Tips
You don't have to be a plumbing and refrigeration expert to participate in the care and maintenance of your plumbing, heating and cooling systems.
While the complex tasks that your plumbing, heating and cooling systems require should be left to professionals like the technicians at Isley's Home Service, Inc. there is plenty you can do to reduce the cost or extend the time between professional services.
Read the tips below to save time, money and energy when using your heating, cooling and plumbing system.
Air Conditioning
- If your outdoor unit is on the ground keep the coil clear from brush and debris.
- If you notice your unit is running longer than normal or making unusual noises it's best to call for service.
- Check your air filter monthly – a dirty filter will restrict airflow causing a domino effect which includes your air conditioning system working harder than necessary to cool your environment, an increase in your electric bills and additional wear and tear on the system.
- Learn to trouble-shoot problems – if your system is not working properly, check the “Disconnect” switches on both the indoor and outdoor units to make sure that the fuses have not blown. Also make sure the circuit breaker is on.
- Check seals and weather stripping – check the seals around windows, doors, electrical outlets and any other potential source for air leaks. Seal off these areas and check them periodically for drafts. The result will be great energy efficiency and lower energy costs just to name a few.
- Toilet leaks – occasionally check your toilet for leaks. Place a few drops of food coloring in the tank portion of your toilet and check it 20 – 30 minutes later. If there is color in your bowl, the tank is leaking and will need replacement parts.
- Dishwashers/Washing Machines – always run your dishwasher and washing machines at full capacity. Running these appliances with a less than full load wastes water and energy since the biggest expense is heating the water. Keep in mind, that generally the same amount of water to clean a full load is also used to clean a half load of laundry or dishes.
- Water heater – turn down the temperature on your water heater. For every 10 degrees below 120 degrees you will save about 4% on your energy costs. If available, remember to use the “vacation setting” before leaving town.
For additional advice or answers to questions not addressed above, contact Isley's Home Service, Inc. in the East Valley at 480-736-1805, in Central Phoenix at 602-222-6631 and in the West Valley at 623-388-9459 or email us using our contact form.



