Our FAQ’s
Plumbing FAQs
What are some tips for choosing a plumbing company?
Answer:
Any time you need to hire someone for home repairs, it’s essential to check their credentials. The state of Florida requires plumbers to be licensed. However, your research should go a step beyond just checking to see if a plumber is licensed. You can gauge a company’s level of professionalism by how willing customers are to do repeat business with them or to refer them to friends and family. BHS has thousands of reviews from satisfied residential and commercial customers online. Our employees are thoroughly trained and background-checked to ensure their reliability. You also want to look for a plumbing company that can respond to emergencies promptly. We’re available around the clock.
What are the most common plumbing issues in homes?
Answer:
Leaky faucets, corroded or frozen pipes, clogged toilets, sewage back-ups, and leaks causing flooding are all common plumbing issues we see at BHS. Have you noticed murky, brown water coming from your taps? What about strange noises coming from your pipes or inconsistent water pressure? These are all warning signs you need an emergency plumber, and pronto. There are many plumbing myths you should be aware of, such as using over-the-counter products will help you unclog a drain. The reality is these products often cause more damage due to their harsh chemicals. Your best bet is to call a plumber.
Why is it critical to hire an experienced plumber?
Answer:
Professional, experienced plumbers possess the necessary training and equipment to handle plumbing installations, repairs, and maintenance without any hassles. Efficient plumbing help can be hard to come by, but not when you call BHS. Our family-owned and -operated company was founded in 1980 and employs only the best plumbers in Southwest and Central Florida. We ensure everything is up-to-code. Don’t jeopardize the safety of your family or home by attempting to fix plumbing issues yourself.
Where can I get more information about your plumbing services?
Answer:
Our plumbing services range from sewer inspections and replacing polybutylene pipes to drain cleaning, sewer jetting, and dealing with plumbing emergencies of all varieties. From burst pipes to sewer system back-ups, major water leaks, and overflowing toilets, there’s not a plumbing emergency we haven’t tackled. Although winters are mild in Southwest and Central Florida, we can help you winterize your plumbing to avoid freezing or bursting pipes. We also install and repair traditional and tankless water heaters and state-of-the-art water filtration systems to help Florida residents improve their water quality. Any time you need plumbing help, we’re just a phone call away!
Do you offer emergency plumbing services after hours?
Answer:
Yes! Plumbing emergencies often happen on evenings, weekends, and holidays, but that doesn’t mean you should be without water. If you’ve experienced a major water leak, frozen pipes, or a sewage back-up, give us a call immediately. We have plumbers available 24 hours a day to prevent further damage. Our staff always goes above and beyond to respect you and your property, taking the time to wear shoe covers and use floor covers without leaving a bigger mess behind.
How do I choose the best plumbing repair service?
Answer:
You should always check a plumber’s credentials, background, and references. For your peace of mind, you should hire an experienced plumber who is licensed, certified, and insured. Reputable plumbers usually come with an “A” rating by the Better Business Bureau and online reviews left by satisfied customers, two things BHS can boast. When you rely on BHS for all your home repair needs, you can watch all your plumbing problems go down the drain. Check out our blog for ways to avoid common plumbing troubles during the holidays and any day, really. If you heed our professional advice, you can save yourself – and any house guests – the hassles and headaches caused by plumbing issues. Our plumbers would also be happy to give you plumbing maintenance tips to help you avoid costly repairs.
How do I know if I need a water heater repair?
Answer:
The average water heater should last at least 8-12 years with proper maintenance. However, there are several telltale signs you may need a water heater repair. Have you noticed rust around your water heater tank? What about a pool of water at its base? Leaks or a lack of hot water are cause for concern. If your water heater is older than 10 years, you may find its performance to be steadily on the decline. Have our master plumbers take a look as quickly as possible. We specialize in repairs and replacements.
What are common causes of pipe corrosion & leaks?
Answer:
Corroded and leaky pipes may be caused by issues with your home’s water pressure, harsh chemicals in your water or unbalanced pH levels, and extreme temperatures in your water. If you suspect you have a water leak, we suggest checking your water meter. Record its level and then check again in a few hours (ensuring nobody uses the water during this time). If the level has changed, you should call our experts to take a closer look at your pipes. Not only can leaks get bigger over time (and they usually do), but they can end up costing you more in higher water bills, emergency repairs, damaged belongings, and more. Did you know a leaking faucet could result in hundreds of gallons of wasted water per year? Get it checked out right away. We may be able to repair your faucet, but sometimes a replacement is cheaper.
What benefits do tankless water heaters have?
Answer:
Not only are they small and compact in size, but tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional water heaters. They offer the advantage of hot water on demand, which is especially enticing the larger your household. Say goodbye to waiting for hot water to shower while someone else in your home is doing dishes or laundry when you invest in a tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters are also about 24-34% more energy-efficient than traditional water heaters, which can help you significantly reduce your energy bills. Reach out to our team today to discover additional benefits.
What are warning signs that I may need plumbing repair?
Answer:
Steadily increasing water bills is a good indication you have a plumbing problem. A leak in your system could cause spikes in water usage. Stains on your ceilings or walls usually represent a leak of some kind, whether it’s in your plumbing or roofing. If you’ve noticed inconsistent water pressure, you could have a water main issue. Extra green grass on your lawn may sound like a good thing, but it could indicate you have a leak in your sewer line. Often, tree roots cause issues with sewer lines resulting in uneven water levels in your toilets. Finally, any noticeable cracks found in your plumbing system should be addressed immediately. Cracks tend to get bigger and cause more widespread issues over time.
How do I know if I need home repiping services?
Answer:
If you live in an older home and it hasn’t been repiped in over 15 years, you’re likely due. Signs you could benefit from our home repiping services include noisy, leaky, or corroded pipes, low water pressure, foul-tasting or murky water, and fluctuating water temperatures. Not getting your pipes redone could lead to larger disasters down the road. Many older homes have polybutylene pipes that need to be replaced because this material causes damage to your home’s plumbing and structural integrity. Polybutylene was commonly used between 1978 and 1995, affecting anywhere from 6-10 million homes nationwide. If you are in doubt about your home’s pipes, call BHS for a professional plumbing inspection and recommendation. You may also read our blog “When and Why You Should Consider a Whole-Home Repipe” for additional insights.
Are plumbing inspections included in your maintenance plan?
Answer:
Yes. When you invest in BHS’ Home Care Maintenance Plan, you’ll receive one plumbing inspection, one electrical inspection, and two air conditioning maintenance visits per year. You’re guaranteed priority service without after-hours emergency rates applied. Plan members also enjoy discounts on repairs and worry-free scheduling, meaning we’ll remind you when it’s time to schedule your annual maintenance. You can relax, knowing your home’s HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems are working in harmony. Check out our testimonials to see why our services come so highly recommended by your neighbors.
Do you offer financing for home repiping and other services?
Answer:
Of course. We know plumbing emergencies often come unexpectedly. Not only do we accept cash, checks, and most major credit cards for our plumbing services, but we also offer third-party financing options through Microf and GreenSky™ for your convenience. Contact us with additional concerns!
Electrical FAQs
What are some helpful tips for choosing and Electrician?
Answer:
Not all electricians are created equal. You should always ask for credentials and references. Hiring a subpar electrician could end up costing you more than wasted time and money. It could jeopardize your safety, increasing your risk of electrocution or an electrical fire in your home or business. BHS employs licensed electricians who are also certified and insured. All BHS employees are thoroughly trained and background-checked to ensure your safety and peace of mind. Our family-owned and -operated business has been around since 1980 and is renowned for award-winning customer service. If you search for our company on the Internet, you’ll find thousands of five-star reviews from satisfied BHS customers and an “A” rating with the Better Business Bureau.
What electrical services do you offer at Best Home Services?
Answer:
Our electrical services include everything from panel box upgrades, rewiring, and lighting repairs to the installation of standby home generators and whole-house surge protectors. We serve residential and commercial customers throughout Southwest and Central Florida, including Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, Naples, Sarasota, and Tampa. We specialize in retrofits, upgrades, and ensuring everything meets local electrical codes. Our technicians would be happy to hook up any appliances, install ceiling fans, or set up the electrical connections for your backyard spa or pool. We’re adept at troubleshooting any electrical issues that come up in your home or office. Give us a call today for more details about our services.
Do your electricians provide emergency electrical service?
Answer:
Because we understand how inconvenient and dangerous it can be without working electricity, we’re available for 24-hour emergency service. Give us a call, and we’ll have a licensed electrician dispatched to your home or business as quickly as possible. In the event of an electrical fire, be sure to call your local fire department immediately. Never try to put out an electrical fire with water. If it’s safe to do so, you may douse it with a fire extinguisher, flour, or baking soda. Disconnecting the plug or shutting off the power may help, if you’re able to do so without jeopardizing your safety.
Why should I hire a licensed electrician instead of DIY?
Answer:
Many people ask us why they shouldn’t attempt electrical work on their own. It really depends on the type of electrical issue and your experience level. Changing a light bulb or resetting a tripped breaker are simple do-it-yourself tasks. However, something more complex could be a potential fire hazard resulting in severe injury or death if handled by an amateur. We recommend relying on our licensed electricians to eliminate guesswork, avoid costly damages, and ensure your safety. Check out our blog on “The Common Mistakes DIYers Make with Electrical Projects” to find out why you’re better off relying on our experts than taking matters into your own hands.
When should I upgrade my electrical services?
Answer:
If you’ve moved into an older home or office recently, we suggest getting an electrical safety inspection. Electric panels and wiring usually need to be replaced every 25 years or so. Systems become outdated as technology evolves. Today, consumers have more electronic devices and gadgets than ever, all taking a toll on your electrical load. Any time you wish to renovate your building or upgrade your appliances is also an ideal time to get your electrical services inspected. Our electricians specialize in electrical service upgrades to ensure everything meets the latest standards. You can count on us for panel box upgrades, rewiring problematic or unsafe wiring, and installing new circuits, switches, and outlets.
Why do my smoke detectors keep chirping?
Answer:
If your smoke detectors keep chirping and you don’t have any smoke present, you could have a low battery or a defective smoke detector. We recommend changing the batteries to see if this makes a difference. If they continue to chirp, call our electricians for an assessment. You could have a voltage issue. You should never disconnect your smoke detectors, as they will be unable to warn you in the event of a fire. It’s best to get them fixed or replaced as quickly as possible.
What's the difference between a blown fuse and circuit breaker?
Answer:
Both fuses and circuit breakers can become overwhelmed, resulting in the interruption of your system’s electrical flow. The main difference between a blown fuse and a blown circuit breaker is that fuses need to be replaced while breakers need to be reset. A tripped circuit breaker can be reset by flipping the handle on its face. If you blow a fuse, it’s best to talk to a professional before purchasing a new one, as there are varying levels of voltages and ratings to consider. If you have a blown circuit breaker, you may be able to reset it on your own. It’s necessary to disconnect all devices before attempting to reset your breaker, and it may require several attempts. Frequent tripped breakers should be inspected by licensed electricians for a thorough assessment. Fuse and circuit breaker repairs and other serious electrical issues are always best left in the hands of experts.
What does GFCI mean in relation to outlets?
Answer:
GFCI is an acronym for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. GFCI devices protect you from electrocution. GFCI outlets are recommended in rooms that often see damp areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and garages. When your GFCI device detects resistance resulting from ground fault, it shuts off immediately to prevent electrical shock. Perhaps you’ve noticed red and black buttons on your GFCI outlets. The black button is a test button, and the red button is a reset button. These buttons are used to ensure your GFCI device is functioning correctly.
How can I lower my home or office electrical bills?
Answer:
There are many adjustments you can make to lower your monthly electric bills. Be sure to turn off lights and other electric devices when they’re not in use. Consider installing automatic timers or motion-detecting lights outside and a digital programmable thermostat to control your HVAC system. Ceiling fans, smart appliances, and LED lighting are becoming popular ways to boost energy efficiency.
What's the benefit of whole-home surge protection?
Answer:
Florida residents are susceptible to hurricanes and severe storms capable of producing lightning strikes and power surges much of the year. Investing in whole-home surge protection will help you protect your home and electrical devices from damage caused by tripped circuit breakers, short circuits, faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, and more. You can find additional info in our blog titled “The Importance of Whole-Home Surge Protection in SW Florida.” We’re dedicated to looking out for our customers’ best interests in the name of safety. We also specialize in the installation of standby home generators.
What are some tips to improve my home's electrical safety?
Answer:
There are several things you should do as a responsible homeowner to ensure your home’s electrical safety. You should unplug appliances when they’re not in use. This not only eliminates tripping hazards, but it also reduces your risk of an electrical fire. Never store electronic devices or appliances near water. Never overload your electrical outlets with too many devices plugged into them. Remember to schedule annual electrical safety inspections and make safety upgrades when necessary. Check out our blog “Electrical Safety for Kids” for additional insights about making your home safer if you have small children or pets. Feel free to contact us with any additional electrical safety questions or concerns!
HVAC FAQs
What's an HVAC unit? Are there different HVAC system types?
Answer:
HVAC is an acronym that stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. An HVAC system is what keeps buildings cool during the summer and warm during the winter. There are four main types of HVAC systems: split systems, hybrid systems, duct-free systems, and packaged heating and air systems. Split heating and cooling systems are the most common. Typically, this type of system has a heater located in the basement and an air conditioner located outside of the home. A thermostat controls your indoor temperatures, while a humidifier may also keep you comfortable.
Hybrid systems are similar, except they usually switch between gas and electric power to give property owners more energy-efficient options. Duct-free, or mini-split systems, are individually placed in various rooms to allow independent temperature control and home zoning. Packaged heating and air systems are ideal for compact spaces and warmer climates such as Florida’s because the heating isn’t as powerful as other options. Although split systems remain the most popular, hybrid and duct-free systems are on the rise as home and business owners address energy efficiency concerns.
What size HVAC system should I have in my home or office?
Answer:
Heating and cooling systems are measured by their tonnage. One ton equals roughly 12,000 BTU/H and can efficiently cool 300-800 square feet of space. HVAC size does matter, as a unit that’s too small for space will end up working harder, often resulting in frequent breakdowns and repairs. The best way to determine if your HVAC system is ideal for your space is to ask the professionals at BHS. Check out our blog “The Best Way to Heat and Cool Your Southwest Florida Home” for tips on selecting the best HVAC system for your needs.
How can I improve my HVAC systems energy efficiency?
Answer:
Your air conditioning’s energy efficiency is linked to the unit’s SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). The higher your system’s SEER rating, the more efficient the system. We would suggest examining your system’s SEER rating to see if an upgrade to a newer unit would be worth the investment. Other ways to improve your energy efficiency include installing a digital programmable thermostat or home zoning. Finally, remembering to keep up with HVAC maintenance, including replacing your air filter, can help improve your current system’s efficiency. Other ways to save money on your energy bills include installing LED lighting, dimmers, automatic timers, and ceiling fans.
How do you choose the best HVAC repair service?
Answer:
When you need an HVAC repair, time is of the essence. You need to find an HVAC repair service provider who offers fast, same-day service and honors manufacturer’s warranties. It’s also important to look for a company that offers upfront pricing, so you know exactly what’s included in your repair without any gimmicks or hidden fees. Integrity and a willingness to go the extra mile for customers goes a long way in this industry. BHS offers around-the-clock emergency cooling and heating repairs throughout Southwest and Central Florida. You’ll never have to worry about our qualifications for the job. Trusted in thousands of local homes, our technicians are fully licensed, insured, and certified for commercial and residential HVAC repairs and maintenance.
What are helpful tips in choosing an HVAC company?
Answer:
Be sure to check a company’s credentials and background. You want to find an HVAC company with the proper licensing, insurance, certifications, and the right amount of experience. Ask around for recommendations and do research on the Internet. You’ll find BHS has thousands of reviews from satisfied customers and an “A” rating with the Better Business Bureau. Getting upfront pricing with a written estimate and no hidden fees is another way to guarantee your satisfaction.
How much is an HVAC inspection on average?
The cost of an HVAC inspection may vary by provider, region, and time of year. The size of your unit or home could also be a significant factor. HVAC inspections are recommended at least once a year. For the best performance, you may wish to have your heating inspected in the fall, and your air conditioning inspected in the spring. BHS strives to keep our HVAC inspection costs minimal. Be sure to ask about our affordable annual home maintenance plan, which includes AC, electrical, and plumbing inspections.
Why is HVAC maintenance important?
Answer:
HVAC maintenance is suggested twice a year: once for heat and once for air conditioning. The idea behind servicing your system is to prevent more costly breakdowns and repairs. Just as your body requires annual check-ups, your HVAC system requires yearly check-ups to ensure it’s in tip-top shape. BHS’ Home Care Maintenance Plan offers whole-home protection and the ultimate peace of mind. You’ll enjoy discounts on all services and repairs and priority service with worry-free scheduling and no after-hours emergency rates for one low annual fee. Our qualified technicians will visit your home or office twice per year for air conditioning maintenance, once for electrical, and once for a plumbing inspection. We also recommend reading our blog “Best Practices to Minimize Wear and Tear on HVAC Systems” for additional HVAC maintenance tips.
Is it necessary to service my air conditioner system?
Answer:
Yes. Air conditioners require preventative maintenance to ensure proper airflow and maximum efficiency. Not servicing your air conditioning may result in a steady decline in performance while you may also notice a steadily increasing energy bill. Outdoor units need to be kept free of debris, including weeds, twigs, leaves, and clutter. Air filters need to be cleaned or changed regularly, usually once a month. With the right amount of maintenance, many air conditioners can last up to 10-15 years.
How can I tell if my HVAC system needs to be replaced?
Answer:
If you’ve noticed steadily increasing energy bills or inconsistent indoor temperatures, these are the most common warning signs your HVAC system may need to be replaced. Frequent repairs, unusual smells or noises, excessive dust, and humidity issues are also red flags. Finally, age is also a considerable factor. If your HVAC unit is older than 15 years, it’s probably time for a modern, energy-efficient replacement.
What are the advantages of a programmable thermostat?
Answer:
Digital programmable thermostats are more accurate than traditional thermostats containing mercury. They allow you to control your home or business’ indoor temperatures remotely through an app on your phone at various times throughout the day for maximum energy efficiency. You can set them automatically, so you never forget about adjusting the thermostat ever again. You can also check out our blog “Small Changes to Save Big on Your Energy Bill” for additional energy-saving tips!
Why should I have my air ducts cleaned by professionals?
Answer:
Air duct cleaning is essential to eliminating allergens inside your home or office. Florida’s humidity can wreak havoc on your HVAC system, creating ideal conditions for mold growth. Your air ducts also need to be cleaned to deter insects and rodents from making their homes inside them. Ignoring your air ducts can be detrimental to your health and indoor comfort. When air ducts become clogged by dirt and debris, it eventually releases into your rooms. This creates unpleasant odors and unbreathable air. Rely on BHS for professional air duct cleaning services using the latest technology and equipment. Check out our blog titled “How to Reduce Home Allergens” for more info on the connection between your HVAC system and the allergens lurking inside your home.
Why should I choose Best Home Services for my HVAC needs?
Answer:
Are you new to the Southwest or Central Florida area? While you have many HVAC companies to choose from, BHS enjoys referrals and repeat business from thousands of satisfied home and business owners in the region. Reasons why you should choose BHS to include:
- Locally Owned & Operated Since 1980
- Thousands of 5-Star Home Services Reviews
- Eight-Time Winner of Carrier’s National President’s Award
- Nexstar Service System, EPA, & N.A.T.E.-Certified Technicians
- One of the Best Annual Maintenance Plans in the Business
- Friendly, Honest Customer Service & Flexible Scheduling
- Comprehensive Home Services under One Roof (HVAC, Electrical, & Plumbing)
Do you offer financing for HVAC services?
Answer:
BHS accepts cash, checks, and all major credit cards for our HVAC services. We also offer financing options through Wells Fargo, Microf and GreenSky™ to make HVAC repair more affordable for families and businesses on a budget. Feel free to contact us with any financing questions or concerns. Be sure to ask about available rebates, especially when purchasing a new air conditioning system!