Author: bluecorona

Even the best water heater will eventually falter and fail, and most do so within eight to 12 years after installation. It’s within this range that you’ll begin to notice decreased efficiency and reliability, and an increase in the cost and frequency of repairs. When your water heater begins to fail, it’s advisable to consider replacement options and perform the replacement before a critical failure occurs. At BVSM Heating & Air, we can help you assess the condition of your water heater and help you determine whether further repairs or water heater replacement are your best course of action.

Signs It’s Time To Call a Professional Plumber To Repair or Replace Your Water Heater

Whether you have a gas water heater, electric water heater, or tankless water heater, you’ll notice signs that the appliance isn’t working the way it should. When you detect any of the following, we recommend hiring a trained professional to inspect your system and perform any maintenance, adjustments, and repairs.

#1: Your water isn’t getting as hot as usual or the heat is inconsistent

This can occur because of a failing heating element, clogs within the gas line, loose electrical connections, and also because of sediment buildup within the tank. In many cases, simple adjustments and minor repairs can restore the hot water capacity of your unit.

#2: You notice discolored water coming from your faucets or showerhead

Water discoloration can be caused by corrosion as well as excessive sediment within your water. Red or rust-colored water is the result of corrosion, which can occur within the pipes or within the storage tank itself. Milky-colored water is the result of excessive sediment.

#3: Low water pressure

Low pressure can occur because of debris and sediment buildup within the tank or problems with the shut-off valve, expansion valve, or pressure relief valve. It may also be as simple as a kink within a flexible water conduit.

#4: Leaking coming from your water heater

Leaks are a critical concern and require immediate investigation. Leaks can occur because of a faulty pressure relief valve or because of cracks or corrosion within the water heater’s tank. It’s also possible that the inlet or outlet valves have failed. Many of these causes can be repaired, however, leaks within the tank itself will necessitate replacing the water heater.

#5: Strange sounds coming from your water heater

Popping and bubbling sounds occur as water boils through excessive sediment buildup within the tank and the steam causes it to make a popping or bubbling sound. It is the most common cause of strange sounds from your water heater. Other noises, such as whining like an airplane, can be caused by faulty fuel pumps, clogged burners, etc. In all cases, strange noises should be investigated by a professional as there are many potential causes.

#6: Your water smells like rotten eggs

The rotten egg odor is hydrogen sulfide gas, which can give your water that unpleasant taste/smell. It’s the result of decay and chemical reactions within the soil, rocks, and pipes that cause a proliferation of sulfur bacteria. It’s annoying and, in most cases, harmless. However, it can also indicate a natural gas line leak, which is far from something you want to ignore.

How Do I Know if I Should Repair or Replace My Water Heater?

Prompt repairs are the best way to protect your water heater from critical damage. When your water heater shows signs that something is off, it’s always advisable to contact a professional without delay. At BVSM, our licensed and insured plumbers have the tools, training, and expertise necessary to thoroughly inspect your system and perform the necessary adjustments and repairs.

When repairs are no longer feasible due to age, cost, or extensive damage, we can help you select an energy-efficient replacement that will deliver the performance and reliability you require. We offer a full range of top-quality systems from leading manufacturers and guarantee your satisfaction with our water heater replacement services.

Get on BVSM’s books by scheduling a water heater repair, replacement, or consultation today.

While spring is a time of growth and renewal, it’s also a challenging time for allergy sufferers. From ragweed and grass pollen to pet dander and mold spores, Pennsylvania residents face unique allergy risks once the seasons change. That’s why it’s important to take the opportunity to prepare your home for the warmer weather by cleaning your indoor environment and eliminating allergens from your indoor air supply.

In this blog post, the indoor air quality experts at BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning share some top tips for clearing the air of allergens in your Monaca area home this spring.

So Fresh, So Clean

Keeping your home clean is one of the best ways to protect against allergens from infiltrating your indoor environment. Here’s how to make your spring cleaning count in the fight against allergies:

Dust

Dust mites are a common allergy trigger that can wreak havoc on your respiratory system and HVAC efficiency when left untreated. To minimize the amount of dust in your home, take the time to clean all surfaces from top to bottom. Also, use a microfiber cloth, which will help you catch more dust rather than brushing it around with a paper towel.

Vacuum

After dusting, vacuum regularly to capture whatever remaining dust might have fallen to the floor. Sticking to a regular vacuuming schedule can help you further reduce the dust in your indoor environment, allowing you to breathe cleaner, fresher air.

Place a Welcome Mat at All Your Outside-Facing Doors

Dirt and pollen can find their way into your home by hitching a ride on the bottom of your shoes, causing you to track these harmful allergens inside. Combat this issue by strategically placing welcome mats near all your outside-facing doors. Having guests and household members wipe their shoes before entering can reduce the likelihood of having dirt and pollen tracked inside.

Wash Your Pets Weekly

Pet dander is an irritant that allergy sufferers must worry about. Still, if your pet spends a lot of time outdoors, pollen can easily track in on its fur, further exacerbating allergy symptoms. As a precaution, any pet that spends time outdoors should be bathed weekly.

Technology of Today

Along with increased cleanliness, it’s a good idea to invest in indoor air quality by taking advantage of the innovative technologies available today. These include:

• HEPA filters: These air filters can trap small particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores, improving air quality and reducing allergen exposure.
• Air purifiers: Air purifiers use various technologies, such as HEPA filtration, UV light, or activated carbon, to remove pollutants, odors, and airborne contaminants, promoting a healthier indoor environment.
• Dehumidifiers: Whole-home dehumidifiers integrate with your HVAC system to reduce excess moisture, prevent mold and mildew growth, improve comfort levels, and safeguard against respiratory illness.
• Humidifiers: On the other hand, whole-home humidifiers add moisture to the air, alleviating dryness in the skin, throat, and nasal passages and relieving dry skin, congestion, and irritated sinuses.

Hire a Pro

Last but not least, one of the best things you can do to protect your indoor air quality while ensuring the efficiency and reliability of your HVAC system is to schedule professional maintenance at the start of the spring season. During your annual AC tune-up, your technician will thoroughly clean and inspect all system components, ensuring your air conditioner is free and clear of unwanted contaminants and ready to handle the increased demand during the warmer months ahead. 

Choose BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning

If it’s been longer than one year since your last AC maintenance visit, don’t hesitate to contact the team at BVSM to schedule your tune-up today. With 100% satisfaction guaranteed and a team of NATE-certified technicians ready to assist, you can rest assured that you’ll always receive professional solutions that stand the test of time.

Get your system ready for the spring: Book your AC tune-up in Monaca, PA, by calling 724-417-9550 today!

As boilers grow in popularity across the U.S., some tout them as the perfect way to control the temperature in your home. They utilize gas, oil, or electricity, which they burn to heat water, which then flows as steam through a series of pipes and radiators to warm the home.

Boilers can often also heat water for household use. These appliances boast a long average lifespan and are known for delivering heat evenly and consistently.

Regardless of how trustworthy your boiler is, you’re bound to run into an issue down the line, just like any other appliance. When this happens, it’s critical that you have a team of professionals ready to help when you need it.

The Top 5 Boiler Issues Users Face

A boiler can face many issues, but we’ve narrowed them down to the top five complaints we get the most, as well as some troubleshooting help.

Your Pilot Light Is Out

There’s an easy way to tell if a boiler is working: a pilot light. The pilot light is a small blue flame that runs to ensure the system is working as it should while receiving the proper gas supply for your boiler. If you see the light is out, there’s an issue.

When your pilot light goes out, it’s likely because the thermocouple on your system has broken, causing your gas supply to be cut off within the boiler. Luckily, you have a couple of options to try to fix this yourself. You can attempt to reignite the flame yourself or read the manual that came with your boiler if reigniting the light doesn’t work. If the light continuously goes out, it’s time to call BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning.

Lack of Heat or Hot Water

While a pilot light can be fixed easily by yourself, figuring out the cause of a lack of heating may be more challenging. If your boiler has ceased heating your home or your water, it’s time to call in a professional. Luckily, the techs from BVSM know exactly what parts do what and which ones to replace, making this (usually) and quick and easy fix.

Water Leaking Around Your Boiler

One of the trickier things on our list is figuring out what is causing a water leak around your boiler. There could be a damaged part, eroded pipes, or a slew of other causes when it comes to leaks.

If you notice that your boiler has started leaking or find large pools of water by your boiler, you need to contact a professional immediately. Trained professionals can inspect your boiler, identify the issue, and craft a high-quality solution to stop your boiler from leaking.

Unusual Noises Coming From Your Boiler

Another issue that calls for professional inspection is hearing unusual noises from your boiler. Like the other reasons, this issue requires a professional diagnosis because many sources could be causing it. Before diving into those, it’s important to note that a low hum is a normal sound for a boiler to make. Anything else, though, is a sign of trouble.

When your boiler makes noises, you could have a variety of problems. The common answer is air in the system; however, there are other low-level possibilities as well. For example, there could be an issue with the pump within your system, or it could be related to low water pressure. Since there are so many options, you’ll need a professional to step in.

Boiler Is Not Connecting to Your Thermostat

An often overlooked issue with boilers is that homeowners can’t connect their boiler system to their thermostat. After all, what’s the point in having a boiler if you can’t tell what temperature you’re setting your home to? The most common fix is just making sure all your settings are right. When setting up a boiler, it can be easy to end up with a wonky thermostat.

If you’ve double-checked everything and ensured it wasn’t an accident, the next step is to check your thermostat. You’ll need to make sure the settings are correct, it’s got batteries, and everything is paired properly. If that doesn’t do the trick, then it’s time to consult a professional or manual for your boiler and thermostat.

Choose BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning for Fast, Affordable Boiler Repair

The team at BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning doesn’t mess around when it comes to the quality of your home’s boilers. For over 65 years, we have provided outstanding services throughout Monaca, Beaver Valley, and surrounding communities. With a commitment to greatness, a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and NATE-certified technicians, you can trust us with your home. From boiler repairs to installations and maintenance, we’ve got you covered.

Don’t hesitate to schedule boiler repair services today. Just call 724-417-9550 or schedule an appointment with BVSM online!

When it comes to heating a home, there are a few options. Furnaces have been popular for a long time, but heat pumps are having their moment. These systems move heat from one space to another to provide warmth, working very efficiently in the process.

It can be tough to tell which type of heating system is right for you. If you’re in the market for a new heating system, consider the benefits of heat pumps before purchasing another furnace.

Heat Pumps: What Are the Pros?

Heat pumps offer a variety of benefits compared to furnaces. The first advantage of these systems is their ability to both heat and cool.

A furnace will only provide heat, while a heat pump moves heat from inside the house to the outside for cooling and vice versa for heating.

Another major perk of heat pumps is their energy efficiency. They use far less energy to heat and cool your home. Gas and electric furnaces will use more energy, costing you more in the long run.

In general, heat pumps are also less expensive to install compared to other HVAC options. Installing a new furnace and air conditioner is usually more costly than installing a single heat pump to do both.

Finally, heat pumps don’t rely on burning any fuel except for a bit of electricity. This greatly reduces the amount of potential air pollutants in your home. Gas furnaces and wood stoves can put a lot of debris into your air, while a heat pump won’t add anything to the air.

Is a Heat Pump Right for My Home?

Several factors need to be considered when choosing to install a heat pump in your home. The size of your home will be important. Large homes may struggle to stay warm with a heat pump, but smaller homes may be perfectly fine to stay heated all winter.

Another factor is the cold temperatures in certain areas around Pennsylvania. Some areas are much colder than others, and a heat pump may not be as effective. In other areas, however, temperatures barely go below freezing, and a heat pump can be more than sufficient.

It’s best to talk with a professional HVAC technician like the pros at BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning before deciding. We can discuss your needs and help you determine if a heat pump or furnace is best for you.

You Can’t Go Wrong With BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning

For nearly 70 years, BVSM has been making homes more comfortable. Our NATE-certified technicians are experts in their work and use the best tools to install the best HVAC systems.

We also provide furnace and air conditioner repairs, replacements, and maintenance. Look to our team to get your HVAC system working right.

Schedule a heating system installation today — call BVSM at 724-417-9550 to get started.

The air inside your home can become terrible during the winter months. When your heater runs constantly, it can deliver pollutants into the air. With the windows closed all season, bad air doesn’t have much chance to escape. It’s important to do what you can to keep your air as clean as possible in the winter.

With the right techniques and systems, you can experience high-quality air in every room during winter. Look at our tips for keeping your air quality high during the year’s coldest days.

Indoor Air Quality in the Winter

The quality of indoor air is commonly lower than that of outdoor air. A lot of dust and debris can enter your home and cause allergic reactions or serious respiratory issues. Just a few causes of low air quality in the winter include:

• Recirculated air: During the winter, your doors and windows are closed more often, leading to the same air being circulated all day. If there are pollutants in your air, they don’t have much chance to escape.
• Pet dander circulation: If you own a pet, their dander enters the air all the time. During the winter, this dander can circulate throughout the home easier than at any other time of year.
• Pollen and mold: If you have flowering plants in your home, pollen can enter your air and spread around whenever the HVAC system runs. If mold is present anywhere, the same can happen.
• Pollutants from heating units: Certain heating units, like wood stoves, emit pollutants into the air. These systems can cause issues for the air in your home during the winter months.
• Drier air: In the winter, you run your heating system more often, drying out the air throughout your home. This dry air allows for pollutants to fly more easily throughout the rooms.

Tips for Combatting Bad Indoor Air Quality

While air quality may suffer during the cold months, there are remedies to improve things. A few actions you can take to clean up your home’s air include:

• Installing air purifiers: An air purifier can pull in air and clean it up before returning it to the room. Single-room and whole-home units can provide clean air for a single or whole-house, respectively.
• Cleaning air ducts: The air duct system in your home can get clogged up with dust and debris after years of use without cleaning. A professional HVAC technician can clear the line, reducing the number of pollutants delivered into your home.
• Upgrading air filters: There are many different grades of air filters on the market. Installing new air filters more often during the winter and using a higher-grade filter can help clean your air.
• Adding a humidifier: Humidity levels are much lower inside a home during the winter. A whole-home humidifier can add moisture to the air, helping grab dust and other pollutants and making them easier to filter.

Tips for Combatting Dry Air in Your Home

A humidifier can be the best option if your air seems dry. BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning offers humidifier services throughout the Monaca area. These units add moisture to the air and help dampen pollutants so they can be filtered more easily.

Improving ventilation by opening all vents and occasionally opening windows can improve air quality. Ensure that any heating units are properly ventilating out of the house. Consider removing plants for the season to avoid pollen development.

These tips and systems can greatly improve the quality of your home’s air during the dry and cold winter months. For indoor air quality services in Monaca, turn to the team at BVSM. Call 724-417-9550 today to learn more.

When the scorching summer heat arrives, properly functioning air conditioning becomes crucial for your comfort. However, one issue that can disrupt the cool airflow fast is when your AC freezes up.

Here’s what causes an AC to freeze up and some troubleshooting tips you can try. We’ll cover:

• What does it mean when an AC freezes up?
• Common causes of an AC freezing up.
• Troubleshooting tips and potential fixes.
• Where to find an expert AC technician in Beaver Valley.

What Does It Mean When an AC Freezes Up?

An AC unit freezing up refers to the formation of ice or frost on the evaporator coils, obstructing the airflow and impeding the cooling process.

Several factors can contribute to this problem, and understanding its underlying causes is essential to prevent or address it effectively.

Common Causes of AC Freezing

Many different culprits might be behind your air conditioner freezing up. Here are a few of the most common causes of this problem:

• Insufficient airflow: Inadequate airflow is a leading cause of AC freezing. It can result from clogged or dirty air filters, closed vents, blocked return registers, or obstructed ductwork. Restricted airflow prevents the warm air from circulating properly, forming ice on the evaporator coils.
• Low refrigerant: Refrigerant is crucial in cooling, absorbing heat from indoor air. When refrigerant levels are low, the system can become imbalanced, causing the evaporator coils to become excessively cold and freeze.
• Faulty thermostat: A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the AC to run continuously, resulting in the evaporator coils becoming too cold and freezing up. It’s essential to ensure the thermostat is functioning correctly and accurately reading the temperature in your home.
• Dirty coils: Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the evaporator coils, hindering their ability to absorb heat. As a result, the coils may become excessively cold, leading to ice formation.
• Blower fan: Problems with the blower fan, such as a malfunctioning motor, worn-out belt, or damaged blades, can disrupt the airflow and cause the evaporator coils to freeze.

Troubleshooting Tips & Potential Fixes

If you notice your air conditioner has started to form ice on the evaporator coils, there are several steps you can take to resolve the problem:

• Check and replace air filters regularly to maintain proper airflow.
• Ensure vents and return registers are unobstructed.
• Clean the evaporator coils to remove dirt and debris buildup.
• Have a professional inspect and recharge refrigerant levels if necessary.
• Verify thermostat functionality and accuracy.
• Schedule regular maintenance to identify and address potential issues before they lead to freezing.

Trust BVSM With All Your AC Repair & Maintenance Needs

Understanding the causes of AC unit freezing is vital for maintaining a comfortable and functional cooling system. Insufficient airflow, low refrigerant levels, and faulty thermostats can all contribute to this problem.

You can address AC freezing effectively by following the troubleshooting tips above and seeking professional help when necessary.

At BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning, our team can troubleshoot and resolve your AC system malfunctions. Whether your unit has started to freeze or you have other air conditioner failures, our experienced team of NATE-certified technicians is here to help.

Request air conditioning repairs or maintenance for your Beaver Valley home by calling 724-417-9550.

It’s understandable that when your heat pump begins to struggle or can no longer meet your comfort needs, you’ll become torn—should you call for heat pump repair right away, or has the time come to replace your heat pump system?

If this is a stressor you’re currently experiencing, you can rest easy. The certified HVAC contractors at BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning are here to help you select the appropriate heat pump services for meeting your comfort needs!

Signs You Need Heat Pump Repair

An important thing to understand about heat pumps and other HVAC systems is that when you need repairs you should schedule them as soon as possible. Failing to get service in time means your system continues to struggle, which often leads to further damage that may force you into seeking a new heat pump installation before it’s strictly necessary.

If your heat pump is exhibiting any of these signs, call for repair right away:

• Poor heating or cooling quality – A professionally installed and properly maintained heat pump system should have absolutely no trouble keeping up with your comfort needs. If you notice cold or hot spots in your home, or the system struggles to maintain temperatures stably, call for service.
• Increased energy costs – One of the primary advantages of a heat pump system is the sheer cost-efficiency and energy conservation that the system offers. Keep a close eye on your energy costs, because if they spike you likely need a repair.
• Loud or strange heat pump noises – Loud, scary noises are almost always traced to a component in the system that has become loose or damaged. This is a particularly hazardous problem, because damaged parts often do considerable harm to the system if left for too long.
• Inability to switch between “heat” and “cool” modes – This problem is commonly caused by a damaged reversing valve. The issue is fairly easy to repair, but will prevent swapping until it is handled.

When to Consider Heat Pump Replacement

Scheduling repair is the default choice for the majority of homeowners. It’s usually faster and more cost-effective, so that makes sense. However, there are many situations where heat pump replacement is smarter, and more cost-efficient as well.

In most cases the choice will come down to a cost-benefit analysis, which most professional HVAC contractors are glad to provide. If repairs can get your system operating effectively, that’s great. But if the repair will only serve as a stopgap, it’s usually more worthwhile to seek replacement because multiple repair bills can get prohibitively expensive very quickly.

It’s wise to discuss heat pump replacement in these scenarios:

• Your heat pump is more than 10 years old
• Your heat pump is beginning to lose efficiency and energy costs are consistently too high in your home
• You need heat pump repair too frequently, such as yearly or even every two years
• Your current heat pump repair costs exceed 1/3 of the full value of the heat pump

Schedule Heat Pump Service in Beaver County, PA

Whether you need heat pump repair or heat pump replacement, or you require the aid of a professional that can help you make the right choice, you can always count on BVSM. Our licensed and certified heat pump contractors focus on providing you with the services you need, and our top objective is always to provide you with the solutions that best fit your situation.

Contact us online to schedule heat pump services in Aliquippa, Beaver Falls, Dormont, or Moon, PA! Need to speak with a professional directly? Just dial 724-417-9550!

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