Team Toshack

For almost a century, Toshack has provided some of the best plumbing services in Kingston, and we’re always here to help.  One question we often hear is “how hot should my water heater be?”  This is actually somewhat of a complicated question, and it depends on both your heater, as well as the people in your family.

If you’re looking to optimize your hot water heater, here are some things you should keep in mind.

How To Find The Perfect Temperature For Your Water Heater

First, just in case you didn’t know: any modern water heater should have a dial on it which determines how hot the water is kept.  Locate that dial, so you know what to do if you want to change the temperature.

1 – Lower temperatures mean lower bills

This seems obvious, but it’s a good starting point: the hotter your water heater is set, the more energy it’s going to use to maintain that temperature.  Most hot water heaters are pre-set to around 140°F (60°C), but that’s actually hotter than most people need.  Lowering the temperature will reduce energy costs.

2 – Never go lower than 120°F (48°C)

However, you can’t set your water heater too low.  120°F is considered the minimum, because any colder, and you can start to get bacterial growth in the water tank or pipes.  This can make the water unsafe, as well as requiring costly repairs to clean and sterilize the equipment.

3 – Lower the temperature to 120°F (48°C) if you have young children

Young kids are much more sensitive to hot water than teens or adults.  A baby can be scalded by 140°F water and receive third-degree burns in only five seconds.  Given how easily accidents can happen, it’s simply unsafe to set your hot water heater higher than 120°F when there are young children around.

4 – Keep the temperature higher if someone in your home has immune issues

A hot water heater kept at 120°F (48°F) will kill most bacteria in the water, but there will still be a small amount.  This isn’t a problem for most people, but it can be dangerous for those with immune system disorders or respiratory infections.  Raise the temperature to 130-140°F.

For the same reasons, keep the temperature higher if your dishwasher doesn’t pre-heat its water.  Otherwise, your dishes may not be thoroughly sterilized.

We’re Proud to Provide Quality Kingston Plumbing Services

If you ever need plumbing services in Kingston, Toshack can help!  From maintaining your existing plumbing services to installing upgrades, just contact us for assistance.

A well-installed HVAC system can provide superior heating and cooling in Kingston for decades – but only if it’s properly maintained.  You should be cleaning the air filters regularly, as well as having the ducts and vents cleaned from time to time as well.  We’d also recommend having your system checked by professionals once a year, to spot any potential problems that wouldn’t be obvious.

This is critical because otherwise, your Kingston heating and cooling system could fail or cause major problems – just when you need it the most.  A poorly maintained HVAC system could even become a source of danger!

Four Problems Caused By Poorly Maintained Heating And Cooling Systems 

1 – Dangerous gas leaks

Many furnaces run on natural gas, which is of course highly flammable.  A gas leak can create a huge fire hazard.  Potentially worse is that furnaces also generate carbon monoxide.  This should be flushed out through the flue and venting to the outdoors, but if those become blocked, it could begin filling your basement with a potentially deadly gas.

2 – Poor air quality

As the air filters in your HVAC system become dirty, and your ducts get clogged with gunk, it will directly affect the air quality in your home.  Poorly maintained heating and cooling systems can cause an increase in allergies, as well as making cleaning more difficult because they end up spewing dust all over the place.

(If you ever notice a buildup of dust on or near your air vents, that’s a big red flag that your ducts need cleaning.)

3 – Wasting energy

Modern HVAC systems are extremely energy-efficient – when they’re well-maintained.  As they begin to get dirty or break down, the machines will have to work much harder than usual to keep the hot or cold air pumping.  This wastes a lot of energy, as well as driving your electric bills up.  Repairs can often pay for themselves, by keeping your power bill as low as possible.

4 – Extending your HVAC’s lifespan

Good Kingston heating and cooling systems could last for decades, but only with maintenance.  Ignoring your HVAC system can cut years off its life, forcing you to buy an entirely new system.  This is far more costly than just getting repairs and check-ups from time to time.

Heating and Cooling Services in Kingston

Since the 1930s, Toshack have been experts in heating and cooling in Kingston.  New or old, we can help you maintain your HVAC system for years!  Contact us to learn more.

Your home’s heating system will last for years, or even decades, with proper furnace repair and maintenance.  However, nothing lasts forever, and furnaces take a lot of abuse even when they’re treated well.  Eventually, your furnace is going to start breaking down and keep breaking down.

Past a point and a certain age, furnace repair jobs won’t last for long.  Then, it’s time to start thinking about getting a replacement.  This does cost some money, but it’s usually cheaper than continuing to pour money into repairing a furnace that is past its prime.  Plus, HVAC systems are becoming more energy-efficient every year, so getting a new furnace can make heating your home cheaper than ever.

What are some signs that your furnace needs replacing?  These are some of the big ones.

Four Signs Your Furnace Is On Its Last Legs

1 – Unusual noises

A typical furnace should be fairly quiet, aside from the sound of the burner and the fans.  If you ever start hearing clanging, scraping, or other loud sounds, that’s a big red flag that it’s about to fail.  If you start hearing them, you should shut down the unit and call for professional HVAC help immediately.  A furnace with major mechanical problems could be a fire hazard.

2 – Yellow burner flame

The burner flame within the furnace should always be blue when it’s functioning properly.  If the flame is yellow, that either means the furnace isn’t getting enough oxygen or – worse – it’s leaking carbon monoxide, which is dangerous to breathe.  We suggest keeping a carbon monoxide detector near older furnaces, just in case.

3 – Rising energy bills

As a furnace breaks down and becomes less efficient, that’s going to cause it to use more energy.  If you find your heating bills are going up without any clear cause, and you know your home is well sealed and insulated, the culprit is probably an older furnace.

4 – Constant small repairs

A furnace doesn’t need that much yearly maintenance.  As long as you clean out the air filter regularly and occasionally clean out the ducts, vents, and other components, it should run on its own for months with little work.  If you find yourself constantly having to call for furnace repairs, that’s a sign it’s become a money pit.

Get Furnace Repair & More

For nearly a hundred years, Toshack has been the go-to source for heating and cooling services in Brockville, Kingston, and the surrounding areas.  If your furnace is giving you trouble, contact us for help.

Choosing to upgrade your plumbing is a great option for many homeowners. Making a few updates can improve efficiency while also improving safety. Choosing to work with professional plumbing services in Kingston is always a smart decision, as they can give your home a much-needed upgrade, and customer satisfaction is guaranteed.

Why You Should Consider Upgrading Your Property’s Plumbing

1) Enhance Safety
One of the advantages of making upgrades to your plumbing is that it improves the safety of you and your family. Investing in a purification and filtration system is a great way to decrease chlorine and eliminate pollutants within your water. You can also make other upgrades if the quality of your water is good, such as updating your plumbing vents if you notice a sewage smell from your drain or toilet. Getting a plumber to inspect your home on an annual basis can also help you identify any problems that need to be corrected.

2) Save Money
Another reason to upgrade your plumbing is that it can save you money in the long term. For example, installing a water softener is an effective option for anyone living in an area with an excess amount of calcium or magnesium in the water. A water softener will remove these minerals, which will help increase the lifespan of your water-using appliances by preventing the buildup of these substances. Upgrading to a tankless water heater can also help you save money, as they are much more efficient than traditional hot water tanks.

3) Improve Convenience
Dealing with low water pressure is always frustrating while taking a shower. One way to take care of this issue is to install a water pressure booster, which is great for a home with several people living in it. You can also upgrade to a tankless water heater to avoid running out of hot water due to its innovative design. Reaching out to plumbing services in Kingston is always a great choice if you are looking to make upgrades to improve convenience.

Contact Toshack to Learn More About Our Plumbing Services in Kingston

Toshack offers a variety of plumbing and HVAC services for many customers. Providing top-quality services while keeping our customers happy is always our top concern. Feel free to give Toshack a call today to learn more about using our plumbing services in Kingston!

A furnace plays a big role in keeping your house warm throughout the winter in Kingston and Brockville. Keeping your furnace well-maintained is also a great way to improve its lifespan and efficiency. However, you will eventually need to replace your furnace, as they often last between 15 to 25 years. Understanding the signs of needing a furnace replacement is important in taking care of this problem ahead of time before it stops working during the middle of winter.

Here are a few of the most common signs that you need to replace your furnace.

1) Additional Noise
A furnace operating louder than normal is often a sign that it’s reaching the end of its lifespan. You may even notice new sounds coming from your furnace, such as rattling, screeching, or popping noises. Contacting an HVAC company to investigate these sounds is a good idea to determine if it only needs some repairs or a full replacement.

2) Higher Costs
Keeping your utility costs to a minimum is always a top priority for homeowners. Unfortunately, a furnace nearing the end of its lifespan will often cause your energy bill to rise higher than normal. Choosing to replace your furnace is a cost-effective investment over the long term that will help you avoid paying higher than average heating bills.

3) Fluctuations in Temperature
Dealing with temperature fluctuations in your house is never a fun experience during the winter. A furnace that’s at least 15 years old will often begin to function less efficiently, which can make it more challenging to keep your home warm. Scheduling an HVAC technician to inspect your system is important, as they can recommend the best course of action.

4) Too Much Dust
An older furnace will often struggle to filter airborne particles, which causes more dust in your home. An excess amount of dust can often lead to more allergic reactions, and it also reduces indoor air quality. Getting your system inspected is essential in taking care of this problem before it gets even worse over time.

Contact Our Team to Learn More About Furnace Replacement in Brockville & Kingston

Toshack offers heating and cooling services for customers throughout Brockville and Kingston areas. We also provide plumbing and air quality control services, as meeting the different needs of our clients is always a priority.

Feel free to reach out to Toshack to schedule a no-cost consultation!

Keeping your home warm during the winter months can often be expensive for many people. Looking at ways to save on your heating bill is a worthwhile option to help you stay within your budget. Following a few simple tips can often play a key role in saving you money during the winter season.

Here are a few tips to remember to help you lower your heating bill.

1) Open Your Curtains
One easy way to warm your home a few degrees is to open your curtains during the day. This extra sunlight can help warm your home, which causes your furnace to work less. Closing your curtains at night is also effective at trapping the heat within your home.

2) Lower Your Thermostat at Night
Another simple way to save extra money is to lower your thermostat a few degrees at night. Simply adding another blanket while you sleep can help you stay warm while saving you money at the same time.

3) Inspect Your Ductwork
Trying to keep your home warm is often difficult if you have leaks in your ductwork. Reaching out to professional heating services in Kingston is a great option for inspecting your entire system. Repairing leaks can make a big difference in lowering your heating bill.

4) Fix Any Leaks in Your Home
Sometimes a home can leak near windows or doors, which makes it a challenge to keep your home warm during the winter. Inspecting your house for any drafts of air is a telltale sign that you are dealing with a leak. Using caulking is an effective way to plug these leaks and improve the efficiency of your heating system.

5) Schedule an Inspection
Scheduling an HVAC inspection before the winter season is a great way to prepare your system. An HVAC professional can take care of any repairs and make adjustments to ensure your system is working at an optimal level during the winter months.

Get Heating Services in Kingston Today

Toshack is an HVAC company that works with customers throughout the Brockville & Kingston areas. Our experienced team offers numerous services, whether you need help with your furnace, hot water boiler, heat pump, or ductless AC system. We even specialize in tankless water heaters.

Contact Toshack today to learn more about our heating services in Brockville or Kingston.

In Ontario, it can get downright frigid during winter. You can expect the thermometer to drop well below zero. The colder it gets, the more likely you’ll see water “deep freeze”, and this means expansion. Water volume expands by a factor of about 15% when frozen, causing broken pipes and serious water damage to your home.

So if you find yourself in need of heating services in Kingston and Brockville, it’s imperative to get the issue fixed before the next deep freeze. But how can you anticipate the need for repair, though?

Some key signs you’re in need of heating services or repairs in Kingston or Brockville include: 

Olfactory Signs: Sometimes Smells Are A Key Indicator

When you notice thick, heavy, unpleasant smells in the vicinity of your heating system, it’s a bad sign. With water-based heating issues, you’re going to have a sort of “mildew” smell. Heating systems that don’t incorporate water directly, or at all, may have a different unpleasant smell.

If you’re noticing such odors, contact heating services in Kingston and Brockville so an expert can have a look. If the system is still working despite the smell, you can get the issue fixed more cost-effectively.

Areas Of The Home Won’t Warm Despite More Expensive Utility Bills

Sometimes an indicator you’ve got heating issues is that there are pockets of cold air throughout your home—this is especially true if you remember those areas being warm normally. Should this sign be coupled with an increase in utility bills, you definitely have a heating issue.

Uncharacteristic Noises: High-Pitched Squeals, Knocking, Grinding, Etc.

Another indication of the need for heating services in Kingston and Brockville is strange sounds. If your unit is making a weird noise, something isn’t right; have a professional come and have a look. 

Keep your heating system operational by contacting Toshack!

Sounds, smells, increased utility bills, and pockets of cold air where they shouldn’t be are all indications of heating issues you need to address. If you’re having issues with your HVAC system, or you’re simply looking to upgrade contact us online today or call 1 (888) 547-6162.

Water expands when it freezes. This stresses any plumbing systems affected and left unchecked, can result in a condemned property. A 3.175 millimeter crack in a pipe might leak over 250 gallons of water in a day. Kingston and Brockville plumbing services advise taking quick and specific measures, especially in winter. If you notice signs of water leakage, turning off your water is a good first move.

Here are a few other things to consider:

Temporary Fixes

Kingston and Brockville plumbing services recommend leaving your faucets dripping. This means opening both the hot and cold faucets in your home slightly to allow pressure reduction—do this when the forecast says temperatures will drop below freezing.

Another thing that can be done is draining outdoor faucets and disconnecting hoses. Do you have pipes in the bathroom? Open cabinets in front of those pipes to keep things a little warmer. If you’re heading out of town, assure the furnace stays on while you’re gone; just keep it on “low”. A cold house can be all that’s necessary to burst the pipes. Also, open all air vents so warm air blows throughout the house.

Permanent Fixes

For permanent fixes, insulating crawlspaces can keep the cold out if there are exposed pipes. Install frost-proof faucets outdoors. Reroute pipes so they don’t go through cold areas of your home. Assure walls are properly insulated, and if there are any exterior cracks in those walls, fix them. Caulk application is best at higher than 7.22 degrees Celsius.

Installing New Plumbing

Kingston and Brockville plumbing services can also totally revitalize plumbing by systematically reinstalling piping where there are concerns. Firstly, such plumbers know where you may have an issue that needs to be addressed. Secondly, they know how to make repairs, and third, they’ll leave systems alone that don’t need any augmentation to retain structural integrity.

Stopping water damage before it starts by contacting Toshack!

Kingston and Brockville plumbing services can provide a permanent fix for your plumbing issue. We can help you install new plumbing if necessary, so contact us online today or call Toshack at 1 (888) 547-6162.

Forced-air heating often incorporates gaseous compounds that can ignite. However, this is easily avoided with the proper installation, inspection, and maintenance. That’s why the furnace repair and replacement team from Brockville’s Toshack have collected some tips to help you stay on top of things!

Furnace Issues Result In Lethal Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

You can’t smell carbon monoxide, and if you or your family members inhale too much, it becomes lethal. Annually, people die around the world from carbon monoxide poisoning. Furnaces are a prime culprit, as they can leak, and this results in associated poisoning. Headaches, furnace performance issues, and anomalous utility bills may indicate this problem.

Items Too Near A Furnace Might Just Catch Fire

Another way to minimize furnace repair and replacement in Kingston and Brockville is to avoid a fire. If something flammable is too near a furnace, and it catches fire, not only is the room and the whole house damaged, so also is the furnace. Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from the furnace on all sides.

Poor Installation Can Be Expensive And Dangerous

Even the best furnace is a safety liability if it isn’t installed right. A good way to stay safe is to work with experts in furnace repair and replacement in Kingston and Brockville from the start. They know the right way to get the job done, and how to test installations to assure things work as intended.

A Gas Furnace Might Literally Explode

If you smell rotten eggs when using any of your HVAC systems, you’ve probably got a gas leak. If ignited, this can totally destroy your home. It can also damage other homes adjacent to yours. Gas leaks develop from cracked heat exchangers, combustion issues, and other things. Have an annual inspection to assure you’re not at risk.

Call Toshack for furnace repair and replacement in Brockville!

Taking preventative measures and collaborating with companies like Toshack can keep your home warm and safe. Contact us online today for more information or call 1 (888) 547-6162.

While you cannot prevent every mishap, there are steps you can take in your home to keep your plumbing services in their best shape and prolong the need for professional repairs. Although some of the information online can be helpful, much of it only provides temporary fixes, and some information is even incorrect.

The best thing you can do for your home is to invest in routine professional checks of your plumbing services, to ensure everything is in working order and prevent any small problems that may arise.

What Causes Plumbing Leaks?

There are many reasons you may be suffering from a leak in your plumbing lines like tree roots, weather damage, pipe corrosion, and many more.

Improper installation is one of the biggest causes of leaks in plumbing systems around the home. Often people will opt to install appliances such as dishwashers themselves, leading to leaks. Leaks can happen anywhere, which means they can sometimes be hidden and go unnoticed until flooding occurs.

To prevent plumbing leaks in your home, invest in a whole home inspection performed by professionals who thoroughly examine in and around your home for signs of plumbing concerns.

Get in touch with a local plumbing company such as Toshack. They are plumbing experts servicing the Kingston and Brockville areas.

How Does Professional Maintenance Prevent Leaks? 

Plumbing professionals have the experience and knowledge to go beyond simply checking your water pressure! They thoroughly investigate every water source and plumbing service in your home, looking for signs of damage that only a trained professional would notice.

Professionals can record signs of new and old water damage throughout your home and look for any moist areas in your garden that could indicate an obstruction in your sewage system. They will also check for signs of corrosion in your water heater, as a water heater leak could warp floorboards, create mold and mildew, and destroy carpets.

Without functioning plumbing services, your home’s lifestyle and ecosystem will suffer. Furthermore, if the damage is extensive enough, it may not only affect your home but spread to neighboring properties!  

How to Protect Your Home

Plumbing professionals like Toshack have both the knowledge and experience to recognize and prevent any issues before they occur. From emergency repairs to routine maintenance, Toshack are the plumbing services experts in Kingston and Brockville.

Contact us now to receive a free quote today!