Blog, News & Resources
from Nichols & Phipps and the Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical industry.
When investing in a new HVAC system, most Northern Virginia homeowners focus on upfront costs and energy efficiency ratings. But there's another factor that will significantly impact your costs over the next 15-20 years: refrigerant technology. At Nichols & Phipps, we've guided hundreds of families through previous refrigerant transitions, including the shift from R22 to…
How a Simple Part Can Cost You Thousands When Sarah heard dripping from her ceiling below the upstairs bathroom, she never imagined toilet wax ring failure could lead to $8,000+ in water damage repairs. Like most homeowners, she'd never heard of a wax ring until it failed, allowing water to slowly leak through her floor…
That tiny drip under your sink might seem harmless, but it could be quietly draining your wallet. At Nichols & Phipps, we've seen how small plumbing problems can lead to surprising expenses when left unchecked. Let's break down the real costs of common plumbing problems – you might be shocked at what you're actually spending.…
The Hidden Plumbing Issue That Could Be Putting Your Home at Risk Understanding the difference between s-trap vs p-trap plumbing is crucial for every homeowner, especially those with older homes. If you've ever peeked under your kitchen or bathroom sink and wondered about those curved pipes, you're looking at one of the most important components…
Water pressure is something most Northern Virginia homeowners rarely think about—until there's a problem. Whether your shower head is barely dripping or your faucets sound like Niagara Falls, improper water pressure can cause serious frustration and even damage to your home’s plumbing system. Many homeowners don’t realize that your water pressure is largely determined by…
The most damaging leaks are often the ones you can't see. While a dripping faucet or overflowing toilet is immediately noticeable, hidden plumbing leaks can go undetected for months or even years, silently causing extensive damage to your Northern Virginia home. At Nichols & Phipps, we've been helping homeowners solve plumbing problems since 1972, and…
Ever wake up to the sound of water dripping somewhere in your home and feel that sinking feeling in your stomach? You're not alone! For Northern Virginia homeowners, residential plumbing leaks are more than just a nuisance – they're a threat to your home's structural integrity, your family's health, and your wallet. At Nichols &…
Every house depends on a reliable home plumbing system, yet most of us rarely think about it until there's a problem. Understanding the basics of your home plumbing system can help you prevent emergencies and know when to call in professional help. Let's explore the essential components and critical things every homeowner should know about…
As we welcome the new year, many of us are making resolutions about saving money and improving our homes. While checking your plumbing might not top your resolution list, at Nichols & Phipps, we've seen how developing good plumbing habits can save homeowners thousands of dollars annually. Let's explore how you can protect your home…
Don’t let Jack Frost put your plumbing on ice! Winter's approaching fast, and if you're like most homeowners, protecting your plumbing system might be getting the cold shoulder on your to-do list. However, we've seen how quickly winter can turn a minor plumbing issue into a perfect storm of problems. Cold weather can give your…