5 Benefits of Switching to a Programmable Thermostat

September 25, 2023

The thermostat is the part of your HVAC system you use the most, as it controls your home’s temperature. What if there was a way to make your home even more comfortable by upgrading your thermostat to a programmable one? This article will explore some compelling reasons to switch to a programmable thermostat. It might be the best decision for your home. Take a look! 1. Lower Energy Bills If you use it properly, a programmable thermostat can save up to 10% of annual heating and cooling costs. That’s because you can set the thermostat to

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A Deep Dive Into Short Circuits

September 13, 2023

Short circuits are not just a spark or a glitch. They involve a complex interaction of currents that can lead to unexpected consequences. Join us as we navigate the details of short circuits, uncovering their causes and effects and the valuable insights they provide into the fascinating realm of electrical connections. What Is a Short Circuit? A short circuit occurs when an unintended low-resistance pathway is formed in an electrical circuit, allowing current to flow outside its intended route. This phenomenon results from a breach in isolation between conductive elements. It often leads to unintended consequences,

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A Homeowner’s Guide to Venting a Water Heater Without a Chimney

September 1, 2023

Hot water heaters play a crucial role in our daily lives, providing us with the comfort of warm water for various household tasks. One aspect that homeowners often consider is proper ventilation for their hot water heaters. Traditionally, chimneys have been the go-to method for venting combustion byproducts from gas-fired water heaters. However, advancements in technology and building codes have introduced alternative venting options that provide more flexibility and efficiency. In this blog post, we’ll explore the question: Can I vent a hot water heater without a chimney? We’ll delve into modern venting solutions, their benefits, and considerations for homeowners.

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How to Troubleshoot Your HVAC Issues

August 20, 2023

Both summer and winter can be brutal in Wisconsin. An HVAC system failure during extreme weather is more than uncomfortable; it can be dangerous. With close attention and proper care, you can reduce the risk of your heater or air conditioner breaking down. Here is an overview of the most common symptoms to look for. Strange Noises Perhaps one of the most telltale signs of a struggling HVAC system is unusual noises. A functioning system operates relatively quietly. Unusual noises such as banging, clattering, or high-pitched whistling could indicate various issues. Banging or clattering noises may

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How to Tell if Your Electrical System Needs to Be Upgraded

August 14, 2023

Modern households rely on electricity more now than ever before. The need for reliable and safe electricity in every home is only going to increase, meaning that your electrical system needs to keep up. However, many people neglect to upgrade the electrical systems in their homes for much longer than they should. This isn’t usually due to a lack of caring. Many people don’t know how to tell when their electrical system is due for an upgrade. Luckily, there are many symptoms of an outdated or damaged electrical system that any homeowner can learn to

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Is It Possible to Finance a New Plumbing System?

August 2, 2023

From damaged drywall, baseboards, and flooring to cloudy, discolored water, there are many ways to tell when the plumbing system in your Fox Valley, WI home has reached the end of its lifespan. Although some plumbing systems can last up to 70 years, most are ready for replacement after just 40 years. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean that homeowners themselves are always prepared for replacement costs. If you’re facing the daunting task of paying for a new plumbing system, the following is everything you need to know about financing these projects. There’s More Than One Way to Pay

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A Practical Guide to Understanding the Difference Between Watts and Amps

July 26, 2023

Electricity plays a vital role in modern life. Nevertheless, many people do not know the difference between 50-watt and 75-watt light bulbs or understand the importance of amps in the prevention of power outages. While we often take this natural phenomenon for granted, understanding the basics of electricity can provide insight into when to seek a professional for electrical maintenance and care. A look at the differences between watts and amps can create a wonderful foundation for ensuring that your home’s electrical system remains in excellent condition. What Are Watts? A watt is a unit of

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Steps to Fix a Leaky Faucet

July 15, 2023

A leaking faucet may seem like a minor problem; however, more issues will develop the longer you allow the faucet to leak. The steady drip of water not only creates an irritating sound, but it can also have significant consequences for your home and your wallet. A leaking faucet that drips water once per second wastes approximately 3000 gallons of water annually and will add an extra $20 to your water bill each month. Moreover, the constant moisture can lead to the deterioration of your plumbing fixtures by causing staining and corrosion, which will lead to

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The Differences Between a Heat Pump and Central AC

July 2, 2023

As most residents here in Fox Valley, WI, know, energy efficiency is a priority if you want to keep your monthly bills under control. For that reason, more and more homeowners in the area are reaching out to the team here at Black-Haak to ask about heat pumps instead of central air conditioning systems. Most know that a heat pump offers excellent energy efficiency, but some may not always be clear on how they work and how they differ from conventional central AC systems. So, we’ve put together this guide that explains how a heat pump functions and the specific

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Four Great Ways to Unclog Your Toilet and When to Use Them

June 19, 2023

There’s bound to come a time when someone clogs the toilet in your Fox Valley, WI home. Before you whip out your plunger or reach for a store-bought drain cleaner, it’s important to know how each method works and when to use it. Following are four common ways to unclog a toilet along with information on why they may or may not get the job done. 1. Warm Water and Patience For minor toilet clogs, it can be tempting to wait a few seconds and try the handle again. However, if absolutely no water is moving,

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