DIY AC Repair Tips & When To Call The Pros

November 5th, 2022

The Expert’s Guide to DIY Air Conditioning Repair

peaden HVAC technician with homeowner

There are times when you need AC repair and you’ll have to call in the pros to handle the job to ensure that your air conditioner is working in prime condition. However, there are also those times when your AC may just demand a little more attention from you.

Trust that it won’t take very long to give your air conditioning system a few quick inspections and corrections. Here are a few simple AC repairs that help get your unit working the way it was intended to.

Clean the Debris Around Your Unit

Don’t neglect the outside of your unit because you’ll need to keep it cleaned and cared for in order to prevent AC repair. If the unit isn’t working properly or you hear strange noises coming from the outside, it might be as simple as removing old sticks and debris that have fallen due to a storm that has passed.

Take Time to Examine the Ducts

You don’t want to lose any air because your ducts are leaking or they are clogged, so be sure you clean them out. Check the ducts if the air flow isn’t strong, and have the experts come in and clean them if you think that this is the problem but aren’t sure how to resolve it.

Change Your Filters Based on Your Home

Changing your filters once a month is a practice that you need to stay on top of, but also take the time to survey your home and the amount of dander that you produce. If it’s just you and one or two other people living in the space, then you should be fine. However, if you have dogs, cats, and a lot of people walking through your space on a regular basis, you may need to change the filters out more often.

Turn off the HVAC System to Melt Ice

If you notice a lot of ice building up around your unit, turn it off and let it melt away. If this becomes a common occurrence, then you’ll want to call in the pros to ensure that you have the problem corrected before it becomes more expensive.

Make Sure Your Thermostat Is Doing Its Job

Check and make sure your thermostat is reading the correct temperatures and that it is adjusting as it should. If not, it may be time to upgrade to a model that will allow you to change temps remotely from your phone. A new thermostat will not only make your life easier – it will save you money on your energy bill.

Check the Breaker

We’ve all done it before – thought something was broken only to discover it isn’t plugged in. When you think you need an AC repair because it suddenly stopped working, check the breaker to make sure a fuse wasn’t blown.

If any of these techniques don’t correct the problem, then it might be time to bite the bullet and call in the pros to ensure you have a durable unit.

Why You Should Leave Some AC Repair To The Professionals

peaden ac repair technician servicing an ac unit

While every homeowner can do things around the house to improve the efficiency and lifespan of their HVAC system, there are some reasons why you should call a professional. When it comes to more complicated repairs, here is why we recommend calling Peaden:

You Spend Money on Tools and Equipment

Now there are some aspects of AC repair that homeowners can tackle on their own, and that you will have everything at your home for. However, as the problem gets bigger and more complicated, you will find yourself running around town trying to find the right tools and equipment.

Plus, not all tutorials will be clear about the exact tools you need and it will feel like trial and error. When you don’t use the proper tools and techniques when it comes to AC repair, trust that you can do more harm than good.

You Lose Your Weekend

While you may think the AC repair will only take a little bit of time, when you aren’t confident with what you are doing or familiar with the process, you may not realize how much time you will log. When the first repair you perform does not fix the issue, you will find yourself continuing further down the rabbit hole to learn what is wrong. Going this route can add hours, if not days, to your AC repair.

You May Not Be Aware of the Safety Procedures

Trying to repair your cooling system can not only result in a loss of time and money, but it can be dangerous. When you do not understand the components of an air conditioning, then it is crucial that you let the exerts handle repairs to ensure you stay safe.

You May or May Not Fix the Problem

When you DIY AC repair, you may or may not completely fix the problem, or worse yet, you have an emergency during the process and have to turn your unit off until the pros can arrive and take a look. If you do think you fixed the issue, there is a chance that it will return later, and you never know when this can happen from the middle of the night to during a gathering of friends.

You Can Spend More Money Than Calling in the Pros

Once you have performed the AC repair, you may realize that after factoring the tools you bought, the time you spent having to learn and complete the task, you would have actually saved money by just calling in the professionals. Plus, you wouldn’t have the headaches that come with AC repair. While you should keep up with your AC maintenance, when it comes to repairs, let the experts handle the job.

 

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What Are the New HVAC SEER Rating Minimums in Florida?

October 10th, 2022

2023 SEER2 Ratings in Florida

Outdoor AC unit beside brick home.

Florida’s heat and humidity make it extremely important to have an air conditioning system that’s reliable and energy-efficient. With so much energy dedicated to cooling, even small improvements in AC efficiency can significantly impact energy consumption and utility costs.

That’s why the federal government is instituting new SEER rating requirements throughout the United States. In Florida, this will directly affect the types of air conditioning systems that can be installed after January 1, 2023.

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What’s a SEER Rating?

An air conditioning system’s efficiency is characterized by two ratings: the EER and SEER. The EER, or energy efficiency ratio, indicates the amount of energy used by an AC unit during a controlled test that simulates an outdoor temperature of 95 degrees, an indoor temperature of 80 degrees, and relative humidity of 50%.

The BTU rating is then divided by the amount of energy used to determine the EER. For instance, a 15,000 BTU system using 1000 watts of power would have an EER of 15. A higher EER means greater efficiency and, in turn, lower costs to keep your home comfortable during a Florida summer.

The SEER, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is an average of the EER over varying cooling conditions for an entire cooling season. It offers a better representation of the real-world performance of an air conditioning system. The rating makes it easier to compare different brands and models when choosing a new air conditioner to install.

Minimum SEER ratings for Florida and the southeast will increase on Jan. 1, 2023, so if you need to install or replace an air conditioning system soon, it’s best to choose a system that will meet the new rating requirements.

Why SEER Ratings Are Changing

Air conditioning takes significant amounts of energy, which is bad for your wallet and bad for the environment. By increasing HVAC energy-efficiency standards in the United States, energy consumption can be significantly reduced while helping the environment, lowering energy costs, and reducing the load on the utility grid.

The changes will differ by region. The northern United States, with its shorter, milder summers, will have less stringent requirements. The Southwest and Southeast regions will require more efficient air conditioners, as they can make a greater difference in energy consumption with their longer, warmer summers.

What Are the New SEER Regulations for Florida?

Starting on Jan. 1, 2023, any new central air conditioners or heat pumps installed in Florida or the Southeast will need to have a SEER of 15 or above, whereas the current minimum is 14. Any new single-packaged AC units will need to have a SEER of 14 or above.

Simultaneously, a new rating system is being introduced, SEER2, which changes how air conditioners are tested, with parameters like higher static pressures to better reflect real-world performance. This means an AC unit with a SEER of 15 will have a SEER2 of about 14.3.

The minimum SEER requirements are based on the original SEER rating, not the SEER2 rating.

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Trust Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical for Your HVAC Services

When you want the highest-quality, most energy-efficient air conditioning system for your Florida home, turn to Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical. Our company has been in business since 1969, and we serve Panama City, Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, and the surrounding communities in the Florida Panhandle.

We feature exceptional service with expert technicians, upfront pricing, and great financing options for AC replacements or installations. With our quality work, great products, and friendly, trustworthy personnel, you can be sure your comfort is in good hands.

Ready to upgrade to an AC unit that meets the new 2023 SEER ratings?

Call Peaden today at (855) 557-7878 or contact us online to schedule an AC installation or replacement in the Florida Panhandle.

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Why You Should Install a Ductless Mini-Split in Your Florida Home

September 6th, 2022

Mini-split blowing cold air into a room.Ductless HVAC Systems Are Perfect For Florida Weather 

Florida residents are no strangers to hot, humid weather. To combat the tropical climate, it’s crucial to have a reliable air conditioning unit. For year-round cooling and heating, a ductless mini-split is an excellent option.

Ductless mini-splits offer the same benefits as a traditional central air conditioner, all while providing room-to-room temperature control on demand.

Eliminate uneven cooling in your Florida home with a ductless mini-split! Schedule installation online or call today at (855) 557-7878.

What Is a Ductless Mini-Split?

A ductless mini-split is designed to mount directly to the room you need to heat or cool. They consist of one or multiple indoor air handling units connected to an outdoor compressor, and they don’t require ductwork to function.

A ductless mini-split is a perfect addition to older homes where ductwork can’t be installed and new home additions that require heating and cooling. Adding a ductless HVAC system to a new home addition or three-season room will prevent extra wear and tear on your AC unit.

Benefits of Installing a Ductless Mini-Split in Your Home

Ductless mini-splits have several benefits, including:

  • Energy efficiency: Ductless mini-splits don’t require ductwork installation to run; they can preserve up to 30% more energy than central ACs, making them highly energy-efficient. This typically results in lower monthly utility bills.
  • Heating & cooling outputs: Mini-split systems provide both heating and cooling, letting you alter the temperature throughout the year as you see fit.
  • Zoning: Considering ductless mini-splits mount directly into the space you need to heat or cool, they’re ultra-flexible and easy to zone specific temperatures for specific rooms. This makes it ideal when you want to meet the needs of different individuals and spaces.

Trust the Reliable Experts at Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical

At Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical, our team works tirelessly to provide our Florida community with top-notch heating and air conditioning installation, maintenance, and repairs. We aim to enhance the comfort and well-being of our clients and won’t rest until you’re 100% satisfied.

We base our values on honesty, excellent service, customer care, and quality. We also take pride in our competitive prices. Our comprehensive ductless mini-split services ensure your home is equipped for year-round comfort.

Call our experts at (855) 557-7878 or contact us online to schedule ductless mini-split service.

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Where Is the Best Place for My Home’s Generator?

September 6th, 2022

Whole-home standby generator outside a home.The Expert Generator Installers at Peaden Have the Answers

Alongside Florida’s gorgeous, sunny weather often comes brutal storms. Florida storms are typically strong enough to cut your power. The best advice Florida residents should heed is to be prepared with a reliable generator.

When deciding where your generator should be placed, following the manufacturer’s requirements and codes is crucial. It may not seem like a huge factor to consider, but the proper placement of your generator will play a critical role in its safety and overall performance.

For expert generator services, trust Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical. Contact us at (855) 557-7878.

How Far Your Generator Should Be From Your Home

When deciding how close your generator should be to your house, think about the location of your home’s windows, doors, and other obstructions. The generator should be placed at least five feet away from wall openings and your property line to protect your neighbors. Ensuring proper space between your home and the generator is your best bet to steer clear of hazards such as fires, electrocution, or carbon monoxide poisoning.

If the generator has been fire tested, it can sit at least 18 inches away from your building, and it shouldn’t be near shrubs or bushes higher than 12 inches — the clearance between the generator and vegetation needs to be at least 36 inches.

How Far Off the Ground Should My Generator Be?

Clearance between the top of your generator and anything hanging overhead should be 48 inches; this can include awnings, trees, and hanging plants. Additionally, to prevent airflow hindrance, do not place your generator underneath a deck or other type of structure — this may limit its airflow and result in a hazard.

Trust the Top Electricians in Panama City & Pensacola

A surefire way to guarantee proper generator installation is by consulting the qualified team at Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical. Our goal is to enhance the lives of our community by providing top-notch generator installation that will keep you and your home safe, no matter the weather outside. We’re committed to excellent customer service and aim to deliver the best possible care.

Hurricane season stops for no one. Stay prepared with exceptional generator installation from Peaden.

Call (855) 557-7878 or contact us online.

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Prepping Your HVAC Unit for an Extended Vacation

August 5th, 2022

woman changing dirty air filterAs summer ends and you look toward winter and the holidays, keep the health of your HVAC system in mind. Although Florida’s winters are usually mild, it’s important to prepare your system if you’re taking an extended holiday trip.

Below are our tips and tricks for preparing your system for the off-season, so it’s ready for next summer’s heat.

How To Prep Your HVAC System for an Extended Vacation

When preparing for your trip away, it’s important to include your house preparations as well. Follow these tips to ensure your HVAC system is ready when you need it.

Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up Before You Leave

An important aspect of HVAC maintenance that many homeowners overlook is a biannual tune-up.

Typically recommended right before the cooling and heating seasons, professional preventative maintenance ensures your system is working properly while preparing it to run efficiently for the change in weather. It also provides an opportunity to identify and address minor issues before they become major problems.

We recommend scheduling professional HVAC maintenance with Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical before you leave for the season or upon your return. We offer affordable and convenient maintenance plans to our customers throughout Pensacola, Panama City, and Fort Walton.

Set Your Thermostat for Your Extended Absence

If your pets or plants are staying in the home when you’re away, you’ll want to keep your thermostat settings similar to those of your normal routine. If your home will be empty while you’re gone, you can significantly adjust the temperature to save money and energy.

However, it’s not advisable to turn the system off completely or set it outside the range of 5085 degrees Fahrenheit. We recommend installing a smart thermostat for complete control while you’re gone.

Change or Clean Your Air Filter

As always, it’s important to keep your system’s air filters clean for optimal HVAC performance. Before you leave for an extended period, clean your replaceable air filters or replace disposable ones.

Check Your Air Vents & Registers

Before you leave, you’ll also want to ensure your system’s vents and registers are all open and unobstructed. This ensures your airflow will be even throughout your home, so your system isn’t working harder to address temperature imbalances.

Trust Peaden for Expert HVAC Services

For professional, friendly, and quality work, trust Peaden’s well-trained and experienced technicians. We offer same-day service, upfront pricing, flexible financing, and 24/7 emergency service for your most urgent needs.

We’re your one-stop shop for home services and provide free estimates on all replacement quotes.  

For all your HVAC needs in Pensacola, Panama City, and Fort Walton, call Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical at (855) 557-7878.

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How Does Salty Air Affect HVAC Systems?

August 5th, 2022

Technician servicing AC unit outside.Florida’s warm climate and ocean breeze make it an ideal place for vacationers and residents. However, the abundance of salt in the air can wreak havoc on an HVAC system.

Salt and sand particles in the air can clog or corrode your system, leading to inadequate cooling, higher energy costs, and costly breakdowns.

Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical is here to ensure your HVAC unit stays in tiptop shape.

We’ll keep your cooling system working well in Pensacola, Panama City, and Fort Walton Beach and slow the negative effects of salty air on your HVAC system.

How Long Do HVAC Systems Last at the Beach?

While you can expect most HVAC systems to last over 15 years, systems in areas exposed to ocean air typically need to be replaced after a decade due to salt exposure, which causes AC corrosion and rust on the air conditioner.

How Can I Protect My HVAC Unit from Salty Air?

There are ways you can protect and maintain your HVAC system to prolong its life span in Florida, including in Pensacola, Panama City, and Fort Walton Beach.

Schedule Routine Maintenance

In these areas, nothing is as important as routine maintenance from professionals like those at Peaden. This allows you to remove debris, including salt, from your system and defend it against untimely deterioration. 

Keep Your Condenser Clean

We also recommend that you rinse your outdoor condenser unit once a month to help prevent salt and sand buildup. Run hose water through the unit’s top and side grills to adequately flush out debris.

Consider Covering Your Unit With a Breathable Barrier

While air conditioners are designed to be out in the elements, a breathable AC cover like one made of canvas may be helpful in coastal climates. However, you should never cover your unit with a tarp, plastic, or vinyl, which make up the bulk of AC covers on the market. These materials trap the salt air and moisture, creating condensation, which can cause issues.

Trust the Experts at Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical 

Our team at Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical is here to answer any questions you may have about preserving your HVAC system in Florida’s humid and salty air. You can trust our professional, friendly, and quality work and service for all your HVAC needs in Pensacola, Panama City, and Fort Walton Beach.

We provide convenient maintenance plans, upfront pricing, flexible financing, and free estimates on replacements.

For all your HVAC maintenance, repair, and replacement needs in the Florida panhandle, call Peaden at (855) 557-7878 today.

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Best Types of Pipes for Florida Plumbing

July 11th, 2022

Ensuring you have the right pipes in your Florida home is essential for an efficient plumbing system. There are many different materials available for piping, and it’s important to choose the best for your situation.

This guide will discuss the many piping options and how they can benefit your plumbing system. With the right knowledge about your piping options, you can repipe your home or install pipes for your new construction, knowing that your plumbing will be in great shape.

Types of Pipes Commonly Used in Home Plumbing

A variety of pipes are used in home plumbing systems. Different materials provide different advantages depending on the local water quality and use. It’s also important to know how long your pipes should last, so you can stay on top of maintenance and repair needs.

Below, we outline the most common materials used for plumbing pipes and their benefits.

Galvanized Pipes

Galvanized pipes are made of steel and coated with a layer of zinc to help prevent corrosion and decay. These have been a popular choice for plumbing pipes for many decades. Over time, however, the zinc coating breaks down and can release the chemicals into the water line, leaving the pipes susceptible to decay.

Galvanized pipes tend to be wider, allowing more materials to flow through. They can also be one of the least expensive plumbing pipes available.

Cast Iron Pipes

Cast iron pipes are thick, sturdy, and wide for easy flow. These pipes were popular for decades but have since become less common. They tend to last 40–60 years before significant deterioration starts to set in. Cast iron pipes have been known to work well for 100 years or more when maintained properly.

Copper Pipes

Copper pipes are long-lasting, corrosion-resistant, and some of the most durable pipes available. These are known to last 50–70 years or longer when installed by an expert. Copper pipes can have some trouble with highly acidic water, but they’re a reliable choice overall.

They can handle up to 1000 psi of pressure and are an excellent option for hot and cold water lines.

Stainless Steel Pipes

Stainless steel pipes are designed to resist corrosion and last for years. The strength of these pipes surpasses copper and galvanized pipes, making them very reliable in the long run. Stainless steel piping is also energy-efficient, holding in heat more tightly than most other piping options.

These pipes are a great option for delivering hot water throughout a home.

PVC Pipes

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping is environmentally friendly, available in various thicknesses, and designed to last 100 years or more. PVC pipes are cost-effective and safe for drinking water delivery. These pipes have shown promise when used in a wide range of applications, from drinking water delivery to sewage removal and more.

PEX Pipes

Polyethylene (PEX) piping is corrosion-resistant, flexible, and easy to install. It has become a popular option for homeowners and business owners over the years. PEX piping can be a bit costly, but it’s not the most expensive piping on the market. It also requires very minimal maintenance.

The Best Pipe Material for Florida Homes

Piping systems in residential properties throughout Florida need to handle hard water. Many areas of the state deal with hard water or high amounts of calcium and magnesium in the water. This often shows up as a thin white film on washed drinking glasses or a slimy feeling after washing your hands.

Over time, calcium, magnesium, and other materials can collect within a pipe, delivering higher concentrations of these materials into the water supply. These materials can also slow water flow until the materials break down.

The best pipe material for Florida homes is any type that resists this buildup. PVC pipes come in various thicknesses and are well-known for safely delivering drinking water throughout a home. PEX pipes are corrosion-resistant, so hard water won’t easily break them down.

Depending on your home and specific needs, different piping materials may be better for different applications.

Whatever plumbing pipes you choose for your home, let Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical handle the installation. Our expert plumbers have installed pipes of every kind in homes throughout the Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, and Panama City region. You can count on us for a job well done.

Contact us today to get started on your plumbing pipe installation project.

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What Is a Heat Pump and How Does It Work?

June 23rd, 2022

Florida residents are no stranger to brutally hot summer temperatures, and they know the importance of having an effective air conditioning unit to combat the heat. But what about those cooler nights during our (fairly mild) winters?

To meet year-round heating and cooling demands, you should consider having a heat pump professionally installed. Below, we’ll dive into how heat pumps operate and the benefits they offer.

So, What Is a Heat Pump?

Heat pumps run by transferring heat from one place to another, similar to a refrigerator. During the hot, humid summers in Florida, heat pumps extract the heat in your home and pump it outside to leave you with cool, refreshing air. In the winter, it transfers heat from the outdoors into your home.

These units are ideal for those looking for an energy-efficient, convenient unit that can provide both heating and cooling based on their needs. The types of heat pumps you can choose from include:

  • Air-to-air heat pump or air-source heat pump (ASHP)
  • Ductless mini-split heat pump
  • Geothermal heat pump/water-to-air heat pump
  • Absorption heat pump

How Heat Pumps Use Refrigerant to Transfer Heat

Refrigerant is a fluid that has a very low boiling point that can be manipulated by increasing or decreasing the pressure to absorb heat through phase transition. When these refrigerants change from a liquid to a gas it absorbs a lot of energy or heat. All air conditioning systems have heat pumps that use refrigerant. Air conditioning systems use relationship between pressure and temperature to transfer heat.

When the refrigerant changes from a liquid state to a gas state it absorbs heat at a high quantity.  Refrigerants have a low boiling point and they are used because they will boil at room temperature. The boiling point can be altered by adjusting the pressure of the refrigerant allow the system to control the evaporation of the refrigerant.

What Can Go Wrong With Your Heat Pump?

Heat pumps work hard to exceed your heating and cooling needs. Because they operate year-round and can produce both heat and air conditioning depending on what you and your home need, they’re typically met with more wear and tear and are inevitably at a higher risk of malfunctioning.

When this happens, you need a repair — and fast! Keep an eye out for signs a repair is due, including:

  • Your system is short-cycling.
  • Your unit isn’t producing adequate heating or cooling.
  • You notice leaks or water pooling around your system.
  • Your unit is emitting loud noises or bad odors.
  • Your monthly bills are higher than usual.

Heat Pumps Have Your Back

Whether you need heat in the winter or cool air in the summer, heat pumps can provide both seamlessly. To ensure your heat pump is working at its best, you need to hire a professional for every heat pump service, and the team at Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical has the tools to get each job done right the first time.

With over half a century of experience in the industry, our skilled technicians are eager to tackle your heat pump needs.

We’re excited to work with you! Let us make your heating and cooling dreams a reality and supply you with exceptional heat pump services.

Call [site_info_phone_number] or contact us online for booking appointments.

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The Best Ways To Unclog a Drain Without Chemicals

May 25th, 2022

Person using a drain snake to unclog a bathroom sinkHow To Unclog a Drain Naturally

Using chemical cleaners to clear a drain clog can often do more harm than good. These chemicals can eat away at your pipes, causing them to deteriorate over time. Instead, homeowners should seek out alternative methods for unclogging a drain that do not rely on the use of chemicals.

But what chemical-free methods are the most effective for eliminating stubborn blockages? Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical highlights some of the best ways to unclog a drain without chemicals in the blog below!

Method #1 – Try a Plunger

Bathroom sinks and shower drains are notorious for accumulating hair and soap scum. While the plunger might be the go-to tool for clearing out a clogged toilet, plungers can also be used to get rid of stubborn blockages in your drains.

Here’s how you can use a plunger to unclog your bathroom drains:

  1. Remove the plug or drain stop cover from the drain.
  2. Allow the faucet to run until there is approximately 1 inch of water in the sink or tub.
  3. Cover the drain with the plunger to create a seal around the entire drain opening.
  4. Pump the plunger rapidly for up to 30 seconds.
  5. Remove the plunger and watch the water drain. If there is still water in the basin, repeat steps three and four again.

Method #2 – Use Baking Soda & Vinegar

Baking soda is an all-natural cleaner that’s excellent for eating away stubborn sludge. By combining this natural cleaner with some vinegar and boiling water, homeowners can concoct a chemical-free clog removal solution in no time.

Follow the steps below to use baking soda and vinegar to clear your drains:

  1. Boil a kettle of water and pour it down the drain to loosen any debris.
  2. Boil an additional kettle of water.
  3. Make a solution with 1 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of water.
  4. Pour 1 cup of baking soda and the solution down the drain.
  5. Plug the drain and wait 10 minutes.
  6. Pour the second kettle of water down the drain.

The chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar should be enough to loosen a minor clog. By sending down the boiling water afterward, all the loosened materials are then flushed out of the pipe.

Method #3 – Use a Drain Snake

A drain snake is often the best DIY option unclogging a drain. Drain snakes are specifically designed to travel to hard-to-reach parts of your pipes to unclog your system. When used correctly, they can do wonders for removing difficult blockages. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Put the end of the drain snake into the drain.
  2. Turn the handle, pushing the tip of the snake further into the drain.
  3. Keep cranking the handle until you begin to feel resistance.
  4. Rotate the snake, continuing to crank until you feel it break through the blockage.
  5. Crank the handle in the opposite direction to pull the snake out of the drain once it makes its way through the clog.
  6. Run hot water into the drain for a couple of minutes to flush out any remaining debris.

How to use a drain snake

When To Call a Professional Plumber for Help

In some cases, a drain clog requires professional help to clear entirely. Contact a plumber for help if:

  • Multiple drains are backed up simultaneously.
  • You smell sewage odors in the home.
  • You see particularly lush areas of your lawn.
  • None of the DIY methods worked.
  • You have an old plumbing system that needs professional attention.

These symptoms could point to a larger problem within your plumbing system, including sewer line blockages, a sewer line break, or tree root infiltration. Each of these problems requires the skilled attention of a qualified plumbing professional to diagnose and repair properly with methods including hydro/sewer jetting.

Have a Stubborn Drain Clog? Call the Plumbers at Peaden!

If you’re experiencing stubborn drain clogs in your home, don’t hesitate to contact the plumbers at Peaden to put your problems to rest.

Our team has over 50 years of experience eliminating blockages from Florida Panhandle plumbing systems. Using our sophisticated video camera pipe inspection technology and state-of-the-art hydro jetting equipment, our team can effectively remove even the most stubborn drain blockage from your system.

From professional drain cleaning to sewer line clog removal, we’ll resolve your plumbing clog in no time. Call Peaden at (855) 557-7878 to request drain clog removal services in Pensacola, Panama City, or Fort Walton Beach today!

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Is a Whole-Home Generator Worth It?

April 29th, 2022

Whole-home standby generatorWhile we hope to avoid power outages at all costs, powerful storms are all too familiar to the Florida Panhandle.

Now more than ever, our routines are dependent on electricity, so when the power goes out, the safest and most reliable solution is a whole-home generator. They automatically switch on when your electricity is off so life can continue as normal with no disruption.

Standby Generators vs. Portable Generators

Standby generators are backup power units sized to power an entire house. Also called whole-home generators, they are largely worry-free, run for days or weeks without refueling, and tend to be quiet.

Whole-home generators differ from portable generators in that they run on propane or natural gas, allowing them to run much longer, cleaner, and safer. Portable generators run on gasoline and have a lower output than whole-home generators. They require a manual hookup instead of automatically kicking on.

Standby Generator infographic

While both types of generators can power essentials, a professionally installed standby generator is worth every penny for 100% peace of mind during a power outage. 

Benefits of Investing in a Whole-Home Generator

When you have a whole-home generator, you don’t have to worry about sitting in the dark, refrigerated perishables spoiling, going without TV or internet, or having no way to charge a cellphone. No matter the state of your neighborhood’s power supply, having reliable electricity for your entire home allows you to:

  • Prevent sump pump outages: Standby backup power means no disruption to your sump pump, which is particularly important during hurricane conditions with torrential downpours.
  • Protect your food: Extended power outages mean you have to throw away most if not all perishables in your refrigerator. All major appliances stay operational with a whole-home generator, including your refrigerator and freezer.
  • Safeguard other properties: Having standby backup power at a rental property or second home means you don’t have to rush over to it during a storm or worry about whether it’s safe and secure. 
  • Increase home value: As power grids continue aging and more unprecedented weather patterns occur (think the arctic blast in 2021), homebuyers will want to see houses with built-in fail-safes for emergencies and power outages.
  • Power daily essentials: If you work from home, you can stay connected. If you or a loved one uses electric-powered medical equipment, they remain operational. So many daily life essentials run on power, and they all continue running during a power outage when you have a whole-home generator.

Gain Peace of Mind With a Standby Generator

The true convenience and peace of mind of standby power make whole-home generators worth every penny. At Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical, we install and repair standby generators to help keep Florida Panhandle homes safe during short and extended power outages.

An experienced professional should install your whole-home generator as the job requires electrical wiring and natural gas hookups.

When you call Peaden for a whole-home generator, we’ll provide:

  • Upfront pricing
  • Professional and friendly service
  • Quality workmanship

Contact Peaden online or call (855) 557-7878 to request generator installation today!

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