not, you’re not alone. A lot of people don’t understand the basics of how their central heating and cooling system works. Below are the basics of how these systems work and what goes into making them function properly. It’s important to know some of the common problems that can occur with these systems and how a company specializing in heating and cooling in Kingston can fix them.

Central Heating: The Essentials

The most common type of central heating system is a forced-air system. This type of system uses a furnace to heat air and then sends the air through ducts to different rooms in your home. The furnace is usually located in the basement or garage and has a network of ducts that run throughout your home. When the furnace is turned on, it heats the air and then sends it through the ducts to different rooms. The air is distributed evenly throughout the house by a series of vents.

Central Cooling: The Essentials

The most common type of central cooling system is a split system. This type of system has an outdoor unit that contains the compressor and condenser. The indoor unit contains the evaporator coil. The two units are connected by a series of refrigerant lines. The outdoor unit pumps refrigerant to the indoor unit, where it evaporates and cools the air. The cooled air is then sent through the ducts to different rooms in your home.

Controlling Your Systems

The most common way to control your central heating and cooling system is with a thermostat. Thermostats are automatic, meaning the thermostat turns the system on and off according to the temperature. Automatic thermostats are set in place, because they’re convenient and can save you money on your energy bills.

Tips for Central Heating and Cooling

There are a few things that you should keep in mind when you’re using your central heating and cooling system. First, make sure that you change the filter regularly. A dirty filter will make your system less efficient and could cause problems down the road. Second, don’t close too many vents in your home. This can put a strain on your system and could lead to problems. Finally, make sure that you have your system serviced regularly by a Kingston heating and cooling company. This will help to keep it running smoothly and prevent any major problems from occurring.

Get the Finest Service for Heating and Cooling in Kingston From Toshack!

If you’re having trouble with your central heating and cooling system, or if you just want to make sure that it’s running properly, call Toshack. We’re a Kingston heating and cooling company that has been providing quality service for many years.

Call us today to request a free quote or book a service call!

The Top Steps for an Effective Furnace Repair or Replacement

May 25, 2022 Team Toshack

When your furnace isn’t working properly, it can be a huge inconvenience. Not only is it uncomfortable to live without heat in the winter in Kingston or Brockville, but it can also be expensive to repair or replace your furnace. Below are the top steps for an effective furnace repair or replacement. Follow these steps and you’ll be able to get your furnace back up and running in no time with furnace repair in Kingston and Brockville.

Reviewing All the Vents and Ducts

The first step is to check all the vents and ducts in your home. Make sure that they are clear of any debris or obstructions. If you find any blockages, you’ll need to remove them before proceeding with the repair. Your furnace may not be functioning properly if there is a blockage preventing the flow of air since it will need to work harder than usual, causing strain on various parts and often increasing your monthly bills.

Checking the Thermostat

Next, you’ll need to check the thermostat to see if it is set to the correct temperature. If it isn’t, you’ll need to adjust it accordingly. Thermostats can also malfunction for a variety of reasons, including faulty sensors, a disconnected power source, and more.

What if Your Furnace Doesn’t Start?

If your furnace doesn’t start, the first thing you’ll need to do is check the power supply. Make sure that the breaker hasn’t been tripped and that there is power to the furnace.

Clean the Filter

If the furnace is running but not heating properly, one of the first things you should do is clean the filter. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and cause your furnace to overwork itself.

Fix any Rapid Cycling

Another common issue that can be fixed with furnace repair is rapid cycling. This is when the furnace turns on and off more frequently than normal. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including a dirty filter, blockages in the vents or ducts, or a problem with the thermostat.

Get Furnace Repair in Kingston and Brockville with Toshack Today!

By following these steps, you’ll be able to effectively repair or replace your furnace. If you need any assistance, be sure to contact the experts at Toshack. We’re always here to help! Contact us today for furnace repair or furnace replacement in the Brockville area!

Common Plumbing Problems Older Homes in Kingston May Have

May 19, 2022 Team Toshack

Plumbing problems can often appear in older homes and lead to numerous issues. These plumbing problems can be fairly simple to fix, while others are much more complex. Reaching out to professional plumbing services in Kingston is always a smart choice in taking care of these issues before they become more severe.

Five Plumbing Problems That Can Impact Older Homes

Tree Roots

You will often find big trees near older homes. Tree roots can invade water pipes, as willow trees are especially prone to causing these problems. Regularly getting your plumbing system inspected is key to staying proactive against tree roots before they cause widespread damages.

Buckled Pipes

The plumbing pipes in your house can eventually shift and create low areas within your sewer lines. These low spots impact the flow of water, which can cause it to pool inside of your sewer lines. Waste sediment will eventually build up inside of these pools, as this can result in leaks or blockages. Contacting plumbing services in Kingston is essential if you are dealing with this problem.

Old Pipes

Homes built in the 1960s often used galvanized piping, which was made from iron and coated with zinc. However, these pipes will eventually erode over time, which makes them vulnerable to rust. On the other hand, polybutylene pipes were popular between the 1970s and 1990, as they can become brittle and crack over time. You may even need to upgrade your entire plumbing system if your pipes experience too much damage.

Outdated Fixtures

Antique plumbing fixtures can create several problems for homeowners. These outdated fixtures can often cause water leaks, which raise your water bill. You may even notice bad smells due to the seals, compression fittings, or gaskets not fitting as tight over time. Choosing to replace these outdated fixtures can help you avoid these problems.

Copper Pipes

Many older houses used copper pipes for plumbing. Unfortunately, copper piping is often a target of thieves. Always checking the pipes to ensure they are intact is important before buying an older house. It’s also important to make sure they aren’t braised or soldered together with lead-based solders, as this can be dangerous.

Toshack Provides Leading Plumbing Services in Kingston

Toshack offers plumbing services for a wide range of customers. Reach out to our team at Toshack for a free quote and more information.

Can Air Conditioners Improve Your Indoor Air Quality?

May 16, 2022 Team Toshack

Indoor air is nearly ten times more polluted compared to the outdoors. These pollutants can cause a variety of health problems, such as respiratory issues or nasal congestion. Looking at ways to improve the quality of indoor air is important in creating a safe environment for you and your loved ones. Reaching out to a company like ours that offers heating and cooling in Kingston is a good idea if you are trying to improve the quality of your indoor air.

Will Air Conditioners Help With Indoor Air Pollution?

Air conditioners can provide clean air for a short while, but they are ineffective at reducing allergens indoors. A dirty air conditioner can spread allergens in the air, which can cause a variety of issues. Mold in an air conditioner can even trigger chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), as it’s important to get your system inspected at least twice a year.

Why You Need to Replace Your Air Filters

Not changing the air filter for your air conditioner regularly is a common mistake made by many people. Replacing your filter every few months will improve the quality of air in your home while also improving the efficiency of your system. Using High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters is especially effective at reducing allergens in the air due to their design.

How to Choose the Right Filter?

The easiest way to find the best filter for your air conditioner is to check out the MERV rating for your system. Typically, residential filters range anywhere between MERV 8 to MERV 13. A MERV 8 will trap mold spores, hairspray particles, and dust mites, while Merv 9 to MERV 12 filters can trap finer particles and even automotive emissions due to their design.

Additional Ways to Keep Your Indoor Air Clean

Replacing your filter on a frequent basis is just one of the many ways you can improve the quality of your indoor air. Keeping your home clean and it airing it out on a regular basis is also an effective way to eliminate pollutants. Adding a few indoor plants in your home is also beneficial in improving the quality of air inside your home.

Contact Toshack If You Need Heating and Cooling in Kingston

Toshack offers heating and cooling services for customers throughout Kingston. Contact our team today to request a free quote!

How You Can Identify Different Furnace Problems in Kingston & Brockville

May 14, 2022 Team Toshack

Keeping your furnace running properly is essential for homeowners, as it plays a key role in keeping your house feeling comfortable. However, problems can eventually develop over time. Learning how to identify the gravity of a furnace problem is important, as you can sometimes fix this on your own, or you will need to reach out to professional furnace repair in Brockville and Kingston.

Four Common Furnace Problems & How to Repair Them

Loud Noises

Strange sounds can happen due to many reasons, whether it’s an issue with your pilot light or you may need to oil the blower motor lubrication ports to avoid this problem. Other reasons why you are hearing loud noises may be due to loose panels, problems with your motor bearings, or belt issues. Contacting an HVAC professional in Kingston and Brockville is always a good idea to investigate the issue.

Electrical Problems

Sometimes your furnace may experience electrical problems over time. Reaching out to a professional to inspect your system is essential to staying safe. Electrical fires in homes cause nearly $1.5 billion in damages each year, as staying proactive against these problems is key to keeping you and your family safe.

Unpleasant Smell

A gas leak will have an unpleasant smell that’s similar to sulfur or rotten eggs. It’s essential for you and anyone in your home to leave immediately without turning the lights on or off. You also don’t want to turn on your stove or start your car due to the potential of an explosion. Going to your neighbor’s house to call the authorities is important if you think you are dealing with a gas leak.

Rapid Turning Off and On

A furnace can turn off and on due to a variety of reasons. This may occur because of a dirty air filter, as this puts additional stress on your system. However, it may be a sign of a more serious issue, as it’s a good idea to reach out to HVAC professionals in your area to investigate and repair the problem before it gets more severe.

Get Quality Furnace Repair in Brockville and Kingston

Toshack specializes in HVAC, plumbing, and air quality services in Kingston and Brockville. We have decades of experience in providing installation and repair services. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation for using our furnace repair services!

5 Things to Check Out If Your Furnace Isn’t Working

May 12, 2022 Team Toshack

A furnace can eventually stop working due to several reasons. Understanding how to check your furnace to determine the cause of the issue is important for homeowners. Reaching out to a company offering furnace repair in Kingston and Brockville is a great way to gain access to professional experts.

Here are a few of the top things to do if your furnace stops working.

1) Check Your Power Switch
The first step is to check your power switch to ensure it’s turned on. You can also look at your circuit breaker to make sure it hasn’t been tripped. Taking the time to perform these steps is well worth the effort, as it’s an easy way to fix your furnace.

2) Look at Your Thermostat
Your thermostat plays a vital role in heating your home. However, a malfunctioning thermostat makes it impossible to keep your home feeling warm. You may need to only replace your batteries, or it may be a more serious problem.

3) Replace Your Filter
Many homeowners make the mistake of not replacing their filters on a regular basis. Taking the time to replace your filter every two to three months is often recommended to maximize the efficiency of your system. A new filter can also reduce the wear and tear on your system, which can result in significant savings over time.

4) Inspect Your Air Ducts
Dealing with warm and cold spots in your home is often a sign of a problem with your air ducts. Contacting an HVAC company to inspect your air ducts for leaks is important in identifying the source of the problem. These professionals can make repairs to your system to help avoid this problem.

5) Contact an HVAC Company
Sometimes it can be difficult to determine why your furnace isn’t working correctly. Reaching out to an HVAC company is a great way to resolve this issue, as these professionals can identify the source of the problem. Scheduling annual inspections is also an excellent way to stay proactive while maximizing the lifespan of your system.

Schedule Professional Furnace Repair in Kingston and Brockville
Toshack offers HVAC services for customers throughout the Kingston and Brockville areas. Our goal is to always deliver top-quality services at a fair price. Feel free to give Toshack a call today to learn more about using our HVAC services!

Here’s What You Need to Do With an Air Lock in a Waste Pipe

May 8, 2022 Team Toshack

A lack of free-flowing air within your plumbing venting system can often result in an air lock. Many times you will notice incomplete toilet flushes or a slow-draining sink due to these issues. Trying to resolve these problems on your own is often a challenge. Contacting professional plumbing services in Kingston is recommended in taking care of this problem as soon as possible to avoid any additional issues.

What Exactly is an Air Lock?
An air lock is any pocket of air that is trapped within a drain line. This often happens due to a blocked vent pipe. An air lock can limit water flow and lead to other plumbing issues. Understanding the common signs of air lock is important in taking care of this problem as soon as possible.

Here is an overview of the different signs of an air lock.

Sluggish Drains
Dealing with sluggish drains is never a fun experience. These sluggish drains are often a sign of an air lock. You may even hear bubbling or gurgling in your toilet due to an air lock, as it’s a good idea to reach out to professional plumbers to investigate the issue as soon as possible.

Incomplete Toilet Flush Cycle
An incomplete toilet flush cycle occurs if the water continues to swirl around the bowl while going down slower than normal. This problem usually happens because of an air lock, as you may also notice gurgling within the shower, sink, or tub.

What Causes Air Locks?
A blocked air vent can cause these problems, as you will need to reach out to a professional to investigate the cause of the issue. Sometimes this happens due to small birds building a nest in your vent opening, which severely limits the flow of air. A blocked air vent can also happen in colder climates due to the moist air from the roof air vent freezing near the opening, which can seal off the entire vent over a period of time.

Contact Professional Plumbing Services in Kingston to Learn More
Toshack offers plumbing services for customers throughout the Kingston area. We also provide HVAC and air quality control services. Always providing top-quality work at a fair price is our priority. Feel free to give Toshack a call to learn more about using our plumbing services in Kingston!

Why Your Air Conditioner is Blowing Warm Air

May 4, 2022 Team Toshack

Dealing with a malfunctioning air conditioner is frustrating. An air conditioner blowing warm air makes it impossible for you to keep your house feeling comfortable. Reaching out to a company offering professional heating and cooling in Kingston is key to taking care of these issues as soon as possible.

Here are the main reasons why your air conditioner is blowing warm air.

1) Wrong Settings on Thermostat
Sometimes a thermostat is accidentally set to “heat” without you even realizing it. Double-checking the settings on your thermostat is always recommended before you contact an HVAC technician. All you need to do is to flip the thermostat setting back on “cool” to take care of this simple mistake.

2) Tripped Circuit Breaker
An HVAC system requires a lot of power to keep your home feeling comfortable. Sometimes the circuit breaker will shut off if it’s overloaded. Checking your circuit breaker to look for a tripped breaker is an easy way to fix this problem yourself. You may also have blown a fuse, which will need to be replaced.

3) Dirty Air Filter
Replacing your air filter every few months is key to maintenance. A dirty filter forces your system to work harder, and it can eventually result in frozen evaporator coils due to the buildup of debris. Replacing your filter every two to three months is the best way to avoid this problem, and it can even save you money on your bill.

4) Clogged Outdoor Unit
Sometimes debris can get inside the outside evaporator coils and lead to many issues. You will need to turn off your unit and use gloves to remove any items while using a water hose to wash off the smaller debris. Maintaining a two-foot clearance around your unit is essential to giving it plenty of space and avoiding these problems.

5) Low Refrigerant
Low refrigerant is a common issue for many air conditioners. Contacting an HVAC technician to check your system is important in taking care of this problem. An HVAC tech can identify the leak and make repairs before adding new refrigerant to your system.

Reach Out to Toshack for Heating and Cooling in Kingston
Toshack offers HVAC services for customers throughout the Kingston area. Meeting the different needs of our customers is always our priority. Feel free to give Toshack a call today to learn more!

What To Do If Your Kingston Furnace Stops Working

February 6, 2022 Team Toshack

Winters here in Kingston and Brockville can be rough, and you want your heating system to be there when you need it. But what if it suddenly stops working? That could be a serious problem!

You can always call in Toshack when you need furnace repair or replacement in Kingston or Brockville – but there are a few things you should check on your own first to assist the technician should you need to call one.

Four Steps to Follow If Your Furnace Stops Working

1 – Check the circuit breaker

Honestly, this is one of the most common reasons for a ‘broken’ furnace. Homes in the winter tend to use a lot of power, and this can overburden the electrical system – particularly in older homes. Sometimes the breaker gets flipped, and that’s all that’s wrong.

However, this is something that shouldn’t happen very often. If it becomes a constant issue, it could indicate problems with your furnace or with your electrical system.

2 – Check the pilot light

If your furnace is gas-powered, there’s always a chance that the pilot light is the problem. Any gas furnace will have an access panel that goes directly to the pilot light, although the location will vary depending on the model. It’s always best if unsure to get a certified technician to inspect and relight the pilot light if this is the issue.

Again, this should only be an occasional problem. If it happens frequently, you’ll want a furnace repair crew to look into it.

3 – Clean or replace the filters

Clogged filters will reduce the efficiency of your furnace, while also causing extra strain. In extreme cases, a totally clogged filter could trigger a failsafe and cause the furnace to shut down. This is rare, but if the problem does happen to be the filter, it’s extremely cheap and easy to replace.

4 – Test the thermostat

Finally, before concluding the furnace itself is the problem, fiddle with the thermostat. If you switch between heating/cooling or turn the temperature to an extreme in either direction, you should hear something happen as your HVAC system tries to work. If absolutely nothing happens, the problem could be with the thermostat.

Also, some thermostats are battery-powered. Replacing the batteries would also be quick and easy.

We Provide Professional Furnace Repair & Replacement Services In Kingston & Brockville

However, if none of these tips work out, you need professional furnace repair – from Toshack. We’ve served the greater Brockville and Kingston area for almost 90 years. Click here to schedule an appointment.

How To Keep Your Heating System in Kingston Running Properly

February 3, 2022 Team Toshack

We have rough winters here in Kingston, which makes it extra important that you keep your heating system in good working order. If you ever have a major breakdown, professional heating services in Kingston can fix the problem – but you really don’t want to be without heat, even if it’s for a few hours, if the temperature is below freezing this can be dangerous and cause pipes to burst.

So, here are some important tips for keeping your home HVAC system functioning well during the winter.

Four Tips For Maintaining Your Heating System in Kingston

1 – Check your filters at least once a month

This is the #1 most important maintenance you can do on your HVAC system. Fortunately, it’s also quite easy. You want to check your air filters at least once a month, and either clean or replace them if they’re dirty.

Dirty filters will create dirty air, and they’ll also increase strain on your HVAC system, increasing the chances of mechanical problems.

2 – Clean outdoor units

If your heating system includes an outside unit, you should keep an eye on it. During the fall and winter, it’s going to tend to get covered in debris such as fallen leaves. As these stick to the fans and intakes, they’ll start reducing the efficiency of the system. If the clog is significant, it could even damage the entire system.

Simply cleaning them off periodically will keep this from happening.

3 – Keep the vents clear

Another thing to keep an eye on are your air vents. If these become clogged up, they’ll put a strain on the entire system – not to mention failing to properly heat the room. Periodically make sure they’re clear of any debris that might be blocking them. Also, never put furniture or other large items directly in front of the vents. That’s a fire hazard.

4 – Schedule a check-up at least once a year

HVAC systems will tend to have problems over time; it’s unavoidable with such complicated machinery. So, it’s a very good idea to periodically call professional heating services in Kingston to give your HVAC system a checkup. The best times for this are either in the spring or fall, when you’re switching between heating and cooling.

Get Kingston Heating Services Today

Since the 1930s, Toshack has provided the very best in heating and cooling systems to Kingston, Brockville, and the surrounding areas. If you’re ever having trouble with your HVAC, contact us for a free HVAC quote.

Team Toshack