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Thursday, August 28, 2014

Homemade Drain Cleaners


 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
www.BlueMountainService.com

Don't be fooled by store bought drain cleaners. While they do work for a short amount of time, they are actually damaging your pipes in the long run. These drain cleaners are filled will harsh chemicals that eat away at your plumbing system over time. Using these products frequently can lead to permanent damage. 

You may be wondering if there are any alternatives to traditional drain cleaners. Fortunately, there are homemade drain cleaning solutions that can clear up tough clogs. Best of all, these solutions can be made with natural products that you probably have in your house. This is a great way to save money and go green at the same time! 

Vinegar & Baking Soda Solution
First, pour a cup of baking soda and white vinegar into the drain. The solution will start to fizz upon contact. Let it sit for a few minutes. Then pour boiling hot water down the drain. This will wipe out the scum and hair that has been lingering in your drain. 

Salt & Baking Soda Solution
Mix a 1/2 cup of table salt with a 1/2 cup of baking soda. Then pour the solution into the drain. Let the solution settle for a few minutes. Pour a few cups of boiling hot water down the drain and viola!

If these natural solutions aren't cutting it, you can always turn to the professional plumbers at Blue Mountain to get the job done right. We proudly serve the Harrisonburg, Staunton and Waynesboro.

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Friday, August 22, 2014

Tips to Stay Cool this Summer

Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
www.BlueMountainService.com

Once the professionals at Blue Mountain have installed an air conditioning system in your home, you'll be cool, calm and collected. Here are some more tips that help you beat the heat in the last few weeks of summer.

Turn Up the Heat
In addition to installing a new air conditioning unit, we can also install a high tech programmable thermostat in your home. Programmable thermostats can help you regulate the temperature of your home in advance. If you are looking to save money on your energy bills this summer, turn your thermostat to 78 degrees. This minor adjustment to the temperature can save you money on your energy costs!

Fan Out
If you are looking for better air circulation in your home, a fan can be a great addition to your air conditioning system. Fans make it easy for cool air to travel from room to room. That way, the temperature difference in each room will not be drastically different.

Let The Curtains Fall
Sunlight, heat and humidity can raise the overall temperature in your house. Closing your curtains and blinds during the day can fend off the sweltering heat.

These tips and tricks will keep your energy bills at bay. Here at Blue Mountain we strive to keep you and your loved ones cool and comfortable all summer long. If you want to increase the energy efficiency of your home while lowering your bills, give us a call today.

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Friday, August 15, 2014

Fix Your A/C Now Or You'll Be Sorry Later

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
www.BlueMountainService.com

Some people ignore problems and inefficiencies with their air conditioning system. However, people are unaware of how HVAC systems affect health and well-being. On top of the health risks, dismissing air conditioning issues costs you more money than you think. In this case, it's best to abide by the saying "it's better to be safe than sorry." If you continue to put off A/C repairs, here are some possible scenarios: 

It's Getting Hot in Here
With the summer in the full swing, you rely heavily on your air conditioning system to keep you cool. When the fan in your air conditioner is not working correctly, it won't keep you cool. One of our skilled technicians at Blue Mountain can fix that in no time!

Bills, Bills, Bills
Are you still trying to ignore the annoying hiss or funky smell from your air conditioner in an effort to save a couple of bucks? If your air conditioner is noisy or smelly, it is an indication that your air conditioning system is not working properly. Your air conditioner is using more electricity to keep it running. The more electricity you use, the higher your electric bill will be. A repair from the professional technicians at Blue Mountain can clear the air and save you money in the long run.

Increased Risk for Breakdowns
Air conditioners usually breakdown in the summer due to excessive usage. You can avoid this inconvenience by scheduling annual maintenance on your unit. If you are experiencing any sort of issue with your air conditioning unit, give us a call. Putting off a much needed repair will only make things worse. We can help you keep cool all summer long.

 Image courtesy of Stoonn, via FreeDigitalPhotos.net



Sunday, August 10, 2014

August is National Water Quality Month

Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
www.BlueMountainService.com
At Blue Mountain, we understand the need to have access to clean water. Did you know that August is National Water Quality Month? In honor of this observance, below are some things you can do to preserve the quality of local water.
  • Avoid using antibacterial soaps or cleaning products with harmful chemicals
  • Don't clean your driveway with a hose. Use a broom instead.
  • Medications of any kind should not be flushed down the toilet.
  • Dispose of oil or antifreeze at a recycling center.
  • Do not walk pets near waterways. Instead, walk pets in the grass and pick up after them.
  • You can also plant trees, coordinate a stream cleanup or adopt a watershed.
If you are still concerned about the water quality in your area, you can turn to the professional plumbers at Blue Mountain. We provide water softeners, water conditioners, whole house filtration and drinking water systems. Our goal is to provide you with clean, crisp water you'll enjoy in cooking, cleaning and bathing. Call 877-280-5777 today to schedule an appointment.

Web Source:http://www.analyticaltechnology.com/public/blog.aspx?ID=1080&Title=August+Is+National+Water+Quality+Month


Friday, August 8, 2014

Prevent Plumbing Problems in the Powder Room

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
www.BlueMountainService.com

When you think of summer, beaches and barbecues probably come to mind. In the summer, your plumbing system is usually the furthest thing from your mind. The last thing you want to deal with is a plumbing issue. Here are some tips to keep you out of hot water this summer:
  • If there is any discoloration near your plumbing fixtures, you should give Blue Mountain a call. When there is a high concentration of iron in your water, it can turn your plumbing fixtures pink. This can be easily fixed by having a water softener installed. 
  • Shower heads that do not work properly might be draining your money away. Fortunately, they are inexpensive and can be found at the local hardware store. 
  • You may need a new flapper installed in your toilet. An ineffective flapper allows water to flow constantly; which ends up draining your funds. Usually, replacing your flapper altogether is the best option. 
  • Do not using any liquid drain cleaners. Drain cleaners are actually filled with harmful chemicals that erode and wear away at your pipes over time. 
Should you experience any sort of plumbing issue, Blue Mountain will be here for you. You can reach us at 877-280-5777. Once we fix your pipes, you will be able to enjoy the great outdoors in the hot hot heat!


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Thursday, July 31, 2014

It's Time for A New Air Conditioning System

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
www.BlueMountainService.com

It is no secret that summers in Virginia can extremely hot and humid. In an effort to beat the heat, homeowners depend heavily on their air conditioning system for cooling comfort. Are you unsure if you need a new air conditioning system? Here are some key points to take into account: 

Age Is Not Just A Number
Air conditioners tend to deteriorate with time. Over the years, your air conditioner gradually becomes less energy efficient. In fact, new air conditioners will be approximately 30% more energy efficient than an old one. If your air conditioner is 10 years or older, it is time for a new unit.

Break the Mold
Mold and mildew thrive in humidity and warm temperatures. During the summer months, it is extremely important for homeowners to be wary of mold and mildew in their homes; as it can be harmful to your health. If your air conditioning system is not working properly, mold spores can spread and wreak havoc on your home.

Foot the Bill
Are your energy bills extremely high? An older air conditioner will use more power and energy to cool your house. A high energy bill could be an indication that your air conditioner is not working the way it used to.  

If your current air conditioning system isn't working properly, it's time to contact Blue Mountain for a new system. We can help you find the right make and model that will effectively cool your home. A new air conditioning system is also bound to be more energy efficient than an older model. If you want to chill out this summer, give us a call at 877-280-5777.

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles, via FreeDigitalPhotos.net


Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Not So Draining

 Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
www.BlueMountainService.com

When your drains are clogged, it is always an unexpected inconvenience. That's where we come in. We can clean your drains no matter how dirty they are. Best of all, our work is guaranteed 100%. 

You may be wondering about the steps you can take to prevent clogged drains altogether. Avoid putting food down the drain as much as possible. Fat, grease, bones, fruit pits, coffee grinds, egg shells, and fibrous vegetables should never go down the drain. 

Routinely scheduled drain cleanings can also decrease the amount and severity of clogged drains in your home. The professional plumbers at Blue Mountain are always up-to-date on the best techniques and technology in the industry. Our plumbers will also be able to tell you the cause of the clog, so you can stop it from happening in the future. If our plumbers unearth a major problem, they will find a solution that is conducive for your particular plumbing system. After all, it's better to be safe than sorry. 

When you have a clogged drain or any other issue with your plumbing system, it is best to leave it to the professionals. This kind of work isn't draining for us. Give us a call at 877-280-5777 and we'll wash your troubles away! 

 

















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