5 Coolest Home Heating Controls for 2020

 Home heating controls have advanced so much over the past decade, heating your home has never been easier. Smart thermostats can save you money, give you more control over the temperature in specific areas of your home, and you can activate them before you get home so the temperature will be just right upon your arrival. Here are five of the coolest home heating controls for 2020:

1. Ecobee4 Smart Thermostat – this system comes with a built-in Alexa so you can turn on your heating and check the traffic at the same time. You can control the Ecobee4 from anywhere in the world which means you’ll never have to wonder if you forgot to switch off the thermostat before running out of the door. 
2. Honeywell Lyric T5 – this thermostat is a great value for money, and if you don’t require certain features like a humidifier or a ventilator, this may be the best option for you.
3. Nest Thermostat – have you ever heard of a heating system that learns your routine and adapts to it? That’s exactly what this smart thermostat does, and there’s a reason it’s one of the most popular on the market. 
4. Mysa Smart Thermostat – this system syncs with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, making it extremely convenient and user-friendly. 
5. Sensi Smart Thermostat – the Sensi, like many smart thermostats, can be entirely controlled from your phone for a seamless experience. Set the rooms in your house to your desired temperature before you get home for the ultimate comfort.

Learn more about the latest home heating controls

At Crosstown Plumbing Supply we are experts in home heating options and we’ve been proudly serving the northern New Jersey area for many years. Whether you know the type of heating system you want or you need some professional advice, we’re happy to help you choose what will work best for you. In addition to our industry expertise, we also stock an extensive selection of home heating systems and can give you our recommendation based on your needs and your budget. Whether you’ve just moved into a new home and you want to install the latest home heating controls on the market, or you simply feel it’s time for your existing system to receive an upgrade, we’re happy to help.

With today’s technology, you have more choices than ever before when it comes to keeping your home warm and comfortable. We’re happy to discuss your options, so contact us today and speak to our team about the latest home heating controls. 

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/5-coolest-home-heating-controls-for-2020/

Emergency plumbing solutions and safety tips for workers

As millions of people are practicing social distancing by staying at home, countless workers still work daily to keep our communities running. One of these essential workers is our plumbers, and most of the time, they are required to entire your premises. An individual’s home is their sanctuary from the outside world, and amid a pandemic, that refuge must be biologically secure. For that reason, we need to do whatever we can to preserve the home’s safety. That starts by limiting both the number of people going in and out and the number of times they do it. However, some essential services must go on, such as emergency plumbing.

So what precautions can you take to protect both you and the technicians? Here are a few tips to stay safe amid the spread of COVID-19:

Before the visit

Check with plumbers through the plumbing company if they have a policy of screening staff for COVID-19 symptoms or exposure each day before attending an emergency. Whenever the plumber arrives, make sure they wash their hands thoroughly for 30 seconds with soap and water before starting any services. 

During the visit

The plumber should wear gloves around the house, and both the plumber and occupant should cover any cough or sneeze (followed by hand rewashing). Plumbing services do not require close proximity, so maintain a 6-foot distance from each other as far as you can.

The plumber should also be careful to touch as few surfaces as possible. The client, as well as the service provider, should wear a mask at all times. To be extra cautious, if the plumber has supplies in packaging, they should discard the packaging outside the home and wash his or her hands immediately after handling it.

After the visit

Clients may want to clean and disinfect surfaces that the visitor touched, which are also frequently touched by the home occupants. This includes things like doorknobs, cabinets, toilets, and sinks. Antimicrobial wipes is a good option if they are available, a household disinfectant will also do the trick (make sure to follow the instructions on the label). You can also use household bleach by making a solution of one-third cup per gallon of water. The solution should remain on a surface for at least one minute before wiping also ensure that the room is well ventilated and you wear gloves.

Your safety is our priority

At Crosstown Plumbing Supply, we take the safety of our customers and technicians very seriously. Our team has been briefed and trained on our companies safety precautions. So during this time, we can safely assist you with replacing your home’s HVAC system, furnace or water heater with state-of-the-art, high-efficiency heating systems. With over 25 years of experience as a plumbing wholesaler in New Jersey, we’re the right partner for affordable home furnaces and boiler replacement. 

For more information about our specials on boiler replacement or to find out more about the boilers we can offer you, please visit our plumbing supply company website at http://crosstownplumbing.com/ today.

Plumbing is an Essential Service

 As the COVID-19 Coronavirus has spread across the country, people are practicing social distancing by self-isolating at their homes. However, while staying at home is a great effort, most are still unsure if it is okay to let other individuals into your home. Our professional plumbers at Cross Town know that when it comes to plumbing emergencies, the DIY method just isn’t the right method. Fortunately, plumbing is considered an essential service, even during times of a pandemic. The White House has deemed individual workers as “essential,” so you can still get the home services you need. Keep reading to learn why plumbing is considered an essential service 

Plumbers Deemed Critical Workers

According to a decision from the Cyber and Infrastructure Security Agency (a branch of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security,) plumbers are considered part of America’s “essential critical infrastructure workforce.” Under the CISA’s ruling, medical professionals, law enforcement, and other workers whose job is to preserve public health and safety will be allowed to continue operating during the Coronavirus pandemic. A memo released by the government administration states that this includes “workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences.”

Let us help you stay safe

Exposure to mold can lead to many health problems such as wheezing, sore throat, and asthma. While COVID-19 is still roaming the air you should try and minimize these symptoms as far as possible. In order to do this, you need to keep your humidity around 30%-50% particularly in areas like the kitchen and washrooms. We supply a range of dehumidifier and aircon to help reduce moisture in indoor air. An air conditioner especially reduces indoor pollen count which can benefit occupants suffering from allergies. As always, Crosstown Plumbing is here to help you create a healthy home. 

You Can Now Call Crosstown For Your Plumbing needs

Now that the government has deemed plumbers to be essential workers, you can count on us for your plumbing emergencies. We also offer a range of products like water filters, duct cleaning, air filters, etc. to help keep you safe during this time.

We are aware of the importance of preventing the spread of COVID-19 and take it very seriously. Our team has increased safety measures to protect the health and well-being of our customers and our technicians during a visit. Feel free to call us anytime for fast, safe, and efficient service. 

For more information about the plumbing supplies we have on offer, please visit our website today at http://crosstownplumbing.com/

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/plumbing-is-an-essential-service/

5 Ways to Save on Your Kitchen Remodel

 When the time comes to think about remodeling your kitchen, you want to make sure you are not only 100% satisfied but also that the renovation adds value to your home and saves you money. A well-designed kitchen not only saves time and effort while cooking but is also a social space for family and friends. Kitchen remodeling costs can add up so quickly that before you know it your budget seems is spent. To avoid this from happening and keep costs in line, while still getting the kitchen of your dreams, follow these 5 helpful tips.

1. Spend time coming up with a kitchen renovation plan and budget.

Before starting, the first step in kitchen renovation is to design a plan. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, bedroom, or living room, a plan and budget are extremely important. You can either design this plan yourself or hire an expert to create a blueprint for everything you want to make changes to. Without one, you’ll likely end up spending extra money on things and features you don’t really need but simply want.

Apart from a plan, you also need to work out a budget. There are many ways to update a kitchen but they all cost money. You need to know what you are able and willing to spend. Then set a limit so you don’t go over your budget and get into financial trouble.

2. Go with ready-to-assemble cabinets.

It’s no secret, the biggest cost in kitchen remodeling is the cabinets. The most expensive choice of all cabinet options is going custom. The cabinetry is designed, built and installed to specifically fit your space which can add up to costing an arm and a leg.

For almost half the cost you can get ready to assemble or semi-custom cabinets. A company representative will help you measure and select your cabinets so you can rest assure that you are buying the correct size for your kitchen space. If DIY is your thing, you can assemble these yourself; if not you can hire a contractor, you will still save money either way.

If you don’t want to assemble your cabinets but rather want to grab them right off the shelf and get going then stock cabinets are for you. These stock cabinets come in standard sizes, shapes and colors. Keep in mind though since the cabinet sizing is not based on your kitchen measurements, space-wasting fillers may be required to make the cabinets fit. These cabinets are very affordable for remodels on a budget.

3. Mix Countertop Materials.

Solid marble or granite kitchen countertop is a very pricey option, but that doesn’t mean you have to completely forget the idea. If you feel you want to include some granite kitchen countertop materials, use them in sections, and then use less-expensive material for the rest of the surface. A clever way to do this is to use the expensive granite tops on part of the island and cheaper material on the other work surfaces. 

4. Avoid Changing the Layout.

If the layout of your kitchen already works for you, put your focus on upgrading appliances, cabinetry, and finishes rather than replacing everything. Moving appliances around means you’ll need to hire electricians and plumbers for rewiring and plumbing jobs, which will eat at your budget.

5. Keep Plumbing Where It Is.

Another reason to design a plan or get a designer to help you with your kitchen renovation is to make sure you are using the existing piping and plumbing layout. At the end of the day this is where you will either spend or save most of your money. If you feel competent enough to move around your plumbing by yourself then head out to your plumbing supply company in New Jersey or a plumbing wholesaler. This way you can further save money on your renovation.

FINAL THOUGHTS FOR SAVING MONEY ON KITCHEN REMODELS:

Do enough research and plan out your kitchen remodel before you start. This way you will not only make the best selections and get the best value for your money but it will also make the project go smoother and faster.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/5-ways-to-save-on-your-kitchen-remodel/

Easy Solutions for Great-Quality Indoor Air

 Indoor air quality is increasingly in the news, and homeowners are paying attention to this more than ever before. Having good indoor air quality keeps you breathing easily, improves your sleep, and increases your immune system response. Good air quality can prevent asthma flare-ups, and lessen the impact of seasonal allergies.

There are many contributors to the lack of indoor air quality that can be found in the home. Carbon monoxide is one of the most common air pollutants. Older homes may contain asbestos and lead particles, this can be very damaging to the lungs when inhaled over a long period of time. Mould and mildew in your kitchen and bathroom can become a big problem, especially where moisture levels are typically higher than in the rest of your house. Dirty ductwork can cause small airborne dust mites to be blown around your house by the HVAC system. 

Despite the many causes of degraded air quality, there are a number of things a homeowner can do to improve the environment. Here are some of the easiest and most common.

Change your air filters in your HVAC system

If you have a forced hot air heating system, keeping a clean filter will remove airborne particulates, ranging from dust to invisible microscopic particles were a dirty filter does exactly the opposite. A dirty filter can actually make indoor air quality worse by acting as a reservoir for dirt and dust. The dirt build-up on the filters will continue to circulate back into your breathing air.

During both the heating and cooling season, change the air filter monthly. Invest in quality pleated fabric filters that can trap airborne particles down to a size of 3 microns. 

Check Your Air Ducts

An Air ducts job is to distribute hot and cold air throughout your home, providing a comfortable climate in every room. But if ducts are not installed properly or maintained regularly they can distribute contaminants from one room to another. Over time, dust, contaminants and even mould can accumulate in your ducts, affecting your air quality.

Vacuum regularly

Dusting and vacuuming on a weekly basis can significantly reduce the contaminants and allergens particles, dust and mites that pollute your home and lungs. By using a vacuum with a HEPA filter you can even reduce concentrations of lead in your home. Many allergens and pollutants rest in the carpeting of an area. Regular vacuuming is important for cleaning efforts. An even more effective way is thorough professional carpet cleaning.  Most companies use steam cleaning or dry-cleaning techniques to eliminate contaminants. This technique is very effective in eliminating contaminants. Professional carpet cleaners recommend at least one cleaning per year, but high-traffic areas might require more frequent cleanings.

Keep a healthy level of humidity

We all know that dust mites and mould love growing in moisture. Being exposed to mold can lead to many health problems such as wheezing, sore throat, skin rashes, watery eyes and headaches. To keep dust mites and mold under control make sure to keep the humidity around 30%-50% particularly in areas like the kitchen and washrooms. A dehumidifier or an aircon helps reduce moisture in indoor air. An air conditioner especially reduces indoor pollen count which can benefit occupants suffering from allergies. Another useful tip to protect you from mold is to turn on the exhaust fan in the bathroom immediately after bathing to help remove the humidity from the room. 

As always, Crosstown Plumbing is here to support your healthy home with air purification, and beyond. Call us Today!

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/easy-solutions-for-great-quality-indoor-air/

The Best Tools for Putting a Stop to Clogs

 No one likes dealing with a drain clog, but there’s no escaping them! Luckily, these plumbing supplies in New Jersey can make short work of any clog, whether it’s water in a toilet bowl that just won’t drain or rising water in the shower.

For Toilet Clogs – The Toilet Auger

While a plunger works well for minor clogs, they can actually make a clog worse if there’s a blockage deeper in the pipe system. It can also be messy and hazardous to your health! An auger solves all these issues easily. There are plenty of different options available for different budgets and needs, but it’s easy to find one at your local plumbing supply company.

There are hand-cranked manual ones and battery-operated ones of different lengths and designs, but essentially they all work the same way. You simply ease the cable through the trap, feeding it in gently. You then use the forward and reverse settings to break up the clog or remove it.

For Shower or Tub Clogs – The Hair Snake

Hair is the number one culprit behind showers and tubs that won’t drain, with a mess of old hair and soap scum to block up the pipe. A simple solution is a hair snake. This is a simple, plastic tool about 20 inches long. It is covered in plastic barbs that, when you insert the hair snake into the drain, snag on the hair masses and pull them free easily. It’s also a good idea to try preventing these clogs with a drain strainer or hair catcher that gets cleaned after every shower or tub use, especially if you live in a house with lots of long-haired family members!

For Sewer Clogs – A Rooter Unit

While you can buy one of these at your local plumbing supply company, it’s usually more affordable and practical to hire one or ask a professional to help (your plumbing supply company can usually recommend someone). This machine is a life-saver when it comes to sewer line clogs, which can cause sewer water to back up in sinks, tubs, and toilets, posing not only a serious health hazard but also a risk of damage to your furnishings. It’s a powerful piece of equipment that can remove any clog, even those caused by fibrous tree roots. 

The Best Place to Get Plumbing supplies in New Jersey

Whatever plumbing tool you need, the specialists at Crosstown Plumbing Supply are here to assist you with fast, affordable solutions. With over 25 years of experience as a plumbing wholesaler in New Jersey, we’re the right partner to help you choose the right tool or replacement parts for your needs. In addition to high-quality plumbing supplies, we also offer a wide range of bathroom materials for remodeling projects, including bathroom sinks and bathroom cabinets. Customers can also benefit from our location in a 3.5% NJ sales tax zone. If you are looking for a professional to assist you with your plumbing or HVAC issue, we can also recommend professional contractors who are part of our trusted network.

To find out more about our products, please contact us or visit our website at http://crosstownplumbing.com/ today.

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/the-best-tools-for-putting-a-stop-to-clogs/

What to Do Before You Switch on Your Air Conditioning System

 Spring is just arriving, and summer isn’t too far away. This means now is the perfect time to do some quick air conditioner home maintenance! Here are six important steps to take before you turn on your AC unit for the first time, from the leading wholesalers of HVAC systems in New Jersey.

Step One – Thermostat: 

How old is your home’s thermostat? Installing a smart thermostat will help you save money and energy while keeping your home comfortable.

Step Two – Vents: 

Take a walk through your home and check all your AC vents, removing anything that could block airflow (drapes, toys, furniture, and the like). And, remember to clean each vent with a vacuum and a damp cloth.

Step Three – Drain Line: 

AC and HVAC system drain lines can get clogged with buildup over time. You can flush one cup of bleach down the line followed by a gallon of water, clearing out the drain line and taking care of any bacteria or mold growth. A clogged drain line causes water to back up and drip inside your home, leading to water damage and mold growth.

Step Four – Air Filter: 

Your air filter should be cleaned seasonally (both at the start of summer as well as the end). It should also be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A clean, new air filter ensures good airflow into your home and maintains good air quality, which is essential for your health, especially if you or your family suffer from asthma or allergies.

Step Five – Outdoor Condenser Unit: 

Inspect your condenser unit outside your home, cleaning the area around the unit. There should be no leaves, shrubbery or debris against the unit as this will affect performance.

Step Six – Refrigerant Lines: 

Over time, these lines can wear or degrade, leading to refrigerant leaks that will affect the performance of the unit. If you spot any leaks or the pipes seem to be in poor condition, they should be replaced by a professional. Ignoring leaks can permanently damage your HVAC system, causing important components to overheat.

Need New AC Parts or a New HVAC System New Jersey?

At Crosstown Plumbing Supply, we can either assist you with choosing a high-efficiency, low maintenance replacement air conditioner or HVAC system in New Jersey (including central heating and air and ductless air conditioning systems) or provide you with an extensive range of plumbing supplies to replace necessary HVAC parts in your current systems. 

And, as we are a plumbing wholesaler located in a 3.5% NJ sales tax zone, we have the best ductless air conditioning and central air conditioner prices in New Jersey. Our sales consultants are highly experienced and happy to assist you in finding the right part for your needs. We work closely with reliable, affordable air conditioning and HVAC professionals should you prefer not to go the DIY route for air conditioner installation.

For more information about the plumbing supplies we have on offer, please visit our website today at http://crosstownplumbing.com/

Originally posted https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/what-to-do-before-you-switch-on-your-air-conditioning-system/