Tips for Improving Energy Efficiency of Hot Water Tanks

Tips and Tricks for Improving Energy Efficiency of Hot Water Tanks

Each household uses approximately 45 gallons of hot water each day, which means that a good portion of the energy bill goes towards heating up water. Many households would save a lot of money in the long run by improving the energy efficiency of their hot water tanks in the following ways.

Set the Thermostat to a Lower Temperature

To control the temperature of the water, the water tank is controlled by a thermostat. Something as simple as lowering the set temperature can make a huge difference to the overall energy efficiency. For example, by reducing the thermostat temperature by 20 degrees Fahrenheit, households can reduce their overall energy usage by anywhere from 6 to 10 percent. To prevent bacteria, like Legionnaires, from growing in hot water tanks, most heating experts in Montgomery County recommend setting the temperature to at least 140 degrees.

Insulate the Hot Water Tank

Heat dissipates. This causes energy loss, and makes the hot water tanks less energy efficient. A simple way to improve the energy efficiency of a hot water tank is to simply insulate it with open-cell foam insulation or even rigid insulation panels. Both will prevent heat from dissipating. Insulate the plumbing for more effective results.

Reduce the Amount of Hot Water Flowing Through the Faucet

Inefficient showerheads and faucets can lead to excessive hot water use. Homeowners should consider replacing older showerheads with newer models, and to fix leaking faucets as soon as possible. Difficult repairs may require help from professional heating repairmen in Chester County.

Enjoy Hot Water with Showers

Improving the energy efficiency of hot water tanks is not difficult. In fact, there are many additional simple and easy fixes. Those who are constantly running into inefficient hot water tanks or high energy bills may need to consider whether the tank needs to be replaced instead of getting repaired by professional heating contractors in Delaware.

Tips for Improving Energy Efficiency of Hot Water Tanks

Appliance Doctor, Incorporated is a Pennsylvania Corporation offering expert repair services to the Delaware Valley’s residents and businesses. We started in 1964 as a one-man business servicing only washers and dryers. Today, we service more than 110 different brands of refrigeration and appliance equipment across 49 different product types. Our technicians are expected to know so much information! In the 1960’s, our service area was limited to Philadelphia. Today, our service area includes all towns in Philadelphia, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County.

Keep Your Dishwasher Alive and Well

Keep Your Dishwasher Alive and Well in Philadelphia

The days of washing all of your dishes by hand are over, and practically nobody wants to go back. Therefore, if your dishwasher stops running or starts to decrease in performance, it can be a pain to deal with. There are some ways that you can prolong the life of your washer as well as keep it running in top condition. Here are some things to try before calling for appliance repair in Philadelphia.

Remove Excess Food

The first tip to keep your washer running nicely is to scrape the food off of your dishes before loading them in the wash. Leaving food particles on dishes causes multiple problems for your washer, including:

Particles may end up in the washer, being spit back up onto the dishes.
The dish washer may start to run poorly.
If the problem gets severe enough, you may require costly appliance repair in Philadelphia to fix it.

A bit of prevention is better in the long run, even if it takes a little extra time to clean your dishes.

Run Hot Water

One tip that can help your washer run more efficiently is to run your water in the sink before starting the load. You can keep the water running until it is hot. This will ensure that your load starts out hot.

Don’t Overload

Many people have a bad habit of overloading the dishwasher. There are a few reasons for this; the dishes can be cleaned in fewer loads and it saves some water usage. However, overloading can also lead to your dishes not getting as clean as they should be because they are too close together. If this happens, you will have to re-run the load anyway, reducing the effectiveness you hoped to achieve. It could also break the shelves from excess weight, requiring appliance repair in Philadelphia to come fix it. When all else fails, Appliance Doctor is here to help.

Keep Your Dishwasher Alive and Well in Philadelphia

Various Factors That Influence Your Dryer’s Performance

Factors That Influence Your Dryer’s Performance in Philadelphia

The invention of washers and dryers revolutionized the modern home, as it brought homeowners into contact with household appliances. Automatic washers and dryers were first made public in 1937, and have since become a central commodity in life. While there are some who still prefer hanging their clothes out to dry, a majority of the new world cannot do this all year round due to uncooperative weather conditions, making dryers a necessity.

While washers and dryers are practical in every sense of the word, there can be times when their performance begins to dwindle. In fact, most homeowners report their appliances encountering issues after a decade of use. In order to prolong the lifespan of these costly appliances, it is important to seek professional appliance service in Philadelphia when a problem arises. Most homeowners will report having issues with their dryers before encountering any with their washing machines, and this has everything to do with the following factors:

Electrical Issues

There are times when a homeowner believes that their dryer is broken, only to find out later that the issue is purely electrical. Before buying a brand new dryer or hiring an appliance expert, ensuring that the machine is in fact plugged to a reliable source of energy is a must.

Dryer Door Issues

A dryer will refuse to turn on should there be something blocking the door’s path.

Burnt-Out Motors

A dryer’s motor can burn out due to a string of factors. Should this occur, having the motor replaced by an appliance technician will be needed.

Clogged Air Vents

Homeowners can benefit from having their air vents de-clogged on a yearly basis, as this is often the cause of poor dryer performance.

Buying new washer and dryers every time a problem arises can be expensive. Seeking professional appliance maintenance in the Chester Counties on a yearly basis can help homeowners maintain functional appliances.

Factors That Influence Your Dryer’s Performance

Should You Leave Valuables Inside Your Appliances?

Should you Leave Valuables Inside Your Appliances?

Sadly, the horrible events of Hurricane Irma left much of the Southeastern United States in shambles. Many people were struggling to take all of their valuables with them and some people took to the Internet, where they found the advice that you could leave your valuables in your washing machine or dishwasher and they would be safe if your home was flooded or damaged by the hurricane. While this sounds like great advice, is it true?

The story behind leaving your valuables in your dishwasher

Many believe that dishwashers are waterproof because water does not get out when washing a load of dishes as the seal around the door helps to keep water out. As well, many built-in dishwashers are secured to cabinets, so they are secure and kept in place.

The facts about leaving valuables in your dishwasher

If your home is inundated with flood waters, your dishwasher will inevitably leak. It is not meant to stand up to high-pressure situations, such as flooding and water will get in. If you’ve stored your valuables in there, you can bet that they will be destroyed.

The jets inside of your dishwasher may seem to be high pressure, as they get off the caked-on dirt and debris from your dishes, but that is no comparison to raging flood waters, which can equal thousands of pounds pushing from multiple directions. Add to this that the dishwasher could be sitting in the flood waters for days (or months) and the storm winds and other debris that can damage the dishwasher.

A better solution

Rather than leaving your belongings in the dishwasher, put important documents in plastic Ziploc bags and keep them with you if you can and if you can’t, store them in a plastic bin in a high and dry place in your home.

Flooding and other natural disasters can hit Philadelphia at any time. If your appliances have suffered damage because of any natural disaster or you just need to find a Philadelphia area appliance repair company, contact Appliance Doctor.

Should you Leave Valuables Inside Your Appliances?

Make Your Washing Machine One of Your Favorite Appliances

Make Your Washing Machine One of Your Favorite Appliances Bensalem

The lifelong debate over washing dirty laundry continues, with some loving the task and others hating it with a fiery passion. Regardless of your stance on the matter, having the right washing machine can actually make a world of difference in your home. While choosing one of these appliances in Bucks county doesn’t seem like it should be a major decision, read on to discover the two types of washing machines on the market and how they stand up against each other for the reigning title of best appliance.

The Front-Loading Machine of Your Dreams

In general, the front-loading washing machine has become more popular in recent years due to its compact size, ability to stack on top of a dryer and the easier reachability for those of smaller stature. Their interior space is often built larger and they claim to be more efficient with water and electricity usage. The trade-off for these positive benefits, however, is that front-loading machines don’t have as many functions, such as the ability to add extra neglected items after the load has already begun. Plus, unless they’re left open after every cycle, they can frequently attract a musty, moldy odor in the door’s seal that can be unpleasant for the entire household.

The Top-Loading Machine You’ve Always Wanted

In contrast to the front-loader, the top-loading machine often has the features the other lacks. When you’re searching through appliances in Bucks county, it’s best to note that a top-loading washing machine can be stopped mid-cycle to throw in extra items. Meanwhile, though they take up greater floor space, they appeal to those who want the added top surface area to separate, fold or touch-up their clothing. The majority are also less expensive, though these models can be less energy efficient.

When the hunt through appliances in Bucks county begins for you to find the ever-elusive perfect washing machine, the answer generally just comes down to what works best in your household. Both offer positive and negative benefits, and only you can decide which will work better for you and your family.

Make Your Washing Machine One of Your Favorite Appliances

The Cost of Home Appliances

the cost of home appliances bensalem

Appliances help you maintain cleanliness in your daily life; they allow you to conveniently store and prepare food; they add monetary value to your home while enhancing their appeal; they are vital to modern living yet easy to take for granted. Purchase and maintenance costs for home appliances such as your refrigerator, microwave, stove, dishwasher, and washer and dryer are part of being a homeowner or even a renter. The following information will assist you when considering purchasing or repairing those machines you already own in Bucks County.

What Do New Appliances Cost?

If buying brand new, factors such as name brand and size can significantly influence the price. However, here are some average amounts that you can expect to spend for some common new machines:

Refrigerator: $900-$8000
Dishwasher: $400-$700
Washer: $700-$1000
Dryer: $400 – $1000
Range/Oven (Stove): $650-$2000
Microwave: $100-$500

What Are Average Repair Costs?

Appliances can last for many years, so if there are malfunctions, it is often financially practical to repair them instead of replacing them. Here is a list of six of the most common problems with major home appliances and the average repair cost:

Refrigerator: broken ice maker, $300
Dishwasher: drain pump, $100-$300
Washer: lid switch, $140
Dryer: coils, $170
Oven: igniter (replacement or cleaning), $110-$200
Touchpad: $10-$50

Some repairs can be cost inefficient, as is often the case with a microwave and other small machines. Keep in mind that if repair costs are major (such as equaling one-half or more of the cost to purchase a new one), consider simply replacing the item.

Appliances are used countless times every day, but you may not realize this dependency until one is not working. If this happens, there’s no need to panic. Just remember the many options you have for both repair and replacement, and make the choice that suits your wallet.

The Cost of Home Appliances

Gas or Electric Stove?

Gas or Electric Stove in Bensalem?

When it comes to appliances, the fiercest debate is whether you should get a gas or electric stove. They each have their pros and cons, so you’ll need to choose which is more important. Unless they create a gas and electric range, it ultimately comes down to a question of control against efficiency. Here are the key features of each:

Gas

The main advantage with gas will always control. Gas stoves give consistent heat for more even cooking. They also allow instant adjustments with the turn of a knob. If your cooking temperature is too low, you can crank it up without waiting for it to heat up. You can also use almost any type of cookware on a gas range.

Unfortunately, gas appliances tend to be pricier than electric. While gas owners would say it’s worth it, you can buy a more upscale electric stove for the same price as a low-end electric. They’re also more difficult to clean, so stains that get burned on generally don’t come off.

Electric

Electric stoves are more efficient than their gas counterparts. Despite less control, the electric burners have direct contact with the cookware. They’re also very easy to clean, requiring, at most, an abrasive scraper to remove even stubborn messes. Electric requires very little in the way of ventilation, whereas gas needs more to vent the carbon monoxide it produces.

The major disadvantage is that electric ranges do not stay at a consistent temperature. They heat up, then cool down, only to heat back up again. This makes even heating and steady simmering difficult to accomplish.

Ultimately, only you can choose a winner in the battle of the appliances. Very few Bucks County residents find themselves on the fence; most have a very clear set of preferences. Whether you choose gas or electric, a little research can ensure that you get a quality product that serves you well for years.

Gas or Electric Stove?

Must Know Appliance Buying Tips

Must Know Appliance Buying Tips bensalem

Purchasing new major appliances is exciting. It can also be stressful if you are trying to figure out which exact one you should get. Relieve some of the pressure off yourself by following these useful appliance tips.

Talk to Friends

Whether you are buying a fridge or washing machine, it is good to speak with friends, neighbors and coworkers first. They have probably been in your shoes before, and they can tell you about a great item they absolutely love. On the other hand, they can also tell you to stay away from an item if they had a bad experience.

Know What Your Needs Are

It can be easy to get distracted by appliances that have all the bells and whistles. However, you want to be honest with yourself. If you have no realistic need to get certain features, then there is no need to get an appliance that has them.

Avoid Impulse Buys

Even when you find a great item, you do not want to buy it right away. Make a note of what items you really like, and continue your search. You may go back to that same item later, or you may end up finding something much better. With big purchases, you want to take your time.

Understand Your Home’s Layout

You are only going to have so much space in the kitchen to put a new refrigerator. Take precise measurements before you start searching so that you know whether an item will even fit in the space. You also want to be mindful of additional considerations, such as whether you will need to take the appliance up a flight of stairs or wedge it through a doorway.

Many great appliances can be found in Bucks County. See what would be best for you by following these appliance tips. You do not want to end up with buyer’s remorse, so it is worth it to do plenty of research.

Must Know Appliance Buying Tips

Cleaning Your Washing Machine’s Lint Trap

Washing machine bensalem

It’s easy to get trapped into the habit of not cleaning the lint trap in your washing machine, but that habit can cost you. Before you need to call a professional in Bensalem for appliance repair, start cleaning your washer’s lint trap at least four times a year. This can keep lint and associated residue from ruining your clothing during washing.

What is a Washer’s Lint Trap

A washing machine’s lint trap is not the same as the drying machine’s lint trap—you likely clean the collected lint from your dryer frequently, or should, after every load. You washer’s lint trap or lint filter is located within the washing system, however. Depending on the type of washer, mesh lint traps or cleanable filters may be used. High-efficiency washers typically do not have lint traps or filters, however; they rely on built-in pump filters that self-clean.

Where to Find It, If You Have It

It is best to refer to your washing machine’s operating manual or online appliance repair information to find your lint filter location, which varies among machines. If you cannot find information about your specific washer, there are several places to look for your lint filter.

Your washer’s lint filter may be within the center agitator of a top-loading washer. Remove the cover and check for a lint trap that can be cleaned. A removable lint screen may also be located along the washer drum’s top rim. Mesh lint traps are also commonly found in washer drain hoses.

How to Clean It

Once you find it, soak your lint trap or filter in hot water, if it’s removable. A clean, soft brush or towel can also be used to remove lint as well as residue from cleaning detergents and fabric softeners. Disposable filters should be replaced when clogged.

If you cannot find or clean your lint filters and need appliance repair or maintenance, call a professional technician in Bensalem who has experience with your specific washing machine.