Spring AC Maintenance Tips

Spring is finally arriving in Avon! The days are getting longer, the flowers are blooming, and you’re probably already thinking about dusting off the patio furniture or tackling that messy garage.

But there’s one essential part of your Avon, home that also needs some TLC this season—your air conditioning system! Just like you wouldn’t ignore a dust bunny atop your fridge during spring cleaning, your heating and cooling system deserves some attention too.

A few AC maintenance tasks can go a long way in improving efficiency, airflow, and indoor air quality. From replacing air filters to scheduling professional maintenance with Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical, spring cleaning for your cooling system can prevent breakdowns and keep your home comfortable.

Not sure where to start? Read on for essential AC cleaning tips to keep your system running smoothly this spring!

The Importance of Spring AC Maintenance

After working hard all winter to keep your home warm, your air conditioning system deserves a refresh before it starts cooling things down for the summer. Dust, debris, and even pet hair can accumulate in your system, reducing efficiency and potentially leading to unexpected breakdowns just when you need your air conditioning the most.

A well-maintained AC system doesn’t just work better—it also helps you breathe easier. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my room so stuffy?” or “What is that smell coming from my air ducts?” the culprit is often a neglected HVAC system.

Dust, mold, and other pollutants can build up in your ductwork and filters, circulating throughout your home and affecting your indoor air quality.

3 Simple Steps to Spring Clean Your HVAC

Now that we’ve established why HVAC maintenance is important, let’s get into what you can do to keep your system running smoothly.

1. Change Your Air Filters

Your HVAC’s air filters trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, keeping them from recirculating in your home. However, most filters only last 30 to 90 days before they need to be changed.

Skipping a filter change can reduce airflow and force your system to work harder.

Replacing your air filters on a timely schedule can prevent that “stuffy” feeling in your home and improve overall air quality.

2. Clean Your Vents and Registers

While you have the vacuum out for regular spring cleaning, take a few minutes to vacuum your air vents and registers to remove dust buildup. This helps improve airflow and prevents allergens from getting kicked up into your duct system.

If you notice a persistent odor when your system is running and find yourself asking, “What is that smell coming from my air ducts?” it might be time for a professional duct cleaning. Mold, dust, or even pests can lurk in neglected ductwork, affecting both your air quality and your health.

3. Check and Clean the Outdoor Unit

Your AC’s outdoor unit has likely accumulated leaves, dirt, and debris over the fall and winter months. A clogged condenser coil can cause your system to overheat or run inefficiently, which could lead to the dreaded “Why is my AC blowing warm air?” moment on the first hot day of the season.

Give the unit a good rinse with a hose (after turning off the power) and clear any debris around it to ensure proper airflow.

Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

While regular maintenance helps, a professional AC tune-up is the best way to keep your system running efficiently. A technician will check refrigerant levels and clean critical internal components like the evaporator coil.

Over time, this coil can accumulate dust, pet hair, pollen, and other particles—especially if the air filter is clogged and ineffective. This buildup can lead to a burning smell when you first switch your HVAC system to cooling as the debris heats up.

An HVAC technician can also thoroughly inspect your unit to ensure there are no potential issues that could leave you sweating when summer hits. Plus, regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your system and even lower your energy bills!

The Indoor Air Quality Factor: Breathing Easier at Home

Good indoor air quality (IAQ) is key to a healthier, more comfortable home. If you notice excessive dust, lingering odors, or allergy symptoms, your air may not be as clean as it should be.

Here are a few ways to improve IAQ:

Breathe Easy With Spring AC Cleaning

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about creating a healthier, more comfortable home. By giving your cooling system the attention it needs, you can enjoy better air quality, improved efficiency, and peace of mind knowing your system is ready for summer.

So, grab that vacuum, swap out those filters, and get your AC in top shape—your lungs (and your energy bill) will thank you!

Need help getting your system tuned up in Avon, IN? Contact a trusted HVAC professional from Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical to schedule your spring AC maintenance today! Call 317-471-8700 or request service online.

3 Signs It's Time For a New AC

Should you repair or replace? That’s always the big question when it comes to major home systems like air conditioning (AC).

Repairs are easier on the pocketbook in the short run, but too many of them can add up.

Deciding on the ideal time to replace your air conditioning system in Indianapolis can be a challenge, so here are three areas our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals suggest you monitor for telltale signs:

  1. Check the age of your air conditioner.
Most air conditioners have an average life span of 10 to 15 years with regular usage. If you run your air conditioning system constantly through unusually hot summers, you may shorten that life span.
On the other hand, lighter usage or cooler weather may mean your unit lasts significantly longer.
Although age alone does not signal an automatic need for a new air conditioner, it should play a factor in your decision. If you notice your current unit is not performing as well and you require more repairs on a system that’s reaching the end of a typical life span, it’s probably a good time to make the investment.
  2. Evaluate the performance and efficiency.
Pay attention to how your air conditioner is performing, as well as to your energy bills. If you have taken care of your air conditioning system with regular maintenance, but begin to notice the unit is not cooling as quickly, as well, or as evenly as it used to, this may be a sign that it’s time to look for a new air conditioner.
In addition, take a close look at the cost of running your air conditioner. New units are always more energy-efficient than older ones, and technological developments often boost the performance of the newest models.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), high-efficiency air conditioners can reduce energy usage by 20 to 50 percent per year.
  3. Gauge your home’s air quality.
A well-functioning air conditioner should not only keep your Indianapolis home cooler, but it should also improve your indoor air quality (IAQ) by reducing the humidity and minimizing allergens such as mold. When the weather is particularly humid in Indiana, your air conditioner will have to work much harder.
Not only will your system need to remove heat, but it will also need to remove moisture from the air.
Over time, this will tax your air conditioning system, making it more difficult to handle humidity. If you notice more moisture in your air, as well as decreased air quality, you may want to invest in a new system.

Call Today for AC Service in Indianapolis

Our licensed HVAC technicians at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical are well-versed in all makes and models of air conditioners here in Indianapolis, IN We would be happy to help diagnose any problems you are facing, as well as make recommendations for repair or replacement. Call us at 317-471-8700 or request service online today!

5 Signs You Need Sump Pump Repair

You depend on your sump pump to prevent your Avon, home from flooding in the basement. But it can’t do its job properly when there’s an issue with it.

Recognizing problems with your sump pump allows you to address issues promptly. Our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals are ready to help with any of your plumbing needs. Whether the issue is with your Avon home’s sump pump repair, drain line, or water heater, we take care of it all—give us a call!

But how do you know when there is a problem with your sump pump that requires attention?

Warning Signs Your Sump Pump Needs Repair

Here are some warning signs that it is time for you to bring in our experts to have a look:

  1. You Hear Your Sump Pump Making Unusual Sounds
    If you hear your sump pump making an odd noise, give us a call. Don’t ignore a warning sign of a problem—otherwise, the problem may continue and could become even more severe.

    Our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals are sump pump experts. We can investigate the cause of the unusual sound and provide the appropriate repair in no time so that your sump pump works when you need it most!
  2. Your Sump Pump Runs Inconsistently
    Is your sump pump running continuously? Or are you noticing your sump pump turning on and off throughout the day? There could be an issue with the float switch or another major component.
  3. You Notice Rust On Your Sump Pump
    Although it’s not unusual, a rusty sump pump is never good. Your sump pump’s constant exposure to water can lead to rusting and even bacteria growth. Rust and bacteria could build up in your sump pump, creating water flow and drainage problems that may warrant repair.

    Prevent rust and reduce bacteria growth by scheduling routine maintenance services. The plumbers at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical can test your sump pump and ensure it is thoroughly cleaned and fully operable.
  4. Water Keeps Accumulating in Your Basement
    Too many homeowners neglect their sump pump, which can backfire, especially if the sump pump fails when it’s needed most.

    According to First Street Foundation, more than 142 million properties in the United States are at risk of flooding. Be sure your sump pump can help prevent flooding and its negative impact by keeping up with regular maintenance services.

    Routine sump pump maintenance helps ensure your system is operating safely and efficiently. Issues can be uncovered and handled before they progress any further, helping to reduce the risk of a costly repair.
  5. Your Sump Pump Reached the End of Its Service Life
    Well-maintained service pumps can last for 10 years—if your sump pump is approaching or has surpassed this mark, you will likely start to run into some issues.

    When your sump pump is around this age, it typically makes more sense to replace rather than repair it. Otherwise, you will end up paying to repair your sump pump and have no option but to replace it soon anyway.

We install, replace, repair, and maintain sump pumps throughout Avon to support a safe and healthy home. Let Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical assist with your plumbing needs—we are always here to help.

Sump Pump Repair or Replacement in Avon

Don’t leave the sump pump in your Avon, home in anything less than great condition. Contact the Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals so we can resolve any issues and ensure your equipment is operating efficiently. Call Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical or request service online today.

Help! I Have No Hot Water

There are few things more annoying than running out of hot water in the middle of a shower. But do not fret if this happens. It is more than likely an issue with your hot water heater.

It may be something very simple that you can take care of yourself. However, some fixes do need the assistance of a professional plumber.

If you run into this situation, try some of our troubleshooting tips or give Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical a call. One of our experienced plumbers can promptly come out to your Indianapolis, home to get your water flowing hot running again.

Focusing on Tank Water Heaters

There are a few options for powering water heaters: electric, gas, propane, and fuel oil. We will take a look at the two most popular types, electric and gas.

For each of these two, there are different steps to diagnose where the problem lies. However, for either type you may first want to:

•  Check if your tank size is adequate for your Indianapolis, home’s water needs.

   If you have more than two people living in your home, you may need a larger tank than what you currently have. It takes time to reheat enough water to refill the tank. Should this be the case in your home, wait about 30 minutes and retry the hot water.

   If you succeed, it might be time to consider upgrading. Or maybe a tankless water heater would be best for your home. Call Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical to discuss your options.

•  Increase the thermostat temperature by a couple of degrees.

   Ideally, you want your water heater temperature set between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees or lower if you have small children in your Indianapolis, home to avoid burning their sensitive skin). If you perform an adjustment, allow about 30 to 40 minutes for the hot water to return.

If these two options do not produce hot water, read on for more troubleshooting.

But before you continue, please heed this word of caution. Any time you work with electricity, turn off the power to the tank. A strong electrical current is running through there, and electricity is nothing to underestimate. Call one of our Indianapolis, plumbing professionals to help if you have any doubts.

Hot Tips for Owners of Electric Tank Water Heaters

If your unit is electric-powered, consider these possibilities:

•  Restart your water heater.

   Sometimes, a power surge can shut down your heater. Turn off the tank for a few minutes, then turn it back on and wait about 30 minutes. If you still have no hot water, this is not the problem.

•  Check the fuse or breaker.

   If the fuse has blown or the breaker has been tripped, sometimes it is not obvious this is the problem.

   Reset the breaker, even if it does not look tripped. Flip it off, wait about 30 seconds, and then flip it on. If it will not stay on, you need to call a professional electrician.

•  Call one of our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals.
Sometimes the technical side of electricity mingled with a water repair makes everyone feel more secure if handled by a pro. We can address the issue without causing further damage to other components, like a heating element or thermostat.

•  Install a new water heater.

   The average life span of a water heater these days is 10 years. If your tank is close to that age, it may be smarter to invest in a new tank rather than replacing a costly part. After replacing that component, the tank itself could fail, and you would have thrown money out the window.

   Purchasing a new water heater with higher efficiency and energy savings can save you money in the long run. ENERGY STAR® reports higher efficiency water heaters use 10 to 50 percent less energy than standard models. Since heating water accounts for approximately 15 percent of your Indianapolis, home’s energy use, going with a higher efficiency tank could add up to a nice savings on your utility bill.

   A new water heater may also qualify you for an energy tax break or rebate. Check with your local energy company.

Hot Tips for Owners of Gas Tank Water Heaters

If your unit is gas-powered, consider these possibilities:

•  Check the pilot light.

   Your issue could be as simple as this. Maybe a strong wind down the vent pipe blew the flame out.

   Read the instructions affixed to your tank on how to relight the pilot. Many tanks have a button to depress for relighting.

   If you are not comfortable with this process, call one of our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical plumbers to light it. In some cases, a new pilot light assembly is required, in which case a plumber will need to replace it for you anyway.

•  Fix the thermocouple.

   After you light the pilot and are certain the flame does not remain lighted, the thermocouple may be at fault. A thermocouple is a sensor that measures temperature. As a safety precaution, it will shut off the gas flow if the pilot goes out.

   If you are capable of replacing this yourself, it is a low-cost fix. If you are unsure about your level of competency, call a Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professional to replace it for you.

•  Check the gas supply.

   Occasionally, your heater may not be getting gas. If after you check to be sure the gas valve is turned on, you do not see a flame or smell gas, this could indicate the problem is the gas supply.

   Be sure the valve is open and assess the gas line. Is anything leaning against it or does it have a twist or kink in it? If nothing appears out of the ordinary, call your gas company to see if they are working on the gas line in your area or if your gas has been turned off. If the answer to both of these is no, you need to call one of our plumbers.

•  Install a new water heater.

   The life span for a gas water heater is typically 10 years, just like an electric water heater. Unfortunately, it may be time for a replacement. Call Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical to discuss what type and size tank would be best for you.

We Are Your Water Heater Experts

At Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical, our certified plumbers can help with whatever water heater issue you may have. Talk to us about a new installation or replacement, a repair, or water heater maintenance. In the case of no hot water, we are here in Indianapolis, to help. Give us a call at 317-471-8700 or request service online today.

What’s That Smell Coming From My AC at Startup?

As the temperatures begin to rise in Carmel many homeowners are firing up their air conditioners for the first time in months. But what if, instead of a refreshing blast of cool air, you’re hit with an unpleasant smell?

If your AC is producing an unusual odor at startup, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common concerns our team at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical hears every spring as homeowners transition back to cooling mode.

To assuage your concerns, we’ve compiled a list of common smells and their causes.

What’s That Smell Coming From My AC on Startup?

Let’s break down what might be causing these smells and what you can do about them.

1. Musty or Mildew Smell

If your AC smells like a damp basement or old gym socks, you might be dealing with mold or mildew growth inside your system. This often happens when moisture builds up in your air ducts or evaporator coils, creating the perfect environment for microbial growth.

What to Do:

2. Burning Smell

A burning odor when you first turn on your AC could be due to dust accumulation on the heating elements or electrical components. If your system has been sitting unused for months, dust settles on the coils, wires, and motor. The dust burns off when you start it up, causing a brief but noticeable smell.

What to Do:

3. Rotten Egg Smell

A sulfur or rotten egg smell is a major red flag, as it could indicate a natural gas leak near your HVAC system. While air conditioners don’t use natural gas, a nearby furnace, gas line, or stove could be leaking, and your AC could be circulating the odor throughout your home.

What to Do:

4. Chemical or Sweet Smell

A chemical odor, similar to acetone or sweet antifreeze, could indicate a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is essential for cooling your home, and a leak can not only affect your AC’s performance but also pose health risks if inhaled over time.

What to Do:

5. Dirty Socks or Sewage Smell

If your AC produces a foul, sewage-like smell, you might have a clogged condensate drain or an issue with sewer gas backing up through your home’s plumbing system. Bacteria can grow in stagnant water within the drain line, creating an unpleasant odor.

What to Do:

Preventing Future AC Odors

To avoid these unpleasant smells when starting up your AC each spring, consider the following maintenance steps:

When to Call an HVAC Professional

While some AC odors may be temporary or easy to fix, persistent or strong smells often indicate a more serious issue. If you’re experiencing any of these odors and aren’t sure of the cause, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical.  We can diagnose the problem, ensure your system is running safely, and get your AC back to providing fresh, clean air.

Don’t let a smelly AC ruin the start of your cooling season! If you’re in the Carmel area and need expert AC maintenance or repair, contact Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical today to schedule a service appointment. Call 317-471-8700 or request service online.

How Can I Lower My Heating Bill This Winter?

Are you anticipating a higher heating bill this winter? Here in Avon, temperatures can get pretty low. The only way to ensure you remain perfectly comfortable inside your Indiana home is by cranking up the heat.

But that can get expensive.

So how do you reduce your heating costs without compromising your comfort? Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical is here to tell you! Enhancing your comfort is our goal. We’ll help you create the most pleasing atmosphere, all without causing any financial strain.

Our team of experts understands how high energy bills can rise, especially during peak seasons where your heating and cooling expenses increase. We recommend taking action now so you can enjoy optimal indoor comfort at no sacrifice to your budget.

Here are several suggestions to help curb your heating expenses this winter:

Reach Out to Our Heating Professionals Today

If you want to save on energy costs and boost the efficiency of the HVAC system in your Avon, IN, home, our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals are here to assist. Give us a call today at
317-471-8700 or request service online.

4 Important Heat Pump Maintenance Tips

How often do you schedule a maintenance visit for the heat pump in your Indianapolis home? Taking proper care of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is the best way to ensure it will function efficiently and reach its full service life potential.

Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your heat pump is in top shape with no signs of trouble. After all, nobody wants to experience a system breakdown.

Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical understands how important it is for your heat pump to operate at its greatest capacity. You depend on your system for comfort, and it’s our mission to help you achieve this. So whether you need to keep warm or cool down, we are here to help.

A heat pump offers both the heating and cooling you need for optimal indoor comfort, but keeping up with routine maintenance is critical for it to remain in peak condition. Let us walk you through some basic heat pump maintenance tips to ensure maximum efficiency. 

  1. Change or Clean Your Air Filter
    Like many other types of HVAC systems, heat pumps have an air filter that needs to be replaced every one to three months. Air filters are designed to catch particles so you don’t end up breathing them in.

    Your air filter prevents a significant amount of dust, dirt, pet dander, bacteria, and viruses from circulating in the air throughout your home, ultimately improving your indoor air quality (IAQ). If you don’t replace or wash a reusable filter, you’ll expose yourself to the buildup of debris and contaminants. This can aggravate symptoms of conditions like asthma, allergies, and upper respiratory issues, so if you struggle with any of these, be sure to change your filter regularly.

    How do you rate a filter? Look at the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating. Filters with high MERV ratings are capable of trapping even the smallest of particles—just be sure the filter with the MERV rating you choose is compatible with your heat pump or you may restrict airflow.

  2. Clean Your Heat Pump and Surrounding Area Carefully
    Keep the area where your outdoor unit is located as clear as possible. Mow the surrounding grass and trim any hedges, shrubs, or other plants that are nearby. Ideally, your heat pump should have a clearance of at least a couple of feet on each side for efficient airflow.

    Remove dirt, leaves, branches, and other debris from the top and sides of your system. Otherwise, you risk damage to your heat pump. When the weather is warm, you can carefully wash it with a garden hose on a mild setting.

    During the winter, clear off any buildup of ice and snow. You can safely defrost the ice and snow by first turning off the power of your unit, waiting for it to completely shut off, and then pouring warm water over it. Once it is carefully melted and removed, you can turn the unit back on.

  3. Stay on Top of Problems and Schedule Safety Inspections
    Flush the indoor condensate pan and drain in the spring before using the air conditioning. This is extremely important if the unit is above or in a finished living area, but should really be done by a trained service technician.
    While you can perform some maintenance tasks on your own, there’s no greater peace of mind than knowing a heating and cooling professional has evaluated your heat pump. Be sure to keep up with regular safety and inspection checks so any issues can be discovered early on.
    Having a team of professionals inspect your HVAC system is great, but if an issue is discovered, it’s important to have it addressed soon. Don’t delay important repairs. Take care of minor problems too—otherwise, they may become major and expensive.

  4. Opt for Professional Maintenance Annually
    Doing your part to maintain your heat pump is critical so it can remain in good condition, but you can also leave it to our experts to perform maintenance—big or small, we handle it all. You should be scheduling a professional heat pump maintenance visit at least once a year anyway.

    With professional maintenance, you’ll be able to remain in compliance with your warranty, reduce the risk of a complete system breakdown, and improve the overall efficiency of your system. In fact, you could save up to 30 percent on your energy bill when you perform maintenance services that support ideal system efficiency, according to the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA).

What Happens During a Professional Maintenance Visit?

During a routine professional maintenance visit with our professionals, you can expect us to:

When it comes to heat pump maintenance, our professionals are here to help. We want your system to remain in top shape for many years to come, so if you’re ever unsure about how to properly maintain your heat pump on your own or would prefer to leave it to our experts, just give us a call.

We also offer an exceptional maintenance plan to help ensure you never miss a service that will encourage your system to operate as efficiently as possible. Be sure to speak with our experts to learn more and become a member today!

Contact Our Professionals for Heat Pump Maintenance Today

Our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals have been providing critical maintenance services for homeowners in the Indianapolis, IN, area for several years. Place your trust in us—we are here to address your heat pump concerns. Call 317-471-8700 or request service online today.

Why Is My Garbage Disposal Humming?

Have you ever just cleared the dinner table after a nice meal inside your Carmel, home and went to turn your garbage disposal on, only to hear it making an unusual humming sound?

Instead of sitting back and relaxing after a long day, you have a problem on your hands. It’s never fun when there’s an issue with an appliance that is supposed to make your life easier!

Your garbage disposal could be humming for any number of reasons. You may be able to resolve the issue on your own, but if you can’t or would rather leave it to the professionals, Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical is here for you. Our experts can arrive to diagnose and resolve the problem in no time!

At Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical, we work hard to provide families in Hamilton County with comfort and peace of mind with our expert plumbing services—we are here for you. Call us!

3 Possible Reasons Your Garbage Disposal Is Humming

According to mass data on Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average person wastes about 220 pounds of food each year.

How much of that do you think goes down your garbage disposal? If you aren’t dealing with a garbage disposal problem yet, it’s bound to happen!

If you do have a problem with your garbage disposal, some reasons you could be hearing it making a humming sound (and how to fix it!) include:

  1. Something is stuck inside your garbage disposal.
    Certain foods or objects caught inside your garbage disposal can cause it to jam. You may hear an unusual noise.

    Sometimes, the solution is as simple as turning off your garbage disposal and removing the blockage. It’s best to do so carefully with tongs, a wooden spoon, or a similar item.

  2. Your garbage disposal is jammed.
    If your garbage disposal jams because of something trapped inside, and you remove it but continue to hear humming, your garbage disposal needs to be reset.

    Take an Allen wrench and insert it into the hole underneath your garbage disposal. Move the wrench back and forth in both directions until it feels loose.

    Check your overload protector to see if it has tripped. If it has, locate and press the red button to reset it.

    If you have tried this and still cannot get your garbage disposal to stop humming or would rather the plumbers at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical perform the service for you, give our experts a call. We are happy to assist with your garbage disposal and plumbing needs.

  3. There’s a problem with the garbage disposal’s motor.
    Maybe there is nothing inside your garbage disposal and it is not jammed. If this is the case and you hear a humming sound, the issue could be with your motor.

    A faulty motor will require a repair or replacement. However, even if a motor can be repaired, a replacement is often more cost-effective. Let our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals diagnose and resolve the issue for you. We will assess the problem and let you know what your best option is.

Garbage Disposal Repairs in Carmel

When you are looking to resolve an issue with your garbage disposal, look no further than Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical. For many years, we have been a trusted name in the plumbing industry. Our professionals take pride in providing solutions that last.

You won’t find a more compassionate and knowledgeable team of professionals than right here with Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical. We are Indiana licensed and trained to help you with any plumbing concerns. No matter how big or small the problem, give our experts a call. We can provide a solution!

How Do I Know If My Garbage Disposal Needs to Be Replaced?

Have you been dealing with one garbage disposal problem after another? Frequent clogs, inefficient operation, leaks, and unusual sounds are all signs that could mean it is time to opt for a full replacement.

The average garbage disposal can last for about 10 years. If your garbage disposal is at the end of its useful service life and you have already repaired it several times, it may be best to invest your money in a new system.

Let our professional plumbers inspect your equipment and recommend the best course of action. We are here to help!

Call Our Carmel, Plumbers Today

Whether you have an issue with your garbage disposal or another plumbing problem in your Carmel, IN, home, know that our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals are ready to help. We have the solutions! Call us today at 317-471-8700 or request service online.

Why Isn’t My Furnace Heating My Entire Home?

If your furnace seems to be producing heat inconsistently around your Avon home to you, you’re not alone. Many homes have varied conditions from room to room, causing spotty heating or cooling.

On cold days, this can be a nuisance. You may be confined to only a few rooms in your home, or you might have to wear a coat and blanket just to function around the house.

Our team at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical wants you to be comfortable at home—you deserve to be! There are several reasons why your furnace may not be providing adequate warmth. Common issues include a malfunctioning thermostat, clogged air filters, or even more serious problems like a broken blower motor or a faulty igniter.

Understanding the potential causes of your furnace's heating issues is the first step in getting your system back on track.

Why Isn’t My Furnace Heating?

Here are some of the most common reasons why furnaces stop heating effectively and guidance on what you can do to restore warmth to your home. Whether it’s a simple fix or a sign that you need professional help, being informed will help you make the right decisions for your heating system and ensure your home stays comfortable.

1.  Poor insulation

     If your ducts, windows, attic, or walls have poor or nonexistent insulation, you might have a problem. Heat is escaping, which can cause inconsistent heating. However, you can fix this relatively quickly.

     Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professional can perform a thermal analysis in order to figure out which areas need insulation. A professional can install insulation within hours, and compared to other home improvements, it is relatively affordable.

2.  Duct problems

     Leaky or blocked ducts can lead to patchy heating. The insides of your ducts can have blockages, especially if they haven’t been cleaned recently. Leaks in your ducts are another enemy of even heating. If you think you might have leaky or blocked ducts, have a trained technician perform a thermal analysis and duct cleaning or repair.

     Also, take a walk around inside your home to see if any registers or intake vents are being blocked by furniture or carpeting.

3.  Thermostat problems

     Try changing your thermostat settings. If your furnace is set to Auto, change it to the On setting. This will cause it to run consistently instead of incrementally, which may lead to more even heating.

     Your thermostat might also have heat sensor issues or faulty wiring, which causes it to produce the wrong temperature reading. A professional can diagnose this issue.

4.  Improperly sized furnace

     When a furnace is sized incorrectly for your Indiana home, it will usually produce poor heating. Undersized units lack the capacity to ventilate your entire living area.

     Similarly, larger units short-cycle, leading to inadequate heating. One of our experts can perform heat load calculations to determine whether your system is the correct size.

5.  Lack of maintenance

     When you don’t schedule routine maintenance visits, your system can lose its finesse. Dirty coils, worn/unsecured belts, and clogged filters are common mishaps. Due to these issues, you’ll have a weakened heating system.

     Routine maintenance saves you money. You can reduce your energy costs by up to 30 percent with seasonal tune-ups and professional maintenance. Regular HVAC maintenance can also reduce costly breakdowns by as much as 95 percent.

6.  Wrong-sized filter

     Good airflow is key to dispersing hot air throughout your Avon home. If your filter is too thick for your furnace, it creates excessive resistance, leading to compromised airflow. You can have your technician perform a static resistance test to see if it’s the right size.

7.  HVAC zoning

     Some homes have varied heating needs for different rooms. Fortunately, with a zone control system, you can adjust the temperature settings in multiple areas. If you live in a home with multiple stories, large windows, or a furnished basement, zone controls may be the best solution.

Call Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical for All Your Heating Needs

A furnace that isn’t heating properly can be more than just an inconvenience—it can impact your comfort and safety, especially during colder months. By understanding the common causes, such as thermostat malfunctions, dirty filters, or more complex mechanical issues, you can take steps to diagnose the problem.

While some issues may be resolved with a quick DIY fix, others might require the expertise of a professional HVAC technician. Ignoring these problems can lead to bigger, more expensive repairs down the line.

Our professionals at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical provide furnace installations, repairs, and maintenance to our neighbors in Avon, IN, and surrounding regions. Call us today at 317-471-8700 or request service online for any additional questions or to schedule service.

If your furnace is still struggling to heat your home, don’t hesitate to reach out. Ensuring your furnace is in top working condition will help maintain a warm and cozy environment throughout the winter season.

How Does My Gas Furnace Work?

On a frosty winter’s day here in Indiana, your gas furnace is hard at work, keeping your Indianapolis home warm and cozy. Feeling grateful? You’re not alone—it’s one of the most popular forms of heating, as American as apple pie.

In 1919, New Jersey inventor Alice H. Parker filed a patent for the first gas-fueled furnace. Years later, the basic technology is the same—only it burns less gas. In fact, modern furnaces burn at up to 97 percent efficiency, according to Consumer Reports. Keep this in mind if you’ve owned your heater for 10 years or longer.

Our team at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical could help you save big bucks on your monthly utility bill by performing a furnace replacement. And while we’re on the topic, we can help with your other HVAC needs: air conditioning, heat pumps, indoor air quality (IAQ), and more. All you need to do is call.

How a Gas Furnace Works

Furnaces that burn natural gas have four basic elements:

1. The Thermostat

Your thermostat is the eyes and ears of the operation. If it senses your home is below the target temperature, it sends signals to your furnace. Then, your furnace continues to cycle until your home is adequately warm. Finally, when it detects the desired temperature, the thermostat tells your furnace to stop running (until further notice).

2. The Ignitor

When your thermostat sends out a signal, the ignitor is the first to respond. Like the ignition starts your car—the ignitor starts your furnace.

If your heater is a decade old (or older), the ignitor might be a pilot light. The pilot stays lit 24/7, running on a small stream of natural gas. Newer furnaces have an electric ignitor, a considerably safer option. Electric ignitors are less risky because if your pilot goes out, you will quickly have a house full of gas fumes.

3. The Combustion Chamber

Next on the chain is the combustion chamber. This is where the ignitor lights the fuel. The natural gas becomes intertwined with oxygen supplied via a vent system or draft hood. The oxygen ensures that the fuel burns both cleanly and efficiently.

Besides taking in oxygen, the ventilation system pushes out exhaust through your flue. Economy flues are usually made out of galvanized steel. However, homeowners with polypropylene venting see long-term savings due to higher efficiency. The latter is also quite easy to install.

Whatever your flue is made out of—stay on top of maintenance. A clean flue ensures healthy air and prevents gas from getting squandered.

The Heat Exchanger

The combustion chamber emits heat, which gets collected by the heat exchanger. From there, the heat exchanger collects and distributes the treated air to your ductwork using burner-heated metal tubes.

When the tubes reach the right temperature, the furnace motor kicks on and begins blowing the air throughout your Indianapolis home with the help of fans.

High-efficiency furnaces have variable-speed blowers, which use less energy and allow tighter temperature control. These premium models may also have multiple heat exchangers, which helps your furnace use less fuel.

Remember to schedule seasonal maintenance—a cracked heat exchanger can lead to a dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) leak.

Need Service? We Have You Covered.

Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical is pleased to offer second-to-none heating and cooling services. Our certified HVAC specialists can perform repairs, maintenance, and installations. For prompt assistance, call our Indianapolis, Indiana, office at 317-471-8700 or request service online.