How to Protect a Home From Flooding Using Sump Pumps

How Does a Sump Pump Prevent Flooding? 

Flooding is one of the most serious threats to a home. While plumbing problems like burst pipes can cause floods, certain scenarios make flooding more common in the case of heavy rains. Some of the features of a home that can make it more prone to flooding can include things like: 

  • Basements
  • Crawl spaces
  • Poorly graded build site
  • Low-lying property

When these features are present in homes, most builders will include a special system of drains to help deal with excess rainwater. An integral part of these systems are devices called sump pumps. These pumps quickly move water away from the home to keep it from backing up and causing damage. 

Benefits of Sump Pumps

save money Sump pumps do a great job protecting homes from complications caused by excess water. Some of the things that sump pumps can help prevent are: 

  • Water flowing into basements or crawl spaces
  • Mold or mildew from excess humidity
  • Foundation damage from shifting, saturated soils
  • Dead spots in the landscape from standing water
  • Insect infestations
  • Structural damage resulting from rotting wood in the home

By installing and maintaining sump pumps, homeowners can ensure their homes are safe from long-term damage from water. 

Types of Sump Pumps in Homes 

Since sump pumps are part of a drainage system integrated into the home and surrounding grade, plumbers often choose which pump style they need for homeowners. If the owner has a particular affinity for one type, there shouldn’t be a problem switching, but if making that decision is stressful, the existing style of sump pump is the easiest one to stick with if it needs replacement. That said, owners should know the pros and cons of the two most common sump pumps. They are: 

  • Submersible Sump Pumps: Submersible sump pumps sit in a water-filled basin. They are sealed for electrical safety, making them difficult to maintain or repair, and replacing them is more expensive. On the other hand, they are faster and quieter when operating. 
  • Pedestal Sump Pumps: Pedestal sump pumps sit above the water in the basin. Since the motor is unmuffled, the operation can be louder, but they are easier to inspect. Additionally, they are usually cheaper and generally considered more reliable. 

Backup Sump Pumps

dark at home Sump pumps are necessary to prevent flood water from flooding into a home. Unfortunately, most rainstorms are accompanied by an increased risk of power outages. In the most unfortunate circumstances, homeowners can find themselves without flood protection when needed. Luckily, backup or secondary sump pumps are available to protect the home during a storm or power outage. 

Backup sump pumps are battery-powered and designed to stay ready during an outage. 

Homeowners often use these systems as their primary protection against floods instead of installing a typical sump pump. In some cases, backup systems can be integrated into existing sump pumps to ensure they are always ready to perform. If flooding is a serious threat, homeowners should hedge their bets with a backup sump pump. 

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company provides plumbing and HVAC solutions for home and business owners. From troubleshooting commercial freezes to installing sump pumps, their crews are experienced and ready to help. Call today for a sump pump services in Midland, TX. 

Stay Safe in Putting up Electrical Halloween Decorations

Tips to Decorate Safely for Halloween and the Holidays 

Holiday decorations are a method of self-expression and celebrating certain times of the year. The upcoming Halloween and holiday season has become more popular because of the available holiday lights and decor. Some people spend as much time decorating for the holidays as they do celebrating. 

However, it’s crucial to decorate for the holidays safely to prevent fire hazards and electrical issues. In this article, discover tips to ensure a good holiday season without unexpected electrical problems and fire hazards.

Step #1: Inspect Everything Before Decorating

inspect electric decorationsWhen the decorations are retrieved from whatever storage area they have been hiding, whether attic, basement, crawl space, or garage, they should be thoroughly inspected. The forgotten storage corners of the house often have uninvited guests, including pests such as rodents and insects that can damage the electrical wires even if they were working perfectly well last year. 

A homeowner should check all parts of lights and electric decor for damage, including the following:

  • Plug and cord
  • Lightbulbs
  • Moving parts
  • Wiring

Ensuring these parts work beforehand and aren’t damaged can prevent safety hazards and fire. Broken bulbs, loose wiring, and more can be dangerous to both people and property.

Step #2: Avoid Overloading Circuits

An overloaded circuit and where things are being used can also be a fire hazard. Electrical systems are the third leading cause of house fires in the country. When plugging in decorations, homeowners must be conscious of a few things, such as spreading out the electrical load to multiple circuits to avoid an overload. 

Additionally, electronic decor and lighting should only be used outdoors when they are made for outdoor use. This means that they can withstand moisture and the elements safely. While extension cords are valuable tools, they are a tripping hazard. They should also be examined for wear and tear and should not be used if visible damage is detected. Use extension cords sparingly, as they can easily cause an overloaded circuit.

Step #3: Don’t Leave Candles and Lights Unattended

blow out candlesWhile problems can happen at any time, they are more likely to be disastrous if no one knows about them. This is why lights and electronic decor should be turned off when no one is home or the household is asleep. 

The same applies to candles, which should be extinguished when no one can attend to them. Even safer than ensuring candles are put out is getting battery-powered LED candles that give off a pleasing light and little to no heat. 

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company has background-checked technicians ready to provide workmanship with 100% satisfaction guaranteed. They are also licensed experts who use the latest technology for better service. Call today for holiday lighting installation services in Midland, TX!

Learn About Your Air Conditioner With This Guide

 Air Conditioning 101: A Guide for Homeowners

At some point, every homeowner will need to call for AC repairs. When this occurs, knowing some basic information about the system, like the type of the system and the symptoms it is showing, will help technicians diagnose the problems more quickly. When air conditioning repairs can progress more quickly, the people in the home stay more comfortable and safer from the hot local summer. 
Here is a quick guide from local professionals to help homeowners learn the necessary basics of their air conditioning systems. 

Common Types of Air Conditioning Systems

home ac In homes, there are two main types of air conditioners that are widely deployed. Knowing what type is present in the home can help homeowners understand how to better care for it and how it works. The two main types of home AC systems are central air conditioning and ductless mini-split air conditioning. Chances are, central air conditioning is found in any given home. About two-thirds of US homes are cooled by central air conditioning systems. The distinguishing feature of a central AC system is the central blower that connects to a network of ductwork that moves air around the home. These systems are convenient to use and easily keep the entire home at a uniform temperature. 

The second most common type of air conditioner in residences is ductless mini-split air conditioning. A ductless system dispenses with the ductwork and uses individual cooling heads to cool zones or rooms. This allows people in the home to finely tune their desired temperature. By using zone control and turning off the blower heads that serve unoccupied areas, homeowners can lower their bills and their home’s carbon footprint. 

When to Call for AC Repairs

hot at home Air conditioners, regardless of the type, use the same operating principles. The basic idea of an air conditioner is that it uses compressed refrigerant to pull heat from indoor air. Due to this simple fact, both air conditioners have analogous parts that can display the same signs of trouble. Some of the signs that AC repairs are needed are: 

  • New, unusual sounds like rattling or screeching
  • Loss of power to the unit
  • Inadequate cooling power
  • Poor indoor air quality, including poor humidity control
  • Noisy refrigerant lines
  • Long cooling cycles leading to higher-than-usual bills 

Always Remember Air Conditioning Maintenance 

To protect every type of air conditioner, owners should know the benefits of AC maintenance. Air conditioning maintenance is a service most contractors offer and is recommended by every AC manufacturer. During AC maintenance, technicians will perform tasks like: 

  • Changing or cleaning air filters and verifying the owner is also doing this every three months
  • Checking electrical connections
  • Topping off refrigerant levels and looking for leaks
  • Inspecting and cleaning blowers
  • Cleaning coils
  • Verifying thermostat temperatures and delivery temperatures 

By scheduling this important service annually and replacing air filters as needed, homeowners can expect greater reliability, improved equipment longevity, and lower utility bills for the unit’s life. 

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company is more than capable of handling residential AC repairs and installation. Their qualified teams offer the same high-quality service to residential and commercial plumbing, electrical, and HVAC customers. Call today for professional AC repairs in Midland, TX.

Don’t Let Your Sewer Line Bog You Down

Keep the Swamp in the Sewer

Sewer line clogs are annoying, and when they happen, there’s always the question of “How could this have been avoided?”. Scheduling regular plumbing maintenance with a professional is the best way to prevent frustrating repairs later. Still, there are steps everyone can take at home to avoid a clog. Watching what goes down sinks and toilets is the easiest way to avoid a clogged sewer line. It may be easier to flush everything or wash everything down the drain, but understanding the potential catastrophe will suddenly make it not worth it. 

Plumbing professionals break down sewer line clog prevention and signs that there might already be damage in this article.

You Wouldn’t Believe These Items Will Cause a Sewer Line Clog

toilet Knowing what is safe to go down the sewer pipe and what isn’t is the easiest way to avoid the headache of scheduling plumbing maintenance with a professional. When doing the dishes, rinsing all the small crumbs and fragments in the sink is much easier and faster. No reason to be ashamed! It’s something that everyone has done. What isn’t considered when this millisecond decision is made is whether or not that certain food is fit to travel down a sewer pipe. Foods that should stay out of the sink include expanding foods like rice and grains, flour, egg shells, coffee grounds, and fibrous fruits such as pumpkin and corn husks. 

Another sewer pipe to avoid clogging is in the bathroom through the toilet. Paper products and paint are tough on pipes and if flushed frequently, it will almost certainly lead to a clogged sewer line. 

However, homes get busy, and regulating what goes down every pipe would be exhausting. If something that doesn’t belong in the sewer pipe creates a clog, there will usually be bubbling noises, backed-up drains, and water around the toilet that follows. These are all common indicators of a sewer line clog, and drain cleaning methods should be taken accordingly.

It’s The Water Line… It’s the Sewer Line… It’s a Plumbing Professional!

leak The home has two sets of pipes that run into and out of it: the water and plumbing systems. Both are relatively similar in the big picture and can need plumbing maintenance if there is a leak. Understanding the difference between a sewer line leak and a water line leak can eliminate unnecessary steps if chaos does occur. 

The water and sewer lines are used daily, meaning both are regularly active and subject to damage from use over time. Damage from a leak in a water pipe may include discoloration on the walls and floors, water around appliances, and a mold and mildew smell coming from cracks in the wall. 

A sewer line leak, however, is understandably a bit more ghastly. Common indicators that it might be time for a professional plumbing inspection include overgrown patches of grass in the yard, foul odors coming from leaks in or around the home, and rodents and insects in the home. A professional should be called immediately if any of these are seen.

Honey, Have You Scheduled the Plumbing Inspection Yet?

The best way to avoid a major sewer line catastrophe is to schedule regular plumbing inspections with a professional. Taking 20 minutes of your day to identify potential obstructions in a sewer line sounds much better than taking two hours to schedule plumbing maintenance. A standard inspection usually involves checking the toilets and sinks for proper draining, flushing the water heater to detect any buildup, and conducting a full inspection of the pipe system to determine if any drain cleaning should occur.

This quick visit from a professional not only saves time but also money. On average, a plumbing inspection costs a few hundred dollars, while sewer line repair can cost upwards of $1k-4k, depending on the severity of the clog. Call a professional today and avoid shelling out regret later.

About The Bosworth Company

Since 1949, The Bosworth Company has been dedicated to servicing Midland, Texas. As a BBB-accredited company with an A+ rating, they use state-of-the-art technology and bring undeniable plumbing knowledge directly to your home. With 24/7 live service, they understand that chaos doesn’t wait, so neither should they. Give The Bosworth Company a call today to schedule a preventative plumbing maintenance inspection in Midland, TX today!

Bring a Spark of Joy to Your Summer, Not a Spark of Shock

Avoid Power Surges This Summer

It’s no secret that the Texas heat can be harsh in the summer. With most families spending as much time indoors as possible, ensuring the home stays cool and is prepared for any potential outages from the dry and sometimes wet season is important. 

Electrical upgrades can help avoid outages, maintain coolness, and even add fun to the home oasis this summer. HVAC system professionals break down several of these methods below.

Ceiling Fan Installations: A Classic Summer Hit

fanA ceiling fan is a small but mighty addition to the home this summer. On average, ceiling fans lower the temperature in the room by about 4-5 degrees. This can make quite a difference in the summertime, especially when everyone is home for the summer, leading to a packed house. 

A ceiling fan is also beneficial to have around in the winter months. When the direction of the blades is reversed (clockwise in the winter, counterclockwise in the summer), the fan’s blades pull the air up and distribute the heat further throughout the home. This means the HVAC system can be turned down a few notches to let the ceiling fan do the rest, leading to higher energy cost savings. A ceiling fan installed outside the home can greatly improve outdoor airflow. The fan pushes the air down and can even help keep summertime insects at bay.

A Whole Home Surge Protector Can Prevent an Unwanted Fireworks Show in the Home

Just as the summer can usher in a host of critters, it also tends to bring in thunderstorms, significantly increasing the chance of a potential power outage. Installing a whole home surge protector will keep the home and appliances safe from any catastrophic damage due to rain or lightning. Rainfall and lighting making contact with a home’s power box can cause major power surges, which are dangerous and can destroy most home appliances as well. This means all appliances, including the power box and electricity throughout the home, must be replaced. Power surges to a home’s electrical box cost upwards of $10,000+, and it costs months to build a powerless home.

Installing a whole house surge protector will avoid this kind of catastrophe. Remember in-home surge protectors, too. Appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners work extra hard in the summer to battle the intense heat, so it’s also recommended to use surge protectors inside the home whenever possible.

A Pool Installation Has Never Hurt Anyone 

hot tubPutting all the potential chaos that summer can bring aside, it can’t be ignored that there is significantly more fun to be had during this time of year. Installing a pool or a hot tub can provide a much-needed escape from the humid air and the perfect setting for many long-lasting summer fun memories. 

Before the images of family fun in the pool come to mind, it’s important to remember that pool and hot tub installations also require a professional electrician’s assistance. A pool installation comes with a pump that must be at least 3 feet from the body of water and safely installed to be secured from potential leaks. It’s highly recommended that a certified electrician be called to properly install any pumps with a pool or hot tub installation to ensure the family is safe while at play.

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company has proudly served the Midland-Odessa area since 1949. With a long-standing relationship with their customers built on trust and loyalty, the team at Bosworth is happy to assist homeowners with any HVAC service they may need. Call The Bosworth Company to schedule electrical service today!

What Are Some Signs That the AC Is Faulty?

Signs AC Installation Is Needed

Air conditioners are complicated pieces of machinery that will need to be repaired from time to time. After years of hard work, something will go wrong, and homeowners must call for AC repairs. However, at some point, AC repairs won’t be enough to keep the air conditioner running. When that happens, homeowners will face the difficult decision of AC replacement. 

Knowing the perfect time for air conditioner replacement can be difficult. Replacing the unit too early wastes money, while waiting too late means more expensive repairs. Here are a few ideas to help homeowners interpret their air conditioner’s symptoms so they aren’t caught off guard by AC installation. 

The Home Is Warm and Muggy

hot at home The air conditioner has one job—two for those who want to be technical. Its job is to keep the home cool. In doing so, it also pulls humidity from the air to keep the home from being muggy. As an air conditioner nears the end of its useful life, the home will stay warm and humid despite the fact that the unit has been running. 

Maintaining the system can help distinguish whether repairs are needed or if AC replacement is a better idea. Yearly AC maintenance keeps the unit efficient and helps homeowners rule out the possibility that coils and air filters are dirty. If AC maintenance has been done regularly and the home is slowly staying warmer and more humid than usual, a new AC installation may be needed to restore lost cooling power. 

Energy Bills Are Out of Control

The loss of an air conditioner’s cooling power can be hard to spot. The performance will likely decline over the course of one or a couple of seasons. This means that comfort may not be the best gauge to determine the air conditioner’s health. Instead, homeowners can look at their bills for spikes in energy usage. 

Air conditioners consume tremendous amounts of energy during the summer. When performance takes a dive, the bill for cooling the home will go up because the unit has to run longer cycles to keep the home cool. If energy bills have been climbing year over year, AC replacement can lower monthly bills and help keep the home more comfortable. 

New Noises and Bad Smells 

bad smell Most people are familiar with the noises of an air conditioner. Knowing the normal sounds and smells during operation can help owners notice when something is wrong. Generally, it is if something sounds or smells out of the ordinary. Instead of taking chances and letting more damage accrue within the air conditioner, homeowners should call for AC repairs when they hear and smell:

  • Burning odors
  • Screeching
  • Banging
  • Thumping
  • Musty or mold odors

Upon inspection, a technician can determine the extent of the damage. If the damage is too bad, AC installation may be the most cost-effective solution. 

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company keeps trustworthy technicians on call 24/7 for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical problems. They can handle AC repairs and installations on new or existing properties. Call today for HVAC service in Midland, TX. 

How Important Is Getting Backflow Testing?

Backflow Emergencies

Backflow happens when dirty water flows into clean water lines. The reverse flow is unexpected and will cause a dramatic change in water pressure. Sewage, pesticides, and hazardous chemicals are all possible contaminants in backflow.

Is Backflow Dangerous?

dirty water Backflow poses a serious threat to human health. Not only can it affect individual households, but it may also be found in public drinking water. If dirty water is consumed, it can cause disease and skin irritation for both adults and children.

Back siphonage occurs when a water main malfunctions. Typically, this is due to negative pressure built up from a partial vacuum. In Texas, firefighting or City Main repair jobs can both cause back siphonage. Plumbers may use air gaps, vacuum breakers, and barometric loops to prevent back siphonage.

Backpressure is the second most likely cause of backflow. It happens when the downstream pressure rises above the supply pressure. Once substances float from downstream, they contaminate potable water supply lines. Elevated tanks and thermal expansion are usually to blame for this problem, and depending on the plumbing system, independent solutions will be needed. 

Water contamination is not always visibly detectable. Invisible gasses also threaten a household’s health and safety. Backflow can cause waterborne diseases and even death if not immediately treated. 

Is Backflow Testing Available?

backflow testingBackflow testing is a common service trained plumbers use to prevent contamination from crossing into clean water lines. A backflow device is usually already installed in the plumbing system but may break over time. By measuring water pressure levels, plumbers prevent serious health issues from occurring.

During testing, the water service must be stopped for a specified time. The average backflow test takes less than an hour, and homeowners do not need to leave their property. While the water is off, plumbers will test the backflow prevention device valves to see how easily they open. If backflow is present, air gaps can be installed on sinks, toilets, or tubs.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has mandatory standards that require homeowners to have clean water lines. A licensed backflow tester is necessary to prevent contaminated water in the home. 

The Benefits of Hiring a Backflow Tester

Backflow testing is designed for the health of all households. It prevents dirty water from entering the faucet and keeps shower water clean. Cooking, bathing, or washing hands with toxic water is detrimental to the skin and has serious consequences for both humans and pets. 

In addition to safety, backflow testing also prevents low water pressure. If back siphonage is severe, it can stop water from flowing into any appliance. If testing is neglected over time, a “light” shower can be a sign of contaminated water.

Water leaks are associated with poor water pressure. To prevent early pipe replacement, backflow testing should be done at least once per year. This can save money on repairs and insulation.

Backflow testing is necessary for all types of plumbing systems. For optimal water usage, an annual inspection can be scheduled at any time of the year. 

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company specializes in water treatment and certified backflow testing. Their experienced plumbers offer personalized solutions, detailed care, and always stand by their work. Call The Bosworth Company today to learn more about their 100% satisfaction guarantee in Midland, TX.  

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Save Money and Go Green With LED Retrofits

Reduce Energy Usage With LED Lighting 

Energy efficiency and green initiatives are more popular than ever. These goals support good environmental stewardship and can help everyone lower their energy bills at the same time. The best news of all is that while many of the significant changes occurring in society have to do with grid-scale electricity production, there are things that every homeowner can do to reduce their energy usage to go green and lower costs. 

The most effective technology for lowering homeowner bills is, by far, the invention and improvement of LED technology. LED lighting is the latest development for lighting the home, and everyone is switching to lower their costs and improve the home. For homeowners looking to completely upgrade their home’s lighting, a service called “LED retrofitting” is a great choice. Here is a quick guide to help everyone get started. 

How Does an LED Retrofit Work? 

led lightsLED retrofitting is a service provided by electricians that gives homeowners the unique opportunity to change all of the lighting in their home at once instead of doing a few fixtures at a time over the years. During an LED retrofit, homeowners will work with electricians to choose new LED light fixtures and bulbs for all around the home. 

At this time, most homeowners decide to make a few upgrades to their lighting to make their homes more comfortable and inviting. Some of the choices that are perfect for this situation are: 

  • Installing LED dimmers
  • Adding outdoor lighting
  • Improving shop or garage lighting
  • Brightening dark corners with LED can lighting 

Reasons to Switch to LED Light Fixtures 

save money LEDs are superior to other forms of lighting in just about every way. Incandescent lights are energy hogs that are inefficient and outdated. Fluorescents are hazardous to the environment and usually provide a cold, uninviting light. LEDs, on the other hand, offer several benefits that make them stand out: 

  • Cost: LEDs use less energy than any other lighting option. This makes them the best choice for owners looking to reduce their monthly bills. 
  • Longevity: LEDs are the longest-lasting type of light bulb on the market. Since they produce no heat and have no sensitive filaments, LED lights can last tens of thousands of hours before needing replacement. 
  • Style: LED lights are the most versatile choice for stylish lighting in a home. LED lighting can light a space with the appropriate color. Additionally, LED dimmers can allow a space to be well-lit or intimate with the flip of a switch. 

Options to Consider When Upgrading 

LED retrofits are a great option when considering cost-effective home improvements. However, homeowners should remember a few things as they start planning. First, one of the great things about LED lighting is its versatility. Nearly every existing fixture can be made of LED by adding an LED bulb. For those that don’t accommodate an LED bulb, a fixture that will fit the existing infrastructure in the home can most likely be found, making the switch easy. 

The second thing to remember when switching to LEDs is that most dimmer switches in the home will also need to be replaced. Regular switches will work, but LEDs have different needs to allow owners to control the light level, so be sure to mention this to electricians doing the retrofit. 

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company handles residential and commercial electrical repairs and LED lighting retrofits. For over 70 years, they have helped owners get control of their energy bills and improve their spaces with better lighting. Call today for electrical service in Midland, TX. 

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Humidity: Everything Homeowners Need To Know

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Humidity and How It Can Affect the Home

Most people think of their HVAC systems primarily for their ability to control the indoor temperature. While this is generally their main function, heating and cooling systems also play an important role in managing indoor humidity levels. But in some cases, the heater or AC isn’t enough to keep humidity levels where they should be.

This is why many homeowners invest in humidifiers (to raise the humidity level) or dehumidifiers (to decrease the humidity level). But some homeowners may wonder what the big deal is with humidity and why it must be controlled. So this article will lay out the negative effects of low and high humidity on the home and how to tell if a humidifier or dehumidifier is needed!

Why Is Humidity Important?

When discussing indoor humidity, most people refer to relative humidity – the amount of water vapor the air can hold relative to its temperature. When the relative humidity reaches 100%, that water vapor condenses into liquid. Cold air can’t hold as much water vapor as warm air, so air tends to be muggier in the summer and drier in the winter. In general, the ideal humidity range for indoor air is between 30%-50%.

When humidity levels get too high, it can make the home feel stuffy and uncomfortable and have a variety of negative effects:

  • The excess moisture can lead to mold growth
  • The home can develop a musty smell
  • Food like bread, chips, and produce can get stale or spoil faster
  • The moist environment can attract pests and bugs
  • Wood, drywall, and furniture can warp or become damaged

When humidity levels get too low, homeowners can face a different set of problems:

  • Skin can become dry, itchy, or irritated.
  • Allergies and asthma symptoms can worsen.
  • Increased susceptibility to nosebleeds, cold, flu, and other respiratory issues.
  • Wood and furniture can crack or split.

Does the Home Need a Humidifier?

humidifierThere are a few ways to tell that the home could use a humidifier to boost the indoor humidity levels. Homeowners may notice that their skin and hair are particularly dry. Likewise, they may have itchy eyes, chapped lips, a sore throat, or a runny nose. These are all symptoms of too-dry air, as the lack of humidity saps the body’s moisture and mucous membranes. Some thermostats also have humidity sensors – if this reading is consistently below 30%, getting a humidifier is probably a good idea.

Many people get portable humidifiers to help solve the problem, but these can only serve individual rooms and, therefore, can’t protect against all of the negative effects of low humidity. On the other hand, a whole-home humidifier is typically installed in line with the existing HVAC system to deliver water vapor throughout the entire home via the ductwork. Homeowners can help protect their respiratory health and reclaim their comfort during the dry months by installing a whole-house humidifier!

Or Does the Home Need a Dehumidifier?

dehumidifierAs mentioned above, the easiest way to tell that a dehumidifier might be necessary is if the home’s relative humidity is much higher than 50% according to the thermostat. But even without a humidity sensor, it’s not too difficult to tell when the home’s humidity is excessively high.

Condensation on the inside of windows, air registers, damp carpets or upholstery, musty odors, visible mold growth, and water spots on walls or ceilings all indicate excess humidity. Chips, crackers, and cereal may get soft or stale a few days after opening. The house may feel stuffy, or homeowners may feel clammy when the AC blows cold air.

If homeowners notice any of these signs, installing a whole-house dehumidifier is probably a good idea. As with humidifiers, whole-home dehumidifiers are installed near the AC or heater’s indoor air handler to remove excess moisture from the entire home’s air as it circulates through the system. This can improve comfort levels and indoor air quality and protect the home and its furnishings from the ravages of high humidity!

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company has been the go-to resource for plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and indoor air quality services in Midland, Texas, since 1949. Their licensed, insured, background-checked, and drug-tested technicians always arrive on time and provide award-winning service to get every customer back to their routine as quickly and painlessly as possible. They offer competitive up-front pricing, financing, 24/7 emergency response, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee – so don’t hesitate to call The Bosworth Company for humidifier installation in Midland, TX!

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Homeowners Guide to Sewer Video Inspection

FAQs About Sewer Camera Inspection

Sewer issues can be a nightmare for homeowners. When a sewer line clog appears, the plumber may recommend a sewer video inspection to find the source of the issue. This quick guide to video inspections for plumbing can help homeowners know what to expect going into it. 

A camera inspection may be less invasive than traditional methods for inspecting sewer lines, including digging deep trenches to access the underground pipes. Inspecting the inside of the sewer line using an insertable camera is an innovative way for modern plumbers to solve plumbing issues more efficiently. 

How Plumbers Use Cameras to Inspect Sewers

camera inspectionThe sewer line carries wastewater from the home’s drains down into the main sewer to be disposed of. A clogged sewer line can cause slow drainage and lead to stinky sewer water backflowing into the home. Because most of the sewer line is located underground, it can be difficult to determine where the source of the clog is to clear it efficiently. 

With camera inspection, plumbers can visually locate the exact source of the clog so that they can find the best method to clean it. Professional drain cleaning can include using professional-grade drain snakes or high-pressure water to blast debris away. The process involves using a waterproof camera and feeding it through the pipes using a flexible cable while the plumber monitors the video feed from a monitor. 

Warning Signs of Problems With the Sewer Line 

Homeowners should be on the lookout for potential problems with the sewer line because catching issues early on is the best way to prevent plumbing disasters. Here are a few warning signs of a clogged sewer line that homeowners should know. 

  • Slow Draining – Slow draining from all of the home’s plumbing fixtures is a warning sign of a clog in the main sewer line. When the drain for an individual plumbing fixture is clogged, the drainage problem is isolated to that one fixture; however, when a main sewer line clogs, all of the home’s plumbing fixtures can have issues with draining. 
  • Foul Odors – A build-up or clog in the sewer line can cause wastewater to be held in the pipes. This leads to foul odors that linger in the home. The smell of sewage around the home indicates that a sewer line inspection may be needed. 
  • Sudden Grass Growth – If one patch of grass in the lawn is suddenly more lush and longer than the rest, homeowners should be suspicious of a sewer line issue. When underground pipes begin to leak because of a blockage, the surrounding grass and plants get extra water and nutrients from the sewage leak to drink and then shoot up tall. 
  • Gurgling – Plumbing systems can make all sorts of strange noises, but one noise that homeowners should pay attention to is the sound of gurgling coming from the drains. A gurgling noise can be an indicator that there is air trapped in the pipes as a result of a blockage. 

Benefits of Sewer Video Inspection

tree roots To determine what kind of sewer line repair is necessary, the best way to diagnose the source of the problem is to use sewer video inspection technology. Without video inspections, many plumbing issues may go unnoticed. Tree roots can grow into the plumbing system looking for water and be tricky to remove. 

Professional methods for inspecting the sewage system with cameras and cleaning the pipes can quickly resolve chronic drainage problems and prevent future plumbing issues. Keeping up with plumbing maintenance, inspections, and repairs can help prevent future sewer line replacement or expensive repairs. It is recommended that a trusted local plumbing company be called as soon as potential sewer line issues are noticed. 

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company is a 24/7 home service company that provides comprehensive heating, cooling, and plumbing services for homeowners in the Midland, TX, area and beyond. Local homeowners trust them for their dependability, fair prices, and expert service providers. Call The Bosworth Company today for sewer line repair in Midland, TX! 

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