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How to Prevent Your Kitchen Sink Disposal from Breaking (With Troubleshooting Tips)

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Kitchen sink garbage disposal with water running

The garbage disposal is an integral part of any kitchen. As such, they tend to take on a lot of intense use. It’s easy to forget that they can break down until that fateful day finally arrives.

A well-maintained garbage disposal should last up to 15 years before the blades dull or the motor breaks down from natural use. But if you’re careless with what you throw into it, you could shorten its lifespan, or at the very least, create a clog. 

What Can Clog Your Garbage Disposal

As tempting as it is to put anything and everything down the garbage disposal (because it’s “garbage,” right?), there are a few things you should opt to throw down the drain. One of the best ways to avoid potential issues is to know what those items are. 

Avoid putting these items down the garbage disposal:

Eggshells: There’s a misconception floating around that eggshells are good for your garbage disposal. This is false. Although the actual shell won’t cause any issues, the membrane that lines the inside can lodge in the rotor of the machine. 

Coffee grounds: Another garbage disposal home remedy you may have encountered is putting coffee grounds down the drain to reduce odor. While it can make it smell better, coffee grounds will eventually form a thick paste that can prevent the blades from moving. 

Animal bones: Your garbage disposal isn’t built to break down such tough material. If you throw bones down it, you could burn out your motor. 

Onion skin: Just like the membrane of an eggshell, the slippery skin of an onion can get caught up in the rotor or even obstruct the drain. This can lead to a clog. 

Fruit pits: This sort of hard, ridged food waste can burn out your motor just like bones. A good rule of thumb is to avoid putting anything hard down the garbage disposal. 

Oil: Over time, oil will coat your pipes in thick, greasy layers and form a block. It won’t necessarily harm your disposal directly but it will lead to overall complications in your kitchen plumbing. 

Rice or pasta: When you send these types of food down the garbage disposal, they form a thick paste which can block up your pipes.

Trash: Aluminum, plastic, and glass have no place in your garbage disposal. Throw it in your trash can.

Cleaning chemicals: This is a big no-no. Don’t get tempted to reach for Drano at the first sign of a clog! Throwing chemicals of any kind down the drain can create more damage to your plumbing or even harm you and your family.

How to Keep Your Garbage Disposal Running Smoothly 

One of the best ways to keep your garbage disposal running in tip-top shape is to maintain it well. Don’t allow any of the items listed above into the system. Break up anything you do put down the garbage disposal to make its job a little easier. The less work it has to do, the longer it lasts.

A regular cleaning routine can do wonders for your garbage disposal too. You can create a cleaner by combining one half-cup of baking soda and one half-cup of vinegar. Pour it down the drain and let it soak for 10 minutes. Next, turn on the hot water and run the garbage disposal.  

What to do When Your Garbage Disposal Gets Clogged 

It can be a giant headache when your garbage disposal goes out. As soon as we can’t readily clear our plates of food, it becomes apparent how often we really use it. It’s a frustrating process trying to figure out how to fix it. But more times than not, the solution is likely easier than you may think. 

Troubleshooting Tips 

  • Before working with your garbage disposal in any capacity, turn it off and unplug it. 
  • Try to rest it. There’s usually a button located at the bottom of the machine. 
  • Get the blades moving to loosen up the clog. You can hand crank the blade by sticking a long tool down the drain and moving it side to side until you feel the blades move freely. You can also get the blades moving by inserting an Allen wrench into the slot at the bottom of the machine. 
  • If you feel the blades move and it’s still not working, it might be time to replace the entire unit. 
  • When all else fails, seek professional help from a plumber. 

Call on WM Buffington For All Your Plumbing Needs

If you’re having kitchen sink issues you can’t seem to fix, we’re here to help! Our team of experts will get you up and running in no time! We offer 24-hour services, repairs, and maintenance. From quick service to affordable prices WM Buffington has your back!

Reach out for a no-obligation, free estimate today! If you’re in the Central Pennsylvania area, you can count on WM Buffington to make short work of your plumbing and heating problems! 

Call us today!

Central Air System vs Ductless Mini-Split System

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Air conditioners lining a colorful mural

If you’re on the hunt for a new HVAC solution, the first hurdle you’ll have to jump is what system you want to go with. There are quite a few options. Two of the most popular systems are the central air system and the single space system. Let’s dive into what makes these two options distinct and discuss which might be the best option for you. 

Central Air System 

Central Air System External Cabinets

You’ve likely encountered this type of cooling system before. They work by transporting air to an entire house or building through ducts and registers. Once that air heats up again, it will cycle through the air conditioner to cool down and, eventually, get distributed again. Most central air systems even dehumidify the air before sending it throughout your home for an even more optimal climate. 

There are two types of central air systems: a packaged unit or a split-system unit.

A packaged unit central air system is usually found on your roof or beside your home on a concrete slab. The unit itself is referred to as a cabinet. Just as the name suggests, the cabinet contains the evaporator, compressor, and condenser in one neat package. They also include both cooling elements and a heating component such as a natural gas furnace or electric heating coils. Homes with this type of central air system don’t need a furnace inside.

A split-system unit is comprised of two cabinets. One cabinet is indoors and the other is outside. The exterior cabinet houses the condenser and compressor while the interior cabinet contains the evaporator. Many indoor cabinets also feature a furnace and heat pump. But if your home already has a furnace, there are options that don’t include the heating components. 

Both central air systems offer their own unique advantages. The more compact packaged unit is easier to install and takes up far less space. On the other hand, the split-system option takes up more room but offers more efficiency and lower maintenance. 

Ductless Mini-Split System

A mini ductless system in an unfinished room

The ductless mini-split system is sometimes referred to as a single space system. This no-frills air conditioning system doesn’t rely on ducts to transport air throughout a home. It’s comprised of just two key elements: an external compressor and an indoor unit. 

The external is mounted outside; contains a condenser. The indoor unit contains a blower and an evaporator. These two elements meet in the middle via a conduit. This is where you’ll find power cords, refrigerant lines, and a drain.

The ductless mini-split system works in a similar fashion to the central air system. It draws in heat from a room and pushes it outside. The key distinction is that the cool air is returned directly back into the room it came from. Every unit in a given home or building works independently so you can set them at different temperatures. 

Which Air Conditioning System Is Best For Me

Both the central air system and the ductless mini-split system are great options depending on your situation. Before anything else, evaluate your existing infrastructure. Are you starting from scratch? Do you have a furnace? What is your budget? All these elements will factor into which option fits your needs best. 

Here’s a quick guide to get you started:

Consider a packaged unit central air system if…

  • You don’t have space for an internal cabinet 
  • You have existing packaged unit equipment 
  • You’re looking for a more efficient alternative to the split-system 
  • You want a less noisy option 

Consider a split-system unit central air system if… 

  • You have the space for an interior cabinet (i.e. a basement or crawl space)
  • You have existing split-system equipment 
  • You don’t want to worry about possible leaks from the packaged unit condenser 
  • You want a longer life span 

Consider a ductless mini-split system if… 

  • You want a lower maintenance option
  • You only have select rooms you want to cool 
  • You want a cheaper option 
  • You want a lower energy bill 
  • You want a less noisy option 
  • You want an easier installation

Get Help From the Professionals 

Are you ready to install a new HVAC system? Give our team of experts a call! WM Buffington is proud to provide Central Pennsylvania with top tier HVAC services for an affordable price. 

Get in touch for your no-risk estimation today!

6 Ways to Save Energy With Your Heating

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Old fashion radiator

Winter is approaching quickly and soon your heater will be working overtime to keep you and your family warm when the bitter cold weather arrives. But all that energy can drive your bill up a great deal.

The average homeowner in the US pays anywhere from $500 to $1,500 during the entirety of the winter season on propane, natural gas, and electric heating. Luckily, there are plenty of options to help you save energy with your heating this year and the following!

1. Turn the Temperature Down When You Can

We know, this is less than ideal but hear us out.

Get in the habit of turning your temperature down to as low as you can bear it when you’re awake at home. When you’re asleep or away from home, turn it down another 10° to 15°. Over a 24 hour period, you can save up to 3 percent on your heating bill per degree lowered. 

If you’re a “set it and forget it” kind of a person, it could be wise to invest in a smart or programmable thermostat. Simply set up a predetermined heating schedule and the thermostat will do the rest! 

This can be a hard ask for those of us that run cold. But layers will be a lifesaver! They can go a long way! Your cozy sweater and fuzzy blanket will be your allies this winter.  

2. Seal Up Your Home 

You might as well throw cash out the window if your home isn’t properly sealed. Over time, the calking and weatherstrips that insulate our home start to degrade. It’s important to periodically check if they’re in need of repair. 

Check around the seams of your windows and doors. Do you feel a slight breeze escaping through? If so, it might be time to do some repairs. You can save roughly 18% on your annual utility bill if your home is properly sealed. 

3. Cover Your Windows 

Even after you diligently seal every crack in your windows, there’s still the potential for heat transfer. Windows allow for the warm air inside your home to give up energy as it meets their cold glass barrier. If you cover your windows, you can reduce this heat transfer. 

Seal up your windows tightly with plastic sheeting or film. Tape it off as close to the frame as possible to reduce any air infiltration. This extra layer of insulation can help keep the chilly winter temperatures out. 

If you don’t feel motivated to break out the tape and plastic wrap, you can opt for a more traditional option. Heavy curtains are another great way to reduce heat transfer. When drawn closed, they can create a sort of “dead-zone” where the warm air and cool surface of the window won’t meet. 

4. Don’t Forget to Service Your Heater

Most HVAC professionals agree, heaters require service at least once a year. A typical furnace will last you anywhere from 18 to 20 years. But if you don’t regularly service it, you might shorten its lifespan. Furthermore, if issues go unchecked, it could reduce your furnace’s ability to heat your home efficiently.  

WM Buffington is your trusted resource when it comes time to service your heater! If you’re in the Central Pennsylvania area, don’t hesitate to contact us about any of your HVAC and plumbing needs! 

5. If You’re Not Using It, Seal Your Chimney 

Just as air can escape through degraded seams on doors and windows, it can also escape through a chimney. Large quantities of warm air can escape through the flue, costing you more money on your monthly electricity bill. 

There are several routes you can take if you want to reduce airflow through your chimney. First, be sure the flue is clean. It’s not a bad idea to call out a professional to inspect and clean it. Next, decide how you want to go about sealing it. 

One way to seal a chimney is to cut metal sheeting to fit the size of your chimney opening and sealing it up with butyl rubber caulk. If you want an easier option, you could try installing a chimney balloon.  

6. Use Your Ceiling Fan

Using a ceiling fan during the dead of winter might not seem helpful but it can actually be a great tool. During the summer we use our ceiling fan to pull hot air up and away from us. What you might not know is there’s an option to set your fan in reverse. 

When you reverse your fan it pushes air down. Since heat rises, the hot air in our homes can get trapped close to the ceiling. You can use a fan to push all that hot air down for you and your family to enjoy.

Don’t get caught in the “more power!” thought process when all you truly need is a few tips to kickstart your winter preparations.
For a final tip, if you have a fireplace… use it! Fireplaces have been used for years to keep homes warm during the coldest of temperatures. Whether fake or real, try to use the fireplace whenever possible while keeping your regular thermostat temperature in the house as low as possible without freezing yourself and your pipes.

Gas vs Electric Heating: The Ultimate Guide

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When it comes to your heating system there are a lot of decisions you’ll have to weigh for choosing the best system for your needs.

One of the most pivotal questions you’ll have to ask yourself is whether you want to go with gas or electric heating. There are benefits and drawbacks to both.

Gas Heater 

Gas heater against a blue wall

Gas heaters are a widely popular heating option since they work as a central heating system for the entire home. They usually run on either natural gas or liquid propane. When the pilot light is on, burners in the combustion chamber ignite to heat up the air. The heat they create travels into the heat exchanger and the air is adjusted to the desired temperature.

From here the hot air is moved through the ducts by the blowers to heat rooms throughout your home. 

Installation 

In order to install a gas furnace, you’ll need space to accommodate a chimney or a flue. This is necessary to vent out any emissions resulting from the combustion process. The heater itself is also quite large so it can be a hassle to transport. They generally require professional installation.  

Cost 

It can cost anywhere from $2,571 – $6,213 for a furnace replacement. The centralized furnace with flue outlets tends to drive up the price. But they make up for it in operational cost. Natural gas is generally more affordable compared to the cost of operation on electricity. That means gas heaters are ideal for cold climates that rely on central heating through the winter months. 

Maintenance 

Gas heaters require regular maintenance in order to extend their longevity. Most HVAC professionals suggest yearly maintenance. It’s reported that 75% of no-heat calls in the winter are due to a lack of proper furnace upkeep!

Most issues you’ll encounter with a gas heater are fairly mild. It could be as simple as a dirty filter or an overdue system reset. This will be handled swiftly during a typical maintenance call. On occasion, more serious issues may arise such as cracks or worked out parts. This can usually be repaired too but it depends on how old the heater is.  

Failing to keep up with regular maintenance can result in system-failure or, even worse, furnace malfunction. But a well-maintained system will typically last you 10 to 20 years. 

Downside 

Although gas heaters are popular, there are a few considerations to take into account if you want to make an informed decision. 

There are several potential safety hazards associated with this type of heater. Though highly unlikely, ignition or fire could occur if you don’t keep up with maintenance. Carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide leaks are another source of potential concern. 

Gas heaters also require a lot of maintenance in the form of regular inspections and have a short lifespan compared to their electric counterparts. They can also be expensive to install, especially if your home doesn’t already have a chimney or flue.

Electric Space Heater 

Electric heater against a blue wall

This type of heater converts electric currents to heat. It works by utilizing resistors -or heating coils- that emit radiant energy. These resistors are typically made from nichrome wire in modern heaters.

A current passes through the coil to produce heat. Cool air is pulled, heated up, and pushed out into the room it’s heating. This process generally works better in smaller spaces.

Electric heaters are space heaters, meaning they are usable in a single room rather than a central heating system.

Installation

Between the gas heater and the electric heater, electric is easier to install, bar none. If you choose to go with an electric heater, all you have to do is find a convenient plug and use it as you need it. Wall-mounted electric heaters involve a bit more effort to install.

But no need to call in the professionals if you feel comfortable; it’s fairly easy to accomplish yourself. An electric furnace can be a little tougher to install but still not as difficult as a gas heater as there is no need for a vent. 

Cost

With little to no installation process, the electric heater is not a huge investment up front. Generally, the heater itself is fairly cheap. It can range between $30 – $150 depending on how big of a room you wish to heat. Compared to a brand new gas heater, that’s nothing.

What is fairly pricey is running your electric heater. The current energy rate is roughly 10.5 cents per kilowatt-hour. That means if you continuously use a 1500-watt heater, you’ll likely pay around $113.40 per 30-day cycle. Remember, that’s per heater!

Maintenance 

Electric heaters require little maintenance and any upkeep necessary can easily be done yourself. An electric furnace typically doesn’t need maintenance as much as its gas counterpart. Maintenance is still an important part of keeping your electric heater up and running such as cleaning and turning it off every now and again for some rest.

If not tended to, the heating elements can break down and stop working. The blower fan and motor also need to be regularly cleaned and lubricated. If maintained appropriately, an electric heater can last between 20 and 30 years.

Downside 

Electric heaters don’t generate and circulate heat as efficiently as a gas heater can. They are generally better suited for smaller rooms and homes. If you have a lot of space to heat up, electric heaters are not a great option.

It can also be pricey to constantly run this type of heater. Although you don’t have to pay as much for an electric heater up front, your monthly bill might not be ideal. 

So Which is Better? Gas or Electric?

Gas and electric heaters are both great options in the right situation. Both are quality heaters in their own way. Depending on what your needs are, you could go either way. There are a few factors that will play into which heater is best for you. 

Climate 

How often will you actually have to use your heating? If you live in a warmer climate such as California or Florida you’ll likely run your heat a whole lot less. Electric heaters are generally better suited for these types of environments.

If you live in a more frigid climate like Pennsylvania in the wintertime, a gas heater is a better choice. They cost less to operate and they do a better job distributing hot air throughout your home. 

Your Budget

How much money do you have upfront? Installation costs vary between the two options. If you’re ready to make a bigger investment, a gas furnace will be a good option. If you have less money to put down right now it might be wise to stick with an electric heater.

In the long run, gas furnaces can save you money as far as your monthly bill goes. Electric heaters can run up your electricity costs significantly. This is another winning point for gas heating.  

Electric heating does hole the advantage of less maintenance and a longer lifespan. A gas furnace requires a yearly maintenance check. This can be a pretty penny, especially if there’s something severely wrong with your furnace. 

Size of Home 

The size of the space you want to heat is another contributing factor to which option you should select. If you have a large home, a gas heater will be the most efficient way to go. Electric heaters tend to do better in a small home or room. 

Call WM Buffington 

Whatever you decide, WM Buffington is here to help every step of the way! If you’re in the Central Pennsylvania and Harrisburg area, get in touch with us today to go over your options. We offer a free, no-obligation estimate and 0% interest financing on select products!

Boiler Replacement: Should It Be Fixed or Replaced?

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New gas boiler on a wall

When the seasons change from hot to cold (or vice versa), it’s a good idea to evaluate what condition your boiler is in.

The last thing you want to reckon with as the temperature fluctuates is a busted boiler. But if it is in poor shape, is it best to repair or replace it?

What Does Your Boiler Do?

Before we dig into what to do if your boiler is broken or on the verge of breaking, let’s briefly discuss what function they serve in your home and how they work. In very basic terms, it heats water and the resulting steam moves throughout the pipes and radiators in your home. This both heats up your home and creates hot water.

It is arguably a better option when compared to a furnace.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Boiler?

What Condition is Your Boiler In?

Before you make any big decisions, it’s important to evaluate what shape your boiler is in. The main factor to take into consideration is the condition of the metal inside of the machine.

The steel boilers typically found in multi-family homes are a bit easier to evaluate. They usually feature a manhole you can use to peek inside and inspect the metal visually. But cast-iron and some steel boilers made for singe-family homes require a more drawn-out process to determine their condition. Usually, that requires shutting down the boiler, draining it, and opening it up.

When you take a look at the metal within a boiler, check for rust and corrosion. Do a visual scan of the area. Are there any leaks? How are the piping and doors looking? These are all things to keep in mind when checking the condition of your boiler. The age of your boiler will also play a huge factor in potential issues. 

Determine if Your Boiler is Out-of-Date

Whether you go the repair or replace route depends on how up-to-date your boiler is. It’s vital to determine if going forth with a repair is a viable, safe option. Even when there is a way to fix an outdated boiler, it might not be a worthy investment to pursue.

Often times boilers 15 years and older aren’t up to snuff on modern laws and guidelines. If you go through with a repair on an old boiler, problems could continue to crop up and you’ll likely need frequent maintenance. You may even encounter safety issues such as carbon monoxide leaks. 

What is the Best Financial Decision Today?

Repairing an old boiler can also be an expensive endeavor. Generally, the older your boiler gets, the harder it becomes to find the parts it needs to run smoothly. Be sure to see how replacement and repair costs stack up.

If the cost of repair is reasonably low, that might be your best option. But if your boiler is getting up there in age, it might not be a very economical decision to throw a lot of money towards something that could potentially fall into disrepair within the next few years.

What Will Save You the Most Money in the Long Run? 

Another factor to keep in mind is how much money you could potentially save or throw away after a replacement or repair.

Typically, newer boilers are more energy efficient. That means if you pay more cash upfront to update to a newer model, you could be saving yourself a lot more money in the long run. And, as mentioned above, you won’t have to stress about frequent repairs after a replacement. But if you already have a new model, a repair would probably be the best route for you. 

Get a Professional Opinion

If you’re in the Central Pennsylvania area, WM Buffington Company is your go-to resource when it comes to all things home heating and cooling. Not only can we provide a timely, accurate assessment of whether a boiler replacement or repair is best for you, we can also set you up with a maintenance plan to prevent future issues.


Get in touch today and learn more about our services!

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