Is Your Basement Making Your Home Warmer In The Summer?

The summer is in full swing, and for most homeowners this means one thing – cranking up the air conditioning system. However, this can mean a significant increase on your monthly energy bill. There are lots of ways to help combat this, but it means finding the source of the issue – which could be your basement, according to New Jersey HVAC system experts. Here’s why.

The reverse stack effect 

Heat always rises because it is lighter than cold air, which is why homeowners need to insulate their ceilings and attics if they want their properties to stay warm through the winter. This is called the Stack Effect.

In summer, however, we want to cool the air with air conditioners, and this denser air drops and can leak out of home through the basement, causing our air conditioners to run at their maximum output to try and maintain a cooler temperature. This is called the Reverse Stack Effect.

This not only means you spend more to run your air conditioner, it also puts a strain on the machine itself that results in higher wear, more repairs and more potential breakdowns.

Seal your basement to keep your home cool and comfortable in summer 

Whether you have a finished basement or not, it’s difficult to detect and plug all your air leaks – and even small leaks can result in a big difference in your energy bill. If you are unsure if your basement is properly sealed from air leaks, there are companies that can do a full technical analysis for your property known as an energy audit. The next step is to properly seal all leaks using high quality caulk, closed cell spray foam insulation or traditional insulation, as recommended by professionals.

High-efficiency air conditioning and HVAC system installation in New Jersey 

At Crosstown Plumbing Supply, we can assist you with any of your HVAC or air conditioning problems. We stock a wide range of energy efficient air conditioners, including central air systems, dehumidifiers and ductless mini-splits, and our sales team has the experience and skills to ensure that you get a practical, high-quality product at an affordable price.

For more information on our air conditioning and HVAC solutions, as well as to have any of your cooling system air questions answered, please visit our website at http://crosstownplumbing.com/ or contact us today.

Original content posted on https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/is-your-basement-making-your-home-warmer-in-summer

How To Measure Your Home's Indoor Air Quality

Good air quality indoors is essential to your family’s health and comfort. Here’s some insight from New Jersey air conditioning specialists on how to measure and maintain good quality air within your home.

What is meant by ‘indoor air quality’? 

Air pollution can occur anywhere, whether in an industrial environment or inside your apartment or home. These pollutants can irritate the lungs, create unpleasant odors, cause allergic and asthmatic reactions and even cause illness, and if they are originating within your property, they need to be urgently discovered and corrected. Common contaminants in indoor air include mold spores, carbon monoxide, radon, and asbestos.

Over the last few decades, we’ve started building and renovating our homes to seal air in more efficiently to reduce our energy bills and keep our homes properly temperature-controlled though the year. This has decreased ventilation (the flow of air from outdoors through the home) and made it more difficult for indoor pollutants to move out of the home, making indoor air quality checks essential.

Use a VOC sensor to measure indoor air quality 

A VOC sensor measures volatile organic compounds in the air, and will pick up even small traces of mold, ketones, unhealthy gasses and other pollutants. This can be done by a professional company that will then run air samples from various areas in your home through advanced laboratory equipment and diagnose any issues.

Air conditioning installation from HVAC specialists in NJ 

If you suspect that your air conditioning system is not providing you with high quality air, it’s important that you have it professionally addressed. At Crosstown Plumbing Supply, we have a wide range of high-efficiency central air systems, condensers, dehumidifiers and ductless air conditioners that offer exceptional temperature control and air quality while using minimal energy.

For more information on our air conditioning and HVAC solutions, as well as to have any of your cooling system air questions answered, please visit our website at http://crosstownplumbing.com/ or contact us today.

Originally posted on https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/how-to-measure-your-homes-indoor-air-quality

How To Prevent Mold Growth In Your HVAC System

When humidity is high, your HVAC or air conditioning system can be affected by mold growth. Here’s what to do, from HVAC specialists at our plumbing supply company in New Jersey.

Mold growth is common in HVAC and AC units because moisture can build up inside the system, creating an ideal environment for molds. The circulation of air throughout the home also makes it easier for mold spores to travel into the system as well as spread to other warm, moist rooms in the home, including laundry rooms, basements, bathrooms and kitchens. These molds create a musty, unhealthy environment in the home that can result in breathing problems, allergy issues and an unpleasant, musty smell. Some molds are even highly toxic. This makes it essential that your HVAC system is kept clear and clean throughout the year.

Four steps to take that will keep your HVAC system mold-free 

• Replace the filters: Filters should be replaced regularly to keep your system operating effectively, and wet, dirty filters are often a great environment for mold. While once a year is fine, you should check the filter and clean it monthly, especially in high humidity months.
• Use a mold inhibitor: There are products made specifically for HVAC units that will help prevent mold growth. Make sure that the inhibitor you are applying is labeled for use by the EPA in HVAC systems, and apply as directed.
• Use a disinfectant: This will work to kill off any mold inside the HVAC system to prepare it for the mold inhibitor, which will stop future mold growth from occurring. It will also thoroughly clean the system and ensure that it is hygienic. As with the mold inhibitor, you need to choose one labeled for use by the EPA in HVAC systems, and apply as directed.
• Prevent moisture build-up: Moisture is key to mold growth, so ensuring that it is minimized will help prevent growth. When cleaning your HVAC unit, use an industrial wet vacuum to remove any standing water and dry out the system.

Need to replace your air conditioner and HVAC parts? 

At Crosstown Plumbing Supply, we can either assist you with choosing a high-efficiency, low maintenance replacement air conditioner or HVAC system (including central heating and air and ductless air conditioning systems) or provide you with an extensive range of plumbing supplies to replace necessary parts in your current systems. As we are a plumbing wholesaler located in a 3.5% NJ sales tax zone, we can make your repairs and services the most affordable in town. Our sales consultants are highly experienced and happy to assist you with finding the right part for your needs and we work closely with reliable, affordable air conditioning and HVAC professionals you prefer not to go the DIY route.

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

Original content posted on https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/how-to-prevent-mold-growth-in-your-hvac-system

Why Granite Is Still The Best Kitchen Countertop

There are a wide range of materials available for countertops, from laminate and wood to marble, quartz and concrete. However, one material still stands above the rest – granite. Here’s why granite kitchen countertops are still king, from your plumbing wholesaler in New Jersey.

• It’s durable and low maintenance: Granite is a natural rock with a holocrystalline structure – one where the crystals grow into each other and interlock, rather than forming independently. This structure makes the stone incredibly strong and hardwearing – perfect for kitchen work surfaces. It won’t crack, chip or scratch easily, and it’s very hygienic. This means that it’s very difficult to damage and won’t require much maintenance other than a regular clean with mild detergent.
• Endless design options: Granite comes in a huge range of colors and textures according to the crystals within it. It can have a uniform look or distinct pattern, it comes in blacks, greys and browns as well as reds, blues and greens, and it can be cut and edged to match the look you’re going for. There are also granites rich in mica, which give them a glittery look as they are highly reflective.
• It’s affordable: In terms of value for money, granite is the best option on the market because it simply lasts so long, is so easy to care for and so resistant to damage. Installation is quick and granite is ordered to exactly fit your kitchen, so joins are minimal. Costs can vary according to the type of granite you choose, but there’s always an attractive option for every price range.

Remodeling your kitchen? Speak to us about granite countertops at wholesale prices 

In addition to our affordable kitchen countertops and fittings, our sales staff are fully trained to assist you with your kitchen remodel itself and, when you purchase any kitchen cabinets line from us, we will come through to your home to measure and design your kitchen for free. Customers can also benefit from our 3.5% NJ sales tax, making your home improvement project event more affordable.

For more information on our wholesale granite kitchen countertops, cabinets, plumbing supplies and faucets in New Jersey, please visit our website at http://crosstownplumbing.com/ or contact us today.

Original content posted on https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/why-granite-is-still-the-best-kitchen-countertop

Where To Find Toilet Repair Parts In New Jersey

There’s nothing worse than having an issue with your home’s plumbing, especially when it’s your toilet that’s stopped working properly! Fortunately, there are plenty of places where you can pick up the necessary parts to repair your toilet. In terms of range of parts and affordability, your local plumbing supplies company in New Jersey is your best bet by far – here’s why.

We’re a wholesale plumbing supplies company 

As a wholesaler, we offer a huge range of parts, tools and supplies directly from manufacturers. These are sourced from the same top local and international brands and companies as you will see in stores, but we can offer them at a far lower price because we order in bulk and cut out the mark-up from the middle man. In addition to our low prices, we’re also located in a 3.5% sales tax zone, making our plumbing parts and repair supplies even more affordable.

What if I need a contractor? 

If you don’t enjoy this type of DIY, it’s not a problem – you don’t need to call in a plumbing company who will apply their own mark-up on parts. Simply speak to our experienced sales team and buy the parts you need, and we will recommend a contractor who can come to your home and install or repair the necessary parts. We’ve been serving this community for over 25 years, assisting homeowners, contractors and plumbing companies, so we know exactly who to put you in touch with to get great service and a quick repair.

Whatever your plumbing problem, our NJ plumbing supplies company has the solution! 

For over the last 25 years, Crosstown Plumbing Supply has been offering expert advice, tools and products to homeowners and industry professionals alike. With a reputation for customer service excellence and a team willing to go the extra mile, we’re the ideal partners for all your plumbing needs. In addition to plumbing parts and supplies, we offer bathroom sinks, boilers, kitchen cabinets, air conditioning systems and more – all at wholesale prices.

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

Original content posted on https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/where-to-find-toilet-repair-parts-in-new-jersey

6 Ways To Save Energy With Your HVAC System

Did you know that for most homes, half of the energy bill goes towards heating and cooling? This means that increasing your HVAC system’s efficiency often leads to significant savings, for a positive impact on your bank balance. Here are some of the most effective ways to save energy – and money – from New Jersey’s HVAC and air conditioning system specialists.

1. Keep up with maintenance: Routine maintenance should be done by professionals on a semi-annual basis, as keeping the system running smoothly ensures optimal performance as well as reduced energy wastage and repairs.
2. Stay within the right temperature range: Most HVAC systems have an optimal temperature range in which the system produces the best results for the lowest energy usage. Staying within this range will help you save while living in comfort.
3. Insulate: The better insulated your home, the less heating and cooling it needs, so you make direct savings on your energy bill.
4. Invest in a programmable thermostat: This helps you save by only heating your home as and when you require it, so that your system doesn’t run the whole day while no one is at home.
5. Get rid of drafts: This is important for both summer and winter, as your HVAC system will struggle to maintain a constant temperature when air from outside is continually entering the home.
6. Upgrade your old system: As HVAC systems age and as new technology progresses, so differences in performance and cost are going to become more apparent. If your system is 10 or more years old, it might be time for an upgrade that will save money in the long term. Remember to ask your HVAC company about the latest energy efficient units, and get the right size system for your home in order to maximize benefits. Many of these systems also qualify you for rebates from the State of New Jersey, making them even more budget-friendly.

Energy efficient HVAC systems in New Jersey 

As leaders in HVAC supply in NJ, the Crosstown Plumbing Supply team is happy to assist you with finding replacement parts for your HVAC system or replacing your existing unit with a high-performance, high-efficiency solution. As we are a wholesaler located in a 3.5% NJ sales tax zone, we can offer you the most affordable parts and products from leading brands. In addition to HVAC systems, we also offer a wide range of central air conditioning units, ductless air conditioning systems and heating systems. If you need a contractor you can trust, we work closely with reliable, affordable professionals that we can refer you to.

For more information about or plumbing supply company and the HVAC systems we have on offer, please visit our website today at http://crosstownplumbing.com/

Original content posted on https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/6-ways-to-save-energy-with-your-hvac-system

5 Signs You And Your Home Can Benefit From A Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers work to remove excess water from the air in the environment around them. This moisture can cause a wide range of issues for homeowners if it goes untreated, so if you are experiencing any of these problems, it might be time to invest in an air conditioning systems with a dehumidifier.

1. Mold: Dark spots on your ceilings, floors, inside cupboards or on your floors and baseboards indicates a mold issue. While professionals can treat the mold, if the excess moisture isn’t removed it will simply grow back. This is a big problem because it can trigger allergies as well as toxic reactions.
2. Musty smells: Every house smells a little stuffy and musty if it’s been locked up for a long time, but if you notice a smell in general, inside cupboards or after the house has been closed up for a short while, you likely have a moisture problem. If it is not due to a leak, it’s likely due to a lot of moisture in the air, which can be solved with a dehumidifier.
3. Dampness in your foundation or basement: This can occur seasonally when there is heavy rain or snowmelt, and it’s important that these structural parts of your home are kept dry during this time. Installing a dehumidifier will help prevent cracks, leaking and mold.
4. Rotting wood: Wooden doors and frames will start decaying if they are exposed to a lot of moisture, even if that moisture is just in the air itself. Repairing and sealing the frames will help, but only a dehumidifier will help remove the source of the problem itself.
5. You’re struggling to dry clothing: If you hang your washing indoors but are finding that it stays damp for a long time or even develops a musty smell, then excess water in the air is to blame. This is very common during wet seasons or in basements, and can easily be corrected by the installation of a dehumidifier. Not only will it take the excess moisture out of the air itself, it will also remove excess water that evaporates as your laundry dries.

Healthy air for you and your home – Affordable dehumidifiers in NJ 

For over 25 years, Crosstown Plumbing Supply has provided expert advice, quality parts and leading cooling and heating systems to both contractors and homeowners in New Jersey. We offer a range of high-efficiency HVAC systems including:

• Central air conditioning systems
• Ductless mini-splits
• Dehumidifiers
• Humidifiers and air filters
• Boilers
• Furnaces
• Burners

With our affordable wholesale prices, reliable contacts in the heating and cooling systems industry and prime location in a 3.5% NJ sales tax zone, you are guaranteed to get the best deal at the best price. For more information on our HVAC systems, please visit our website at http://crosstownplumbing.com/ today.

Original content posted on https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/5-signs-you-and-your-home-can-benefit-from-a-dehumidifier