SPS Mechanical Inc. Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Woolwich Township’

Is an AC Upgrade Worth It?

Monday, July 11th, 2022

That’s a good question, but it depends heavily on a lot of different factors. First, we need to talk about what exactly an “upgrade” means, since colloquially it means different things to different people. Second, we need to talk about how much something would have to cost before it’s not “worth it” anymore. And thirdly, we need to talk about specific situations in which the upgrade might save you money.

We’ll go over all of these points today, but the most important takeaway to get from this blog post is that we can walk you through upgrading your AC in Woolwich Township. All you need to do is give us a call and tell us about your situation, and we’ll give you a professional opinion.

However, for everyone else that wants to do a bit of background research before they make such an important decision, you can keep reading.

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To Repair or Replace, That Is the Question!

Monday, May 18th, 2020

Pardon our Shakespeare, but this might be one of the hardest questions that homeowners ask us about. We imagine it’s pretty difficult for people who have been scammed in the past by HVAC amateurs who convinced them to get rid of their perfectly functional air conditioning systems for the newest and most expensive piece of equipment on the market. After all, a good salesman should try to sell the most expensive equipment, right?

That’s wrong, or at least we’d like to think it’s wrong.

When deciding whether to replace or repair your air conditioning system, there are a variety of factors to consider. We’re not interested in making a quick buck from an unsuspecting customer, all we care about is providing quality cooling solutions for homeowners at the cheapest price. So, if you’re concerned about needing an AC replacement in Woolwich Township, NJ then keep reading!

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Heating Guide: How Radiant Heating Works

Monday, October 14th, 2013

You may have heard the term “radiant heat” talked about in reference to a home heating system. It’s one of two basic types of home heating, the other being “forced air” systems which push warm air throughout your home to raise the temperature. Radiant heating tends to be a more effective and cost-friendly way to keep your house cozy on a cold day. In towns like Woodbury, NJ, heating systems need to be effective in order to keep winter at bay without breaking the bank, making radiant heating an attractive option for homeowners. Here’s how radiant heating works.

It starts with the floor. A radiant heating system places a series of tubes or coils beneath the floorboards. Which one? That depends on the type of radiant heating system. Hydronic systems pump water through tubes; a furnace or boiler then heats the water to warm the tubes. In the case of electric systems, the tubes are replaced by electric coils protected within a heat-conducting mat.

Regardless of the system, the results are the same. The coils/tubes warm up the floor, which in turn warms up other objects in the room (including people). The heat is mild enough to let you walk around barefoot without pain, and it’s safe on furniture and curtains as well. Because it starts at the floor, very little of the heat escapes through the ceiling, increasing overall efficiency and lowering your heating costs as a result. Radiant heating isn’t subjected to the vagaries of air flow, allowing the whole space to be heated evenly and preventing the circulation of dust and similar particles from blowing air. Zone controls allow you to tailor a radiant heating system to heat only those areas that you want, further saving you money.

The specifics of installing a radiant system depend on the particulars of your house, but you can consult a trained professional on how radiant heating works and what version works best for you. For Woodbury, NJ heating issues, talk to SPS Mechanical. We serve all of Southern New Jersey, and our qualified experts are available 24 hours day. Call us to set up an appointment today!

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Ask a Plumber in Cherry Hill: Why Do My Drains Gurgle So Much?

Monday, July 29th, 2013

When you run your shower or sink faucets, you want to the resulting wastewater to be carried away from your home through the plumbing in your house quickly, effectively and quietly. Loud, gurgling drains are very annoying, and they may actually indicative of problems or problems to come with your drains. If you are concerned about gurgling drains throughout your home, contact a Cherry Hill plumber on the SPS Mechanical team. We have the tools, training and experience necessary to ensure that your plumbing system is able to function as effectively and reliably as you need it to.

One very common reason that your drains may gurgle during use is simply because some sort of blockage has built up within that drain. This is especially common in the kitchen, where misuse of garbage disposals often leads to food scraps and grease to build up. As the water drains, it may cause some air to be trapped behind the clog. Once the water makes its way through, that air can come gurgling back up towards your sink through the clog.

Many homeowners do not realize that the drainpipes in their homes are also vented. This is what allows water to flow through them so smoothly. If there is not adequate venting, gases can build up in your pipes. This can lead to unpleasant odors and exposure to gases that can be unhealthy, so it is important that a seemingly minor issue with gurgling drains is investigated by a qualified, licensed plumber. Any issues with your plumbing should always be considered a priority. After all, most serious problems do not suddenly develop out of nowhere. They are the result of minor issues that were allowed to develop into more serious problems over time.

To learn more about how you can resolve your gurgling drain issue, contact the professional plumbers in Cherry Hill that you can count on for outstanding service. Call SPS Mechanical. No matter what the underlying cause of your gurgling drains may be, our team can get to the root of the problem to solve it completely.

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Plumbing FAQ: Why Does My Toilet Frequently Overflow?

Monday, July 22nd, 2013

Are you frustrated because your toilet frequently overflows? A clogged toilet is a common issue, but if your toilet overflows, then it can be a real hassle. One of the first things you can do is shut off the water valve to your toilet. This stops the flow of water, and should be the first action you take if your toilet is  overflowing. Next, call a plumber for expert service. A professional plumber will be able to ensure that the problem is taken care of promptly. Call the Cherry Hill plumbing experts at SPS Mechanical if you’re having any problems with your toilet.

  • Foreign object: While most homeowners are aware of the dangers of putting anything other than organic waste down the toilet, accidents do happen. Toys, bars of soap, diapers, clothes, and a variety of other objects have all found their way into the toilet at one time or another. These foreign objects can cause severe clogs that cannot often be easily dislodged by a plunger, or even an auger. They often get stuck in the toilet trap, which is that S-shaped bend that allows your toilet to fill back up to a certain water level without going down the drain, while also preventing sewer smells from moving back up into the home.
  • Blocked drain vent: Your wastewater disposal system works on gravity alone to remove wastewater from your home. But in order to do so, it requires adequate ventilation. Think of a straw with one end covered by your finger. The liquid in the straw will not move so long as one end remains covered. This vacuum is analogous to the one inside your plumbing system. You need to make sure that your drain vent is not blocked for some reason. This may occur at the local level, or it could occur at the top of the main vent stack that goes through the roof.

There are other possible reasons why your toilet is overflowing, but an accurate diagnosis must be performed by a professional. Call SPS Mechanical today for comprehensive Cherry Hill plumbing services. 

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Ask a Plumber: What’s Wrong with My Septic System?

Monday, July 8th, 2013

If you have a septic system on your property that is causing you problems, there are a huge variety of things that could be causing the issue. Usually, you’ll need to call a plumber if you’re having problems with your septic system. At SPS Mechanical, we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing service for all different types of issues including septic repair. Make sure you take a look at some of the things that could be causing your septic system to not work well.

  • Septic tank full – Usually, depending on how many people are in your household, septic systems need to be serviced and emptied about once per year. If you haven’t had this service performed regularly it could be causing your toilets and drains to back-up.
  • Leech field or soakway problems – Another very common problem with septic system is the leech field (also called the soakway). If you hear gurgling sounds from your drains and toilets, if your toilets are backed up, or if you try to drain your bathtub and it fills up your toilet or sink it could mean that your leech field is clogged. Other indications of this could be foul odors around your home’s drains or indentations in your yard where the leech field is.
  • Leech field too deep – Another very serious issue could be that your leech field or soakway is buried too deep. If your leech field is too deep there won’t be enough oxygen to allow the growth of the proper bacteria cultures that feed on the waste. It could allow other type of bacteria to grow which would clog the pipes with mold and slime.

When you need a Sewell, NJ plumber just call the experts at SPS Mechanical. We’re available 24/7 for plumbing emergencies because we know that things don’t always break down when it’s convenient. Give us a call today to talk with one of our friendly plumbers. 

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When to Call a Professional Plumber in Sicklerville, NJ

Monday, June 10th, 2013

The plumbing system of your Sicklerville, NJ home is complex. It is comprised of various pipes, connections, fixtures, and appliances, most of which you never see because it’s embedded within the walls or under the floors. While we have come to rely heavily on the convenience of modern plumbing, we hardly realize it’s there until something with its operation goes wrong.

  • Leak: Leaks have numerous causes. There’s simply no telling what the cause is until a professional diagnosis takes place. If you notice a water stain on your ceiling or wall, though, that’s nearly a sure sign that there is leak somewhere within the wall. A professional plumber is skilled at leak detection so that you can rest assured he will find the root of the leak. Alternatively, if you notice a decline in your water pressure or a spike in your water bill, then you might also have a hidden leak somewhere within your home.
  • Water heater fault: If you find that your water is rust-colored, then your sacrificial anode rod may no longer be active, and your water heater may have suffered oxidization to its interior walls. If you hear a rumbling noise, then it may have a lot of built-up sediment at its bottom, which is causing it to overheat. Water heaters can become dangerous when pressure builds up inside of them, so make sure to contact your plumber should you have any concerns.
  • High water pressure: If you notice multiple water leaks or a hammering noise in your pipes, then your water pressure may have reached an excessively high level. This can lead to all sorts of trouble so make sure you get it checked out immediately.

For superior plumbing services, call a plumber in Sicklerville, NJ at SPS Mechanical today! 

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Air Conditioning Repair: How Damaged Coils Affect Operation

Monday, May 27th, 2013

Our air conditioning systems are complex, comprising various components, connections, and mechanisms, all of which work cooperatively to provide respite from the heat outside during the cooling season. As you probably already know, one of the major components of your system is the coils. The coils in the outside unit are known as the condenser; those in the indoor unit known as the evaporator. While they are both coils, they have very different—some might say opposite—functions. Refrigerant circulates through these coils, pressurized as they are by the compressor pump. The refrigerant condenses in the condenser coil by dissipating heat, and evaporates in the evaporator coil by cooling air, hence their respective names. But when the coils become damaged, they can dramatically reduce the ability of your air conditioning system to function properly. For air conditioning repair in Woodbury, NJ, call the experts at SPS Mechanical today!

Let’s take a look at how damage coils affect operation:

  • Evaporator coil: Your evaporator coil is responsible for cooling the air that is then sent throughout your ductwork. It is usually shaped like a pyramid with the bottom open, so that any condensed water that accumulates in the process can drip into the condensate pan. If it’s covered in dust or debris, then the coils become much less effective in cooling the air and absorbing the heat its heat. If they are damaged, it can lead to improper dehumidification and frozen coils.
  • Condenser coil: Your condenser coils typically wrap the enclosure of the outdoor unit, to maximize heat dissipation, which is also assisted by a vertical exhaust fan. Its purpose, as already mentioned, is to disperse the heat of the gas refrigerant, which has been highly pressurized and heated by the compressor. Because the temperature of the refrigerant is hotter than the outside air, the heat quickly dissipates. If this process is disturbed by damage the coils, this dissipation cannot take place. This can result in warm air coming through your ducts.

These are just a few of the issues resulting from damaged coils. For expert air conditioning repair in Woodbury, NJ, call SPS Mechanical today! 

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Can Duct Cleaning Benefit My Air Conditioning?

Monday, May 20th, 2013

Duct cleaning can benefit your air conditioning system. Your central air conditioning system depends on the cooperation of its components: your compressor pump pressurizes the refrigerant, the evaporator coil absorbs the indoor thermal energy, the condenser coil and exhaust fan dissipate the heat outside. Your ductwork is an essential part of this system that distributes the air conditioned air throughout your home. Cleaning your ducts can be just as important as replacing your air filter, or keeping your coils free of dust and debris. In this post, we’d like to show you the beneficial impact that duct cleaning can have on your AC. For air conditioning services in Swedesboro, NJ, call SPS Mechanical today!

  • Performance: The performance of your AC depends upon the cleanliness of the ductwork. Dirty and dust-filled ductwork can account for significant airflow loss, which can severely impact your system’s ability to cool your home effectively.
  • Comfort: The cleanliness of your ductwork can dramatically affect your comfort. Not only in terms of keeping cool—although that is important—but also in terms of your indoor air quality. Dust, pollen, dander, and mold are common inhabitants of neglected air ducts. Duct cleaning allows you to get rid of such noxious particles on a regular basis. If you’re particularly sensitive to allergens, you should consider installing an air filtration unit in your cooling system.
  • Energy-efficiency: Your AC has a SEER number, which stands for its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This estimate seeks to measure the mathematical ratio between electrical energy input and cooling output in terms of an entire cooling season. While it’s only an estimate, it is important consideration for energy efficiency.  No matter how efficient your AC is, if it is not paired with excellent ductwork, it will never realize its full potential. Ducts that leak or that are circulating dirt that clog your AC’s filter can have a big impact on energy efficiency.

Duct cleaning is important to the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. Make sure you aren’t holding your AC unit back with neglected ductwork. Call the experts at SPS Mechanical for air conditioning in Swedesboro, NJ today!

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Sicklerville, NJ Plumbing Question: How Does Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement Work?

Monday, May 13th, 2013

When you tell a homeowner that they need to have their sewer line replaced it can cause them to cringe. Replacing a sewer line is normally a very intrusive and intensive process. It involves digging up your whole yard to get access to your sewer line. But with trenchless sewer line replacement that whole process can be avoided. SPS Mechanical provides fast and reliable trenchless sewer line replacement in Sicklerville, NJ. We wanted to help our customers understand the benefits of trenchless sewer line replacement.

Causes of Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement

When you have a home in Sicklerville, NJ, sewer line replacement isn’t something that you want to have happen. Here are some of the common causes of sewer line replacement that we see.

  • Leaks – If you start to notice soggy patches in your yard or the smell of sewage, it could indicate that you need to have your sewer line replaced because of a leak.
  • Tree roots – Tree roots are a very common cause of trenchless sewer line replacement. They can grow into your sewer line looking for water.

How Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement Works

While normal sewer line replacement requires extensive work and is inconvenient, trenchless sewer line replacement can normally done in a day. Instead of digging up your whole yard, only two holes need to be dug at either ends of your sewer line.

Once the two holes are dug, our plumbers use specialized equipment to drag a new pipe through your old one. This method is called pipe bursting and leaves you with a brand new pipe in your yard. Another method is called pipe lining. With this one, an inflatable tube is run inside of your old one. A bladder is put inside of the tube and inflated so that it hardens and dries against the inside of your old pipe.

If you need trenchless sewer line replacement, call SPS Mechanical. Our expert plumbers can help you quickly replace your sewer line. Call us today.

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