The Important Role of HVAC Systems During COVID-19

 We know that COVID-19 is transmitted via particles in the air, and given the highly contagious nature of the virus, having proper air circulation is more important now than ever before. Industry specialists have been working to understand how HVAC systems can be updated or modified to make the air cleaner and improve the overall air quality. From their research, they’ve identified the most important components necessary for air purification: ventilation, air filtration, and humidity levels.

So what are some important changes you can make to existing HVAC systems?

• Install a high-performance air purification filter that will catch contaminated air particles and prevent them from flowing back into the space. Filters like the HEPA air filter are effective at capturing around 99% of particles. Not all HVAC systems are compatible with HEPA filters, but there are other air filters on the market that work to purify the air supply.
• If your HVAC system has fixed-speed fan motors, you may be able to replace them with variable-speed fan motors to better control the airflow. 
• Integrate a more advanced airflow-control system that gives you greater control of different airflow levels

In addition to the above steps, we recommend fully “flushing” indoor spaces with outside air as often as possible. For commercial spaces this means flushing them with fresh air after closing time, and again right before opening time, to allow for as much outside air as possible to come inside. 

We understand this isn’t always a practical solution, especially in residential spaces during the colder months. With that said, it’s necessary to install high-quality air filtration systems, like the HEPA filters mentioned above in these spaces. This is especially important during winter since we’re all spending more time indoors and aren’t likely to leave our windows open. 

Upgrade your HVAC systems today 

While we all do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19, consider how important it is to improve your air quality, for both you and anyone else who shares your space. While older HVAC systems may not be fully compatible with the most recent air purification and ventilation technologies, there are other ways to increase air circulation, improve air quality, and enhance ventilation while in an enclosed space. 

If you have any questions about modifying your HVAC systems to prevent the spread of COVID-19, or to learn more about making your air conditioning systems safer, please contact CrossTown Plumbing today. 

New Year’s Checklist: Essential Items to Have in Your Plumbing Toolkit

 It’s a new year, and that means it’s time to take stock of your plumbing supplies. When was the last time you did a full review of your plumbing toolkit? Or checked that you have a substantial supply of the most up-to-date tools and essential items? There are certain tools every industry professional should have as standard, and these tools can help you get almost any job done.

Here are the essentials:

• Four types of plungers. All plumbers know the importance of having each type of plunger: a toilet plunger, a flanged plunger, a standard cup plunger, and an accordion plunger. Different clogs require specific plungers and you’ll definitely be using all four while on the job.
• A good set of pipe wrenches. These handy tools come in a range of different sizes and are used for different types of jobs, like fixing a corroded shower head and stubborn faucets, or squeezing into hard-to-reach spaces with awkward angles.
• A good set of Allan keys. An Allan key is an L-shaped metal tool that is used to loosen screws on faucets, shower heads, and other plumbing fixtures. Like pipe wrenches, Allen keys come in a range of sizes and they’re one of the most commonly-used tools in a plumber’s toolkit.
• A drain snake. For tough clogs that plungers can’t fix, the next step is using a drain snake to break up the clog. There are specific snakes for sinks, toilets, showers, and other piping systems, so ensure you’ve got all of them in your kit.
• Protective equipment: safety gloves and protective eyewear. As a plumber you know how often you’re exposed to harsh chemicals, different types of bacteria, and other contaminants. It’s always recommended to wear protective glasses and gloves while on the job, and it’s good to keep a few extra pairs of each in your plumbing toolkit.

Stock up on must-have plumbing supplies

We see an increase in plumbing issues right after the holiday season since people are home with family and friends and using bathrooms, showers, and sinks more often. In preparation for the plumbing calls you’re likely to get soon, we recommend checking your plumbing toolkit now and stocking up before the busy season hits. 

If you have any questions about the essential items we recommend having in your plumbing toolkit, or if you have any other plumbing questions, please contact Cross Town Plumbing today. 

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/new-years-checklist-essential-items-to-have-in-your-plumbing-toolkit/