Plumbing: 5 Times To Call In The Pros

November 1st, 2016

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There are times when you can handle a home improvement project that includes plumbing, and then there are times when you need to call in the pros. It can be tough to decide where that line is because you want to save money, but you also want to ensure that the project is completed with quality materials and durable plumbing. And sometimes a professional plumber is the only one that can guarantee that. Here are five times when you need to call in an experienced plumber to get the job done right.

#1: Remodels or New Additions

If you’re remodeling a bathroom or kitchen, or are adding an addition to your home that will require running water, then you need to call in the experts. Plumbing will get a little more complicated and detailed during large home improvement projects, and having someone on your side that has the training and skills will help keep everything moving on schedule.

#2: Plumbing Repairs Beyond Your Scope of Knowledge

If you find yourself questioning each step you’re taking when repairing your plumbing, then get the pros involved. Plumbing repairs that are beyond your scope of knowledge should always be left to people that are certified in the industry. Each person will have their own depth of knowledge when it comes to plumbing, so be mindful that you don’t overestimate your abilities. Plus, calling in the experts will give you your weekend back and take a chore off of your honey-do list!

#3: Plumbing Projects Outside Your Home

When you have external plumbing issues that you need to get resolved, then it can take more than a quick online tutorial to get the job done right. If you have to dig up your yard or get to an external pipe in your crawl space, the professionals will need to be involved. They have the proper equipment and techniques to ensure that the job gets handled and repaired correctly, and they have a better understanding of how the different elements of plumbing work together.

#4: You Notice the Signs of a Leak

Leaks can be tricky, and even if you believe that you’ve fixed one or you think it’s natural condensation, you may notice that your water bill is still on the rise. Plumbing leaks can happen in areas that you don’t see or notice, but they can have a negative impact on water costs and water flow. Take the time to look under sinks and turn everything noisy off in your home so that you can listen to your plumbing to see if it sounds normal. Don’t wait on this one – dangerous mold can form as a result of an ignored leak.

#5: You Need Large Water Connections Shut Off

If you need a large water connection turned off for any reason, it needs to be done by a plumber that understands the pipes and how they should be handled. You don’t want to attempt this yourself if you don’t have an in-depth understanding of the lines that should be turned off because it could result in burst pipes – and that can get very expensive. Take the time to call in a plumbing expert and your next project will run much smoother.

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How To Save Money On Your Next AC Repair

October 21st, 2016

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Saving money is at the top of everyone’s list these days, and when it comes to AC repair, it can seem that we’re never prepared for the bill. However, there are ways that you can save those precious dollars on your next air conditioning repair – and trust that they aren’t as hard or time consuming as you think! Here are a few tips to help you prevent that next AC repair and save money when you do need one.

Get Everyone Involved

Whether it’s co-workers fighting over the set temperature in the office or it’s your family leaving doors open when the air conditioning is on in the summer, if you don’t have everyone on the same page when it comes to your AC unit, you’ll find that it’s the one suffering. Get everyone involved in how to treat the unit throughout the day and night, and signs to look for in case it needs a repair. Most people will be more than happy to oblige by the rules because it can be miserable when your unit goes out and you have to wait for an AC repair in the middle of the summer.

Be Diligent About Filters

Keeping your filters changed and cleaned on a regular basis has a lot to do with how many AC repairs you’ll need in the future. While most people stick to changing filters every thirty days, be mindful that each workspace and household is different in the amount of dirt and debris that they accumulate. If you have pets or multiple people living in the home, then there is a good chance you should be changing your filters more often. However, if it’s just you at home, you can change them less.

Consider Energy Efficient Solutions

Your windows and even the color of your home can cause your AC unit to work harder and need more repairs. Talk to the professionals about your best options for a few home improvements that will give your home more energy efficiency, and your unit will thank you because it won’t have to work as hard. You’ll not only add longevity to your AC unit and need fewer repairs, but you’ll save money on your energy bill.

Start Weatherizing Your Home

So you can’t (or don’t want to) afford new windows – that’s okay. What you can do is weatherize your space so that you keep it sealed. There are inexpensive ways to easily board up windows and attic spaces, and you should have your AC unit serviced once a year. During the yearly maintenance, you can ask the pros for weatherizing tips for your particular property.

Go with a Company You Trust

Going with a reliable and experienced company is essential for fewer AC repairs. When repairs are handled correctly the first time, then you’ll discover that your unit has those lasting qualities that keep us cool (and our wallets full). You’ll find that hiring an AC repair company will make life easier – and is much more affordable than you realize when you go with the pros.

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How Much Does Heater Repair Cost and How Do I Prevent It?

October 21st, 2016

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No one wants to hear that they are in need of a heater repair. For starters, it can be hard to predict the cost because you don’t know if you have a minor issue or need a major repair. However, there are affordable options that will get you back to your normal routine quickly, and when it comes to heater repair, it’s better to get the situation resolved by an expert before creating a larger (and more expensive) problem. Here are a few things you should know about a heater repair cost and how to prevent them in the future.

Heater Repair Cost

Heater repair costs, just like with any home improvement, will vary depending on your needs and can range anywhere from sixty dollars to a few thousand. The average that many people pay will be on the lower scale from sixty to a few hundred dollars. If the heater repairs rise in cost, then talk to an expert about the age of your unit and when it’s time to get a new one. You can actually save money when you invest in the upfront price of a new unit versus getting an old one continually repaired.

Tips for Preventing Heater Repair

If you want to save money on heater repair, then there are a few proactive measures you can take. These tips will help you keep heater costs low and give your furnace longevity.

#1: Routine Maintenance

You’ll need to keep up routine maintenance such as changing filters and cleaning the debris from the outside unit. Listen to your heater and pay attention to the flow of air to ensure that it’s functioning in prime condition. When you give your heater monthly visual inspections, you’ll find that you can discover and resolve small issues in time to prevent more severe repairs.

#2: Yearly Service

Have your heater serviced yearly so that the places that you can’t get to are cleaned and restored for the cold weather ahead. The experts are more likely to catch and prevent a repair when servicing your unit, and this will keep you from having to call them when it becomes more of an emergency situation or during a bad weather.

#3: Know the Signs

Talk to a heater repair professional about the signs that can alert you that you need to call someone in. If you’ve noticed your thermostat not reading accurately, the furnace is making loud noises or leaking near the unit, then you’ll want to get the experts involved.

Find a Heater Repair Company Near You

Whether you need a heater repair today, or you want to be prepared for when you’ll require one in the future, finding a local and reliable company near you is the next step to take. Quality heater repairs will keep your unit working longer and in prime condition. Amateurs and inexperienced people can actually do more damage to your heater than good, so take care in choosing experts that meet the professional criteria to fix your furnace.

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4 Signs It’s Time For a Heater Repair

October 2nd, 2016

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With fall right around the corner, those cool nights and cold temperatures are right behind it. And after a hot summer you’ll welcome the change in the weather and want to be ready to cozy up inside of your home. However, you’ll first want to be sure that your heating unit is working in proper condition and now is the perfect time to test it out so that you’ll know if you need a heater repair. Here are a few signs that it’s time to get a heater repair so that you’ll be ready for those cool fall nights.

#1: It Continually Runs

If your heater is continually running, there is probably a problem. Even when it’s extremely cold out, it should kick on and off from time to time. So when you notice that your heater hasn’t turned off for days, then call in a professional heater repair company to come take a look and see what the problem could be. They’ll guide you through the best ways to care for your heating system, as well as get your unit repaired so that you can enjoy the temperature inside your home. Plus, once the heater is repaired, you’ll find that you save money on your energy bill because it’s not continually running.

#2: It Doesn’t Stay On

Some people will notice that rather than the heater remaining on all the time, it will actually shut off when it doesn’t need to. If you’ve started to see that your heater isn’t kicking on when it should be, then it’s time for a heater repair. Ask the heater repair company what’s normal and what isn’t as far as your particular system goes, and then you’ll know what to look for and will be able to be proactive in calling the experts in for help.

#3: It’s Making Odd Sounds

Heaters will make their own set of noises that are completely normal. However, there are a few wheezing and clanking noises that will alert you when something is up. Don’t ignore these noises because when you call in a heater repair professional right away they can address and correct the problem. But if you let them continue on and still use your heating system, then you may cause more damage that will lead to a higher bill.

#4: It’s an Older Heating System

The older your heating system is, the more repairs it will require. Knowing the age of your heater will give you a good idea of how you should expect it to perform and how often you’ll need a heater repair. You should have your system inspected yearly to ensure that everything is running smoothly and is properly cleaned, as well as take the time out monthly to do a visual inspection and change out filters if your system requires it. Get the experts involved throughout the lifespan of your heater so that they have an understanding of what repairs have been made in the past, and what you can expect from your heater in the future.

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How to Prevent a Heater Repair

September 26th, 2016

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If you need a heater repair now is the perfect time to get one done because winter will be here before we know it! And whether you get a heater repair and want to prevent one in the future, or you have a system that works in prime condition and you want to keep it that way, there are a few steps that you’ll need to follow. Here are some tips to help you prevent a heater repair so you can enjoy a warm indoor atmosphere when the weather gets cold outside.

Know the Signs That Show That Your Heater Needs a Repair

The first step to preventing heater repair is knowing what signs to look for. Start by understanding what is normal for your particular heating system such as sounds, how often you should change the filter, and how the vents work. This way when a strange noise does occur, you won’t be left wondering if it’s normal or not. The same goes with the how much air blows out of the vents.

Change Filters and Pay Attention to the Thermostat

It can’t be stressed enough how important it is to change and clean filters on a routine basis. You can set a timer on your thermostat to ensure that this gets done when it is supposed to. Be mindful of how often you change your filters as well, because while the best rule of thumb is to perform this task every thirty days, each household is unique. If you have pets or a lot of occupants in the home, then you’ll have more dander and may have to change your filter every fifteen days.

Have Your Household Perform Monthly Inspections

You should get everyone in the household involved in preventing a heater repair. Performing monthly inspections for the system to listen to it and make sure the air flow is strong will go a long way. When you want your heater to be working in prime condition, you’ll find these inspections will give you a jump on the situation when a repair is needed. Create a checklist for everyone in your home to follow when it’s their turn to check out the heating system, and be sure they report back to everyone so that the next monthly inspection will know the past performance.

Call in Heater Repair Experts for Routine Maintenance

When it’s nearing the end of the summer, you’ll want to call in the heating repair experts to perform routine maintenance to ensure that you’re ready for the weather that’s ahead. While it can be easy to put off, you don’t want to be stuck when the temperature drops without a properly functioning heating system. Plus, heater repairs that occur in the winter can end up costing you more money because they’ll need to be handled quickly, and in some cases they’ll be an emergency depending on how extreme the weather is and the occupants in the household. This is one phone call that you don’t want to put off, so add it to the top of your list!

Get a Preventative Maintenance Plan

Having a maintenance plan for your heating and cooling equipment is one of the most cost effective yet overlooked ways to prevent repairs. For a reasonable yearly fee, Peaden offers preventative maintenance plans that bring in the pros to inspect and tune up your equipment. This not only keeps your unit running smoothly and cost effectively, but it’s a great way to detect and fix minor problems before they become big ones. Knowing that your equipment is getting regular maintenance can also afford you the peace of mind that you’re doing all you can to prolong the life of your heating and cooling unit.

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7 Things You Need To Know About AC Repair

September 12th, 2016

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Most people don’t put a lot of thought into AC repair until they find themselves making a call because their home isn’t cooling the way it should. And even then, people may be reluctant to call because they hope that a problem will correct itself or they simply don’t know what the cost will be. Here are four things you need to know about AC repair so that you can put your mind at ease and make that call with confidence, or prevent the repairs all together.

#1: It Can Usually Be Prevented

AC repair can be prevented by changing your filter on a regular basis, as well as by scheduling professional maintenance on an annual basis. You should also take the time to check the outside of your unit for debris and plant life such as vines that could be invading your fan and other aspects. The more you understand the simple steps you can take for AC repair prevention, the less you’ll have to deal with an HVAC unit that isn’t producing cool air the way it should be.

#2: There Are Certain AC Repairs You Can DIY

It can be easy to look past your air conditioner as you go about your busy day. Often it can be an afterthought, so it’s important to know that when your unit isn’t working the way it should, there are a few things you can do. The first is to check your filter to ensure that it isn’t clogged because this will affect the air flow and how well your unit performs. You can also visually examine your ducts, clean the outside of your unit, and check to make sure the breaker isn’t tripped if you notice it isn’t working.

#3: It’s Not as Expensive as You Think

So many people don’t call in the pros for AC repair because they don’t know what the cost will be, but they fear it will be high and out of their budget. Don’t be afraid to let the air conditioning company know what your budget is for the repair and find out how they can help. When you’re proactive and pay attention to your AC unit, you’ll find that the repairs are affordable and prevent much larger (and much more expensive) issues from affecting your system.

#4: Not All AC Repair Companies Are the Same

When you hire an AC repair company, there are a few qualities that you should expect. It’s vital to your experience and the quality of work that the company is insured and has the proper certifications to install and repair your air conditioning system. You want a reputable company that is located in your area and is easy to reach. Speak with their customer service to find out more about how the can help with financing, if they show up on time, and get any of your questions answered. You can also look to reviews to see what others have said about their experience.

#5: Quality AC Brands Are Important

When you get an AC repair or new installation, you’ll want to speak with the experts about the different brands and components available so that you get a lasting outcome. They’ll guide you through the unique features and qualities of the brands so that you can find the one that meets your needs, as well as financial parameters.

#6: The Process Is Quick

If you don’t think you have time to get that AC repair, think again! The best companies will be ready to schedule an appointment at your convenience and will show up on time to get the job done. While each project will differ from the next, the technician will be promptly start the process and get it done correctly the first time so that you don’t miss out on your day playing the waiting game.

#7: You Can’t Predict When You’ll Need It

While you would like to think that you will easily be alerted when an issue is going to arise with your air conditioning, this just isn’t the case. Taking care of your AC unit and being proactive when you need a repair is going to save the most money and time. However, air conditioning units age, and over time, will demand certain repairs be made and you simply can’t predict when that is going to happen. The best way to combat this is to know the AC repair company ahead of time so that you have quick contact to call when a situation arises.

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Do You Need an AC Repair or a New Installation?

September 6th, 2016

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If you’ve been hanging on to your old AC unit, you may start to wonder when it’s time to pull the plug, or if you still have a few good years left. It’s a big investment and one that should be thought about as your cooling system goes through repairs and annual maintenance, and you should involve a professional to help you make your decision. However, there are a few signs that will alert you that it may be time for more than just an AC repair.

Your Energy Bill Is Getting Higher

Pay attention to your energy bill throughout the lifespan of your AC unit so that you can catch when those prices start to rise. When you notice that they are getting higher, and not because of extreme temperatures, then you should call in an AC repair company to perform an inspection. In some cases, your unit will simply need a little routine maintenance and a more frequent filter changes (especially if you have pets). However, in other instances, all of the maintenance won’t help your energy bill go down and it will be time to get a brand new AC unit installed.

AC Repairs Are Turning into Major Fixes

You’ll need to have minor AC repairs from time to time, and it’s important to be proactive when getting these issues fixed because you don’t want to them to turn into major problems. But when you start to notice that all of the problems your air conditioning system is going through are major and the costs are piling on, it could actually save you money to get a new unit installed. Not only will you save in future AC repair costs, but your energy bill will go down.

Your AC Unit Is Over Ten Years Old

HVAC units can work in prime condition for ten to fifteen years. However, once they get over ten years old you’ll want to keep an eye on them to ensure that you aren’t losing money on repairs. Plus, when you invest in a new AC unit, you’ll get to enjoy the latest advancements that have occurred since your last installation. New thermostats have so many convenient features, and you can even control the temperature inside your home remotely from a smartphone. It’s exciting to get a new HVAC unit, so take the time to learn about the latest features that will make your life much easier.

The Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling Your Space Like It Used To

If your AC unit isn’t cooling your space like it once did, start by calling in a professional AC repair company to assess the situation. In some cases, the fix will be easy and you won’t have to worry about getting a new unit installed just yet. While in other instances, you’ll discover that even with a few repairs and maintenance techniques, you’re still not reaching the desired temperatures. Involve the AC repair experts to find out if it’s time for a new unit, or if there is another solution.

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How AC Repair and Yearly Services Keeps Your HVAC Unit Strong

August 24th, 2016

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Saving money is on the back of everyone’s mind these days. However, just like most investments such as residential or commercial property and quality HVAC units, you’ll need to spend a little money from time-to-time to protect them. AC repair and yearly services from a professional will keep your unit durable and working the way it was intended to. Here are a few reasons that you shouldn’t put off that call for an AC repair any longer.

You’ll Prevent Further Damages

When you just let your AC unit push through dirty coils and blockages, then it can end up causing more damage and more money. However, when you’re proactive when getting AC repairs, you’ll find that your unit will be more energy efficient, as well as have more longevity. Many people only see AC repair as an extra expense, but in most cases, it will save you money in the long run to invest in a repair today.

Also, when you have your unit serviced yearly by the professionals, you’ll find that you won’t need as many repairs in the future because the proper cleaning and maintenance keep it healthy. These routine yearly check-ups allow the HVAC system to continue to run in prime condition so that you have stronger and more reliable unit over the course of its life.

You’ll Have a Better Understanding of Your AC Unit

When you understand how your HVAC system should sound, the normal amount of air flow it creates, and the average amount of time it takes before you need to change your filter, you’ll know when you need an AC repair. Catching small issues before they develop into bigger problems will save you money on repair costs, as well as your energy bills. And it’s hard to be proactive in these situations when you don’t know what to look for.

Take the time to get familiar with how strong the air flow is coming out of your vents, as well as the temperature. Look for leaks around the outside of the unit and ask a professional where natural condensation will develop versus water that is a problem. Listen to your unit from the inside and outside so that you’ll notice when there has been a shift in sound.

You’ll Find That It’s Easier (and More Affordable) to Get AC Repair Than You Think

When you go with a quality AC repair company, then you’ll discover that the process is easier than you think. We know that your schedule is busy and when you only need a minor repair, you can push that phone call to the bottom of the to-do list. However, if you want to prevent a small repair from turning into a very large one, then make (and keep) that appointment for repairs and yearly services. On top of being prompt, you’ll find that AC repair is affordable and makes a huge difference in the quality of your air. You’ll thank yourself for making that call today!

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Common Problems that Require AC Repair

August 18th, 2016

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While most property owners keep up with their HVAC units using the proper practices, it can still be tough to know when a common problem occurs that requires AC repair. While some things will be more noticeable than others, when you’re giving your unit a visual inspection, you can look for these signs something is wrong. Here’s a list of common problems that can result in a call to the pros for an AC repair.

The Condenser Fan Is Not Working Outside

Spend a little time outside with your unit and listen to the fan so you know what it should sound like. If you notice that your unit isn’t cooling the interior of your home the way it should be, this outside fan may not be working and is in need of a repair. As soon as you notice that the fan has stopped working, it’s critical that you call for an AC repair so that further damage doesn’t occur to elements like the compressor.

There Are Frozen or Dirty Coils

If your unit has frozen coils, there are a few different factors that could be the cause of it. It could be low on Freon or it could be the result of a dirty air filter that is obstructing the air flow. When you have your yearly service call with a professional AC repair company, they’ll clean the coils to ensure that they continue to work as they should. If you skip the yearly maintenance, then it’s more likely that you’ll need future repairs to address the dirty coils, so it’s better stay proactive.

The Freon Levels Are Low

If you have low Freon (or refrigerant) levels, then you’ll need to call in a certified AC repair company to handle the situation for you. Refrigerant usage is regulated by the EPA, and it’s essential that it is handled by someone who has the proper training to use it. When your HVAC unit needs to be recharged, there is good chance that you have a leak, and this will demand immediate attention. As soon as you notice your system not cooling properly, call for an AC repair.

The Wiring Is Faulty

If you’ve had multiple contractors work on your HVAC unit, some of whom may not have the training to repair air conditioning, you might find that there are some faulty elements. Bad wiring is one of the primary issues that people can have with their unit because it doesn’t allow the system to get the power it needs to function. Plus, it’s dangerous to have faulty wiring running to any part of your property. The experts will be able to resolve the situation and get you AC unit repaired and working safely again.

The Thermostat Doesn’t Work

If your thermostat isn’t accurately reading or setting the temperature, then you won’t know how or what to set it to. Have an AC repair crew come out and either repair the current thermostat, or replace it with a new one.

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Simple Steps to Prevent AC Repair

August 10th, 2016

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Over the course of time, your AC unit will require some routine maintenance and repairs. However, most of us want those repairs to come fewer and far between. The good news is, when you take proper care of your HVAC system, you’ll find that it saves you more energy on your bill and it works in excellent condition for the duration of its life. Here are few of the best practices that will help prevent AC repairs from occurring more often than they should.

Change and Clean Those Filters!

We know that you’ve heard before how important it is to change and clean filters on a routine basis. However, it just can’t be stressed enough! Not keeping up with filters can wreak havoc on your unit and require an AC repair well before one should be due. Set a timer on your thermostat or tie a string around your finger to help you remember to change the filter, but find a method that you’ll pay attention to.

When changing your filter, you should also make sure that you’re doing it as often as you need to. You don’t want to waste money on filters if you only need to change it every 90 days, but you also don’t want to cause damage because you don’t change it frequently enough. Talk to a professional about how often you should clean and change your filter based on things like how many pets and people are in your home, as well as the quality of air.

Clean the Condensate Drain Line

Condensate line clogs can cause flooding and damage to your home. It can also cause you’re a/c unit to shut down. This is one of the common maintenance tasks that must be performed frequently on all air conditioning systems. Flushing the condensate drain line will prevent unexpected leaks and shutdown. As your ac unit cools your house it creates condensation that is transported outside your home through the condensate drain line. Over time this slime and debris can clog the line. It is recommended that bleach mixed with water is poured down the line every couple of months to prevent the line from clogging.

Clean Up Debris Outside

Many of us are very mindful of our air conditioning when we’re inside, but we may ignore the big unit that sits outside. When you’re scheduling time to change your filter, also add a few minutes to go outside and give your HVAC unit a visual inspection. You can prevent AC repair by keeping debris away from the unit. Be sure to cut bushes back away from the outside unit and protect your outside unit from plant life such as vines from invading the interior elements. You should do this on a regular basis, as well as when big storms with heavy winds come through.

Be Mindful of Temperature Settings

When setting the internal temperatures for your home, be mindful that you have realistic expectations for what your unit can do. Even some of the newest models and quality brands will have limitations on just how cool they’ll get your home. If you’re hoping to get the temperature inside thirty degrees or more below the hot temps outside, then speak with a professional to ensure your HVAC unit has the ability to perform in this way.

You’ll also need to consider other areas of your home when setting temperature expectations. For example, if you don’t have energy efficient windows or curtains, you’ll lose a lot of those cool temperatures out the window, and your unit will continue to work hard to try to keep up. Preventing AC repair doesn’t have to be complicated when you gain a little insight into the proper HVAC care techniques from the pros. Rest assured that if your AC does break and your in the Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach or Panama City Beach, FL area that you can count on Peaden to fix it.

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