Author: The Darville Company

Why Go Tankless?

Installing a tankless water heater helps eliminate cold showers and reduce energy bills. Inefficient, outdated systems can waste money and energy. A modern upgrade provides endless hot water and lowers utility expenses. Energy-efficient, space-saving technology can transform any living space. Explore the powerful advantages available through this innovative water heating solution.

Energy Efficiency

Tankless water heaters offer notable energy efficiency improvements over conventional storage models, lowering water heating costs. Traditional tank water heaters constantly heat and reheat water, even when not in use, while tankless systems operate only when hot water is required. This eliminates standby heat loss.

The efficiency advantage increases during periods of low water usage. For homes using 41 gallons of hot water or less per day, tankless models can be up to 34% more efficient, based on U.S. Department of Energy data. Even with higher usage of about 86 gallons of hot water per day, tankless systems are up to 14% more efficient than storage water heaters. Energy wasted during idle operation in traditional systems adds up quickly.

These efficiency gains result in measurable savings. Average households may save $100-$200 per year by switching to a tankless unit. Over time, reduced operating costs and access to energy rebates or government incentives help offset the higher upfront investment in installation. Consistent energy savings continue throughout the system’s 20+ year lifespan.

Endless Hot Water Supply and Space Savings

Tankless water heaters heat water as it flows through the unit, delivering unlimited hot water without relying on stored volume. Unlike storage models, which continuously heat a fixed amount, on-demand systems activate only during actual hot water use. As water flows through the system, high-efficiency burners or heating elements rapidly raise the temperature before delivery.

This system design eliminates interruptions in hot water availability. Storage tanks often run out during peak use, requiring time to be recharged. In contrast, tankless systems provide consistent hot water, even with extended or back-to-back use. Simultaneous demands, such as a shower and laundry, can be handled without affecting water temperature. Flow rates typically range from 2 to 5 gallons per minute, depending on model specifications and incoming water conditions.

The absence of a storage tank also provides a space-saving advantage. Tankless models, often wall-mounted, require significantly less space, typically just 28 inches tall, 20 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. These compact dimensions create new opportunities for storage or utility organization, particularly in smaller spaces such as laundry rooms, closets, or garages.

Flexible installation options further enhance practicality. Units can be installed under sinks, in tight utility areas, or even on exterior walls in appropriate climates. Eliminating the bulky footprint of a 40–60 gallon tank frees up room for shelving, cleaning supplies, or custom storage solutions. These spatial benefits contribute to a cleaner layout and improved functionality within the home.

Longer Life Expectancy

Tankless water heaters typically offer a service life of around 20 years, surpassing the lifespan of storage water heaters, which often need replacing after about 10 years. This longer lifespan translates into fewer replacements and greater long-term savings. Many tankless models are backed by long warranties, underscoring their durability and reliability.

The longevity of tankless systems is tied to operational design. Traditional models endure constant thermal stress and mineral buildup from continually heated water, leading to corrosion and mechanical failure. In contrast, tankless models heat water only when needed, minimizing wear and extending the life of internal components.

Avoiding multiple replacements can result in substantial savings. Consumer Reports data indicates that replacement costs for conventional water heaters range from $1,000 to $3,000 every decade. By eliminating one or more of these replacement cycles, tankless systems deliver financial benefits throughout their extended service life. This makes them an especially valuable investment for long-term homeowners and those aiming to increase property value through sustainable upgrades.

About The Darville Company

The Darville Company is a full-service plumbing, heating, and AC company serving Odessa, TX, and the Permian Basin. They offer on-time service, 24/7 emergency service, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them for tankless water heater installation and repair in Odessa, TX.

Benefits of Annual AC Maintenance

A well-functioning air conditioner is one of the most critical components of a comfortable summer. AC maintenance in spring is not just a matter of comfort; it also plays a significant role in energy efficiency and the system’s longevity. This blog delves into the importance of springtime air conditioner maintenance.

Energy Efficiency

Maintaining an air conditioning system’s energy efficiency is crucial for homeowners looking to keep their utility bills in check, especially during the sweltering summer months. Professional AC maintenance is vital in keeping an AC unit running smoothly and efficiently, leading to significant cost savings. 

Here are some ways professional maintenance can enhance energy efficiency:

• Thorough Inspection and Cleaning: Professional technicians perform detailed inspections and cleaning of various components within the air conditioning unit, such as coils, filters, and ductwork. By ensuring these parts are clean and in good condition, the system can operate more efficiently, decreasing the energy required to cool a home.
• Calibration of Thermostats: Technicians ensure that thermostats are correctly calibrated, which prevents excessive energy consumption. Precise thermostat calibration allows the AC system to maintain the desired indoor temperature without excessive cycling, thus maximizing energy efficiency and minimizing utility bills.
• Refrigerant Level Check: Ensuring the refrigerant levels within the AC system are optimal is another key element of professional maintenance. Insufficient or excessive refrigerant levels can cause the system to overwork, leading to increased energy consumption and potential system damage. Professionals ensure these levels are maintained at peak efficiency.

In addition to professional maintenance, homeowners can also take proactive steps to boost their air conditioner’s energy efficiency further:

• Regular Air Filter Replacements: Replacing dirty or clogged air filters ensures that the system maintains smooth airflow. Clean filters reduce the strain on the AC unit, significantly enhancing its efficiency and lowering energy bills.
• Use of Programmable Thermostats: Implementing programmable thermostats allows homeowners to adjust the temperature settings automatically when not at home. This practice not only enhances energy efficiency but also ensures a comfortable environment upon their return.
• Seal Ductwork: Ensuring that ductwork is properly sealed prevents air leakage, allowing the system to function efficiently. By maintaining a tightly sealed duct system, homeowners can reduce wasted energy and improve overall cooling performance.

Through professional maintenance, homeowners can achieve enhanced energy efficiency in their air conditioning systems. These measures contribute to substantial cost savings on utility bills while ensuring a comfortable and consistent climate within the home. 

More Reliable With Fewer Repairs

As the temperatures begin to climb, homeowners rely heavily on their air conditioning systems to keep their homes cool and comfortable during the sweltering summer months. However, AC units can become less reliable without proper maintenance, potentially leading to unexpected breakdowns at the most inconvenient times. 

Conducting regular maintenance in the spring can play a crucial role in ensuring the air conditioner performs optimally when it’s needed most.

• Early Detection of Potential Issues: Skilled technicians can detect early signs of wear and tear or malfunction, offering a chance to fix them before they lead to costly repairs or complete system failure.
• Optimized Performance: Regular maintenance can help prevent problems, resulting in more reliable cooling performance and helping to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the hottest days of the year.
• Fewer Repair Costs: A well-maintained AC system that is more reliable and has fewer issues can also help save homeowners money on repair and service costs.  

By investing time in spring maintenance, homeowners can enjoy a stress-free summer with a more reliable AC system that requires fewer emergency repairs. 

Longer Lifespan

One of the most significant advantages of regularly maintaining an air conditioning system is the potential for extending its lifespan. Proper care and routine maintenance can ensure that the unit remains efficient and durable, allowing homeowners to enjoy the benefits of a reliable cooling system for many years without the need for premature replacement. 

Below are some ways regular maintenance can contribute to a longer lifespan for the air conditioner:

• Prevention of Wear and Tear: By promptly replacing worn-out parts and addressing potential issues, homeowners can prevent wear and tear that shortens the lifespan of their AC units.
• Efficient System Operation: When an air conditioner is free of dirt, dust, and debris, it doesn’t have to work as hard to achieve the desired indoor temperature. 
• Optimal Functioning of Parts: By ensuring each component is functioning correctly, the system operates more efficiently and is less likely to experience premature failure.
• Preservation of Manufacturer’s Warranty: Many air conditioning warranties require regular maintenance to remain valid. Professional maintenance can ensure compliance with these requirements, protecting investment and potentially saving you from unexpected replacement costs.

Routine maintenance is an investment in the long-term health and performance of the air conditioner. By scheduling regular check-ups, homeowners can enjoy a more efficient and reliable system while prolonging its lifespan. 

About The Darville Company

The Darville Company is a family-owned heating, cooling, and plumbing contractor that’s served the Odessa-Midland and Permian Basin since 1947. Their experts utilize the latest in air conditioning, heating, and plumbing technology to get you the best solutions in the fastest time possible. Contact them today for air conditioning maintenance and repair services in Odessa, TX.

Tips to Help Find and Fix Water Leaks

Water leaks may initially seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can quickly turn into costly issues that jeopardize both a home’s structural integrity and financial well-being. Whether it’s a small drip under the sink or a hidden pipe problem behind the walls, undetected leaks can waste thousands of gallons of water each year, causing serious damage such as mold growth, rotting wood, and inflated utility bills. 

The average household loses nearly 10,000 gallons of water annually due to easily fixable leaks, enough to wash 270 loads of laundry. Identifying the warning signs of water leaks early helps protect a home, save money, and contribute to water conservation. This guide highlights the common indicators of water leaks and provides practical tips for preventing water damage.

High Water Bills

When a water bill suddenly increases without a corresponding change in water usage, it’s often a clear indicator of a hidden leak. While minor seasonal variations are normal, an increase of 20% or more in the monthly cost should prompt investigation. This rise usually means that water is being wasted somewhere in the plumbing, possibly resulting in unseen damage.

Acting swiftly to address potential leaks is key, as even small leaks can add up to large amounts of wasted water. A leaking toilet may waste up to 200 gallons a day, and a dripping faucet can result in a loss of 20 gallons within 24 hours. Beyond the environmental and financial impact, failing to fix leaks can lead to extensive structural damage, mold growth, and foundation issues. By regularly reviewing water bills for unexpected spikes, it’s possible to detect leaks early and prevent more expensive repairs down the line.

Other Signs of a Leak

Water leaks can show up in many ways that homeowners should be attentive to. Along with spikes in water bills, signs like hearing water running when fixtures are off, musty odors, and unexplained moisture on walls, floors, or ceilings should raise concerns. Visibly damaged areas like peeling paint, warped floors, or discolored surfaces often indicate hidden leaks, while mold or mildew growth in unusual spots could point to a moisture problem beneath the surface.

Signs of a potential water leak outside the home include areas of unusually green or vibrant grass during dry spells, which might suggest an underground pipe issue. Persistent leaks can also lead to foundation problems, including cracks or shifting, due to water weakening the structure. Additionally, if water pressure decreases in the house or there are sounds of dripping from within the walls, it’s a sign of a leak that needs urgent attention before it causes further damage.

Use the Water Meter

The water meter is one of the most reliable tools for detecting hidden water leaks in a home. To perform a leak test, the first step is to locate the water meter (usually near the street or property line) and record the current reading. Next, ensure no water is being used in or around the home for at least two hours – this means no running faucets, dishwashers, washing machines, or irrigation systems. After this waiting period, check the meter reading again. If the numbers have changed despite no water usage, there is likely a leak somewhere in the plumbing system.

For more precise detection, many modern water meters feature a small triangle or diamond-shaped flow indicator that rotates when water is flowing through the meter. This indicator can detect even minor water movement, making it particularly useful for identifying slow leaks. If the indicator is moving while all water sources are shut off, it is a clear sign of a leak that requires immediate attention. It is also helpful to check the meter during daylight hours for better visibility and to consider taking photos of the readings for comparison purposes if the numbers are difficult to remember.

About The Darville Company

A family-owned heating, cooling, and plumbing contractor serving the Odessa-Midland and Permian Basin since 1947, The Darville Company provides exceptional service and stands behind its work. Their team of skilled, experienced technicians is available for 24-hour emergency repairs, ensuring customers can rely on us any time, day or night, for all their heating, cooling, and plumbing needs. For water leak repair in Odessa, TX, call them!

Start the Year Right With a Reliable Heating System

Most homes are experiencing the depths of winter, with cold temperatures, snow or ice, and all that comes with it. This time of year, having a heater that works well and efficiently keeps the home warm matters. There is no better time to consider a new heater installation than now, so keep every home warm, cozy, and energy-efficient while the heater is cranked up! 

How to Know When It Is Time for Heater Replacement

Knowing whether it’s time for heating replacement is a big decision. These are big investments, so most homeowners want to be sure the expense is covered before it occurs. Most heating systems are designed to last approximately 15 years. While many last longer, they are likely far less efficient, and it will be more challenging to find parts when repairs are needed. Age is only one potential sign to consider. 

Check out these signs it might be time for a new heating system: 

• Unit requiring frequent repairs
• Rising energy bills due to lack of efficiency
• Inconsistent heating throughout the home
• Strange noises or odors are coming from the heater
• Heater is more than 15 years old

These are clear signs that something is wrong. Contact a professional company to determine whether a heating installation or a minor repair is needed. 

Choosing the Right Heating Replacement

Once a homeowner has decided it’s time for a new heater installation, choosing something that will meet the home’s needs is important. Speak to a professional provider so they can provide feedback from a professional standpoint. 

There are several types of heating systems to consider, but they each have some pros and cons. Let’s take a look: 

1. Furnace: This is a very common choice and efficient for quickly heating the home. It can work on gas or electricity, is cheaper to install, and lasts longer than a heat pump. However, the operational costs over its lifespan will be higher. 
2. Heat Pump: This is an even more energy-efficient solution than furnaces that can heat and cool a home and is popular in moderate climates. However, they are more expensive upfront and have a shorter lifespan than furnaces.  
3. Ductless Mini-Splits: These are great for small homes without space for air ducts or homes withoutductwork. They offer flexibility and efficiency for small spaces and provide zoned heating or cooling with more control.  

Remember Heating Maintenance Even on a New System

A new heater will be efficient and reliable, but remember, it still needs maintenance and care. When a homeowner neglects maintenance, the unit has to work harder and will likely not last as long. Lack of maintenance will also impact the efficiency of the new heating system. 

Don’t forget to maintain the heater and change air filters every 30-90 days for a more efficient system with lower operating costs, fewer issues, and a longer lifespan. 

About The Darville Company

The Darville Company offers 24/7 service and many great heater services and options. They are a family-owned company that has been around since 1947, providing friendly, quality service to meet your needs. Contact them today for heating system installation and more in Odessa, TX. 

Backed-up Sewer Lines Can Cause Major Damage

Sewer line backups are known for their ability to cause severe water damage inside the home as well as the plumbing system. If a backup is not fixed right away, this also creates health issues, as sewage is toxic to inhale. To get rid of a backup in as little time as possible, the underlying problem needs to be identified first.

What Causes a Sewer Line Backup?

When underground pipes are damaged, the sewer system is compromised. Even small cracks can impact indoor plumbing. This usually occurs due to natural issues in the outdoor environment, such as root intrusion or shifting soil.

Root intrusion is common in older properties with fully grown trees near the sewer line. If there is a small crack inside the pipes, sewage attracts tree roots because of its abundance of nutrients. Tree roots are strong and can eventually ruin the integrity of metal piping by prying inside these cracks. 

Sewer systems that were not replaced before the sale of a home may also cause backups. While copper piping can last over 50 years, PVC piping must be replaced every 20 or 30 years. Pipe replacement does not have to destroy the lawn if trenchless repair methods are available. Typically, trenchless sewer repair is completed in under a week. 

How to Fix the Sewer Line

Professional help is advised for sewer line repair maintenance. Trained technicians have the experience and equipment to locate and solve the problem the first time. A plumber will first perform a sewer camera inspection to determine where the damage has occurred.

A sewer video inspection device is lowered through the piping so that all cracks can be illuminated on an above-ground monitor. This inspection is done to locate potential cracks, roots, or blockages. 

If a clogged sewer line is causing sewage issues, it can sometimes be removed with a drain snake. This is generally an easy process that homeowners can do by themselves. For tougher clogs or blockages deep within the plumbing system, hydrojetting is recommended.

Hydro jetting uses highly pressurized water to blast through particularly tough sewer line clogs. It not only gets rid of clogs but also cleans the interior of the pipes, making the sewer system more functional. If the underground pipes are not already damaged, this can actually prevent the system from breaking.

How Not to Deal With Sewer Backups

Homeowners can prevent most sewer pipe clogs from occurring. Routine cleaning and maintenance, as well as proper flushing, are two ways to keep the plumbing system healthy and avoid sewer pipe repair costs.

Napkins, cleaning wipes, tissues, and plastic should never be flushed down the toilet. Even non-eco-friendly toilets will have difficulty breaking down certain substances. Extra-thick toilet paper is not made for every toilet, and flushing twice may be necessary. 

Kitchen drains also have limitations. Pouring grease down the sink may cause clogs if food becomes stuck to the sides of the pipe. Homeowners are advised to pour a non-toxic mixture of baking soda and boiling water down the drain once per month. 

About The Darville Company

The Darville Company provides 24/7 emergency service for residents in Odessa, TX. They offer honest advice, on-time appointment windows, and never start work without offering upfront estimates. To learn more about their sewer line services, call The Darville Company today. 

Stay Warm for Less Without Sacrificing Comfort

Saving a little money this winter doesn’t have to mean scrimping and making huge sacrifices. The home’s heating costs are a significant area that can help save money. Heaters see more use as the weather turns cold, which makes energy bills climb. Luckily, there are three simple ways for homeowners to keep warm this winter while saving on their energy bills—and it doesn’t mean forcing everyone to bundle up inside the home. 

The following tips from HVAC experts can help keep those energy bills low while keeping the house comfortable. After all, who doesn’t need more gift-giving money around the holidays? 

Remember Ceiling Fans

It’s amazing how often people overlook their ceiling fans—especially in the winter. Many homeowners only use ceiling fans when it’s hot, never cold. The truth is that ceiling fans can be extremely useful in circulating warm air during winter, but it depends on which direction the fan is set to spin. 

When a ceiling fan is set to spin clockwise, it creates a downdraft, which can catch warm air and spread it around the room. Hot air rises, so heat from the vents often ends up near the ceiling. But with a ceiling fan spinning clockwise, that warm air can be used more efficiently. This will help the furnace operate more efficiently because the home will stay warm for long. 

Replace Air Filters on Time

While ceiling fans can help spread warm air around the home, replacing air filters affects the furnace’s operation. The furnace air filter (or filters, depending on the house and the number of air handlers) needs to be changed regularly for several reasons. One of the most obvious is indoor air quality. When a filter is overused, the indoor air quality in the home declines. However, it also causes the furnace to work harder to circulate air. 

When air filters are used more than suggested, they get clogged. The air has difficulty getting through the filter, so it has a harder time circling the house. This is why air filter replacement should be done regularly—usually every 90 days. When homeowners keep up with filter changes, the HVAC system will remain happy and can operate efficiently—plus, it helps maintain good indoor air quality!

Use a Smart Thermostat

The final energy-saving tip on this list requires a little more upfront investment. Luckily, purchasing and installing a smart thermostat is not an expensive endeavor. Even so, the cost of purchase and installation by a professional can be offset pretty quickly because smart thermostats are just that—smart. 

While specifics vary among models, some of the best features save homeowners money on utility bills. Smart thermostats can improve homeowners’ schedules, reducing energy usage when the house is empty. They can also reduce usage during peak times when energy is more expensive. By providing reports and updates on efficiency, smart thermostats can alert homeowners to energy spikes. When used together, homeowners can significantly reduce their utility bills without sacrificing comfort!

About The Darville Company

The Darville Company has been serving Odessa, TX, and the surrounding area since 1947! They have been around for so long because they provide exceptional service and arrive on time. They also provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job. Contact them today for smart thermostat installation in Odessa, TX. 

How to Spot and Deal with Gas Leaks

Natural gas is one of the most efficient and inexpensive forms of energy. It’s used in water heaters, cooking ranges, HVAC systems, and fireplaces, among other applications. But with all of its benefits, it does come with a few risks—the biggest of which is a gas leak. A gas leak can threaten the health and safety of everyone in the home.

Fortunately, leaks and other risks associated with natural gas can be mitigated by properly using and maintaining gas-powered appliances and opting for gas leak detection services by professional plumbers. But ultimately, gas safety begins with awareness. So, this article will explain the potential dangers of a gas leak, the signs of a gas leak, and how to respond when there’s a gas leak.

The Dangers of a Gas Leak

A gas leak can be dangerous in multiple ways. First, the gas can be toxic to people, pets, and even plants. Natural gas poisoning can have effects similar to carbon monoxide poisoning—the most dire of which is asphyxia or a lack of oxygen. For this reason, gas leaks can be fatal if left unchecked.

Secondly, natural gas is combustible, which means it can explode or ignite when exposed to a spark or flame. If gas builds up to a high enough concentration in the home, it can cause a devastating explosion. But even small leaks can cause dangerous explosions or fires that can quickly get out of control.

Gas Leak Warning Signs

Whether it’s due to a faulty appliance or a ruptured gas line, gas leaks can be hard to spot. After all, natural gas on its own is invisible and odorless. That’s why gas companies add chemicals like Mercaptan to natural gas, giving it that distinct rotten-egg smell. But that’s not the only way to identify a possible gas leak. Here are some signs of a gas leak every homeowner should be on the lookout for:

• A rotten egg or sulfur smell in the house.
• Hissing sounds coming from gas appliances or gas lines.
• Dead or dying houseplants.
• Patches of dead grass or vegetation in the yard (indicates an underground gas line leak).
• Air bubbles in outdoor puddles.
• Higher than normal gas bills.
• Pets are lethargic, sick, or have low appetites.
• Physical gas leak symptoms include nausea, drowsiness, loss of appetite, flu-like symptoms, difficulty breathing, chest pains, and confusion.

What to Do When There’s a Gas Leak

If anyone notices any of the gas leak signs listed above, the first step is to evacuate everyone from the house immediately. When evacuating, everyone must avoid making sparks or flames of any kind. This includes using electronics or appliances. Even flipping a light switch or using a cell phone can be enough to ignite built-up gas. 

Upon exiting the house, it’s best to leave at least one door open to help ventilate the gas – but the number one priority is putting some distance between the occupants and the house itself. Once at a safe distance (as much as half a mile if it’s a big leak), homeowners should call the gas company to shut off the gas. Once that’s done, they should call a reliable and speedy plumber to come out and perform gas leak repair.

To help prevent future gas leaks, homeowners should also schedule regular gas plumbing maintenance to have their gas appliances and gas lines inspected for potential issues. This way, homeowners can continue enjoying the benefits of natural gas with greater confidence and peace of mind—but there’s no substitute for vigilance!

About The Darville Company

The Darville Company has proudly handled Odessa’s plumbing and HVAC needs since 1947. Their friendly technicians are all licensed, insured, background-checked, and drug-tested for the safety and comfort of every customer. They offer straightforward up-front pricing, a total satisfaction guarantee, and fast 24/7 emergency service—so homeowners can call The Darville Company day or night for gas detection services in Odessa, TX.

Homeowners Can Make Sure Their Home Is Cozy for Fall by Installing a New Heating System

Whether a home has a gas-powered furnace or an electric heater, having a comfortable home as the weather gets cooler will eventually be on every homeowner’s mind. As the temperatures ease, people will think less about air conditioning and more about blankets, fires, hot cocoa, and heating. But not every home’s heating installation is prepared to make it through the coming winter season. 

Homeowners need to be aware of signs that they may need heater replacement. This blog will discuss three reasons a home may need new heating installation: age, high energy bills, and cold spots.

Recurring  Repairs: Age Getting the Best of the Unit

One of the first things that comes up in conversation regarding heating replacement or new furnace installation is the age of the current unit. If the current heater has been in place for 25 years or more, it may be nearing the end of its life. Frequent repairs become common with older heaters, and if the system is older, it may be expensive or impossible to find the proper parts to fix the heater or furnace. Typically, a new furnace installation will be cheaper than tracking down the part in the long run, only for something else to go wrong soon.

Sky High Heating Bills: Loss of Efficiency

Sometimes, heating or energy bills go up, and there is an obvious explanation for this. This can be due to a sudden and extreme drop in temperature or having more people in the house than the household normally has. 

If this happened when the heating was turned on, it may have to do with a loss of efficiency in the heater. Machines lose efficiency over time, even when regularly maintained. A loss of efficiency or extraneous energy usage can be caused by several different factors, including in the list below:

• Age of unit
• Connection problems
• Electrical problems
• Fuel line problems
• Heating element
• Igniter problems
• Thermostat issues

Some can be dealt with through repairs or parts replacement; others require a new heater or furnace installation.

Inconsistent Heating: Cold Spots and Never Quite Getting Warm

Similar to energy efficiency, and sometimes stemming from it, inconsistent temperatures are a sign of a flagging heating system. Furnace replacement may be costly, but it will be worth it when everyone can sleep in their rooms at optimal temperatures. Some of the reasons this can happen are outlined below:

• Damaged or Dirty Air Ducts: If there is a problem with the ducting in a home, some areas of the house will not get as warm. This problem is not with the heater but with the delivery, and it can be repaired accordingly.
• Heating Element Malfunction: If the heating element or burner is not working as it should, then there will be inconsistent temperatures throughout the house. This can mean either too hot or too cold at any given time. 
• Age and Efficiency: Sometimes, units don’t work like they used to. There may be too many things wrong to narrow it down for repair, and replacement will be required.

About The Darville Company

The Darville Company offers satisfaction-guaranteed, on-time service to the community of Odessa, TX, and beyond, as well as 24/7 emergency service. Call to schedule a heating replacement in Odessa, TX, today!

Backflow: Problematic and Dangerous

Water in a municipal water system generally flows from the water source, such as a reservoir, to homes and then into the sewers. Backflow is an unfortunate circumstance in which the water flows back from the sewage into the main water supply. It doesn’t take a master plumber to know this is a serious problem. This is why any home that is connected to a municipal water system is typically required to have a backflow preventer installed. They are also required to be tested on an annual basis. This article will discuss what backflow testing is and why it is so important.

The Hazardous Problems Associated With Backflow

There are several obvious hazards to backflow. If backflow occurs, the water supply can be contaminated because wastewater can flow back into the main water supply. Water contamination can be harmful chemicals, microbes, and bacteria that pose serious health risks, making it a major public concern.

The Backflow Test: What, When, and Why?

The backflow test is a method of ensuring the backflow preventer is working properly. This service is performed by a certified backflow tester, not just any plumbing technician. It is supposed to be done annually, but it takes only 45 minutes or so, and often, the homeowner does not need to be present for it. The backflow testing follows these simple steps:

• Turn off the main water supply.
• Attach the backflow testing equipment.
• Tester will check the pressure to open one valve in the backflow preventer.
• Tester will check the second valve and its pressure to open and close it.
• If there is any problem, the tester will repair and test it again.
• Upon completion of the test, the backflow preventer can be certified.
• The water main can be turned back on. 

The Importance of Testing the Backflow Prevention Device on a Property

Backflow prevention is more than just a municipal or urban concern. It is a public safety issue. That is why annual backflow testing and installing a backflow preventer on the property of new buildings are so important. Some of the major arguments for backflow preventer testing include:

• Public Health and Safety: This is the main reason behind any laws or regulations governing backflow preventers. Because contaminated water can make everyone sick, there is a need to prevent the contamination that comes with backflow. An outbreak of illness would strain a city’s resources even beyond the fact that this would be a tragedy in and of itself.
• Protects the Water: Water is a necessary resource for life, particularly in a town or city setting. Backflow preventers keep the water safe.

About The Darville Company

Experts in on-time and 24/7 emergency service, The Darville Company provides excellent customer service using the latest technologies to Odessa, TX, and beyond. Call today for satisfaction-guaranteed services like backflow testing in Odessa, TX!

The Ins and Outs of Humidity

As summer closes, many homeowners look for ways to keep their homes cozy and cool, especially in warm climates. One of the most uncomfortable parts of the summer is the humidity, which can leave someone feeling hot and sticky, no matter the temperature or shade dip.

Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air at any given time. It is typically measured as a percentage, or how much water is found in the overall presence of the air. The higher the amount of water in the air, the higher the humidity, the closer to 100 the percentage will be. At 100%, the air is completely saturated with water vapor and can’t hold anymore. Atmospherically, this can mean there is a possibility of rain as the water finds a new place to go, but for humans, it can also mean that sweat will struggle to dry and feel sticky and uncomfortable. 

The ideal humidity for most people is generally around 30% to 50%. When the humidity goes much higher than that, it can feel uncomfortable and even lead to problems in the home, including mold and poor air quality. 

How a Dehumidifier Can Help

Although it can seem like if there’s high humidity, there’s no hope, that might not be true! Dehumidifiers can answer the discomfort of high humidity and even prevent larger issues in the home. A dehumidifier is an equipment designed to reduce humidity and maintain a stable level of water vapor in the air. Even whole-home dehumidifiers can be utilized throughout the summer to keep homes at low humidity. These differ from portable units, which generally only work per room, by entangling with the HVAC system currently in the home to control humidity and maintain a constant percentage of humidity throughout the whole house. 

Why a Whole-Home Dehumidifier Is Advantageous

To better understand the advantages of the whole-home dehumidifier, it’s important to understand how it works. The machine works by integrating itself into the home’s HVAC system. From there, it works by drawing warm air from the outside air through a fan into a system of cooler coils. The warm air will contract through the cold, refrigerated coils. This will cause the moisture in the air to condense and become little water droplets. The droplets collect into a reservoir inside the unit or might drain out of the unit and the house through a hose. The air that is now dehumidified (with fewer water droplets) is then reheated to match the room’s temperature and circulated back into the household. The process will continue and ultimately reduce the humidity from the air around the house.

How to Know When a Dehumidifier Might Be Necessary in Your House

In addition to being uncomfortable, high humidity can cause problems in the home that might impact living conditions and structural parts of the home. Here are a few signs that a dehumidifier might be necessary in a home:

• Condensation on Windows: If there are water droplets on the windows in the house, it might be a sign that the air on the inside of the house has a higher humidity level on the outside and might be too high.
• Mold: Mold loves environments, and humidity is perfect for mold spores to grow. If mold starts growing on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces in the home, it is a sign that water is present in the air and that humidity might be an issue.
• Musty Smell: Musty and damp smells often come from mold and mildew, both of which grow and flourish in environments with high humidity.
• Water Damage: Because humidity is the high presence of water in the air, some signs of high humidity come from signs of water damage. Things like peeling paint, wallpaper, or water stains on walls and ceilings can be signs of high humidity levels. 

Benefits of Dehumidifiers

A dehumidifier can impact the quality of life inside a home, especially in the hot, humid summer months. It can greatly improve comfort, making the air quality clearer and lower. High-humidity air environments can make the house’s temperature feel even higher than it is, meaning on those 100-degree days, a humid house can feel like a desert at noon. This also means that an air conditioner can work less hard to make the house feel cool and comfortable on those hot days. Dehumidifiers also increase air quality by reducing the environmental chances of the growth of mold, mildew, and dust mites. 

Dehumidifiers can even provide long-term benefits for structures and belongings. Lowering humidity can help discourage wood rot, mold, paint peeling, and water damage to the home. The same goes for belongings, particularly books and electronics that can suffer moisture damage.

About The Darville Company

The Darville Company is an HVAC company with a large fleet of knowledgeable and dependable specialists. With 24/7 emergency services and a satisfaction guarantee, they’re committed to addressing your HVAC needs quickly. Call The Darville Company today for trustworthy and dependable HVAC and dehumidifier services in Odessa, TX.