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At Stashluk, it is our goal to offer sound advice and information about your plumbing, heating and air conditioning systems. The following list includes the answers to many common client questions, and we hope you'll find it helpful. If your question is not included, please call us directly at 908-277-6200. Many times, we can address your concern over the phone. If we can't, we'll have a technician get back to you with the information you need—so you can make the best decision for your home and family.
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About the Stashluk Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Team
Do you provide emergency service?
Yes! At Stashluk, we know that plumbing, heating and air conditioning problems don't always happen during business hours. Simply call 908-277-6200 and follow the prompt: "For emergency service and a live technician right now, press 3." You will speak to a live person regarding emergency service, even on nights and weekends.
Do you provide service in my area?
The Stashluk team covers a lot of ground—so there's a good chance that we provide service to your NJ community! To find out for sure, view our detailed list of towns and counties here.
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About My Plumbing System
How do I stop a leaky pipe?
To stop the water flow, turn off the main shut-off valve for the related appliance, toilet or sink. This will prevent further damage to your home while you wait for a repair specialist to replace or repair your pipe(s).
I have a strange odor coming from my drain. What should I do?
Drain odors typically mean that a drain clog is building. In order to prevent drain clogs and ward off drain odors, regularly clean drains on heavily used sinks and showers. A simple, household remedy: pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. After 30 to 60 minutes, flush the drain with boiling water. Avoid heavy use of chemical drain openers, as they can burn eyes and hands if misused—and can cause damage to pipes and drains over time.
For stubborn drain clogs and odors, call the Stashluk team today. We'll provide a prompt, cost-effective remedy to your drain problems.
What should I do about a frozen pipe?
Never use a kerosene, propane or electric space heater to thaw a frozen pipe, since you could cause damage to the wall, floor coverings or furniture. For quick access to the water supply, identify the main shut-off valve feeding the frozen pipe. Shut it off to avoid the pipe bursting and flooding. If possible, safely expose the pipes to warmth. For example, when kitchen faucet water lines freeze, open the cabinet doors below and allow warm room air into the cabinet.
In most cases, plumbing repair costs are far lower than the cost of repairing the damage caused by a frozen/burst pipe, so it's best to call Stashluk immediately for assistance from a professional. If the offending pipe does begin leaking, turn off the water main valve serving that portion of your home, manage the water leak as safely as you can—and call Stashluk for emergency service.
When do I need a plumbing inspection?
It is wise to schedule a plumbing inspection when you move into your home, and at least every 2-3 years after that. Septic systems should also be inspected regularly. With Stashluk’s ASI Member Plan, you can schedule regular Annual plumbing inspections to identify small problems before they become "BIG" problems. We'll ensure that your system is running properly—and minimize the chance of a costly, unexpected repair.
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About My Heating & Cooling System
Is it better to repair an old system or replace it with a new one?
Every situation is unique and different. At Stashluk, we assess each system on its own merit, carefully taking into consideration age and condition. We generally repair systems that are less than 10 years old, and remedy any potential problems that we see.
In systems that require very costly repairs, or are more than 10 years old, we typically recommend replacement. However, we tailor our recommendations to your individual needs, and are committed to providing the best, most cost-effective solutions for you and your family.
What is a heat pump and why do people call it "magic"?
Heat pumps are more science than magic. Cutting-edge heat pumps heat and cool your air more efficiently, more economically, more comfortably and with more regard for the environment than traditional fuel burning systems. They use refrigeration technology rather than fuel-burning technology to provide heat and cooling.
Heat pumps operate on the principle that heat exists in the air, even when the air temperature is cool. Most heat pumps are split systems, with one coil indoors and one coil outdoors. During the heating process, the pump uses air outside the home to evaporate a refrigerant in the outdoor coil. Heat from outside air is extracted, and evaporates the liquid refrigerant in the coil—then converts the liquid refrigerant into a warm gas. The gas is compressed, and transferred from the outdoor coil to the indoor coil. Once indoors, the gas is released as heat and distributed through the house using fans.
When the heat pump is working to cool your home, the ductwork and fans bring the warm air in the home to the compressor unit. The compressor unit then uses the same gas evaporation/compression process it uses to heat your home, but this time in reverse, to extract the warm air from the home and send it outside.
Is a heat pump right for me?
Heat pumps are a good solution for many homeowners ready to replace their heating and air conditioning system, and are especially helpful in the following situations:
- HVAC systems that are not providing proper comfort
- Homeowners who wish to help the environment and reduce fuel consumption
- Homeowners willing to spend a little more to achieve superior functionality and huge long-term energy savings
- Families who are sensitive to airborne allergens or who suffer from asthma
Science or magic, the performance and efficiency of modern heat pumps have made many homeowners very happy. Call Stashluk today to request a heat pump estimate for your home!
How do we cope with the effects of summer storms on our cooling system?
Summer storms and lightning can wreak havoc with power lines. If your power goes out, so does your cooling system. To be on the safe side, turn your cooling system to the OFF position until power is restored. After power is restored, turn the system on at the thermostat, and be patient until it balances and distributes cool air throughout the house. If your cooling system does not turn on after a storm, call Stashluk as soon as you can. We'll come to your home and walk you through the fix. Interested in an automatic standby generator to protect your home during weather emergencies? Call Stashluk today to schedule an estimate!
When do I need a heating and cooling system inspection?
It is wise to schedule annual HVAC inspections to maximize your family's comfort, efficiency and safety. Stashluk clients may also choose to become members of our Annual Safety Inspection (ASI) Plan. These comprehensive maintenance plans include pre-season system inspections, priority scheduling and value-rate pricing. Ask about our ASI Plans today!
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About Energy Efficiency and Utility Costs
Energy is so expensive! Can you help us stay warm at less cost this winter?
Absolutely! Here are some helpful tips to reduce your energy bill:
- Lower your thermostat. If you can reduce daytime temperature just a few degrees, you can save as much as five percent on heating bills.
- Check air filters monthly, and change them when appropriate. Dirty air filters make your system work harder and use more energy.
- If you have a fireplace, make sure your damper is closed. Five percent of heat escapes through open dampers.
- During daylight hours, open drapes and shades to let in natural warmth from the sun. Close them at night for extra insulation.
- Close heating vents in rooms you don't use.
- Check for cold air leaks around doors and windows, and install weather stripping as needed.
- Go light on the ventilation and kitchen fans. They can pull the warm air out of your house surprisingly quickly.
- Make sure your hot water heater is set to 120 degrees. Wrap the heater in an insulation blanket if it located in a cold place.
- Contact Stashluk to tune and maintain your system for optimal performance.
When you take all of these steps, we believe you'll be pleasantly surprised by your heating bill!
How can Stashluk help me "Go Green"?
At Stashluk we "think Green," and want to help you to do the same. One great way to contribute to a healthy environment is to have your cooling system checked and cleaned every year, since a dirty system uses more energy and costs more to operate. Have ductwork checked for leaks, change your filters every month, and use your programmable thermostat. Finally, if your system is old, Stashluk will help you determine which Energy Star system would be right for your home. Check out our hybrid heating systems to learn about the amazing benefits!
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