Blog, News & Resources
from Nichols & Phipps and the Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical industry.
Choosing an HVAC contractor is a big decision. Your comfort system is a significant investment, and picking a contractor from the yellow pages is like choosing a name out of a hat. Perhaps you think that it is best to go with one of those big, nationwide or multi-state firms. They spend millions each year…
Think about all the things you use your water heater for on a daily basis: hot showers, washing dishes, cleaning and cooking are just a few of the reasons you need easy access to hot water. In addition to that, if your water heater broke, not only would you be inconvenienced, but you may have…
When winter turns to spring, and eventually summer, pests come crawling out from hiding in search of food, moisture and shelter. Because your HVAC system keeps temperatures comfortable and you have food available in your pantry, your home is a great place for bugs and vermin to thrive. Unfortunately, even the tiniest of insects can…
Your water heater is one piece of equipment that you seldom think about. As long as you have hot water for your shower and there are no leaks, there should be no reason to give the water heater a lot of thought. However, there will come a time when your water heater isn’t getting the…
It’s very easy to take your drains for granted. When you’re cleaning or doing the dishes, if an item slips down the drain or even gets caught in the drain plug, it’s easier to let the item fall down the drain and forget about it. That is until that item causes a clog in your…
Ever dropped something down your bathroom or kitchen drain? Talk about a sinking feeling. Most objects just aren’t worth the stress. Many objects are also caught within the sink’s trap, specially designed for these instances, and can be quickly retrieved. However, there are those instances where an irreplaceable item makes its way deep into your…
A disposal leak may start as a minor annoyance but if left uncorrected it can lead to a huge mess. That’s why if you have a leak it is vital that you find the cause and repair or replace it immediately. We’ve put together some basic information to help you with the first steps in…
What can a homeowner do to improve energy efficiency and lower energy bills We have talked a lot about HVAC unit efficiency and indoor air quality. We have also touched on HVAC myths, fables, and hidden truths. One thing we have not discussed in depth is home efficiency vs. unit efficiency, so let’s do that…
So, you've noticed unpleasant sewer odors coming from your bathroom or kitchen. There are few things more frustrating than a stinky, smelly sewer odor emitting from your home. This smell could prevent you from having company over or even disrupt your day to day routine.In many cases, it is easy to remedy a sewer odor and…
What you need to know about Heat pump efficiency ratings (SEER, EER, and HSPF) I’m hoping I can clear up a lot of confusion on this one. One thing I see all too often is people selling heat pumps based off SEER efficiency only, that takes off the cooling but does not tell you how…