As we do our best to avoid dealing with the summer heat, our air conditioning units often face the brunt of it. Unfortunately, high temperatures and constant use can lead to a whole host of air conditioning problems that can have you sweltering indoors, just when you’re trying to keep cool. 

Here at Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd., we’ve been troubleshooting and solving such issues for over 50 years, and we’re more than ready to help you beat the heat.

Common Summer Air Condition Issues

One of the most common issues we see during the summer months is low refrigerant levels. Your air conditioner needs refrigerant to remove heat and humidity from the air in your home, and when the levels are low, you may notice it’s not cooling effectively. There can be a couple of reasons for this, from refrigerant leakage to installation issues. 

Another common air condition problem is caused by the accumulation of dirt, dust, and leaves within your outdoor unit. When particles clog your filter and block the airflow, it can cause an array of issues, from poor cooling to complete system failure. Regular cleaning and servicing are essential, not just for keeping your unit running but to extend its lifecycle as well.

Finally, many older air conditioning models cannot withstand today’s scorching hot summers and often end up overworked and inefficient. Recognizing the signs and knowing when it’s time to invest in a newer, energy-efficient model can improve comfort and reduce utility bills.

Getting your air conditioner back in top shape doesn’t have to be a daunting task. At Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd., we offer professional air conditioning repairs, servicing, and maintenance to keep you comfortable all summer. 

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.

Are you considering upgrading your home’s heating system to a more efficient and cost-effective option? Heat pumps are an excellent choice that can provide both heating and cooling solutions for your Langley home. But with so many options available, choosing the right heat pump for your specific needs can feel overwhelming. To make it a bit easier, we are sharing some of the most important considerations.

Consideration #1: Size of Your Home

The size of your home is one of the most important factors in choosing the right heat pump. The larger it is, the bigger the capacity (measured in tons) you will need. A professional technician from Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. can conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your house to determine what size works best.

Consideration #2: Type of Heat Pump

There are three types of heat pumps – air-source, geothermal, and ductless mini-split systems.

Air-source: Extracts and compresses outdoor air to warm your home in colder months and vice versa during hot summer seasons.

Geothermal: Uses underground pipes or wells to transfer heat into your building.

Ductless systems: Transfers the air from outdoors to indoors and uses heat exchanger coils to achieve a desired temperature.

Consideration #3: Energy Efficiency Ratings

Another factor you may want to consider when selecting a new heat pump should be its energy efficiency rating. A description of each product’s performance should be based on its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). Moreover, Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSFP) shows how efficiently devices perform during cold months because they measure heating output rather than cooling ability.

Do Not Be Afraid To Get a Professional Opinion

Whichever type of heat pump best suits you depends on specific parameters such as location, budget, house size, and age. To know what will work best for your home, we suggest contacting our experts at Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd for professional guidance on choosing the most fitting heat pump solution.

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.

As technology advances, new options are emerging for temperature control. One alternative to traditional air conditioners is the ductless mini-split system. But can this tiny device replace conventional AC units? 

Ductless Mini Split Vs. Traditional AC

The most significant difference between these two devices is how they distribute cool air. Traditional AC units work by blowing cold air through ducts into different rooms using fans or blowers. On the other hand, mini splits do not use ductwork at all to circulate cold air throughout your home.

A ductless mini split works like a reversible heat pump; they move heated and cooled refrigerant between inside and outdoor units connected by tubing that passes through wall-mounted conduits leading outside.

The Benefits of a Ductless Mini Split

Ductless mini split systems offer a range of advantages over traditional air conditioning units, including:

1. Ductless systems use less electricity and can be more cost-effective than installing or maintaining ductwork.
2. Zoned cooling for more customized temperature control, making them ideal for smaller spaces or less frequently used rooms such as garages and attics.
3. More even airflow distribution along with enhanced comfort
4. Quieter operation compared to old window-based AC Systems

Which Option Is Best For Me?

It depends on your home size, budget, and temperature needs. If you’re considering replacing your existing air conditioner unit with a more efficient and flexible model, we can help.

Hilltop Plumbing offers certified plumbing technicians who can help guide you through our offerings today. Contact us now for further inquiries.

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.

The last few months may have been filled with wind, cool temperatures, and a heavy downpour of rain. However, with April nearing an end, we are finally getting closer to drier days and warmer weather.

For many in Greater Vancouver, the spring and summer heat is a welcomed addition, but only momentarily. The summers across British Columbia have been getting hotter and hotter, and without an effective air conditioning unit, the summer heat can become unbearable.

Just because you have existing air conditioning does not mean you will be protected from the summer heat. Without proper maintenance, your unit may not perform as effectively as it should. Therefore, it is critical to get maintenance performed by a professional HVAC company before the heat arrives for the following reasons.

Ensure Cleaner Air Quality

Air conditioners have a filter that blocks bacteria and pollutants from entering the air supply and circulating throughout the home. However, air filters have a short lifespan, and without a yearly change, they are unable to effectively do their job.

The first step of any air conditioning maintenance is to check the filter and ensure it is cleaned and functioning as needed.

Maintain a Comfort Temperature

In an ideal world, you set the air conditioner to a specific temperature, and it takes care of the rest. However, over time, the AC condenser coils can become damaged or blocked, which directly impacts its ability to maintain a specific temperature.

Without replacing the damaged condenser coils or tubing, your air conditioner will struggle to maintain the desired temperature.

Get Assistance Before It Is Too Busy

With the summer heat around the corner, it is crucial to schedule air conditioning maintenance and beat the rush. At Hilltop Plumbing, we have a team of skilled and friendly HVAC technicians that will ensure your unit works as intended. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.

Heat pumps are commonly found outside of many metro Vancouver homes. These heating and cooling units are installed outside the house and use electricity and refrigerant to transfer warm air into or out of a home. When they are working as intended, they keep your home at an optimal temperature during any season.

However, because heat pumps work daily, they can fail over time due to age, mechanical issues, or a lack of maintenance. Before the heat pump breaks down, there are often warning signs that appear months or even years earlier that homeowners should be mindful of.

If you own a heat pump, pay attention to the following three signs. If you detect any of these, contact a technician immediately.

Excessive Electricity Usage

The first thing most people notice when something is wrong with their heat pump is skyrocketing electricity bills. A heat pump uses electricity only, and while that is great for the environment, it can leave you prone to overconsumption. 

When parts of your heat pump are damaged, the unit draws extra energy to try and heat or cool the home. Additionally, excessive electricity usage can also stem from the heat pump switching between heating and cooling cycles too quickly.

Cannot Maintain a Consistent Temperature

If you are experiencing areas of your home that are warmer or cooler than other rooms, it is often a sign of a failing heat pump. Problems with internal temperature imbalance are often a result of poor airflow or a damaged component.

Odd Smells or Sounds

Finally, if you are hearing odd sounds or noticing an off-putting smell emanating from the heat pump, call a technician immediately. These changes often indicate serious underlying mechanical issues that must be fixed immediately.

Do not let these warning signs turn into a more serious problem. At Hilltop Plumbing, our team can accurately diagnose and repair any heat pump issues. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.

Installing, repairing, or upgrading a furnace is a big undertaking and you want to ensure you are working with a reliable and professional installation company to ensure success. Unfortunately, for homeowners in Langley, this can be easier said than done.

With so many different companies and contractors offering furnace installation services, how do you determine the best one for your needs?

Reputation

Whenever you are looking for a furnace service provider, their reputation should be at the top of the list. The most effective way to gauge this is by reading online reviews and scrolling through their website. Not only should they be highly regarded for their customer service and experience, but they should also be insured and bonded.

Cost

The cost of the installation work is another factor that must be considered. While it is not always a good idea to work with the lowest-cost provider, it is helpful to have a clear budget and follow it. To find yourself the best deal, try and get quotes from multiple providers. 

Availability

Finally, scheduling is an important part of a furnace installation project. When you are searching for a Langley furnace installation provider, you want to guarantee that they can work around your schedule and availability.

Finding a furnace installer that can meet all these considerations is difficult, but not impossible. At Hilltop Plumbing, we offer professional, affordable, and reliable furnace installation services to homes in Langley. Our service is prompt, and our quotes are accurate. Contact us today to get started.

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.

A heat pump is installed outside your home and is an essential component of the internal heating and cooling system. The heat pump helps to circulate air within a home by bringing warm air inside, while transferring cold air out, keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. 

With that said, heat pumps can develop problems that can lead to serious issues for your house. If you own a home, be mindful of the following indicators, as they can be warning signs of a failing heat pump.

Warning Sign 1 – More Expensive Electricity Bill

If your home is consuming significantly more energy than usual, that is often the first indicator of a failing heat pump. When your heat pump is not performing effectively, it takes extra energy to circulate air. Heat pumps can become less effective when they are affected by: 

• A clogged air filter.
• A damaged fan.
• A defective compressor.
• Other mechanical errors.

Fixing these issues will likely improve energy efficiency for your heat pump.

Warning Sign 2 – Inconsistent Heating or Cooling

Another sign that your heat pump is failing occurs when the home is experiencing uneven heating or cooling. If certain rooms in your home are hotter or colder than others, it can signal a problem with the distribution system of your heat pump. These problems could be a result of congested ducts, a faulty fan, or a refrigerant leak.

While this knowledge is helpful, it is crucial to schedule regular maintenance checkups to avoid these issues and to keep your heat pump in optimal condition. 

At Hilltop Plumbing, our team of experienced professionals can assist with all your heat pump installation, repair, and maintenance needs. With over 50 years of experience serving White Rock, South Surrey, & Langley, we can confidently address any heat pump problems.

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.

Are you tired of high energy bills and a poorly performing boiler? Choosing a boiler is a difficult decision for many homeowners. Not only does it impact your comfort and warmth during the cold winter months, but it affects your energy bills. But don’t let that decision stress you out any longer because Hilltop Plumbing is here to help.

Best Energy-Efficient Boilers

One of the most energy-efficient boiler options available today is a condensing boiler. A condensing boiler captures heat, gas, and unused energy escaping the room and uses it to preheat water. Because of this cycle, condensing boilers operate at much higher efficiencies than traditional boilers. 

Additionally, condensing boilers typically have a longer lifespan than traditional boilers, which makes them a prudent investment for your White Rock home.

Another energy-efficient option worth considering is a heat pump boiler, which uses electricity to redistribute heat from the air or ground outside into your home. They also tend to be smaller and more compact, which is a plus for homeowners with limited space in their homes.

It’s also worth mentioning that, regardless of the type of boiler you choose, you can further increase its energy efficiency by incorporating a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat allows you to set temperature schedules for different times of day, which can help you save energy and money.

Invest In a Better Boiler Today

Investing in an energy-efficient boiler for your White Rock home will help you save money on your energy bills in the long run and provide you with more reliable and comfortable heat during the cold winter months. 

As a professional and experienced plumbing company, we are dedicated to providing our customers with the most energy-efficient and reliable options on the market. Contact Hilltop Plumbing today for assistance finding an energy-efficient boiler.

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.

Furnaces come in all shapes and sizes, but choosing the right size furnace for your White Rock home is crucial. If you choose too big of a furnace, you will consume excess electricity. If you choose too small of a furnace, areas of the home won’t be warm enough.

So how do you choose the right size furnace for your White Rock home? The size of the furnace depends on several factors, including the square footage of your home, the age of your home, the level of light exposure, and the desired temperature.

Calculating the Size of Furnace You Need

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing the size of a furnace is the square footage of your home. A general rule of thumb is that you will need about 25-30 BTUs per square foot of living space. For example, if your home is 1,500 square feet, you will need a furnace with a capacity of 37,500-45,000 BTUs.

Choosing the correct size furnace is essential because a furnace that is too large or too small can have significant downsides. A furnace that is too large will consume more energy than necessary, leading to higher energy bills. On the other hand, a furnace that is too small will not be able to keep your home warm enough, which can lead to discomfort during the colder months.

Get Professional Assistance Today

As you can see, choosing the right size furnace for your White Rock home depends on numerous factors. To correctly determine the size of the furnace that is appropriate for your home, it is best to contact an expert. At Hilltop Plumbing, we can assess your property and determine the appropriate size for your home. Contact Hilltop Plumbing for all your furnace needs in White Rock.

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.

While your old furnace may be effective at keeping the house warm in the winter, it is likely an inefficient model that consumes excessive energy whenever you use it. A heat pump, on the other hand, is more energy efficient and environmentally friendly, helping you save money on utility bills while reducing your carbon footprint.

If you live in BC and have an old furnace, the Canadian government is making it easy to upgrade to a heat pump. With the introduction of the Canada Greener Homes Grant, homeowners are eligible for up to $5,000 of interest-free funding. The money from this grant can go towards the purchase and installation of a new heat pump.

Why Upgrade to a Heat Pump?

Canada’s Greener Home Grant is working towards making Canada a cleaner and more energy-efficient country. The use of dated space heating technology accounts for the majority of energy consumed in most Canadian homes. By upgrading to a heat pump, homeowners can reduce their carbon footprint and save money on energy bills.

Heat pumps are also quieter than traditional furnaces, providing a more comfortable living environment for your family.

With the Greener Homes Grant now available, there is no better time to upgrade your furnace and switch to a heat pump. If you are considering a heat pump, Hilltop Plumbing can help. Our team of experienced and certified expert technicians can assist you in selecting the best system for your home. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you upgrade your furnace and take advantage of the Canada Greener Homes Grant.

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.