Category Archives: Professional Plumbing

Faucet Installation Ashburn VA

How to Choose the Right Faucet for Your Sink

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Homeowners must make difficult decisions daily to maintain and improve their spaces. For instance, they must select the right water faucet—a seemingly simple fixture, yet an essential element of any bathroom or kitchen faucet installation. Given the overwhelming array of options on the market, identifying the right choice for your home might prove daunting. 

Ashburn, VA, residents can turn to R. A. Dobson for help choosing the perfect faucet for their sinks. Whether you want elegance, functionality, water efficiency, or durability, our team aims to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Moreover, R. A. Dobson’s other services include installation and maintenance of heat pumps, HVAC, generators, and more. Call (703) 481-3700 or visit our website to receive a free estimate request!

Let’s discover how the right faucet can elevate your daily routines and add a touch of style to your home:

Sink Compatibility

Your sink’s configuration, design, and size determine which faucet types it can fit. Indeed, ignoring sink compatibility can cause drainage issues, leaks, and an unattractive mismatch between the faucet and sink. The simplest way to determine a faucet’s compatibility with a sink space is to determine the sink’s number of holes.

Most sinks come with 1 to 4 pre-drilled holes for faucet installation. Each hole serves a specific purpose, accommodating the faucet spout, handles, and accessories like soap dispensers and hose guns. Speak to your faucet installers about ensuring the faucet configuration matches the number of holes in your sink.

Spout Height & Reach

Spout height and reach will determine how well the faucet fits into your sink space and where the water stream strikes. The most common spout height and reach is a medium distance, which has become a “standard” faucet size. However, your sink may have irregular measurements and require a non-standard fixture—speak to a professional about your space’s needs.

Handles and Functionality

A faucet’s ease of use, convenience, and longevity are directly related to its functional aspects. For instance, different types of handles offer varying amounts of control over water temperature. Consider single-handle and double-handle faucets: the single-handle variety has one lever that controls water temperature and flow, which enhances convenience. Double-handle faucets, however, come with separate handles for hot and cold water for precise control over the water’s temperature.  Some modern faucets even incorporate smart technology! Still, remember that you must use and maintain that faucet—choose your model wisely.

Ease of Cleaning

Faucet Installation Ashburn VA

Help keep your sink area free from grime and stains by choosing a faucet that is easy to clean and access. The minor water splashes from daily use accumulate into mineral deposits on its surface, marring the metal’s appearance. Yet an easy-to-clean faucet with a smooth finish helps prevent buildup and facilitate easy cleaning so you can maintain a clean and sanitary environment. 

Budget Considerations

Setting a budget before shopping for a faucet allows you to explore options within your price range and make well-informed decisions regarding the cost of faucet installation. Consider your faucet purchase a long-term investment—you should buy one that can last for years with proper maintenance and servicing. Choosing a model with durable materials and reliable performance can save you money on faucet repairs and replacement in the long run.

Tips for Faucet Installations in Ashburn, VA!

With the assistance of R. A. Dobson, Ashburn, VA, homeowners can select the perfect faucet model for their kitchen or bathroom. Speak with our service experts to ensure you get your money’s worth on professional faucet installation. To learn more or schedule your service appointment, visit our website or call (703) 481-3700!

Sewer Line Repair Ashburn VA

Warning Signs of Sewer Line Clogs

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Is your plumbing system ready for the holidays? While home maintenance may be a huge hassle, you cannot ignore it. Indeed, neglecting standard home maintenance can result in ever-increasing problems that make your house uninhabitable. Contact an experienced sewer line repair company to unclog the lines in your home if you notice standing or slow-draining water in your drains. Doing so is particularly important if you plan to have a house full of guests this Thanksgiving.

R.A. Dobson’s technicians are the indoor sewer line repair experts that Ashburn, VA, homeowners can always call. A second-generation family business, we’ve helped folks in Northern Virginia for over 45 years with everything from broken air conditioners to leaking pipes. You can learn about our successful projects and satisfied customers in our glowing reviews! To fix your clogged sewer line, contact us at (703) 481-3700 or visit our website for more information.

Below, we discuss 4 warning signs of a clogged sewer line:

1. Smelly Drains

When a home sewer line clogs, the drains attached to the system usually give off foul and peculiar smells. Hair, trash, waste, and more can accumulate in a sewer line. Depending on where the clog forms, it may even affect multiple drains at once.

Nevertheless, an R.A. Dobson service technician can dislodge these materials from indoor pipes without a problem. Don’t hesitate to call our sewer line repair company, as this issue will only worsen over time.

2. “Slow” or Stopped Drains

If it seems like water takes forever to drain from a shower or sink, you might have a clogged sewer line on your hand. As mentioned above, everyday substances can prevent water from draining down a pipe.

Hair and soap scum, for instance, can build up over time and create blockages that obstruct water flow. Furthermore, standing water breeds bacteria that threaten your home’s occupants and structural integrity if left untreated.

3. Gurgling Drains

Sewer Line Repair Ashburn VA

Besides smells and sights, clogged sewer lines also make tell-tale sounds. The most common one is gurgling, which will occur after a toilet flushes. Draining water, as it attempts to move past the clog in the line, produces this sound due to the pressure and lack of space.

Beyond standard sewer line repair, your plumbing system may also benefit from a drain cleaning service. Speak to R.A. Dobson’s professional technicians about your options, and schedule multiple services during one appointment to save time and money.

4. Sewage Back Up

Perhaps the most salient and disturbing sign your sewer line is clogged is raw sewage coming up through your drains. Consider: line clogs prevent sewage and wastewater from draining. When water flows down your drain and meets that sewage, it has nowhere to go but back up through your drains.

Flushing the toilet, using the washing machine, and running the dishwasher can bring wastewater back up through your drains. That dirty water fills sinks and showers, making an unpleasant scene. If this happens, turn off the water supply to your fixtures and call an emergency plumbing expert.

Customer-First Sewer Line Repair in Ashburn, VA

There’s a reason R.A. Dobson is a trusted plumbing company among Ashburn, VA, residents. For over 45 years, homeowners have counted on us to fix their home systems efficiently and safely. That said, we’re confident our sewer line repair services can turn your home from chaos to comfortable in no time. To start fixing your clogged sewer line, contact us at (703) 481-3700 or visit our website.

Plumbing Repair Ashburn VA

Signs Your Drain Needs Professional Cleaning

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Plumbing problems can develop gradually and without warning. Clogged drains, for example, may not exhibit symptoms at first. Still, homeowners eventually notice slow-draining water, an overflowing toilet, backed-up sewage, or drain odors. While these signs may arise due to a clogged drain, the issue can run much deeper. So, turn to a professional plumbing repair service to get to the source of the problem.

R.A. Dobson specializes in heating, air conditioning, and plumbing services. We are a second-generation family business that serves residents in Ashburn, VA. We offer drain cleaning and sewer line repair for regular maintenance and emergency needs. Contact us at (703) 481-3700 to have your plumbing system assessed.

Below, we outline common drain clog signs:

Slow-Draining Water

The most common clogged drain symptom is slow-draining water in your plumbing fixtures. You may also notice bubbling and gurgling sounds alongside slow-draining water, further signs of a plumbing system problem.

In bathroom sinks, excess soap or toothpaste can cause drain clogs. Shower and bath drain clogs, on the other hand, tend to arise from soap products and hair. While these problems may seem isolated, one clog can influence other drain pipes’ health.

Overflowing Toilet

Perhaps the most common sign of clogged drains is an overflowing toilet. Frequent changes in the toilet water level, frequent clogging, and a malfunctioning toilet are all signs of drainage issues. Furthermore, you may notice water pooling around your toilet’s base. 

Toilets can clog due to excess toilet paper, sanitary wipes, or feminine hygiene products. They also struggle when anyone (perhaps children) flushes toys or foreign objects.

Backed-Up Water

Objects are not the only cause of drain clogs. Sometimes, a residue buildup can create this issue. Such gradual clogs can restrict drain flow, causing the water to back up. Water that fails to drain—especially in the bathtub or sink—can indicate a similar problem.

Plumbing Repair Ashburn VA

There may also be leaks near various plumbing fixtures throughout your home. Although backed-up water and leaks may appear benign, they create unsanitary conditions and indicate a foreboding problem within your plumbing system.

Drain Odors

Strange or stinky odors are another variety of plumbing issue symptoms. However, you should distinguish where the odor is arising. A sulfur smell is usually associated with microbial changes in your water supply. Conversely, a foul sewage odor emanating from your drains is most likely related to the plumbing components in your home.

Kitchen drain clogs usually arise from food particle buildup or oil blockages. These drain clogs can come from pipe overload or undersized pipes. If you notice a foul odor in your kitchen drain, ensure your garbage disposal is functioning. The smell may come from food lodged therein.

Reliable Plumbing Repair Services in Ashburn, VA

Prevent plumbing problems from compromising your entire plumbing system with the help of R.A. Dobson. We provide effective plumbing repair and faucet installation services in Ashburn, VA. Moreover, we can keep your drains free from obstructions and buildup with regular drain cleaning services. To learn about our financing options and get a free estimate, contact us at (703) 481-3700.

Plumbing Repair Ashburn VA

Your 2022 Winter Plumbing Checklist

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As the heart of winter approaches and temperatures continue to drop, your home plumbing faces increased risk from the cold. Nevertheless, simple steps—like wrapping exposed pipes or getting your water pressure checked—can help protect your system from serious damage. Reach out to a professional for plumbing repair services in Ashburn, VA, who can protect your system against this winter’s weather.

R.A. Dobson is a top-rated team of HVAC and plumbing professionals that has proudly served Ashburn, VA, and the surrounding areas for over 45 years. Our seasoned technicians help with heating, air conditioning, electrical, and plumbing issues that homeowners experience. Call us today or fill out our online form and get our plumbing home inspection for $75 from our team of experts!

Below, we list 6 steps that will protect your home against 2022’s winter months:

1. Wrap All Exposed Pipes

First and foremost, the exposed pipes around your home—particularly those under or outside your house—must be insulated against the frigid air. Exposed pipes are susceptible to freezing and, even worse, bursting. Burst pipes can flood homes. Moreover, in Virginia, pipes tend to burst at 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

You can find pipe insulation at any hardware store and attempt to wrap your pipes alone. However, professionals have the expertise and experience to wrap pipes properly. So, call your heating and cooling experts at R.A. Dobson to winterize your pipes.

2. Disconnect You Outdoor Water Sources

Many homeowners damage their outdoor water systems by forgetting to turn those systems off. Out of sight, out of mind, right? Simply disconnecting your hoses, sprinkles, and all other external plumbing systems guards outdoor systems against damage due to cold weather.

3. Crank Up the Heat

With frosty nights and cold days common now, experts recommend setting your home’s heat at 68 degrees while you’re awake. Turning your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees lower during the night can save 10% on your home’s monthly energy bills. Plus, a programmable thermostat can help you navigate these shifts without hassle.

68 degrees helps protect your pipes from cold weather extremes without breaking your bank on energy expenses. If you’ll be gone for a prolonged period, you should have a friend or house sitter stop by to regulate your home’s heat and keep an eye out for freezing pipes.

4. Inspect Your Water Heater

You should have your water heater inspected annually whether you suspect an issue or not. Any damage, leaks, cracks, and odd smells/sounds coming from the water heater can indicate it needs maintenance. Moreover, call us as soon as possible for water heater repair before an issue leads to an irreparable problem!

5. Check Your Water Pressure

Your home’s water pressure can tell you a lot about your plumbing system’s status. For example, if your water pressure appears lower than normal, the system may have a leak or blockage.

If you have water pressure issues, we recommend reaching out to our plumbing repair professionals. Water pressure can be a symptom of a much larger problem. If left unattended, that issue can escalate quickly.

6. Check for Leaking Faucets and Taps

From showerheads to the kitchen sink, check all of your water fixtures for leaks. A professional can tighten leaking faucets and taps so they perform as usual. When left running overnight, a dripping faucet increases the chances of the water freezing and other issues. Again, reach out to R.A. Dobson for help with all your plumbing problems!

Expert Plumbing Repair Available Now in Ashburn, VA!

Plumbing Repair Ashburn VA

R.A. Dobson, a top plumbing and HVAC services provider, proudly serves home- and business owners throughout Ashburn, VA. Our expert technicians can help you prevent major plumbing issues with our professional plumbing repair services. We also offer online coupons to boost your savings no matter the project you have in mind. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our online form for a free estimate to find out how we can help you!

Sump pump

Water Damage Prevention: The Sump Pump Solution

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For people seeking to protect the structural integrity of their homes and businesses, sump pump systems have become a staple. These systems prevent excess water from flooding low-lying areas of a structure—a basement, crawlspace, or otherwise. No matter what, ensure you get the best sump pump installation possible by contacting a top-notch sump pump service provider. 

Throughout Potomac Falls, VA, and Northern Virginia, R.A. Dobson is the most experienced and qualified sump pump company. We have worked for over 45 years to help our clients maintain their homes’ plumbing, heating, cooling, and drainage. Our expert team can handle any repair, maintenance, or installation job you need. If you are looking for a sump pump or similar plumbing service, call R.A. Dobson. 

Below, we discuss how sump pumps prevent water damage:    

What is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump consists of a small motor pump placed inside a cylindrical pit—usually at the lowest point of a basement or crawlspace. From there, it collects and pumps out the water that drains to it. Water may come from cracks in your foundation walls and floor, among other sources. 

Additionally, a pipe connects to the pit, which drains water away from your home, usually at a point far enough so that the water can’t return to your foundation. With an effective sump pump system, your home will have ample protection from the damaging effects of floods and storms.   

How a Sump Pump Prevents Water Damage

Primarily, the main function of the sump pump is to avoid any risk of a basement flood in your home. This prevents your carpets, walls, and valuable items left down there from getting wet. 

If they were affected by indoor flooding, it can lead to all kinds of damage and resultant expenses to replace or repair. In addition, sump pumps prevent another serious form of water damage: mold and mildew. 

These grow over time under damp and humid conditions, which do develop within basements unequipped with sump pumps and have bad ventilation. Depending on what you have stored down there, mold can eat away your valuables, deteriorating them. 

It can also render your basement uninhabitable, requiring you to pay large sums to get rid of it before it can be used or lived in once again. Furthermore, mold can irritate respiratory conditions and, in some cases, cause inhabitants to develop them. A sump pump can go a long way to protect your home and your loved ones.   

R.A. Dobson: High-Quality Sump Pump Installation in Potomac Falls, VA 

R.A. Dobson offers the finest plumbing, heating, and cooling services in the Potomac Falls, VA area. We are dedicated to ensuring our fellow Virginians get the best protection from water damage, poor indoor air, and more, which is why our services cover installations, repairs, and maintenance, including excellent sump pump installations. If you are seeing issues with your home’s various air or water systems, consider calling on R.A. Dobson. Contact us at (703) 481-3700 to learn what we can do for you and get a free sump pump installation estimate today!

Plumbing Repair Ashburn VA

Benefits of Changing Your Home Water Fixtures

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You may not consider water fixtures–sinks, bathtubs, faucets, or showerheads–as the most significant aspect of your home, they have a crucial function: distributing and draining water throughout the house. Yet if they are outdated, they may be less than efficient and dysfunctional. At that point, you should hire an expert faucet installation service like RA Dobson. 

We offer premium fixtures as well as excellent installation and maintenance services at affordable rates. Our team is dedicated to providing these services to clients throughout Sterling, VA, and Northern Virginia. We’ve served residents and businesses across the region for over 45 years, making us among the most experienced and well-trained plumbing, heating, and cooling service providers around. 

4 Benefits of New Water Fixtures   

  1. Higher Efficiency 

One of the greatest benefits of a late model water fixture is increased efficiency. New toilets, sinks, and faucets use less water than their older counterparts, which tend to leak. 


Newer models are incredibly efficient and conserve more water, which results in less being wasted and lower amounts on your monthly water bills. All this by simply updating your current fixtures for new ones. 

  1. Cool Features 

Newer fixtures also have advanced features that increase their functionality and ease of use. For example, Grohe–a high-quality water fixture brand–has produced a new type of control system for sinks: a foot-activated water faucet. This feature provides greater accessibility and ease for those that have difficulties with traditional faucet controls.

If you want a new faucet or another water fixture, consider ones with advanced features—you may be surprised at what’s available.

  1. Greater Appeal

Exchanging old fixtures for new ones doesn’t have to be a decision based on utility and function alone. Your fixtures also constitute a part of your home’s interior decoration. Newer fixtures not only look nicer and more polished than old ones but also come in various styles and colors.

Consider adding a stainless steel sink with a matching faucet to make your kitchen look more like a professional-grade restaurant. You might also use copper fixtures in your bathrooms to embellish a classical art-deco style. 

When looking to install new fixtures, talk to a professional about the options they have. They’ll not only provide a range of choices for you to choose from, but they’ll also help make sure you pick the ones that will properly fit into your system and last you for years to come.      
  

  1. Increased Home Value

Finally, among the most significant benefits changing your water fixtures will do is increase the market value of your home. This is because much of a home’s value is based on its appearance, function, and efficiency. 

Homebuyers are more likely to view a house on the market as highly-priced if its interiors, including its home appliances and fixtures, are more up-to-date. 

To them, it means buying your home at a higher price offsets the amount they would soon pay for repairs and maintenance if they were to purchase a house with older fixtures. As many would say, small things often make a big difference. 

Therefore, if you are thinking of selling your home soon, consider calling on a professional faucet installation service to provide you with new water fixtures in your house and easily raise your home value.  

RA Dobson: Faucet Installation Services Available in Sterling, VA 

Getting a set of new water fixtures installed provides many different benefits to you and your home’s water system. To get the best fixtures available, as well as skilled faucet installation and plumbing maintenance services, hire a professional from RA Dobson. Our company is among the most experienced in the HVAC and plumbing industries with trained and qualified professionals serving numerous residents and businesses all across Sterling, VA, and Northern Virginia. Contact us today at (703) 481-3700 and find out how we can help improve the quality of your home’s indoor cooling, heating, and water systems.

Sterling VA Plumbing Emergency Service

What to Do Before Calling An Emergency Plumber

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If you have a plumbing emergency in the middle of the night, you may want to call for help right away. Before calling an emergency plumbing service, you can assess the issue by turning off your water, investigating the root of the problem, and having a list of questions prepared for when it is time to call. 

If you experience any common plumbing problems, call RA Dobson in Sterling, VA, to address and fix them. We are a second-generation family business with over 45 years of experience. Our highly trained professionals are equipped to solve any problem they are met with. Rest assured that we can get your plumbing running smoothly. 

Below, we discuss how to assess plumbing problems and why you can trust RA Dobson to handle them:

How to Assess Your Plumbing Emergency

  1. No matter where it starts leaking from, your first step to controlling a water emergency is to shut off the water supply of that fixture. If water continues to leak after you do so, turn off the water supply for the whole house.
  1. Make sure to properly diagnose the issue and decide if it can wait until the morning to call. Even if that means not using a specific sink or shower for a few days and waiting until you can be assisted. 
  1. There is also a chance that the problem was caused by a mainline water break or sewer malfunction. Contact your water company to see if there is any they can cover to take care of.
  1. If it is necessary to make an emergency call, make sure to follow these simple steps to get the best service and price possible: give distinct details about your issue, get a quote for the call, request a free estimate, and ask if you can speak with the plumber. 
  1. If you are unsure what the problem is or what danger it poses, call an emergency plumber. It’s better to pay a high bill and prevent a catastrophe rather than flood your home. However, it is important to know how to address your plumbing matters, so when an emergency does arise you are prepared.

Why Choose RA Dobson?

If you have a plumbing emergency, you can trust us to repair it. We offer the following services: drain cleaning, faucet installation and repair, sewer line repair, and sump pump/water heater installation and repair. 

We perform excellent service for our customers and solve any plumbing issue they are experiencing. We earned Angie’s List Super Service Award in 2016 as well as a large number of 5-star reviews. 

Some of our customers’ reviews have specifically noted how kind and professional our staff has been when in their homes. Through it all, providing affordable and efficient service while going the extra mile to ensure our customers’ satisfaction.

Professional Emergency Plumbing Service Available Now in Sterling, VA 

Although you should assess the situation before calling, when you do have a plumbing emergency in Sterling, VA, make sure to contact RA Dobson. You will be met with high-quality service at a fair price while completing all of your plumbing needs. You can reach us at (703) 982-0111 or fill out our free estimate request form on our contact page.

An home in Northern VA gets a quality HVAC Inspection

Spring Maintenance Checklist

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Routine home maintenance is crucial to maintaining your home comfort even as the weather gets warmer. It also allows you to catch any problems before they worsen and result in costly repairs. Get in touch with your local HVAC inspection company in Northern Virginia to help you detect problems before they worsen. 

At RA Dobson, our team adheres to the federal, state, and local government’s COVID-19 guidelines, implementing daily health checks on our technicians, wearing face masks, and providing contactless visits and quotes. If you require any HVAC or plumbing services, contact us to receive a free contactless estimate!

Here are a few items that should be on your spring maintenance checklist this year: 

Clean Your Ducts

Keeping your ducts clean on a regular basis, especially before spring, helps reduce allergens and allows you to breathe easier. With dirty air ducts, you could be breathing in fungi and bacteria. Prevent your allergies from getting out of hand with professional duct cleaning.

Maybe even consider installing an air cleaner to prevent pollutants from circulating throughout your home. At RA Dobson, our team receives high-level training and can help you determine which air purifier is right for you.

Check Your Heating and Cooling Unit

If your heating and cooling system experiences frequent breakdowns, then it will likely break down again, which could lead to emergency repairs and damages to your heating and cooling systems. Even if your system is a few years old, it still requires routine maintenance to function properly.

Clean Your Drains

Dirty drains are a common problem in many households. If your drains are clogged, drain slowly, or produce a pungent odor, then have a professional plumber take a look. Have your drains professionally cleaned to keep your home comfortable throughout the warmer months.

Generator Check Up

Before Northern Virginia’s hottest temperatures arrive, ensure your generator is functioning properly. An efficiently functioning generator will be able to handle any outages that take place during inclement weather and conditions.

Receive an HVAC Inspection, Routine Maintenance, & More in Northern Virginia

At RA Dobson, we are committed to helping you maintain your home comfort and safety with comprehensive spring maintenance and adhering to our COVID-19 safety protocols. By providing professionally trained HVAC inspection technicians that are dedicated to maintaining your home comfort, we ensure that you will experience ultimate comfort right away. 
We have served the Sterling, Virginia area for over 45 years, and you can trust us to provide efficient and affordable spring maintenance. Contact our team at (703) 481-3700 to receive a contactless quote today.

Running hot water from a quality water heater installation in Sterling, VA

3 Signs Your Water Heater Needs to be Replaced

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Among the many features of our home’s water system is its capability to heat water to a higher temperature. Hot water isn’t a luxury but an essential for proper hygiene and cleanliness. Thus, keeping tabs on the condition of your water heater is vital to avoiding a disruption in your home’s everyday living conditions.

At R.A. Dobson, we are dedicated to maintaining and sustaining the integrity of our clients’ HVAC and plumbing systems through our expertise and thorough work ethic. Our team is highly-trained in each of our many services to provide a high-quality experience. Our services include essential plumbing maintenance, heating and cooling repairs, efficient water heater installation, and more. For over 40 years, we have helped thousands of residents throughout Sterling and Northern Virginia keep their homes warm, cool, and comfy. 

Here are 3 signs that indicate your water heater needs a replacement: 

Decade(s) Since Manufacturing Date

Find out the date of when your current water heater was first manufactured. The date is usually somewhere on a tank, typically on a label sticking to the side. However, even if you do find the label, it can be difficult to read, but there are water heater information resources available that can help you get a grasp on how to read them.

Even with the water heater’s manufacturing date in hand, how long after does it need to be replaced? 

Well, that depends on the type of water heater you have. Commonly, most homes have electric water heaters, which will last around 10 to 15 years, while some tankless water heaters will last for 20 or more.

In any case, we suggest that you consider getting a replacement after your current water heater exceeds its average life span, or at least have it checked and maintained by a professional to ensure that your home continues to have safe and running hot water.  

Water Leaking From The Tank

A sure sign of disrepair in your water heater is water leaking from the tank. The first thing to do is to check if any fittings, connections, or the temperature/pressure overflow pipe is leaking. If so, that means you’ll just need a professional to replace a component and not the entire tank.

However, if you notice that there’s moisture or even puddles of water around the bottom of the tank, and you’ve found that all other components are dry, that may mean your tank has sprung a leak. It will need to be replaced for it to work properly again.   

Rusty or Cloudy Running Water

When you turn on your faucet and see that the water pouring out is rust-colored or cloudy, there is a big chance that there’s something wrong with your water heater. There are one of two possible problems occurring within it: 

  • The sacrificial anode is used to attract particles of metal and sediment within the tank and to oxidize in place of the tank itself. Rust-colored or metallic-smelling water can mean that the anode has rusted over and needs to be replaced.
  • The inner lining of the tank itself has been corroded with rust, making it totally unusable and must be replaced immediately. 

R.A. Dobson: Expert Water Heater Installation in Sterling, VA

Looking out for these issues in your water heater provides you with a good benchmark for when you should have it replaced. However, you’ll need a professional to provide a fresh replacement, as well as an affordable water heater installation. At R.A. Dobson, our technicians are among the best and most-experienced in the Sterling, VA and Northern Virginia area. We offer numerous choices in high-quality HVAC units and plumbing appliances, as well as expert repair and maintenance services. Contact us today at (703) 481-3700 and talk to one of  our qualified technicians today. 

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.