A sump pump is a device tasked with removing water from your basement or crawlspace. The name is derived from two key components of the machine. A sump is a constructed basin below the surface level of the floor designed to trap water before it can reach your home and wreak havoc. The second part of a sump pump is the pump itself which transfers water out of the basin into designated discharge lines. From there, the water is usually directed to a creek, pond, drain, or dry well. The main purpose of a sump pump is to prevent rising water from reaching your home so you can rest easy knowing your property is protected.

Interested in learning about what it takes to keep a sump pump running optimally? Read about these important sump pump maintenance tips.

What are the different types of sump pumps?
All sump pumps are designed to remove water before it can damage your home, but not all sump pumps are built the same. There are two main kinds of pumps: pedestal and subversive. Let’s take a look at the primary differences and advantages of each.

Pedestal Sump Pump
Pedestal pumps, as the name suggests, are designed with a pedestal platform where the motor rests. A hose connects the motor to the pump which sits in the basin. As water comes into the basin, it’s pumped through the hose to the drain area. Pedestal sump pumps tend to have longer lifespans than their submersible counterparts because their motors are better protected. Having the motor out of the water also makes for easier and more affordable maintenance. One of the main downsides of pedestal pumps is their noise level.

Submersible Sump Pump
Both the motor and pump are underwater in submersible sump pumps. These powerful options are generally the go-to choice for homes facing serious flooding potential. They’re harder to repair but operate much quieter than pedestal pumps since the motor noise is muffled by the water. A submersible sump pump also saves Boston homeowners a lot of space as the motor is out of the way.

How are sump pumps powered?
Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of sump pumps, let’s explore the various ways these devices are powered.

Electricity
Most sump pumps are hooked up directly to a home’s electrical system. This power source provides a considerable amount of pumping capacity but leaves the unit vulnerable to power outages. If your home we’re to experience a loss of power and simultaneous flooding, your sump pump would switch off, allowing water to enter your home.

Battery
Battery-powered sump pumps are an excellent choice for Boston homeowners concerned about power losses. These devices operate entirely with battery power, ensuring your home is protected  even during outages. If you want the best of both worlds, there are electrical sump pumps with battery backups that flip on when there are power issues. This way, you get the power of a standard sump pump with the reliability of a battery-operated model.

Water Pressure
There are some sump pumps that actually aren’t powered at all. In fact, these models don’t even have a motor. Instead of using electricity or batteries, water-powered sump pumps rely on the pressure of municipal water sources to create a vacuum that sucks all of the excess water out of your basin. These pumps typically last longer than electrical or battery-powered models because there are fewer parts that can become damaged.

Do all homes need a sump pump?
Simply put, not all Boston homeowners need to install a sump pump because not all homes are subject to potential flooding. However, 98% of homeowners will experience water damage in their basements at least once during their lifetime. Having a sump pump can protect your property from flash floods, excess rain, and other water-related disasters. Working with a sump pump expert can clear up any questions about your home’s risk-level and needs when it comes to water damage.

Whether you’re experiencing issues with your sump pump or you need to install a new system, the experts at Boston Standard Plumbing can help. We’ve been offering comprehensive plumbing services to Boston homeowners for years. Feel free to contact us to schedule an appointment.

Want to learn more? Read the 3 Things You Should Know About Your Home’s Boiler.

How do I calculate the size of boiler needed?
The right boiler size for your home is determined by what BTU rating, or how much energy, is needed to keep your home at an ideal temperature. That might sound simple, but there are a lot of factors taken into consideration. It’s not as easy as checking the output of your home’s current model because important things regarding your home’s heating needs might have changed over the years. Here are some of the most important variables to take into account:

The size of the property.
One of the most important and most obvious factors to consider when choosing the optimum boiler capacity is the size of your home. If you know the square footage of your property, you can multiple it by 45-50 BTUs to get a rough idea of what boiler size you might need. Keep in mind that this “rule-of-thumb” calculation is made without taking any other factors into consideration, making it unreliable when making key decisions. It’s simply used to give homeowners a ballpark idea.

The surrounding climate.
Another major variable needed to determine the best boiler size for your home is the outside weather. The colder the climate, the more heat capacity you’ll need. For example, Boston homeowners need larger boilers than homeowners in the southwest because more energy is needed to keep a home’s internal temperature comfortable. That’s why it’s important to work with a local expert who can provide boiler replacement and installation services specific to the Boston area.

Your home’s envelope.
Determining the right boiler size is also dependent on your home’s envelope. This simply refers to the barriers separating the outside air from the internal, conditioned air. Homes with optimal levels of insulation can get by with smaller boilers that can help reduce your heating costs while keeping you warm. Many older homes in Boston with compromised envelopes might require larger boilers to make up for the heat that escapes.

Is it better to oversize or undersize a boiler?
It’s imperative that Boston homeowners find the right boiler size for their properties as there are significant downsides to both oversized and undersized boilers. A boiler that’s too small won’t have the power necessary to keep your home sufficiently warm which would make for cold Boston winter nights. On the other hand, boilers that are too large burn more fuel than necessary which increases energy costs. This also reduces the overall life expectancy of the system. Either way, you’re dealing with some major inefficiencies that are easily avoided by choosing the proper boiler size.

Why it’s important to work with a professional
Determining the perfect boiler size for your home is an involved process that requires training, experience, and specialized tools. While Boston homeowners can make rough estimations to get a general idea of what boiler size they need, you should always refer to a professional before making any purchases. Boiler experts like the team at Boston Standard Plumbing have the expertise and resources needed to figure out what boiler size will optimize your home’s comfort while maximizing energy efficiency and increasing the unit’s lifespan.

If you need your boiler inspected, repaired, or replaced, contact the experts at Boston Standard Plumbing. We’ve helped countless Boston homeowners make the most of their boilers, and we’d love to work with you too! Be sure to ask us about high-efficiency boilers too.

The cost of heating a home
Heating and cooling make up the largest portion of a home’s energy consumption. On average, homeowners see 51% of their total energy usage go towards keeping their homes comfortable. Of that amount, over 40% is used to heat your home during the cooler time of the year.
Even factoring in the various costs of different fuels, a considerable amount of your monthly energy expenses are being put towards heating costs. These energy expenses lead many Boston homeowners to wonder if leaving their heating on all the time is a good idea or just a waste of money.

Should I leave the heating on when away?
Contrary to popular belief, it’s perfectly fine and even recommended to keep your heating system on when you’re away for short periods of time. Of course, it’s ultimately up to you, but it is possible to strike a balance between your home’s comfort and heat efficiency. Besides, keeping your heating on can help prevent some winter-related disasters such as freezing pipes.

How to optimize heating efficiency when you’re not at home.
Unfortunately, the notion that a heater has to work harder to reheat a cool space than it does to maintain a moderate temperature doesn’t hold any weight. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep your heating on when gone for short periods of time. Here, we’ll explore some ways you can optimize your home’s energy efficiency so you can keep your HVAC system running throughout the winter.

Turn the temperature down.
If you’re leaving for work or running errands, turning the temperature even a bit can result in some impressive energy savings. The US Department of Energy (DOE) reports that homeowners can save 10% annually on their temperature-control bills by turning down their heating by 7 to 10-degrees for eight hours each day. The lower you set it and the longer your heating stays at that temperature will increase your savings. During the winter, the DOE suggests homeowners keep their thermostats below 68-degrees when away from home.

Use smart thermostats.
There are many different ways to heat your home, but all Boston homeowners should make use of smart thermostats regardless of their heating system. These devices make it possible to automate different heating temperatures throughout the day around your schedule so you don’t have to manually switch temperature settings every time you leave. To optimize comfort, you can program your thermostat to increase your home’s heating 30 minutes or so before you get home. That way, you don’t have to wait around at home for your heating to reach your desired temperature.

Improve your home’s insulation.
Your home’s ability to trap heat is an essential part of optimizing the efficiency of your heating system. When your insulation is compromised either due to its age, condition, or quality, heat can easily escape. As warm air leaves your house, the internal temperature drops, and your heating system is forced to work overtime to combat the constantly decreasing temperatures. This makes it difficult to leave your home’s heating on when you’re gone while still keeping your heating costs reasonably low.
Looking for a local Boston heating and cooling expert? You’re in the right place! Boston Standard Plumbing has been helping homeowners increase the comfort of their homes while decreasing energy costs. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

1. Clear debris from the outdoor unit
Since you last used your air conditioner — which was probably last summer or fall — it’s safe to assume that some debris accumulated around the outdoor unit. This can include everything from sticks to leaves to trash. Take a few minutes to carefully clear debris from the outdoor unit and surrounding area.

2. Inspect the outdoor unit for damage
You never know when your outdoor unit could suffer damage. There are many culprits, ranging from pests to debris to the environment. If you see anything that looks strange — such as rust or a chewed wire — take immediate action.

3. Replace the HVAC filter
Although the HVAC filter is located in your furnace, it still plays a big part in keeping your air conditioner running efficiently. If you haven’t replaced it in the last three months, take the time to do so before firing up your AC for the season. Tip: it never hurts to start the season off with a fresh filter, even if it was recently installed.

4. Have your ducts cleaned
This isn’t something you have to do, but it can make your home much more comfortable during the spring and summer months. Cleaning your ducts removes dust, debris, and allergens. If you opt against a professional cleaning, all of these things have the potential to aggravate your allergies.

5. Check for air leaks
This is one of the many reasons to hire a professional. Most people don’t have the knowledge or equipment to check for air leaks, so they simply hope for the best. But if you hire an HVAC professional, they can examine your home for any leaks allowing cool air to escape.

6. Test the air conditioner
This is the big test. You turn your air conditioner on with hopes that it performs as expected. Start by checking your vents to ensure that cool air is reaching every corner of your home. Also, set your thermostat to ensure that it’s working as intended.

7. Keep a close eye on its performance
Carefully monitor your air conditioner’s performance for the first few days. Is it cooling your home as expected? Do you hear any loud noises coming from the condenser? Is your thermostat regulating the temperature? When you take the right steps this spring, you’ll feel more confident in your AC’s ability to keep you cool all summer long. Contact us online or via phone at (617) 362-0377 to schedule a spring AC tune-up and inspection. One of our experienced techs will inspect your system, answer your questions, and make any necessary repairs

How often should you replace your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors provide reliable protection for extended periods of time, making it easy for Boston homeowners to forget about these crucial devices. When these sensors reach the end of their lifespans, they don’t provide sufficient protection which can place you and your family at significant risk in the event of a fire or other emergency. To get the most out of these systems, it’s important to replace them when needed.

Smoke alarms
According to the National Fire Protection Association, homeowners should replace their smoke alarms should every 10 years including those with non-replaceable batteries. Devices with interchangeable batteries usually require replacements once a year. If you have a tough time remembering to change the batteries on your smoke detector, you can sync it up with seasonal time changes. Every time you wind the clocks back or forward, you’ll know to put fresh batteries in the smoke alarms too.

Carbon monoxide detectors
Unlike smoke alarms, Boston homeowners should replace their carbon monoxide detectors every 5 to 7 years. Waiting longer than can increase the risk of malfunction and outright failure which puts you and your family at risk. If your carbon monoxide detector takes batteries, you should replace these twice per year. However, there are models that have built-in batteries as well which don’t require homeowners to always remember to replace them.

Pro Tip: You should always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for both smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as they’ll provide the most accurate and detailed instructions for how best to keep your sensors working properly.

How to tell if your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working
Nearly all carbon monoxide and smoke detectors come with “test” functions allowing Boston homeowners to determine whether their systems are working properly. If you don’t know the age of your sensor or can’t remember the last time you replaced the batteries, running a quick test can put your concerns to rest. Here’s how to do it:

Let everyone know
The first step is to alert everyone in the house about the test to prevent any accidents. It’s also crucial to contact your home security company to let them know about the upcoming test to not raise any false alarms.

Find the “test” button
Although there are slight variations among sensors, most smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have a clearly-labeled “test” button. Press and hold the button down for a few seconds until you hear a piercing alarm sound.

Change the batteries
If the alarm kicked on and it was audible throughout the house, you’re all set! However, you should replace the batteries and run the test again if the sound was faint or entirely inaudible. If the problem persists, it might be a sign that the detector needs an entire replacement.

The importance of working with a professional
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are critical for maintaining a safe home. To make sure these sensors are in full working condition, it’s important for Boston homeowners to hire a professional electrician to come out and run a thorough diagnosis. You can run tests on your own, but experts will provide you with that extra peace of mind knowing you and your family are safe.
Need a hand testing or replacing your smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors? We can help! At Boston Standard Plumbing, we proudly serve homeowners throughout the Boston area for all of their electrical needs. Schedule a service today.

So, what’s the right way to shut down your furnace this spring? Here are some basic steps to take:

1. Turn your furnace off
You’ll be using your air conditioner in the spring and summer, not your furnace. You must turn your furnace off before turning your AC on. Do the following:

• Set your thermostat to cool so it controls your AC, not your furnace.
• If you have a gas furnace, turn off the gas intake at the unit itself.
• Turn off the furnace using the on/off switch.

Tip: Don’t shut down your furnace until you’re 100 percent sure that warm temperatures are here to stay.

2. Protect your furnace
Turning off your furnace is the most important task, but you should also take steps to protect it throughout the summer season. Here are a few tips to guide you: Keep the area around your furnace clean and clear. As a general rule of thumb, plan for three feet of space in all directions. Watch for falling items. For example, if you store items in the same room as your furnace is housed, be careful about where and how you place them. In addition to leaving three or more feet of space, don’t store items in a position where they could easily fall and cause damage.

Change your HVAC filter. It’s easy to forget about this during the summer months, as the filter is located in your furnace. But remember, it’s still used to filter the air before it travels through your home’s ductwork.

3. Address any problems now, not later
Since you won’t be using your furnace for a few months, it’s natural to put off problem areas for the time being. That’s especially true if you already have to put money into keeping your AC running efficiently. However, taking this approach can cause you more headaches in the long run.

If your furnace isn’t operating efficiently, have it checked. If you smell gas, have it checked. If it’s making strange sounds, have it checked. You get the point. There’s never a good time to ignore a problem with your furnace. You know a repair is coming at some point, so you might as well get it out of the way for peace of mind.

At Boston Standard Plumbing, we’re happy to visit your home, inspect your furnace, and close it down for summer. And while we’re there, we can also tune up your air conditioning system to ensure that it keeps you cool over the next few months.

Contact us online or via phone at (617) 362-0377 to learn more about our services and/or schedule an appointment.

How do you measure the efficiency of a boiler?
Annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings are the gold standard for measuring the energy efficiency of boilers, furnaces, and other heating systems. AFUE refers to the efficiency with which a unit can convert fuel energy into heat energy over the course of a year. The purpose of averaging the efficiency over a full year is to correct for extremes that might provide an inaccurate overview of a system’s efficiency. Manufacturers are required by the Federal Trade Commission to feature the AFUE on boilers and furnaces to make it easier for consumers to compare the efficiency of different units.

How do you calculate AFUE?
AFUE ratings are calculated by dividing the amount of fuel energy a boiler or furnace burns throughout the year by the amount of heat energy produced by the unit during the same period. For example, if your gas boiler can successfully convert 85% of fossil fuel energy into heat for your home, it has an AFUE of 85%. That 15% of the energy that’s lost might escape through delivery systems such as ductwork or piping or could be a result of a damaged unit.

What is a good efficiency for a boiler?
Now that you know how to determine the energy efficiency of a boiler or furnace, you’re probably wondering “what’s a good AFUE rating?” According to the Department of Energy, high-efficiency systems can reach up to 98.5% AFUE with mid-efficiency heating systems hovering around 80%.
Of course, the higher-efficiency boilers and furnaces are ideal, but there are other factors to consider. Working with a professional can make it easier to determine the best AFUE for your home’s heating needs. Keep in mind that caring for a high-efficiency boiler requires some extra attention.

What factors affect boiler efficiency?
AFUE and other energy-efficiency ratings represent the optimum level of performance for heating systems. There is a multitude of factors that can impact the actual fuel efficiency of your unit such as:

Age
Over time, all heating systems become less energy-efficient regardless of their AFUE ratings. Generally, boilers last anywhere between 10 and 15 years while furnaces have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. It’s important to consult a professional when your heating unit reaches the tail-end of its life expectancy to determine whether investing in a new unit would end up saving you money.

Insulation
Your home’s insulation is responsible for locking in heat and keeping outside air from entering. When your insulation isn’t optimized, the energy efficiency of your boiler or furnace decreases as it takes more energy to heat the space as heat energy is allowed to escape. Boston homeowners should take care of any insulation problems before installing a new furnace or boiler as poor insulation can make it difficult to determine the ideal type of heating system.

Maintenance
The most effective way to maximize your boiler or furnace’s energy efficiency is to schedule routine maintenance from an HVAC expert. Regular servicing makes it easier to catch small problems that can cost you big time in the future both in terms of efficiency and damage control. It’s advisable to have your heating unit serviced by a professional at least twice per year. Whether you’re ready to replace your old heating system or trying to find the best option for new construction, the experts at Boston Standard Plumbing have you covered! We’ve been helping Boston homeowners with their heating needs for years. We can help you find the best boiler or furnace depending on your home’s heating requirements. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

You could make a mistake that costs you money in repairs down the road. The amount of time it takes you to figure out everything could be better spent elsewhere. You may always have questions about whether or not you did everything per the manufacturer’s specifications.

Here are just a few of the many things that could go wrong with purchasing and installing your own ductless AC system:

1. Buying the wrong system
With so many ductless AC systems to choose from, you must compare the pros, cons, and finer details of every option. However, even if you do that, you may not know exactly what to buy.
For example, here’s a list of the most popular manufacturers:

• Trane
• Mitsubishi
• Fujitsu
• LG
• Daikin
• Fridrich

Some have a better reputation for reliability. Others are known for being more energy-efficient. Some have more advanced features than others. You want to buy and install the right system, but managing the process on your own makes it more difficult to do so.

2. Water leak
Any time you’re dealing with an air conditioner — regardless of the type — water leaks are a concern. And not just because it will impact the effectiveness of your system. A leak, even a small one, can cause damage to your air conditioner and surrounding area. Related issues can include but are not limited to refrigerant leaks and ice formation on outdoor coils.

3. Improper installation
Your primary goal is to install a ductless AC system that cools your home. But that doesn’t mean that just any installation process will do. Improper installation can result in the following:

• Less than desirable appearance
• Less efficient performance (and a higher electric bill)
• A greater chance of system failure

A ductless installation professional knows what to do, what not to do, and how to address any unique issues that arise. But when you’re installing a system on your own, you only have access to so much information — and that puts your project at risk.

If you’re ready to invest in professional installation, you’re in the right place. Here’s a brief passage from our website:
Boston Standard Company is a factory-certified ductless installation company, which means we maintain a customer service rating of 90% or higher. When it comes to installing ductless A/C in your home, or seeking repairs for ductless A/C, we give you the care and professionalism you deserve.
If that’s what you’re looking for, contact us online or via phone at (617) 362-0377 for information, advice, and to schedule an appointment.

Here are five common air conditioner emergencies to watch for this summer:

1. Blowing warm air
It’s bad enough if your air conditioner stops working during the warm summer months. But it’s even worse if your system is blowing warm air. The second you realize this is happening is the second you should shut down your system and call a professional.

2. Refrigerant leak
A refrigerant leak hinders your system’s ability to cool your home. And in some cases, depending on the severity of the leak, it’ll eliminate the ability for it to produce cold air.

3. Electrical control failure
As you know, your central AC system relies on electricity to run. So, if you have an electrical control failure, it’s unable to do its job. Sometimes this is an emergency that requires professional repair. But other times, you may be mistaking an electrical control failure for something less serious, such as a tripped breaker.

Note: electrical issues are nothing to take lightly, as they have the potential to damage your system, start a fire, or cause electrocution.

4. A malfunctioning thermostat
It’s not the most serious problem, but it requires immediate attention. You need a properly functioning thermostat to control your system. There are many causes of a malfunctioning thermostat ranging from old batteries to a unit that simply needs to be replaced.

5. Malfunctioning dampers
Most residential ductwork systems — especially in newer homes — have dampers in the main supply line to control airflow to each room. Poorly balanced or malfunctioning dampers make it more difficult — or even impossible — to cool some rooms. This isn’t the biggest emergency, as you can always spend time in the coolest rooms of your home, but it can be a major inconvenience. For example, if your master bedroom isn’t getting enough cool air, it’ll make it difficult to sleep at night.

All of these air conditioner problems have one thing in common: they stop your system from providing you with the cool air you’re seeking. And with that, you don’t have anywhere to hide from the extreme summer heat. So, what should you do in the event of an air conditioner emergency? Unless you know exactly what you’re doing, turn off the power to your system and contact us. We provide 24-hour emergency AC services to ensure that you’re taken care of at any time of the day, any day of the week. If you have a true emergency and require immediate assistance, it’s best to call us at (617) 362-0377

Mix baking soda and vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are the swiss army knives of kitchen essentials. They come in handy for a variety of DIY projects, including unclogging a stubborn drain. When combined, these ingredients have the ability to break down a lot of the causes of plumbing build-up such as grease, scum, fat, and oil.
Start off by pouring some boiling water down the drain followed by a cup of baking soda. Wait around 10 minutes before dumping a cup of vinegar. The interaction between these substances causes a fizzling, bubbling reaction that’s strong enough to clear some instances of clogged drains.

Use a drain plunger
You’re most likely familiar with toilet plungers for clearing clogged toilets. But, what about sink plungers? Not as many Boston homeowners are privy to these handy tools. They work the same as their larger, toilet-specific counterparts by creating a vacuum of pressure that forces water up the piping, hopefully loosening up the blockage.Using a sink plunger is a cinch. Simply place the rubber portion over the compromised drain and move the handle up and down in a slow and controlled fashion. Make sure the plunger is sealed without any gaps between it and the sink so the suction can work its magic. If you hear a rushing sound upon releasing the plumber, you’re in business!

Remove and clean the stopper
Most household drains are equipped with stoppers that prevent large objects from falling down the drain. Ironically, these crucial pieces occasionally become the cause of a clogged drain. Over time, small bits of debris that make it past the top part of the stopper can get stuck on its base, eventually impeding water flow. Hair is the most common culprit as it gets tangled up in the stopper. To make matters worse, junk ends up getting caught in the web of loose hair, leading to serious blockage. Since this build-up happens beneath the top of a stopper, it’s not immediately visible. But, the problem is pretty easy to solve. Simply unscrew the stopper by spinning it counterclockwise and pulling out all the hair before placing it back.

Use a wet/dry vacuum
For truly stubborn blockages that don’t seem to budge with any of the aforementioned tips, you might have to break out the big guns in the form of a wet/dry vacuum. Just as its name suggests, this vacuum can handle both dry debris and liquids. Plus, they pack a lot of power. These attributes combined make we/dry vacuums the perfect solution for tough drains.

Start by placing a circular attachment on the vacuum that fits over the drain. You want it to completely cover the drain hole to create sufficient pressure. Next, remove the stopper and plug up the overflow hole to increase the suction effect. Once you have the attachment firmly over the drain, switch on the vacuum to its lowest setting. Gradually increase the power setting until the drain blockage is cleared.

When it’s time to call a plumbing professional
If no DIY strategies work for clearing a slow drain, it’s best to call a professional plumber. These experts have the right tools and know-how to assess the problem properly and restore your drain to working order quickly and efficiently. If you’re experiencing slow drainage at home, reach out to the experts at Boston Standard Plumbing. We offer comprehensive, emergency plumbing services to solve your plumbing issues right away. You can schedule an appointment today!