furnace checkup

It’s Time for Your Furnace Checkup

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Fall is here, the leaves have turned, and a chill is in the air. For most people in Michigan, this is the point in the year when their furnace starts to make a very important difference in the quality of their lives. How confident are you that your furnace will work consistently for you through the winter? If you have doubts or would like to avoid a furnace breakdown in the middle of a polar vortex, now is the time to get a furnace checkup. You’re going to want to have the peace of mind regular HVAC maintenance can give you this winter season.

What Happens When Your Furnace Fails

It’s easy to take your heating and cooling systems for granted. When they work the way they are supposed to, your home or business is comfortable – a pleasant place to work or relax. If they break down…that’s when you realize how much you depend on them.

When your furnace fails, the air temperature in your home or business will slowly begin to equalize with the temperature outdoors. If it fails in October, you will be chilly until you can get a professional out to repair it. If it fails in January, you’re going to get very cold, and you may have to find somewhere else to sleep or stay until it’s fixed. The average high temperature in Alpena in Michigan is between 18°F and 26°F. A portable heater or two is not going to keep you and your family warm. 

An even more dangerous possibility with a furnace fail is a carbon monoxide leak. This can result in symptoms such as lethargy, dizziness, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. In the middle of winter, no one has the windows open to let in fresh air, and carbon monoxide poisoning can be a real threat. 

The above reasons are why HVAC professionals recommend having your furnace inspected and maintained every fall. 

Benefits of a Furnace Checkup 

There are many benefits of having your furnace inspected and maintained. First and foremost, there’s the safety aspect. A blocked vent or a cracked heat exchanger can cause a carbon monoxide leak. Prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperature can also cause health problems, particularly for medically fragile people, older people, and young children. 

Secondly, having maintenance performed on your system regularly will save you from more costly repairs. A smaller mechanical issue that goes unfixed can lead to larger, more expensive repairs down the line. Regular maintenance can reduce the risk of furnace breakdown by up to 95%. A furnace is an investment in your own comfort. It’s not a cheap piece of machinery. If you can add to its lifespan by performing annual service, it will save you money overall. 

A furnace that operates efficiently will also lower your utility bills. The more build up your furnace has, the harder it has to work to do its job. In an era of rising energy costs, you want to keep those costs down in any way that you can. Who doesn’t want to save money?

If you neglect your furnace maintenance, you are courting problems. Michigan has long winters, and your furnace is your friend. Take good care of it, and it will perform well and keep you warm and cozy for many years. If you are concerned about how reliable your furnace will be in the coming months, call Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating to schedule a furnace checkup. We will be happy to take care of any of your HVAC needs. 

 

clogged sewer line

What Alpena’s Sewer Line Service Change Means for Homeowners

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If you live in Alpena, Michigan, and have ever had a clogged sewer line, here’s a heads up: As of July 1, 2025, the City of Alpena will no longer respond to a sewer line clog on private property. This change means that homeowners are now fully responsible for hiring a professional plumber or sewer contractor when things go wrong with their sewer line.

At Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating, we’ve been handling sewer backups for years, and we’re here to help local homeowners with reliable, fast service when you need it.

Why Did the City Stop Helping With Clogged Sewer Lines?

The City of Alpena has stated that clearing private sewer lines was never officially part of the utility contract with Veolia (the city’s utility provider). Even though it became a common practice over time, the city ordinance states that the homeowner is responsible for the sewer line up to the connection point at the main sewer.

In other words: if the clog is on your property, it’s your responsibility to fix it.

Before this change, the city offered sewer line clearing for a fee. Now that service is being phased out completely. If your toilet backs up or your floor drain overflows, you’ll need to call a local plumber. That’s where we come in.

Weinkauf Can Help with Alpena Sewer Line Repair

Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating already provides sewer line services for homeowners in Alpena, Oscoda, and surrounding areas. Our experienced team responds to backed-up sewer calls regularly. Here’s our process:

Transparent Estimates

Every home’s sewer system and problem is different, which means flat-rate pricing often doesn’t make sense. That’s why we offer free on-site estimates for most clogs. If you’re unsure what’s causing the backup, we’ll take a look and give you a clear explanation of your options before any work begins.

Emergency Response

If you’re experiencing a clogged sewer line and need help right away, we offer prompt service during business hours and after-hours emergency support. Keep in mind that after-hours service is more expensive, so it’s a good idea to address slow drains with routine maintenance before they turn into a full-blown backup.

Professional Equipment and Expertise

Our team uses professional-grade tools and equipment to get the job done right. From sewer augers to advanced drain cameras, we have everything needed to find and clear the blockage efficiently.

What Causes Sewer Line Clogs?

common causes of sewer line clogs

Most clogs are caused by two things:

  1. Flushing the wrong items down the toilet – Products like wipes, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels don’t break down like toilet paper and can easily cause clogs.
  2. Tree root intrusion – Tree roots, especially from large maples, are drawn to the moisture in sewer lines and can invade through small cracks or joints in older pipes.

In many cases, these roots come from city-owned trees near sidewalks, but Alpena homeowners are still responsible for repairs, even if the roots are the main culprit.

Can I Clear a Clog Myself?

While some people feel comfortable addressing minor plumbing problems at home, DIY sewer cleaning comes with risks, especially if you misidentify the blockage or damage the pipe. If you’re not 100% confident, it’s safer and often more cost-effective to let a professional plumber handle it.

Sewer Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

Here’s our best advice on how to stay ahead of problems and avoid sewer line clogs:

  • Don’t flush anything except toilet paper (even if the packaging says “flushable”).
  • Have your sewer line cleaned every 1–2 years if you’ve had clogs before.
  • Know the signs of a developing clog, like gurgling drains, slow flushing, or water backing up in floor drains.
  • Schedule routine maintenance with Weinkauf to catch small issues before they become major headaches. 

Need Help With Your Sewer Line? Call Weinkauf

We know this policy change puts more responsibility on Alpena homeowners, but you don’t have to handle your sewer or other plumbing problems alone. Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating is here to help with fast, fair, and expert sewer line services. We’ve been serving northeast Michigan for decades and can walk you through every step of your plumbing repair or replacement.

If you’re in Alpena or Oscoda, call today for a free estimate, to schedule routine maintenance, or to request emergency sewer service.

summer plumbing problems

Summer Plumbing Problems? Helpful Repair and Prevention Tips

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For Michiganders summer means backyard barbecues, beach days, and trips up to the cottage, but it can also bring unique plumbing problems for home and business owners. Knowing how to prevent or fix summer plumbing problems can save you time, money, and headaches, so let’s talk about what those challenges are and how to address them. 

But Summer’s the Best Time of the Year?

Yes, summer is wonderful, it really is, but longer days and rising temperatures may put your plumbing through a real workout. The season puts unique demands on pipes and fixtures. Your kids take more showers to cool off, your lawn needs to be watered all the time, and you may have a pool to fill. On top of that, having extra guests or family over means your toilets, sinks, and washing machines are used more than ever. And let’s not forget sudden summer storms, which can strain outdoor drainage systems and even lead to messy backups.

Here’s your guide to common summer plumbing problems and how to prevent them.

1. Leaky Outdoor Faucets and Sprinklers

Summer is prime time for watering lawns, filling pools, and washing cars. But if your outdoor faucets or sprinklers leak, you’re wasting water and potentially damaging your home’s foundation. What should you do to prevent that? 

  • Check all hose bibs and spigots for drips at the start of the season.
  • Replace worn washers or upgrade to frost-free hose bibs if you have older fixtures.
  • Inspect garden hoses for cracks or bulges before heavy summer use.

2. Clogged Garbage Disposals

Summer also means cookouts, corn on the cob, and fresh produce, and all that extra food can wreak havoc on your garbage disposal. Fibrous vegetables, fruit pits, and grease can lead to blockages or damage. Grease and coffee grounds are also notorious for building up and causing clogs. Your garbage disposal is handy, but it’s not a trash can. Treating it with basic TLC can save you a lot of hassle in the long run.

To prevent clogs and backups: 

  • Avoid putting tough items like corn husks, melon rinds, and bones in the disposal.
  • Run cold water for 20 to 30 seconds after every use.
  • Toss ice cubes and lemon peels into the disposal once a week to help clean and deodorize it.

3. Washing Machine Overload

With kids home from school, beach towels piling up, and extra laundry from outdoor activities, your washing machine works overtime in summer. Hoses and drains can leak or clog if they’re not in good shape. Most people don’t think about washing machines as plumbing, but they process a large amount of water that can wind up on your floors if something goes wrong, so: 

  • Inspect washer hoses for cracks or bulges and replace them every 3 to 5 years.
  • Make sure the machine is level to prevent strain on hoses and the drum.
  • Don’t overload the washer. Multiple smaller loads are easier on your plumbing.

4. Sump Pump Failures

Your sump pump is the first line of defense against basement or crawl space flooding, so you want to make sure yours is ready for the next challenge. Flooding is no joke – water can do a remarkable amount of damage in just minutes. 

Test out your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should turn on, clear the water, and then shut off. If it doesn’t kick on, or if it sounds strange, clean the pit, checking for debris that might be blocking the float switch. If that doesn’t work, call us at Weinkauf, and we will come and check it out for you. You can also add a battery backup to keep the pump running if your power goes out, especially if you live in a place that’s prone to water. 

5. Sewer Backups After Heavy Rain

Summer often brings dramatic weather changes, including thunderstorms and heavy downpours, and Alpena and Oscoda get their fair share of them. Heavy rain combined with clogged gutters can result in sump pump overwhelm and basement flooding. Municipal sewer lines and saturated drain fields can cause messy sewer backups in your home.

To protect yourself: 

  • Have your main sewer line inspected or snaked if you’ve had issues in the past.
  • Install a backwater valve to help prevent sewage from backing into your basement.
  • Avoid pouring fats, oils, or grease down the drain. They can make clogs worse during heavy rain.

Avoid Summer Plumbing Problems with Inspections and Maintenance

Some of the worst plumbing problems are the ones hiding out of sight. Tree roots can sneak into sewer lines, and corrosion can quietly eat away at pipes, all without you knowing. A professional inspection, especially of your sewer line, can uncover these hidden dangers. Plumbers use camera technology to look inside your pipes and spot potential trouble before it becomes a full-blown backup or blockage. Think of it like giving your plumbing an X-ray. While a sewer camera inspection might feel like an extra cost, it’s far less expensive than cleaning up a sewage backup or repairing a burst pipe later. 

Scheduling preventive services, like drain cleaning when you notice slow drains, can also save you major headaches. Combine that with simple habits like using mesh strainers and keeping grease or coffee grounds out of your sink, and you’ll avoid the flooding and emergency repairs that often hit in the summer.

When to Call Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating

Even with the best prevention, plumbing issues can happen. If you run into:

It’s time to call us.

We have been helping Northern Michigan homeowners and business owners keep their plumbing running smoothly for decades—now with even more reach! With the opening of our new Oscoda, MI location, we’re bringing expert inspections, repairs, and maintenance even closer to you, helping prevent costly emergencies before they happen. Whether you’re in Alpena or Oscoda, we’re here to help. Save our numbers: (989) 354-5427 for Alpena, and (989) 569-1900 for Oscoda. That way, the next time your pipes or HVAC system act up, all you’ll need to remember is the name that’s been trusted for generations: Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating.

 

AC is running but not cooling

Why Your AC Is Running But Not Cooling and What to Do About It

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The hot weather is here – finally! It’s the middle of summer in Northern Michigan, and your air conditioner may be working overtime now to cool your home. But is your home actually cool and comfortable? You may hear the fan humming and know the unit is definitely on, but your home still feels hot and sticky. So your AC is running but not cooling. What is the problem, and how do you fix it? 

Your AC Is Running But Not Cooling

If this is your situation, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common summer issues we see at Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating. The good news? Some AC problems are simple fixes. Others may require a professional. Here’s how to troubleshoot the problem and get your cool air back.

1. Check Your Thermostat Settings

Let’s start with the basics. Check that your thermostat is set to “cool” and not just “fan.” The fan setting can make it feel like the system is running, but it won’t actually cool the air, it just circulates it. Also, make sure your desired temperature is set several degrees lower than the current room temperature. If it’s set at or above the current room temperature, the AC unit will not turn on. 

2. Is Your Air Filter Dirty?

A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow, making it harder for your system to push cold air through your home. This can also lead to frozen coils. 

What to do:

Take out the air filter and hold it up to the light. If you can’t see through it, it’s time to replace it. We recommend changing your air filter every 1–3 months especially during peak cooling season.

3. Check for a Frozen Evaporator Coil

If you’ve noticed ice on your indoor unit or water pooling near your furnace, your evaporator coil may be frozen. This happens when airflow is restricted or refrigerant is low.

Signs of a frozen coil:

  • Warm air coming from vents
  • Ice or frost on the indoor unit
  • Water leaks around the unit

What to do:

  • Turn off your AC and let it thaw completely
  • Replace a dirty filter
  • Call us at Weinkauf if the problem returns

4. Your Outdoor Unit Might Be Blocked

The condenser coil in your outdoor unit releases the heat your AC removes from your home. If the unit is blocked by dirt, leaves, or weeds, it can’t do its job, and your home won’t cool down properly.

What to do:

  • Turn off the power to the unit
  • Gently rinse the unit with a garden hose
  • Clear away any grass, leaves, or debris

If it’s still not cooling after that, there may be deeper issues inside the unit.

5. You Could Have a Refrigerant Leak

Low refrigerant levels can prevent your system from cooling at all. It may still run, but it won’t be able to absorb heat and cool the air. This is not something you can fix yourself.

What are the signs of a refrigerant problem?

  • Your AC blows warm or lukewarm air
  • It emits hissing or bubbling noises
  • There is ice on the refrigerant line

What to do:

Call us at Weinkauf. We will send a licensed HVAC professional to inspect, repair, and recharge your system. You should never attempt to refill refrigerant yourself.

6. The Compressor Might Be Failing

If your AC is running but not cooling, and you’ve ruled out the easier fixes, the problem could be with your compressor. This component is responsible for pressurizing refrigerant and keeping the entire system running efficiently.

Compressor problems often require professional repair or replacement. If your unit is older than 10 years, it might be more cost-effective to upgrade the entire system.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried the simple fixes above and still your AC is running but not cooling, don’t wait to call. Hot and humid air can take a toll on your comfort and your system.

Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating is your trusted local team for air conditioning repair, maintenance, and installation. Serving Alpena, Oscoda, and surrounding areas, we’re available when you need us. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in Northern Michigan get their air conditioning back on track quickly and affordably. Whether it’s a refrigerant issue, a faulty compressor, or just a tune-up, we’ll diagnose your problem and get it working again right away.

FAQs About Air Conditioning Repair 

Why is my AC running but not blowing cold air?
Common reasons include a dirty air filter, low refrigerant, frozen evaporator coils, or a blocked condenser. If basic troubleshooting doesn’t help, call a professional for an inspection.

How much does AC repair cost in Northern Michigan?
Costs vary depending on the issue, but minor repairs usually range from $150–$500. Compressor or refrigerant issues may cost more.

How quickly can Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating come out?
We offer prompt scheduling and emergency service calls throughout Alpena and Oscoda. Call us to check our availability today.

Is it worth repairing an old air conditioner?
If your unit is over 10 years old and requires frequent repairs, it may be more cost-effective to upgrade to a newer, more energy-efficient system.

 

whole house dehumidifier to remove excess humidity

Too Humid Inside? Add a Dehumidifier to Your HVAC System

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We are surrounded by water in Michigan. We have the Great Lakes and 11,000 inland lakes to choose from if we want to spend time fishing, swimming, boating, or water skiing. In fact, Michigan’s very first license plate slogan, used from 1954 to 1964, was Water Wonderland. High humidity is a result of those same water resources. Unfortunately, that’s not as enjoyable. It’s not only unpleasant, it can also cause problems in your home. If you’ve found yourself saying, “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity,” indoors, one solution is adding a dehumidifier to your HVAC system. 

What Does a Dehumidifier Do?

A dehumidifier is an appliance that removes excess moisture from the air. Many of us use portable dehumidifiers in areas of our homes like the basement because they are prone to damp. Dehumidifiers pull in humid air. This air condenses on an evaporator coil and is directed away from the unit and into a container or a drain, and a fan blows the treated air out of the unit. 

A whole-house dehumidifier operates the same way, but it removes humidity from the entire house. Adding a dehumidifier to your HVAC system can significantly enhance indoor comfort and air quality, but, as with everything, there are some pros and cons to weigh.

The Pros 

The first and most noticeable benefit is improved comfort. Because dehumidifiers reduce excess moisture, your home will feel cooler and more comfortable during the hot, humid months. Your dehumidifier will keep humidity levels below 50%. Ideal indoor humidity falls in the range of 30 to 50%.

A dehumidifier will use energy, but it will make your HVAC system more efficient too. When humidity levels are controlled, your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home. Dehumidifiers use only a fraction of the power that an air conditioning compressor does, so it’s better to install one than to continuously keep your air on a lower temperature. This increased energy efficiency is good for your pocketbook and the environment. 

Drier air is also a less fertile environment for dust mites, allergens, and fleas. Your indoor air quality will be better, you will breathe easier, and you will have to worry less about your pets. Lower humidity levels help prevent mold and mildew growth, protecting your home and health.

Finally, removing moisture from the air helps safeguard your home and its contents. Installing a dehumidifier helps protect wooden furniture, flooring, art, clothing, and other household items from warping, mildew, or other damage.

The Cons

Unfortunately, installing a whole-house dehumidifier has a price tag, with the cost of the unit and installation. This type of dehumidifier must be professionally installed to ensure a proper connection to your home’s ductwork. 

Dehumidifiers also require regular maintenance like changing filters and emptying and cleaning water reservoirs in order to function effectively and avoid bacterial growth. Depending on your HVAC system setup, adding a dehumidifier may require additional space as well, which could be an issue in smaller homes.

A whole-house dehumidifier is not something that can be uninstalled and moved to a new house if you decide to sell someday because it’s affixed to the HVAC system. However, a whole-house dehumidifier might increase your home’s value, so that’s a positive. 

Should You Install a Dehumidifier?

A whole-house dehumidifier isn’t necessary for every house, but it’s an excellent solution for a home with high humidity. It’s also wise to consider why your home is so moist. There may be a specific issue, like a plumbing leak, causing the problem. If that is the case, a plumber is the solution to avoid permanent damage to your home. 

If you have questions about your home’s humidity, consulting with the HVAC professionals at Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating can help you make an informed decision. We are alway ready to help with either HVAC or plumbing problems, so give us a call today! 


maintenance programs

Residential Valued Customer Plans – Your Gateway to Comfort and Savings!

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Why Not Maintaining Your Home Systems Can Cost You More: Introducing Residential Valued Customer Plans (RVCP)

Are you aware that neglecting regular maintenance of your home’s heating, cooling, and plumbing systems could be costing you significantly? At Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating, we understand these challenges and are thrilled to introduce our Residential Valued Customer Plans (RVCP) – maintenance plans and service packages that not only enhance efficiency but also save you from potential financial pitfalls.

The High Cost of Neglect

  1. Furnace Maintenance: A well-maintained furnace can save up to 30% in energy efficiency, reducing your utility bills. However, ignoring this can lead to decreased efficiency and increased energy costs. Consider the RVCP Furnace Plan at just $18/month to avoid these unnecessary expenses.
  2. Water Heater Upkeep: Failing to maintain your water heater can lead to leaks, heating element failure, or complete unit breakdown. With repairs costing an average of $591, the RVCP Water Heater Plan at $5/month is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
  3. Air Conditioning Care: Air conditioning units require regular tune-ups. Neglect can lead to costly repairs ranging from $150 to over $2,500, including $600 to $2,500 for compressor replacement. Our A/C Plan at $10/month is a smart investment to mitigate these hefty repair bills.

Comprehensive Coverage with RVCP

  1. Deluxe Package: Our Deluxe Package for $30/month covers all three systems and offers a 5% discount on additional HVAC or plumbing work. This comprehensive approach not only saves you money on maintenance but also on potential repairs and energy costs.
  2. Enhanced Efficiency and Savings: Proper maintenance can improve system efficiency by 10%, translating to significant utility savings. Avoiding maintenance can lead to problems like clogged AC drain lines, which can cost $75 to $250 to fix.
  3. Increased Home Value: Homes with documented regular maintenance are more attractive to buyers, potentially increasing your property’s value.

Joining a Weinkauf Residential Valued Customer Plan is not just about maintaining your home systems; it’s about protecting your investment from unnecessary and often substantial repair costs. Our team at Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating is committed to providing you with the best possible service and peace of mind.

Contact us today to inquire and learn more!

most expensive appliances in your home

The Most Expensive Appliances in Your Home

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Inflation is hitting everyone in the wallet these days. Utility bills can be anxiety provoking especially when you don’t know what to expect. The costs fluctuate from month to month and season to season. If you dread opening your electric bill, this blog is for you. Here we will discuss which appliances and systems in your home use the most energy so you can decide how you want to use your most expensive appliances – or whether you want to replace them with more energy efficient models. 

Which Appliances Are Most Expensive to Operate? 

#1 Your HVAC System

Heating and cooling account for nearly half the energy used in most homes. An electric furnace will, of course, use more electricity than a gas one, but a gas furnace that runs inefficiently will still run up your electric bill. Your air conditioner should also be in top condition if you want lower bills during the summer months. At Weinkauf, we recommend changing your air filter regularly because a dirty filter will force your HVAC system to work harder and use more energy.

We also recommend that you have a professional check and maintain your HVAC system at least once a year so that it runs smoothly and efficiently at all times. If your furnace is older than 10 years, you could realize significant energy savings by replacing it with a more energy efficient model. 

We can also upgrade your thermostat to a smart thermostat that will learn your temperature preferences and allow you to reduce HVAC use when you are sleeping or not at home, saving you money over time. 

#2 Your Water Heater

An electric water heater can account for up to 15 percent of your home’s total electricity use. Whether gas or electric, a traditional water heater uses energy continuously in order to provide you with hot water when you need it for washing or bathing. Insulating your water heater tank and pipes can reduce heat loss. Or you could upgrade to a tankless water heater which will supply limitless amounts of hot water when you need it without the energy waste lost during storage. 

#3 Your Washer and Dryer

Laundry and dishwashing are daily tasks that require time and energy. They also account for up to 12 percent of your energy use. To conserve resources, save running your washing machine or dishwasher until you have a full load, and wash more of your clothing on the cold cycle. 

#4 Your Home’s Lighting 

In Michigan we can’t rely on only solar energy for light or heating, but using natural light whenever possible will help lower your lighting costs. Turn off lights when you are no longer using them, and nag your kids to do the same. It’s also good to replace your traditional incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs which are more energy efficient and last longer. 

#5 Your Stove and Refrigerator

Newer appliances are more energy efficient than older models, particularly ENERGY STAR products, but if you’re not ready or able to replace your stove or refrigerator, keep them cleaned and maintained so they can operate as well and effectively as possible. 

Most of the other personal appliances or devices in your home are not as energy intensive. While it’s always good to turn off televisions or computers when you are not using them, they simply do not take as much energy to run as air conditioners or water heaters. If you see your utility bills rising, you should focus on which of your larger appliances are no longer in top condition and maintenance or upgrade them. By identifying the most expensive appliances in your home, you can reduce your energy consumption and your bills.

There are ways to reduce your utility costs and save money every month. If you have questions about your HVAC system and its efficiency, please contact us at Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating. We would be happy to discuss your options with you and make recommendations for repairing or replacing your furnace, your A/C, or your water heater. 

 

Customer Service certificate

Customer Service Is Our #1 Priority

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We are proud to announce that Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating was recently featured by the Alpena Area Chamber of Commerce for our customer service. The Chamber awarded us a certificate of recognition. Weinkauf always makes our work with customers our top priority, so we are happy to see that being noticed. 

Weinkauf customer service

Why Is Customer Service So Important? 

At Weinkauf we work with our team of service professionals to hone their customer service skills. Our goal is to exceed your expectations for service. This is important because even though we sell products like furnaces, hot water heaters, and toilets, it’s really the installation and maintenance of those products that makes a difference to your comfort. You invite us into your homes and businesses to do our work, and we want to make that a pleasant and rewarding experience for you. In order to do that effectively we have focused on the following: 

Listening – Before we start work, it’s our goal to listen and understand what the problem is and the limitations you may have in solving it so we can recommend appropriate and affordable solutions. 

Responsiveness – Emergencies happen. In fact, any furnace or plumbing failure will feel like an emergency pretty quickly. Our emergency number is 989-354-5427. Don’t hesitate to call! We are ready to quickly address your plumbing or HVAC problem so you can go back to living your life without that added stress.

Proactivity – We consider it part of the job to anticipate our customers’ needs if possible and take steps to prevent issues from arising in the first place. This often means recommending additional products or maintenance to stop a problem from becoming a problem. 

Consistent Service – All of our customers are valued customers and receive the same high standard of care. 

To meet these goals for service we train our staff, providing them with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to effectively handle customer concerns. We also focus on feedback and continuous improvement, developing our team’s skills and abilities. 

Many of our customers have noticed our customer service efforts and left reviews for us on our Google profile. If you’re unsure of who to call to fix your clogged sink or broken air conditioner, take some time to read the reviews there from over a hundred satisfied customers.

Weinkauf services all existing HVAC and plumbing products as well as the ones we sell and install. Call us anytime with questions – our service vans are stocked and ready to roll. We want to be your choice for plumbing and heating professionals in the greater Alpena, Michigan area which is why we make customer service such a high priority. 




flush your water heater

Why You Need to Flush Your Water Heater

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How long will your water heater last? The answer to that question depends on a number of factors, including the quality of the water heater you purchase, but also how well you maintain it. In this blog we will talk about why you need to flush your water heater to keep it working well and extend its life.

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Water Heater? 

The rule of thumb is that a water heater should last about 10 years. Of course, this depends on the amount of work the heater has to do over its lifetime as well as the conditions it operates under. If your house uses a great deal of water for bathing, laundry, or cleaning, that means the water heater has to work harder. Remember, you expect there to be hot water whenever you turn on your tap. In order for that to happen, your water heater is working even when you’re not thinking about it. Your refrigerator is probably the only other appliance you have that operates continuously. 

The hardness of your water also contributes to how much your water heater has to work. Hard water has a higher mineral content. This mineral content builds up on the inside of your water heater and on its heating element slowly over time and reduces its efficiency. Excessive sediment buildup at the bottom of a gas water heater can create hot spots and damage the tank. If you hear popping or rumbling noises coming from your water heater, you have a problem with sediment buildup, and you need to have it addressed.

What is the solution? You need to flush your water heater. 

Why You Need to Flush Your Water Heater

no hot waterLike most of your home appliances, your hot water heater does need periodic maintenance. It may keep chugging along seemingly without problems, but that doesn’t mean it’s operating at full capacity or efficiency. Over time it will use more energy to heat the water, and it may fail completely and require replacing if you don’t flush it out. 

Flushing your water heater will remove the lime buildup on the lower heating element in electric water heaters and prevent uneven heating at the bottom of the gas water heaters that can lead to leakage. For both types of water heaters, flushing will remove the sediment that can cause the drain valve to clog. 

Ideally, most water heaters should be flushed every six months to prevent damage. If your water is very hard, you may want to do it more often. Draining and flushing the tank is an involved chore, so many homeowners will call a licensed plumber to service it annually. A plumber will inspect the tank for rust and leaks as well as test the thermostat and valves. He will replace the anode rod to prevent corrosion too. 

If you don’t know how to drain the tank without creating a watery mess or want to fuss with your pilot light, calling a plumber to inspect and flush your water heater is the way to go. Over time, this maintenance will produce lower heating bills and a longer lasting water heater. 

If you have concerns about your water heater or would like to schedule maintenance, contact Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating. We want to keep your plumbing in tip top condition so you do not have to worry about outages or leaks. Call us – we’re here to help!

 

air conditioner ready

Is Your Air Conditioner Ready for Summer?

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Now that summer is unofficially here in Michigan, we can look forward to sunshine and warmer days. It’s a relief to finally turn the furnace off, open the windows, and get some fresh air into the house. Right around the corner is the heat of summer, though. Is your air conditioner ready for it? 

It’s Time to Check Your Air Conditioner

Before you turn your air conditioner on, there are a few steps you should take to make sure it’s functioning properly. First, turn the power to your A/C unit off. This will prevent any risk of electrocution while you inspect it. The exterior power circuit should be in a small box that is mounted to the side of your home near your unit. Lift the cover and flip the switch to the “Off” position and close the lid. 

If you covered your A/C unit for the winter, remove the cover and look it over carefully. If it’s surrounded by leaves or other debris, clear those off. You can wash off dirt, dust, or bird droppings with a wet cloth and some water. Then allow it to dry completely. If you have plants or vines growing too close to your unit, remove them. You do not want your air conditioner to get clogged with vegetation and stop working right when you need it the most. 

Examine your air conditioner for any cracks, rust, leaks, or other issues. If you find loose or cracked seals, call a licensed HVAC contractor like Weinkauf Plumbing & Heating. A small leak may not seem like much of a problem, but replacing coolant is expensive. You want to fix that as soon as possible. 

This is a great time to switch out your air filter. Remember, if you have central air, your furnace fan is operating all year round. A dirty filter will make your air conditioner work harder to cool your home. If you want your A/C unit to operate efficiently and keep dust, pollen, and other pollutants out of your air, change the filter regularly. 

When you are finished with your inspection, you can turn the power to your A/C unit back on and operate your air conditioning from your thermostat. 

What Did You Find? Is Your Air Conditioner Ready for Summer?

If you do see problems with the unit, your air conditioner fails to perform to satisfaction when you turn it on, or you notice an unusually high electric bill, call your HVAC contractor right away. Many people will find that their air conditioner is not working properly, and the sooner you call, the sooner you will have service performed. 

Weinkauf also has air filters available, so if you need a supply of them, call us. We offer discounts when buying filters in bulk. 

If your air conditioner is an older model, more than 15 years old, it’s probably time to replace it. We would be happy to discuss the condition of your heating and cooling system with you and make recommendations based on your preferences.

At Weinkauf, we are here for all of your heating and cooling needs. If you live in the Alpena, Oscoda, Hillman, Posen, Hubbard Lake, or Mio areas, we want to be your one-stop shop for plumbing and HVAC, so if you have a problem, call us! Our professional technicians can take on any task, either commercial or residential.