4 Reasons To Check Your Plumbing & HVAC Before The Holidays

technician adjusting water heater

During the summer, temperatures in Longview can easily soar into the mid and upper 90s! Therefore, it makes sense that your AC unit remains a top priority during the warmer months. 

However, as fall approaches, you’ll want to start planning for the upcoming holiday season. In preparation for friends and family who may be spending an extended period of time at your house, it’s essential to address any issues with your HVAC and plumbing you may have forgotten about. 

4 Comfort Systems That May Have Suffered Over Summer

Water Heater

Normally we don’t pay our water heaters much mind unless they break down. However, you won’t want to discover that there’s a problem with your unit while you or one of your guests is in the middle of taking a shower! Make sure your company has access to hot water at all times by scheduling a preventative maintenance check. Over time, your water heater collects sediment that can build up, and keep your system from working as it should. Calling a professional to flush it out will extend your unit’s lifespan and ensure it operates efficiently. 

Cracked Pipes

If you don’t check on your pipes from time to time, you may develop a serious leak! Pressure, as well as regular wear and tear, can wreak havoc on your system if left unaddressed for a long time. Slab leaks occur when your plumbing suffers from corrosion or other forms of damage, consequently allowing water to seep into your home’s concrete foundation. Not only do these leaks waste water, but can also cause severe foundation and structural damage. If you notice any of these signs, contact a plumber, as your pipes may need repairs! 

  • Mold growing under your carpets.
  • Abnormally high water bills.
  • An unusually warm area on your floor, which could mean your hot water line is leaking.
  • Odd cracks in your floors. 
  • Hearing the sound of running water even when it is not turned on. 

Gas Lines

While natural gas has multiple uses, including heating your home, cooking and drying your clothes, your gas lines can suffer from corrosion and loose connections over time. This will not only render your system inefficient, but gas leaks can also be deadly. Have a professional inspect your gas lines if you notice:

  • A rotten egg smell throughout your home. 
  • That plants near your outdoor gas lines are turning yellow or dying.
  • Exceptionally high gas bills.
  • That your gas-powered appliances are hissing. 

Gas leaks are detectable, as they emit a distinctive odor, but they also result in symptoms such as headaches, nausea, fatigue and eye irritation. They may also lead to rapidly spreading fires, so make sure your family has an evacuation plan in place in case an emergency does occur. 

Garbage Disposal

During the holiday season, you’ll probably be preparing some fairly extravagant meals for you and your guests to enjoy. However, when it’s time to clean up, it’s important that everyone knows what can and can’t go down the garbage disposal. Some things to avoid washing down the kitchen sink include: 

  • Fruit Pits & Seeds
  • Cooked Bones
  • Corn Husks
  • Banana Peels
  • Cooking Grease
  • Potato Peels

If you have any questions about preparing your home for this upcoming holiday season, call Alco Air at (903) 309-1330 for more information. We would be more than happy to answer any questions you have!