Category: Tips & Tricks

Electrical Outlet Safety

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Modern homes come with modern conveniences. But not everyone lives in a modern home, and many homes may not have the convenience of multiple electrical outlets where you need them. These days, with so many devices that need charging, it can be tempting to overload your outlets. And you might not even realize you’re doing it. In this post, we’ll discuss why that’s not a good idea, and how alicensed electrician from The Bosworth Company can help fix the problem.

OVERLOAD DANGERS

The big danger associated with overloading is the risk of starting a fire. The Consumer Protection Safety Commission reports more than 5,000 fires every year are started by overloaded electrical outlets. When too much energy is flowing through one outlet, it creates excess heat, which can be enough to spark a fire. To prevent this from happening, modern homes are equipped with circuit breakers that will blow a fuse if the temperature gets too hot.

A few quick tips on conserving energy and reducing the risk of overheating:

  • Major appliances that use a lot of energy should have their own outlet – don’t use a power strip for refrigerators, electric ovens, dishwashers, or other large appliances.
  • Be wary of running too much power from the same outlet at the same time (hint: your big screen TV uses A LOT of power!)
  • Energy-efficient light bulbs such as LEDs or CFLs can go a long way in keeping energy costs down.
  • Having plenty of outlets will always make your home safer!

 

CHECK CORDS

Another inconvenient thing about a lack of outlets is it can lead to cords being draped all over your home. More cords can lead to more problems, so make sure that cords are not worn or frayed. If you see exposed wires, they should be replaced right away. While you’re at it, check out the covers on all your outlets. If they’re cracked or chipped, replacing them helps to prevent fire hazards and also keeps your kids safe!

WORTH THE CALL

The Bosworth Company specializes in plumbing, HVAC, and yes, we have licensed electricians too! We can outfit your home with safe and convenient new outlets that serve your family’s needs. Need an extra outlet in the garage, kitchen, bathroom, or living area? Or perhaps even outdoors? The Bosworth Company can do it all. Make an appointment online, or give us a call at 432-570-5233. The Bosworth Company is Worth the Call. Always.

Frozen Pipe Prevention

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Any homeowner knows – a busted pipe due to it being frozen is about the worst thing that can possibly happen. It’s a huge mess, possibly ruining many valuables in your home. On top of that, damage and repair costs can get expensive. Fortunately, knowing why and how they can burst can help you prevent them from bursting in the first place. In this post, we are going to discuss the primary culprit for burst pipes: cold weather.

STAY WARM!

Here in West Texas, we typically have mild winters. But not this year! Not only did we get our first snow in October, in February the temperature stayed below freezing for several days in a row! We even had some overnight lows below zero! Anytime the temperature drops below freezing there’s a risk of freezing pipes, so prolonged temperatures below 32 degrees make the risk even greater!

WHY DO PIPES BURST?

When the water inside the pipes freezes, it expands. This causes pressure in the pipes, and they will eventually crack. This seems like a fairly natural phenomenon, but it really isn’t. Scientifically, most matter shrinks when it freezes; water is actually an exception to the rule. 

Without getting too deep into your 10th-grade chemistry class, the molecular structure of water actually causes it to contract as it gets colder, but then expand again when it actually freezes. That means that the pressure on the pipes is constantly changing, making the risk of breaking even greater.

PREVENTION

Here are a few practical tips:

  • Keep faucets running: A dripping faucet will keep water in the line, making freezing less likely.
  • Open cabinet doors: Open the cabinet doors underneath your kitchen sink to allow the air from your home to keep the pipes warm.
  • Disconnect the garden hose: This allows water to drain from interior pipes more easily.
  • Check the temperature: All interior parts of your home should remain above 32 degrees. As long as you have power, this should be easy to accomplish, but don’t forget about your garage and laundry room!

WORTH THE CALL

The Bosworth Company offers a variety of services and treatments for the water that you use for drinking, cooking, or bathing. You can also count on us for 24/7 emergency plumbingin case of burst pipes or any other plumbing problem! Call us today for an appointment at 432-570-5233 or schedule an appointment online. The Bosworth Company. Worth the Call. Always.

4 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Hot Water Heater

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In the world of plumbing and HVAC, some problems are more noticeable than others, and some are more likely to send you searching for a quick fix. One of the things that no homeowner will stand for is a lack of hot water. A cold shower will often get you on the phone with a plumber right away! It’s quite possible that you need a new hot water heater! In this post, we’ll take a look at when it’s time for a water heater replacement.

SIGN OF THE TIMES

A lack of warm water is a telltale sign that your water heater is getting old, but here are a few other signs that it’s time for a replacement.

  • Age: Traditional tank water heaters generally last between 10 and 15 years. Regular maintenance (such as draining it annually) can help, but 15 years is a realistic maximum age for your water heater.
  • Water quality: If your water begins to appear discolored or smell funny, there’s a chance that the inside of the tank has started to rust. In fact, that’s likely the problem especially if you are on city water. Here in West Texas, hard water can cause this to happen sooner than in other areas. If left unchecked, the rust will weaken the metal on the tank and eventually cause a leak.
  • Strange noises: It’s not unusual to hear your water heater turn on and off, but that’s about it. It should not sound like a roar or a rumble. If it does, that means something’s wrong with the tank.
  • Leaks: Once your tank is leaking, it is definitely time for a replacement. The leak will only grow and cause flooding if left unchecked.

REPLACEMENT OPTIONS

There are two primary options when selecting a new water heater. Traditional tank water heaters are still around and work great. These days, another great option is tankless water heaters. They cost a little more upfront, but are energy efficient and provide endless hot water. You can’t run out of hot water with a tankless water heater!

WORTH THE CALL

If you’re experiencing cold showers, don’t delay! The Bosworth Company is a proud dealer of Noritz Tankless Water Heaters, and can set you up with the water heater that’s right for you! Schedule an appointment online or give us a call today at 432-570-5233. It’s Worth the Call. Always.

Saving Money on Your Power Bill

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These days, a lot of us are focused on saving money on the electricity in our homes. But what if we could make comfort a priority while saving money at the same time? After a long, hot summer, we’re now in the depths of winter, and your HVAC unit is likely getting plenty of use. In this post, we’ll take a look at how investing in upgrading your HVAC can help you save money on your power bill and stay comfortable.

INCREASED EFFICIENCY

If your HVAC unit is more than 10-12 years old, it may be time to consider an upgrade. As they age, efficiency decreases, making the unit work harder to keep you comfortable. For example, an older unit may need to run all day to maintain the set temperature, while a newer unit will reach and maintain that temperature much more efficiently – keeping you comfortable and saving money on your power bill.

Tune-ups to your heating and a/c are important, but frequent repairs can add-up. Upgrading to a new system can often be a better value. Not only have they not had the wear-and-tear of an old unit, but they are also state-of-the-art and made to be more efficient. Not only does this save you money, but it’s also good for the environment.

STAY HEALTHY

We talk about comfort and saving money, but a new HVAC unit can also keep you healthier. That’s because an upgraded, more efficient unit can help clean the air, filtering out dust, allergens, and other debris, all while keeping humidity levels safe. Changing your air filters are important, but a brand new unit will really help purify the air. 

You may even want to ask us about one of our new air purification units, that scientifically rid the air of contaminants.

GET IN THE ZONE

If you’re heating and cooling your whole house and only using two rooms, you’re wasting money. Newer HVAC units and thermostats offer features not found in older generations. One good example is room-by-room climate control, sometimes called “zoning.” 

WORTH THE CALL

As you can see, upgrading your HVAC system offers several advantages to your comfort. It can also save you money. The experts at The Bosworth Company can consult with you about the perfect solution for you and your home. Schedule an appointment online or call us at 432-570-5233 today. It’s Worth The Call. Always.

5 Must-Do Tasks to Complete When Selling Your Home

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Many of our posts focus on finding solutions to keep you comfortable in your home. Whether it’s HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or any number of services, The Bosworth Company has the experts you need. But sometimes you don’t make improvements for your own comfort, but to prepare a comfortable home for a new buyer. In this post, we’ll offer some practical tips on preparing your home for sale to make sure you get the most out of your biggest investment!

HVAC TUNE-UP

Your HVAC can be a subtle factor when a potential buyer tours your home and they may not even be aware of it. Keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter so potential buyers can feel the impact when they walk through the door. Getting your HVAC serviced before the sale can be a great way to ensure it’s in tip-top shape for the tour.

CLEAR THE DRAINS

Realtors, and certainly home inspectors, are going to focus on your drains. All sinks and showers should drain with no problems. A slow drain could clog up your plans for a sale. A professional plumber like ours at The Bosworth Company can make sure the drain – and the sale – go smoothly.

CLEAN ALL FIXTURES

This should go without saying, but your whole home should be sparkling for your walkthrough. Here in West Texas, hard water can make your fixtures look grimy. That chalky white substance can end up on fixtures and inside sinks, showers, and tubs. Make sure to give them a good scrub before every tour. Better yet, solve that hard water problem by installing a water purification system!

THERMOSTAT UPGRADE

At the very least, make sure to change the batteries in your thermostat. This will ensure they don’t go out at the worst possible moment. Have you considered installing a modern smart thermostat? This adds lots of value to buyers, making your home more appealing. A modern thermostat will save big money in the long run.

SEAL DOORS AND WINDOWS

Sealing up any air leaks in doors and windows not only is a good look, but it’s also a big win for efficiency and helps preserve your HVAC. Noticeable leaks will be revealed by a home inspector, so make sure to get them sealed before that happens.

WORTH THE CALL

Are you preparing to sell your home? Let The Bosworth Company help get it ready! Make an appointment today by scheduling it online or by calling 432-570-5233. It’s Worth the Call. Always.

3 Tips for Preparing Your Home for Winter

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Now that we’ve passed Thanksgiving, temperatures are finally starting to drop! Have you prepared your home for winter? That means guarding against hard freezes – and yes, that can happen in West Texas. In this post, we’ll take a look at a few of the simple things you can do that will help prepare your furnace for the extra use it’s about to get!

DON’T GET BURNED

The temperature doesn’t need to drop below freezing for you to want to use your furnace. The temperature inside will eventually reflect the temperature outside, so you’ll need the heat to switch on at some point. These are some ways to make sure your furnace is ready to keep your home warm and cozy this winter!

FILTER YOUR RESULTS

Alas, once again, we remind you to change your air filters! This theme isn’t going away. The small cost of replacing a filter is worth it when you consider that a clogged filter makes your heater (and the a/c) work harder!

If you run your system often, that’s another reason to change your filters regularly. Once every three months should be fine, but monthly is ideal. Other factors such as allergy sufferers, pets, or smokers in your home will mean you’ll have to change it even more often.

CHECK THE BATTERIES

Most people know to check the batteries in the smoke detector, but it’s also a good idea to check the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors. A problem with your gas furnace could result in carbon monoxide – an odorless gas that can be deadly to humans. A carbon monoxide detector will alert you if there’s even a trace of the gas, so make sure it’s operating properly!

MAKE SOME ROOM

Just like your exterior A/C unit, it’s also important to clean the space around exterior heat pumps or outdoor compressors. These systems produce heat even with temps well below freezing! But like your A/C, they don’t work well if the unit is surrounded by leaves, dirt, or other debris. Sweep up around the area, and even consider trimming nearby bushes or shrubbery if necessary. This will ensure maximum airflow!

WORTH THE CALL

The best way to make sure your heater is up to snuff is by getting it evaluated by a professional. The experts at The Bosworth Company can make sure you’ll be warm and cozy all winter long. Make an appointment today by scheduling it online or calling 432-570-5233. It’s Worth the Call. Always.

3 Important Water Heater Maintenance Tasks Every Homeowner Can Perform

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The holidays are here! And with them comes cooler weather and more need than ever for reliably hot water. Most water heaters should last between 8 and 12 years if properly maintained. In this post, we’ll take a look at some simple ways you can keep your water heater running strong for years to come. Before you get started on water heater maintenance, make sure to turn off the power (for electric heaters) or the gas!

FLUSH THE TANK

One simple way to maintain your water heater is by occasionally flushing the tank. This can be done as what’s called a “mini-flush” which enables you to leave the heater running the whole time. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Put a bucket underneath the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
  2. Turn the valve counterclockwise and allow a gallon or two of water to drain into the bucket. Caution: It could be VERY hot!
  3. Close the valve. You’re already done!

These simple steps will help reduce rust and corrosion from building up in your tank.

T&P VALVE

The T&P (temperature and pressure) valve is a safety feature that relieves pressure on the tank if it gets too high. This malfunctioning could be a real danger, so testing the valve annually is recommended. Find the valve on the top or side of the tank, then:

  1. Put a bucket at the end of the discharge line.
  2. Lift the lever to open the valve, thus releasing water into the tube. Again – the water will be hot!
  3. Let it flow for a few seconds, then let go, which will cut off the water.

TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT

Turn down the water temperature a few degrees. This shouldn’t impact your comfort, and could mean big savings on energy! If yours is set higher than 120, here’s how to dial it down:

  1. Turn off the power at the breaker box.
  2. Remove the thermostat panel (may need a screwdriver) and adjust the temp.
  3. Replace the panel and turn the power back on.

If you see two thermostats, set the lower one the same as the upper one.

WORTH THE CALL

Easy, right? If you do have issues with your water heater – or maybe are considering a tankless model – call The Bosworth Company for a water heater maintenance appointment at 432-570-5233 or schedule an appointment online. The Bosworth Company. Worth the Call. Always.

Choosing an Air Filter

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A couple of posts back, we explained the MERV rating used for air filters. Knowing your filters is an important part of choosing the right one and keeping you breathing easy. In this post, we’ll continue that discussion with a focus on some other rating systems, as well as how to decide which type of air filters are right for you.

OTHER RATING SYSTEMS

MERV is most common, but here is a look at all of the rating systems and how to compare them:

  • Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV): MERV is the standard rating system used worldwide. Filters are measured on a scale of 1-16, with 1 filtering the least, and 16 filtering the most.
  • Microparticulate Performance Rating (MPR): MPR measures filter quality based on the smallest particles that can get through. The rank is a sliding scale from 100 to 2800. 
  • Filter Performance Rating (FPR):  FPR was created by Home Depot with a scale of 4-10, and is similar to MERV.

Here’s a quick key for comparing filter quality between rating systems:

  • MERV 8 = MPR 60 = FPR 5
  • MPR 1000-1200 = MERV 11 = FPR 7
  • MERV 13 = MPR 1500-1900 = FPR 10

BEST AIR FILTRATION

Changing your filters is critical. A minimum of once every three months is vital to keeping you and your HVAC system healthy. Aside from keeping your air clean, it will reduce allergy triggers, reduce mold growth, and result in a lower energy bill! To see if you need a change, just check the filter to see if it’s dirty. If there’s a lot of dust and grime, that means the filter can’t work effectively and should be changed.

CHOOSING A FILTER

It may seem like you would want a filter with the highest possible rating, but that’s not necessarily the case. A high MERV rating is great if you have severe allergies, but it can limit the effectiveness of your HVAC unit as a whole by making it work harder. This can make your energy bills increase and could possibly reduce the life of the unit.

WORTH THE CALL

Sound confusing? It can be. Thankfully, the experts at The Bosworth Company can help you decide what filters are right for you! Schedule an appointment onlineor call us today at 432-570-5233. It’s Worth the Call. Always.

Thanksgiving Drain Prep

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The holidays are here and Thanksgiving is right around the corner. We hope you and yours have something special planned. While Thanksgiving can be a great time for food and family, it can also be a dangerous time – for your drains! In this post, we’ll talk about what NOT to put down the drain while cleaning up from Thanksgiving dinner.

DON’T GREASE THE SKIDS

Hopefully, you know not to put bones or other things down the drain that could clog up your pipes or garbage disposal. This includes things that could turn to sludge.

It’s also important that you avoid pouring any sort of grease down the drain. While traces won’t hurt, pouring grease or other oils down the kitchen sink will definitely build up over time. This grime will eventually cause your pipes to clog.

While boiling water can be a good way to help keep your drain clean, it doesn’t work when it comes to eliminating grease. Those oils will solidify and turn into a sticky mess.

A MODEST DISPOSAL

Can I pour grease down the drain if I have a garbage disposal? No! Again, a little grease won’t hurt, but the sludge buildup will eventually get to the gears and blades of your garbage disposal. Keep an eye out for slow drainage, a bad smell, or gurgling noises – those are all signs of a problem.

PROPER DISPOSAL

Ok, so how are you supposed to get rid of grease? One option is to let it solidify in your pan. Once it cools, it’ll harden on its own (better there than in your pipes). From there you can just scrape it up and throw it in the trash.

Another option is collecting grease in a can or a jar after cooking. That way you can dispose of large amounts all at once. You might even be able to salvage some of the oil and use it for cooking later.

WORTH THE CALL

The Bosworth Company can help you with all your plumbing needs – just in time for Thanksgiving. Schedule an appointment online today or call us at 432-570-5233 for 24/7 emergency service. It’s Worth the Call. Always.

Why is My Electric Bill So High?

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With the highs we saw this summer, many of you probably got sticker shock from your electric bill. Rates are going up, but when it’s hot, we want to stay cool! Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to try to keep your bills low! We’ll explain a few in this post.

DISAPPEARING ENERGY

Did you know that every outlet that has something plugged into it is drawing energy? Take your phone charger for example. If you leave it plugged in during the day (while your phone is unplugged) you’re wasting energy! The same is true for unused game consoles, cable boxes, DVRs, etc. There are lots of things you could unplug when they aren’t in use. 

LIGHTS AND CEILING FANS

Didn’t your mother teach you to turn off the light when you left the room? The reason was to save money! If you only need to light a small area, consider using a lamp instead of overhead lighting. Speaking of overhead – turn off that fan in rooms that aren’t being used. Fans are great to save on your A/C bill, but they don’t do much good when they aren’t blowing directly on you.

LED LIGHT BULBS

They’ve been around for a while, and they dosave you money. LED light bulbs cost a little more, but they use much less energy and last much longer than traditional bulbs.

INSULATION

The insulation in your attic keeps your home at the temperature you select, and helps to keep the elements out! The same goes for small spaces around windows and doors. Seal them up to stay comfortable and keep costs down.

ENERGY STAR APPLIANCES

Older appliances aren’t very efficient. When it’s time to upgrade, look for an Energy Star model. Imagine using less energy every time you run the dishwasher. That would save a lot of money over time. When you do run your appliances, make sure they’re full. That goes for dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers, and anything else that requires power and/or other utilities.

THERMOSTAT

It can be tricky this time of year but do your best to leave your thermostat at around the same temperature. Don’t turn it way up or way down in an effort to blast either warm or cold all at once. Ask us about new smart thermostats, which will help regulate the temperature and keep you comfortable.

WORTH THE CALL

As you can see, when it comes to reducing your electric bill, it’s all about efficiency! Let us help improve your home’s energy efficiency through a Fall Clean & Check! Our experts will give your HVAC unit a tune-up and let you know if there are any problems that need to be addressed. Make an appointment today by scheduling one online or by calling 432-570-5233. It’s Worth the Call. Always.