Category Archives: Blog

Temperature control from proper heat pump services in Sterling VA

The Benefits of Heat Pump Systems

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Virginia’s climate always runs a bit hot, but it also provides a full range of conditions. Northern Virginia specifically sees January temperatures averaging between 19 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit. So, as we buckle down for the colder months, you should have your heating system inspected in preparation for the chill. 

But what if a single system could keep your home warm during the winter and cool during the summer? At RA Dobson, we have just the thing: heat pumps. For the past 45 years, our team has helped Sterling, VA, residents to make and keep their homes comfortable. As a family-run business, we pride ourselves on training our employees for excellent customer service. Call us today for energy-efficient air conditioning or heating systems and ask about our professional heat pump services. 

Below, we explain heat pump basics and benefits for your home: 

Heat Pump Operation & Types

You may wonder: how can a single air system provide both warm and cool air? Consider how your refrigerator works: using electricity, it moves warm air from the cool space into a warmer one. Thus, the interior of the fridge stays cold. 

An air-source heat pump operates the same way: in the winter, it pulls warm air from outside and releases it into the house. In the summer, the process reverses. We may find it counterintuitive that warm air can come from cool weather, but that’s what a heat pump is designed for and what it achieves. 

Other heat pump types include water-source and geothermal. People in moderate climates around the United States have used air-source pumps now for many years. However, the newer water-source and geothermal pumps suit extreme climates better. 

Heat Pump Benefits & Features

One major benefit of heat pumps lies in their efficiency. They move heat rather than generate it, thereby maintaining a consistent room temperature. Thus, they run for as little as a quarter of the cost that conventional heating and HVAC systems do.

For a traditional home with a furnace, air ducts, and baseboard heaters, an air-source pump can reduce heating electricity usage by about 50%. Likewise, water-source and geothermal pumps can do the same by around 30%-60%. However, if your home lacks air ducts, new ductless mini-split heat pumps can be retrofitted. 

Since heat pumps have been on the market for several years, some now come with extra features. For instance, high-efficiency models may come with a desuperheater that gathers waste heat from the system to warm your home’s water with. Other pump models may come with two-speed compressors or dual-speed motors. 

Heat Pump Maintenance

As your home’s heating system ages or struggles to warm your whole house, you could replace or supplement that system with a heat pump. The pump would pay for itself thanks to its energy efficiency. Plus, RA Dobson offers expert heat pump repair services for folks across Northern Virginia. 

As with all heating and cooling systems, you should try to have a technician inspect your heat pump every year. They can ensure the system is working properly and catch problems before they become severe. Likewise, a technician can do messy maintenance that you might rather avoid. 

Heat pump upkeep includes cleaning or replacing air filters as needed. Some basic cleaning keeps dust and dirt out of the machine, while motors may require lubricant. Without proper maintenance, your heat pump may lose 10% to 25% of efficiency. 

Now Available: Professional Heat Pump Services for Residents of Sterling, VA

Whether you want a new heat pump installed or your current one repaired, reach out to your local technicians at RA Dobson. We provide professional heating, generator, air conditioner, and heat pump services for folks throughout Sterling, VA. When you want home maintenance, turn to a company that operates on family values and honesty. All our services come with one-year warranties. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our request form for a free estimate.

Furnace Repair Northern Virginia

When Should You Replace Your Furnace?

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Over the years, we start to recognize the “character” of our homes. It might include the most comfortable spots to sit and work or the adjustments needed for its layout and setup. Perhaps unconsciously, we also find its warm and cool spots: the best places to spend cold nights and which rooms always seem chilly. 

However, your home’s temperature patterns illustrate the state of its heating system. If the temperature shifts from room to room, or if you constantly adjust the thermostat, your home’s furnace may need replacement. In that case, reach out to R.A. Dobson, Northern Virginia’s top service company. Our team provides professional furnace repair and installation, HVAC maintenance, and plumbing repairs. And our customers rave about our heating and cooling services to boot. 

Below, we review some common furnace issues that call for maintenance or replacement: 

Basic Furnace Care

Along with boilers, furnaces are the most common kind of home heating system. To warm its home, a furnace blows heated air through ductwork and raises the overall temperature to the thermostat’s setting. Manufacturers rate every furnace’s ability via the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) scale. 

Homeowners should replace their furnaces every twenty to thirty years. But, unless you built your own, you probably moved into a home that already had a furnace. Thus, you’ll have to find its user manual or look up its serial number to determine its age. 

If you need a new heating system, consider the variety of options on the market. For instance, our team recommends that you consider the benefits of heat pumps. Nevertheless, you can determine if you need a new heating system by watching for certain furnace problems.

Warning Signs

Your furnace may exhibit some obvious symptoms of breakdown. For example, its motor could bang, squeal, or buzz loudly as it weakens and falls apart. Likewise, visible signs of corrosion (including broken or rusted parts) speak to a need for maintenance. 

A defective furnace may also affect the conditions in your home. Noticeable temperature changes between rooms suggest that it struggles to heat them evenly. Also, if you constantly adjust your thermostat’s level, your system may struggle to maintain a steady temperature. 

Finally, a furnace that needs constant repairs may be at the end of its usefulness. If that describes yours, you should determine its age and whether it’s worth repairing. And, though seemingly unrelated, a dramatic rise in your energy bills without a change in your heat’s settings can signal a loss of efficiency.

Fixes & Replacements

If you believe that your heating is defective, request an R.A. Dobson service call before ordering a new system. Replacing a part – such as an air filter or thermostat – may fix the problem(s). Likewise, check our winter furnace checklist to ensure that your system is running correctly.

Keep in mind that newer-model furnaces can save significant money. High-efficiency furnaces have AFUE ratings between 90% and 98.5% – quite an upgrade from the 56-70% of old systems. Although it may be expensive upfront, a high-efficiency system could recoup its cost over a few years. 

Given the investment a furnace requires, you should ask R.A. Dobson for an estimate before installation. Happily, we provide free estimates for such service, and we’re currently offering a coupon for furnace installation on our website. 

Reliable and Affordable Furnace Repair Services in Northern Virginia

Whether you’re unsure or certain that your furnace needs replacement, our team at R.A. Dobson can help. We can inspect your system and then fix or replace it for you. Northern Virginia communities trust our professional furnace repair and installation, plumbing work, HVAC maintenance, and other services. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our online form for a free estimate.

Thermostat Installation Northern Virginia

3 Types of Thermostats to Consider for Your Home

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While your HVAC system requires each part to create a comfortable and healthy indoor climate, its thermostat holds a particularly special place. It’s the point of contact where you directly interact with your HVAC, where you can control your home’s temperature and, depending on the system, its humidity. 

It’s important to have a functional thermostat, but the latest models go even further and include “smart” features as well. If you’re looking for the best in heating and cooling appliances, turn to R.A. Dobson. We provide premium thermostat installation services as well as affordable HVAC system repair and maintenance. Customers throughout Northern VA come to us for their heating and cooling needs. 

Here are three types of available thermostats and a few models we recommend: 

Non-Programmable Thermostats

Before we go into the feature-rich thermostat types, let’s talk about the simplest option: non-programmable thermostats. This type of thermostat simply turns on, turns off, and sets your HVAC system’s temperature. They’re also known as “manual thermostats,” since users adjust them manually rather than program or remotely adjust them (as with more advanced models). 

R.A. Dobson provides the highest quality thermostats from Carrier, a trusted brand in the heating and cooling industry. Their primary thermostat that we offer is the Carrier Comfort™ Non-Programmable Thermostat. It’s an easy-to-install, basic system with a digital screen and manual controls. 

Programmable Thermostats

One notch above non-programmable thermostats, programmable thermostats boast many of the same functions but include a few useful tweaks. They are called “programmable” because they can adjust themselves according to your pre-programmed settings. 

Certain models only allow you to program two different settings that the thermostat will switch between. This might include one temperature set for weekdays and another for weekends, or days and nights. Other, more advanced, programmable thermostats allow you to set a different temperature for each day of the week (and even for certain times of each day). 

The Carrier Performance™ Edge® provides enhanced functionality at an affordable price. All models manage temperature, humidity, ventilation, indoor air quality, and more. The Performance™ Edge® Relative Humidity Programmable Thermostat can also incorporate additional climate systems such as a heat pump or furnace. 

“Smart” Thermostats 

Finally, the most advanced thermostats available are those with “smart” technology functions, which provide the highest levels of control and accessibility. As with programmable types, smart thermostats can control temperature, airflow, humidity, and other elements of your HVAC system. Smart thermostats can also affect multiple rooms or living areas within your home or workplace differently. Thus, you can set different temperatures for each area from one system. 

As with a programmable thermostat, a smart thermostat can schedule temperatures to rise or lower throughout each day. Moreover, most models have Wi-Fi functionality and can connect to your smartphone or tablet. This gives you remote access to your HVAC system anywhere with an Internet connection.  

At R.A. Dobson, we provide one of the best smart thermostat systems available: the Carrier Infinity® Remote Access Touch Control Thermostat. Along with all the features of a programmable thermostat, the Infinity Thermostat can connect to any smart device. With it, not only will you get the latest in thermostat technology but also a high-quality product that will last for years to come. 

R.A. Dobson: Quality Thermostat Installations in Northern VA

Although these are just some of the thermostat types available, they provide an overview of what’s on the market now. At R.A. Dobson, we always ensure that our customers get the heating and cooling products that fulfill their needs and stay within their budget. We also provide customers with our technical expertise in HVAC services such as efficient thermostat installation, professional plumbing repairs, and more. With 45 years of experience, we have the knowledge and skill to ensure your home or business gets the quality of service you deserve. Contact us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our form and get a free estimate for one of our services.

air purifier installation Loudoun County VA

Does Your Home Need A Whole-House Air Purifier?

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Air-tight insulation is standard for almost every home in the United States. According to the Department of Energy, keeping the movement of air between the inside and outside of your home to a minimum helps sustain greater energy efficiency. This means that your home should be airtight. However, without a proper whole-house air purifier, this leads to stale, musty air filled with dust, dander, and all sorts of other contaminants. 

At R.A. Dobson, we help maintain indoor air quality through HVAC repair, installation, and maintenance services. Particularly during this challenging pandemic, we have assisted in keeping numerous homes safe with our expert air purifier installation services in Loudoun County and throughout Northern Virginia. Our experts have had over 40 years of experience in giving their knowledge, experience, and friendly support to our new and repeat customers. 

Below, we discuss what a whole-house air purifier is, why you may need one, and the different kinds available that your home may benefit from: 

What is a Whole-House Air Purifier?

A whole-house air purifier is an air-filtration system that’s connected directly to your home’s HVAC system. They can be retrofitted or installed into a newly-built house, but it must be installed by a professional because it attaches to the return-air ductwork in your ventilation system. 

It works by taking the air that’s returning to your cooling or heating system and filtering out any contaminants before sending air back out into your home. There are different types of whole-house air purifiers that use different methods to effectively purify your home’s indoor air. 

Below, we list a few that we provide at R.A. Dobson and can install efficiently. 

Types of Whole-House Air Purifiers 

Flat-Filter Purifier

If you have a forced-air furnace, which is common in most homes, you may already be using this type of air purifier. It uses a matted-fiberglass filter that picks up the dust flowing in your ventilation system. 

It doesn’t purify the air as effectively as others do. It merely filters large dust particles from building up in your furnace. However, you can purchase electrostatically-charged pleated filters, which can attract more allergens in the air, though they cost slightly more than the regular filters. 

Extended Media Purifier

This type of air purifier has a filter that’s more efficient than regular fiberglass filters. It comes in a boxier unit containing an accordion-like array of filtration media. It’s larger size and shape make it more effective. It also requires a professional to install and is perhaps cheaper to use as you only have to spend $40 to $60 a year for a replacement filter. 

Electronic Purifier

This high-end air purifier, also known as an electrostatic precipitator, has an electronic filter that is installed into the return-air ductwork. As air passes, one end creates a high-voltage current that sends an electrical charge through any particle that passes through it. 

At the other end, negatively-charged collector plates grab the charged particles. They may be more expensive but are highly effective at trapping particles too small for regular fiberglass filters and extended media filters. They also don’t require any replacement filters, just regular cleaning of the collection plates. 

Ultraviolet Purifier

This type of purifier is specifically-utilized to filter and eliminate any airborne viruses or bacteria that pass through it. It’s primarily used in hospitals, particularly in tuberculosis wards in order to protect patients from spreading the illness. Any viral or bacterial organism that enters the filter will immediately be killed by the UV rays. Of course, these are similarly more costly compared to electronic purifiers, but means they are just as effective. 

Does Your Home Need a Whole-House Air Purifier?

According to a report from the Washington Post, whole-home air purifiers are not a cure to allergies and illness. However, they are a good way to effectively prevent these issues. 

They also provide your home with better indoor air quality, which has numerous benefits to you and your home, including fewer, less frequent allergy symptoms, better sleep, reduced humidity, and lower energy costs. 

To make a well-informed decision, consider seeking a professional to perform an indoor air evaluation for your home, and discuss with them whether an air purifier can help. 

R.A. Dobson: Affordable Air Purifier Installation in Loudoun County, VA

Whether you need an air purifier is debatable, but it is no less a beneficial addition to a ventilation system. At R.A. Dobson, we can provide many brands and models of air purifiers, as well as quality air purifier installation services, all at affordable prices. In Loudoun County and throughout Northern Virginia, we have provided our numerous services to residents seeking to improve the comfort and quality of their indoor air. 

Contact us at (703) 481-3700 to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment with one of our indoor air experts today.

HVAC inspection Northern Virginia

3 Fall & Winter HVAC Maintenance Tips

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We’ve come to summer’s end, and the yearly rituals of fall have begun (though limited by COVID). Football season has restarted, everyone has pumpkin spiced coffee, and the evening cicadas have given way to crickets. Best of all, we can shut off our AC units and their costs. 

The cooler weather calls for another kind of indoor climate control: heating. So, while switching from one system to the other, all homeowners should check the performance of both. But inspecting an HVAC system is time-consuming and tricky; instead, why not schedule a professional HVAC inspection with R.A. Dobson? Every fall and winter, our expert technicians conduct HVAC inspections across Northern VA. Our clients call for our annual service and, in the long run, save money through routine care. 

Below, we outline how our HVAC inspections work and describe the basic upkeep that your system might receive: 

Scheduled Routine Inspections

The Department of Energy writes that professional checkups and repairs can improve your home’s energy efficiency. But some homeowners like to inspect their HVAC and heating systems themselves. In doing so, they may miss signs that our trained technicians know to look for. 

We’ve described what to expect during an HVAC inspection. In brief, our technician will start by spot-checking your system for obstructions (including dust, debris, and mold). They’ll also look for signs of deeper problems such as leaks, corrosion, rust, or loose wires. 

The technician will then check air filters, electrical switches, safety switches, motors, and gas pressure. This step-by-step process catches any potential problems and ensures that your system works smoothly. 

Vital Preventative Care

After the inspection, our technician will go about basic repairs. He or she may clean and/or replace parts, especially in systems that have not been serviced for several years. 

Some cleaning, such as changing an air filter, will be carried out easily. Our technician may also use a lubricant to ensure that parts function smoothly. However, if specific parts of the HVAC system need to be replaced, he or she may have to order it and return later for installation. 

Finally, to ensure your system functions as best as it can, the technician will test and adjust your HVAC’s electricity. They will also calibrate and adjust your home’s thermostat to establish an ideal indoor temperature. You can read more about thermostat options in our guide. 

Let The Pros Handle Major Repairs

Eventually, you will need a new HVAC (or heating) system. Even if your current system has no specific issues, its efficiency will decrease with age. Plus, modern air systems’ efficiency can be 20%-40% greater than systems produced ten years ago. 

If inspecting an HVAC system feels like a chore, installing one is an outright challenge. Contact your local experts at R.A. Dobson and let us take care of the installation for you. We’ve worked in HVAC for over 45 years, and we’ll ensure that your new system suits your needs. 

R.A. Dobson: Reliable, Reasonable HVAC Inspection Service Professionals 

As the leaves begin changing colors and we move into the fall, don’t forget to have your air systems looked at. Doing so can improve your home’s energy efficiency and catch potential problems before they turn into major ones. Many residents throughout Northern VA call R.A. Dobson for professional HVAC inspection and installation. We’re happy to offer you our expertise too. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our online form to request a free estimate.

air cleaning service Sterling VA

When Do Your Air Ducts Need Cleaning?

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Due to the COVID-19 crisis and recent heatwaves, everyone has spent much of their summer indoors. And while watching the year’s finest season pass by can feel disappointing, at least we can relax in cool indoor air. Your home’s air system works hard, especially when it works almost constantly during the summer; don’t you want to ensure that it continues doing so properly? 

As we’ve discussed, routine inspections of your HVAC system can prevent major issues. This, in turn, saves you from the hassle and expense of replacing parts. But do you know what problems can arise in your heating and cooling system? Or what the warning signs of those problems are? At R.A. Dobson, we empower clients with our expertise, so that you will know when to call the pros for air quality inspection or excellent air cleaning service! This is why our customers throughout Sterling and Northern Virginia become repeat customers and why they refer us to others in need of HVAC services. 

The list below lays out the hazards that air systems face, as well as the signs you should watch out for:

Mold Growth

Conditions in every home differ. Those with allergies or chronic illness can be extra sensitive to irritants, like dust. However, given their daily usage and the constant prevalence of irritants, air ducts will always contain some amount of dust and other contaminants.

But one thing calls for immediate action: visible mold growth in air ducts. Both mold and mildew present health risks to occupants, especially residents with a compromised health status. And since many parts of a home air system cannot be easily accessed, you may be unable to see how much there is. 

Of course, only an expert can determine whether mold is present. If you suspect there’s mold in your air ducts, contact us for an inspection as soon as possible.

Rodent & Pest Infestation 

Although it is hair-raising to think about, air ducts provide ideal homes for all manner of insects and other pests. And beyond their obnoxious presence, these vermin bring in microbes, diseases, and other health concerns. Thus, you must be on the lookout for their presence. 

The most noxious sign will be a foul odor coming from the vents in your home: the smells of urine, feces, and rotting food. You may also see droppings appear in your air ducts. Given mice’s breeding speed, the sight of droppings should send you running for an exterminator. 

Another sign is the sound of wildlife in your air system (snuffles and movement coming from within your home’s walls). And though it may stem from other causes, a reduction in your air system’s efficiency may be a byproduct of infestation. 

Excessive Dust and Debris

As noted above, your air system will always contain some amount of dust. It can never be fully eliminated, though R.A. Dobson’s air purification installations can help to reduce the amount of dust in the air. But dust becomes a problem when it collects excessively inside your home’s ductwork. 

Signs of this include strange or musty smells in your house (such as when you first turn on your heater for the winter), which indicate a buildup of dust and dirt. You might also notice it floating in the air since dust in the ductwork also becomes dust in the air. 

Choose Professional Air Cleaning Services in Sterling, VA

If you want your air system cleaned, even without warning signs, reach out to the local experts at R.A. Dobson for an inspection. If we find anything, you can rest assured that our professional air cleaning service will treat your home with the care it deserves. Over the past 45+ years, folks in Sterling and across Northern Virginia have turned to R.A. Dobson for air system replacement, inspection, and installation. We offer the latest in energy-efficient heating and air conditioning technology. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 to request a free estimate or schedule a service!

emergency plumbing Loudoun County VA

6 Things that Cause Plumbing Issues

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If there’s an area in your home that you don’t want broken or defunct, it’s most likely a part of the plumbing. We rely on its easy and unobstructed service, yet never really consider the importance of its upkeep. More often than not, we forget it so much that many of the issues that arise from it were almost entirely avoidable.

When you’re in need of an expert plumber, call on a technician from RA Dobson. We have over forty years of experience in furnace installation, air conditioning repair, and effective emergency plumbing for residents and businesses in Loudoun County and throughout Northern Virginia. Our team seeks the best solution for every task and budget, ensuring the customer receives everything they need from our services. 

Below, we discuss some common causes for plumbing issues: 

Using Drain Cleaners

A clogged drain is irritating, and it may be tempting to seek the easiest solution, which would be pouring a cleaner down the drain. While it may be the quickest solution, using a drain cleaner can degrade and cause damage to your pipes. We recommend using alternatives to unclog your drains, such as a drain snake, baking soda and vinegar, or a plunger. 

Self-Caused Blockages

When it comes to major toilet clogs, a common issue we find is that someone has flushed objects other than toilet paper into the toilet. These are usually feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, paper towels, or anything that’s heavier, rougher, and less pliable even when wet. 

Once such objects have been flush once or more times, the likelihood of a severe and possibly damaging clog increases. We suggest having a wastebasket close by so that you nor anyone else will be tempted to flush any such objects down the toilet. 

Pouring Grease Down The Sink 

It may seem harmless to pour the leftover grease from your last meal down the sink, but we’d beg to differ. What happens is that grease residue will coat the sides of your pipe, hardening into leftover fat that will eventually build up around your pipes, causing potential blockages in the future. 

Instead, perform the same process but away from your pipes. Get a safe container, pour the grease in, let it solidify into fat, then throw it out.

Avoiding Replacements

This is one simple reason why plumbing issues often happen. Whether you live in an older home or a relatively new one, replacements are always crucial to ensuring your home appliances work. That not only goes for the stove or refrigerator, it also goes for the dishwasher or the washing machine. 

Professionally replacing certain components, such as the hoses, with parts made of newer, more effective materials, you’ll increase your appliance’s longevity and efficiency, keeping them working for years to come. 

Not Prepping for Winter

For homes in areas where temperatures drop below zero during the winter, the freezing weather can cause a strain on your plumbing system. Leaving your pipes to freeze often enough will result in them eventually expanding until they end up bursting. 

We recommend insulating any outlying pipes around your home, especially ones that are outside. For unheated areas, like your garage, you can also get products like heat tape and water leak alarms to ensure your home interior is safe from damage. 

R.A. Dobson: Quality Emergency Plumbing in Loudoun County, VA

Take care of your plumbing, as it’s meant to serve you through the years without any issue. However, when an issue inevitably arises, call on an expert from R.A. Dobson, who will easily mend any plumbing issues you may have. 

We provide quality replacements, installations, and responsive emergency plumbing services to residents in Loudoun County, VA, and throughout Northern Virginia. We also provide a number of additional services in heating and cooling, as well as several high-quality appliances, such as generators, air cleaners, UV lights, and more. 

Contact us at (703) 481-3700 for more information about our services and get a free quote.

Air Cleaner Repairs Sterling VA

Do Air Cleaners Work?

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Let’s unpack what we know so far. Our understanding of the Coronavirus is still evolving and many individuals are wondering if air cleaners, also known as air purifiers, are effective against the airborne virus. While it’s known that it’s contracted through droplets produced from coughing, talking, and breathing, there may still be some of those droplets that remain in the air. 

Considering this is a major cause for concern, taking the necessary precautions to protect our community from harmful allergens and airborne diseases is R.A. Dobson’s specialty. We have provided a number of air cleaner repairs and installations throughout the Sterling, Virginia area. Keep allergens, pollutants, airborne contaminants, and viruses from circulating throughout your home and get in touch with our team for assistance.  

Below, we provide details on the general functions of air cleaners and if they work against viruses like COVID-19: 

The Effectiveness of Air Cleaners

Air cleaners are currently on the rise due to many individuals staying home more often and hoping to improve their home air quality. Consumer Reports stated that “air purifiers probably don’t offer much protection in most circumstances, they may be worthwhile in a few specific ones.” 

However, if you were to install one into the room of one of your quarantined family members and essential workers, then it may help protect them against the virus. Opening windows in the quarantine area will allow fresh air in while filtering out virus particles, but if this is not an option, then having your local air cleaner company install one in your home may assist your efforts.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports scientific evidence that indoor air is more polluted than outdoor air, as the average individual spends around 90% of their time indoors, which makes them more at risk of it affecting their health. To determine if an air cleaner would benefit you, speak to one of our air cleaner experts at R.A. Dobson! 

Does Your Air Cleaner Require Repairs? 

Like any home appliance, you need to maintain it on a regular basis to ensure your home is functioning as it should be. If you are experiencing any of the common signs below that indicate your system needs repairs, contact R.A. Dobson for assistance.  

  • Increased dust or dust settling on the surface of your air cleaner
  • Odd noises 
  • Strange odors

R.A. Dobson Offers the Following High-Quality Air Cleaner Products:

Having an air cleaner in addition to any other indoor air cleaning products will help significantly improve the quality of air that you breathe in your own home. Our experts can help you decide which products will effectively improve your indoor air while keeping you healthy and comfortable. 

Air Cleaner Repair Services in the Sterling, VA Area

At R.A. Dobson, our team treats you like family, and similar to our own families, we want you to feel comfortable at home during this challenging time. We have over 45 years of experience with air cleaner repairs and installations. We are proud to continue offering high-quality services and friendly customer service for individuals throughout the Northern Virginia area. If you are interested in updating and repairing your current air cleaner or replacing it entirely, allow our team to assist you. 

Call our air cleaner repair team at (703) 481-3700 to receive a free estimate or schedule a service at your earliest convenience!

sump pump installation Sterling VA

What to Expect with a Sump Pump

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An effective drainage system is needed in almost every home, especially in most areas of Northern Virginia. As our area is known for its humid summer and heavy thunderstorms, the inclement weather is also known for causing major damage to homes without a proper sump pump installed. To prevent your foundation and basement from damage, consider having a sump pump professional install or replace your current sump pump in your basement. 

At R.A. Dobson, we regularly perform drainage services such as affordable sump pump installations and replacements, as well as plumbing, HVAC maintenance, and much more. We have served numerous homes and businesses throughout the Sterling, VA area for over 45 years, providing dedicated customer service and excellent home appliances at quality rates. 

Below, we describe general information on sump pumps and how you can test if your system is working efficiently: 

Sump Pump vs. Emergency Battery Backup Pump

A sump pump occupies an area beneath your basement so that it can collect excess water that attempts to access your home’s foundation during heavy rainstorms. Sump pumps send excess water back out and away from your home’s foundation through a series of pipes. It helps prevent groundwater from collecting around your home and damaging it further as well as keeps it from flooding.

While taking into consideration that sump pumps operate off of electricity, they are often needed for emergencies like during power outages. Emergency battery backup pumps offer an additional power source to your sump pump whenever you may experience power outages.

See if your home needs a sump pump and read about the warning signs you should look out for!

How to Test if Your Current Sump Pump Works

Since our sump pumps are often out-of-sight, you may need to do a routine check to see if it’s still in working condition before the heavy rainstorms set in. You can test it by double checking if the exit pipe is free of debris first. Once this is cleared, locate the electrical cords and follow the instructions below. 

For sump pumps with two cords: 

Keep in mind that some pumps may have one or two cords. While the pump cord is usually connected to the float cord, the pump cord should be the only one plugged into the nearest wall outlet. 

When you turn on the pump, you should hear a humming sound, which indicates that it’s working. Connect the pump cord and float cord as they originally were: first the float cord, then the pump cord, and finally plug the pump cord into the float switch. 

For sump pumps with one cord: 

Fill your pump pit with water until the float rises. If the pump does not switch on and pump the water out, you may need to repeat it a few times just in case. After a few tries and it doesn’t pump the water out, then contact your local sump pump replacement and installation experts for further assistance. 

R.A. Dobson: Dependable Sump Pump Installation in Sterling, VA 

At R.A. Dobson, we provide quality sump pump installation services, as well as experienced plumbing, cooling, heating, and other home appliance installation and maintenance services for residents throughout Sterling, VA and Northern Virginia. For well over 45 years, we have provided dedicated services and premium home appliances at affordable rates. 
Contact us at (703) 481-3700 to learn more about our services and get a free estimate.

Humidifier Issues that Require Professional Repairs

Blog, Humidifier Installation

Humidifiers can enhance your quality of life, especially in summer months when the air conditioner is running and creating dry air in your home. By adding moisture to the air, humidifiers are an effective way to combat dry skin, chapped lips, and a sore throat.

When you are stuck with a broken humidifier, your skin and other sensitive parts of your body can become irritated, so it’s important to get it fixed quickly. At R.A. Dobson, we provide humidifier repair services to homes and businesses throughout Sterling, Virginia. If you’re unsure that your humidifier is working properly, or if something seems off about the way it’s functioning, consider getting one of our professionals to inspect and repair it.

Here are three issues to look for that require inspection by a professional:

Humidifier Is Noisy

It is typical for your humidifier to make a low noise, such as the sound of water becoming vaporized or a slight buzzing as it disperses the vapor into the air. However, if you hear a loud buzzing or a clicking sound, there could be a large issue that needs to be resolved. Common issues that can create a noisy sound include:

  • Collected debris on removable filters
  • Defective fan motor
  • Clogged drain system
  • Unlubricated drive mechanism

If you’re unsure what’s exactly causing the sound, leave the job to a professional technician from R.A. Dobson.

Humidifier Is Leaking

Leaking is a common problem that happens in humidifiers and is seen when there is little-to-no maintenance over several years. Typically, if the drain line is clogged, water will build up inside the humidifier and eventually leak out. Since excess water is emptied out through the drain line, any blockage or damage to the drain line will leak. Other reasons your humidifier may be leaking include:

  • Malfunctioning solenoid valve
  • Water pressure is too high for the humidifier
  • Clogged evaporator pad (should be changed seasonally)

When dealing with a leaking humidifier, it’s best to turn to an expert for a repair or replacement.

Humidifier Isn’t Working

If you notice nothing is happening when you turn on your humidifier, you likely need a repair or replacement. This may sound obvious but, before hiring a professional, make sure that the humidifier is actually plugged in, and then check the outlet. To ensure that it’s not just an outlet issue, try plugging in your phone charger or a lamp to test it.

You may be able to hear that your humidifier is running, but if you realize there’s no mist or steam coming out, the humidifier may need to be cleaned. The reasons depend on what type of humidifier you have installed. Here are the main two types of humidifiers:

Warm Mist Humidifier

Warm mist humidifiers are susceptible to mineral deposit build-ups. If you see a layer of black coating on the heating elements of your warm mist humidifier, this means that the mineral build up is blocking the mist and needs to be professionally cleaned.

Cool Mist Humidifier

Mineral deposits can happen in a cool mist humidifier as well. However, since there is no heating element in the cool mist humidifier, the build-up is likely blocking your humidifier’s filter. If the filter is being blocked, it’s likely time for a replacement filter, which can be provided and installed by a professional.

R.A. Dobson: Professional Humidifier Repair in Sterling, VA

During the summer season, you’ll certainly want to minimize the effects of seasonal allergies and dry skin, as well as make your home more comfortable by installing a humidifier into your home’s HVAC system. If you notice any problems with the one you currently have installed, consider hiring a professional to inspect, repair, or replace it.

When working with R.A. Dobson, trust that your quality humidifier repair in Sterling, VA is taken care of by experienced service technicians that have received the highest level of training. Additionally, we also provide services in plumbing, air conditioning, air cleaners, thermostat installations, and more.

Contact us now at (703) 481-3700 and let R.A. Dobson maximize your home’s comfort with a humidifier or other home appliance system backed by both manufacturer warranty and our own 1-year service warranty.