FAQ Tag: Maintain

Commercial Hot Water Systems Need More Frequent Care

Restaurants, salons, and other small businesses rely on consistent hot water every day, which means faster sediment buildup and more wear on components. Regular maintenance helps prevent downtime, protects equipment like dishwashers and espresso machines, and keeps operations running smoothly. Done offers dependable service across Denver for both residential and light-commercial water heater systems.

DIY Flushing Can Miss Problems a Technician Will Catch

While basic draining is possible, a full maintenance visit includes checking the anode rod, pressure relief valve, thermostat settings, and signs of corrosion or failure. Done’s plumbers perform complete water heater maintenance in Metro Denver, ensuring the system is cleaned safely and operating as efficiently as possible.

Professional Service Protects Your System and Your Home

Water heaters involve pressurized plumbing, gas or electrical connections, and safety devices that must work properly. A trained plumber ensures flushing is done correctly, components are inspected thoroughly, and everything meets local code. Done’s technicians maintain water heaters throughout the Denver metro area, helping customers extend system life and avoid unexpected outages.

Maintenance Is a Small Investment Compared to Major Repairs

Routine service may include flushing sediment, checking valves, inspecting burners or heating elements, and descaling tankless units. Costs depend on access, system condition, and whether additional adjustments are needed. Done provides upfront pricing and honest recommendations, helping Denver homeowners stay ahead of costly hot water problems.

Common Signs Your Water Heater Needs a Tune-Up

Sediment buildup and worn components often show up through subtle changes before a breakdown happens. If your system takes longer to heat water, makes popping sounds, or your hot water doesn’t last like it used to, maintenance can restore performance and prevent bigger damage. Done’s team serves homes and businesses across Metro Denver with clear diagnostics and proactive service.

Annual Water Heater Maintenance Helps Prevent Breakdowns

In the Denver metro area, mineral-heavy water can cause sediment buildup inside both tank and tankless systems. Annual maintenance helps keep your water heater running efficiently, improves hot water performance, and reduces the risk of leaks or sudden failure. Done’s licensed plumbers provide thorough tune-ups that catch small issues early, so you get reliable hot water without surprise repairs.

How Do I Keep A P-Trap From Drying Out?

A P-trap works by holding water in its curved section, creating a seal that blocks sewer gases. When a drain isn’t used often — such as a basement floor drain, guest bathroom sink, or laundry drain — that water can slowly evaporate, allowing odors to escape.

The simplest solution is regular use. Running water for 10–15 seconds every few weeks is usually enough to keep the trap full. For drains that are rarely used, some homeowners add a small amount of mineral oil after running water, which slows evaporation without affecting drainage.

If sewer smells keep returning even after adding water, there may be a deeper issue like a leaking trap, poor venting, or an improperly installed drain. These problems won’t resolve on their own and often worsen over time.

Done! can identify whether a drying P-trap is the real issue or a symptom of something bigger. For dependable plumbers for Denver, our team is ready to help keep your drains sealed, odor-free, and working properly.

Denver winters don’t behave like winters in most parts of the country, and your thermostat shouldn’t be treated like they do. High elevation, intense sun, dry air, and fast-moving weather systems create bigger temperature swings and more uneven heating across Front Range homes.

Our HVAC technicians see it every winter: south-facing rooms that warm up in the afternoon and cool quickly after sunset, systems that cycle more during sudden cold fronts, and homes where the thermostat setting sounds right but still feels off. Managing humidity, sun exposure, and day-to-night temperature changes — often with a programmable or smart thermostat — helps you find the best winter setting without overworking your heating system or driving up energy costs.

Best Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter

Use these ranges as a starting point. Adjust one degree at a time until your home feels steady and your bills make sense.

Situation Recommended Set Point Notes
Home during the day Around 68°F Common balance of comfort and efficiency in well-sealed homes.
Nighttime 60–62°F Lower by 6–8 degrees from your evening setting; use proper bedding.
Away for the day 60–62°F Cuts run time without long warm-ups.
Extended trips At least 60°F Avoid going below the mid-50s to limit frozen pipe risk.

Home characteristics matter. Tight, well-insulated homes can stay comfortable at slightly lower set points. Drafty homes or those with thin attic insulation may need a small bump until air sealing and insulation are improved. If you’re unsure of the best temperature to set thermostat in winter for your space, start at 68°F, then tweak based on how rooms feel in the evening and early morning.

How Your Heating System Affects Comfort

Different systems deliver heat differently, which can change what temperature feels “right.” This is key when choosing a thermostat setting for winter that you’ll stick with.

  • High-efficiency modulating or two-stage furnaces: Provide steady, even heat, so 67–69°F often feels comfortable.
  • Single-stage furnaces: Can cause noticeable swings; you may prefer a slightly higher set point to smooth peaks and dips.
  • Radiant heat: Warm surfaces make lower readings feel cozy because heat is even and less drafty.
  • Heat pumps: Cold-climate models can keep pace during many Denver winter days; smart controls improve comfort in temperature swings.

If your home struggles to reach or hold the set point, it may be a system or control issue. Uneven room temperatures, short cycling, or loud runs are signs it’s time for a check. Done! offers furnace repair and thermostat evaluations to get things back on track fast.

Thermostat Energy Savings in Winter

Lowering your set point by about 7–10 degrees for 8 hours can deliver meaningful thermostat energy savings winter after winter. Your home loses heat more slowly at lower indoor temperatures, and your furnace or heat pump runs less.

Consistency pays off. High-efficiency systems do best with planned schedules instead of frequent manual changes. A programmable or smart thermostat will warm the house before you wake or return, so comfort is there when you need it without wasting energy while you’re away.

  • Use a regular sleep setback of 6–8 degrees.
  • Schedule daytime setbacks when the home is empty.
  • Let the thermostat handle preheat and recovery to avoid overshooting.

If you want help building schedules or choosing the best thermostat in winter for your setup, our smart thermostat installation service includes setup, app connection, and training.

Is 72°F a Good Temperature for Heat in the Winter in Denver?

It’s comfortable for many households, but not always the most efficient. If your home is drafty, insulation is limited, or someone is more sensitive to cold – infants, seniors, or those with certain health conditions – 72°F may make sense during cold spells. For long-term savings, fix the root causes so the best temperature for heater in winter, around 68–70°F, feels just as good.

  • Seal door and window gaps and add weatherstripping.
  • Improve attic insulation and seal obvious duct leaks.
  • Replace clogged filters and ensure steady airflow.

If temperatures vary room to room, schedule furnace maintenance to correct airflow or control issues before the next cold front.

What Temperature Should I Set When I’m Away?

For daytime absences, aim for 60–62°F. For longer trips, maintain at least 60°F and avoid going below the mid-50s. In Denver’s dry cold, pipes can be at risk when interior spaces hover near 55°F or lower, especially along exterior walls, basements, and crawl spaces. These practices support recommended thermostat settings for winter without risking damage.

  • Open sink cabinets on exterior walls to let warm air circulate.
  • During extreme cold, leave faucets at a slow drip and keep interior doors open.
  • Use smart thermostat low-temperature alerts, and consider a neighbor check-in during deep freezes.

Heading out of town? Making a small thermostat adjustment and checking your heating system can help prevent surprises. If you want a professional look, call Done! Heating & Cooling to schedule a system check before you leave.

When to Replace or Upgrade Your Thermostat

Consider an upgrade if you notice temperature swings, rooms that don’t match the set point, short cycling, a flickering display, or odd run times. A worn sensor or miscalibrated thermostat can waste energy and undermine the best temperature to set thermostat in winter.

Modern options offer strong everyday value:

  • Programmable thermostats: Set dependable day, night, and away schedules for hands-off savings.
  • Smart thermostats: Add learning, geofencing, remote control, low-temp alerts, and usage insights.

If your thermostat is 10 years old or lacks scheduling, upgrading can pay off quickly. Done handles smart thermostat installation, setup, and training so everything works on day one.

Simple Ways to Make Lower Settings Feel Better

  • Seal drafts around doors, windows, and attic hatches.
  • Rebalance supply and return vents in cold rooms.
  • Use thick curtains at night; open them on sunny days to capture heat.
  • Add humidity with a whole-home or portable humidifier.
  • Change filters every 1–3 months during heavy heating use.

These basics often let you lower your thermostat in winter by a degree or two without sacrificing comfort — small changes that add up to thermostat energy savings winter after winter.

Troubleshooting: If Your Home Won’t Reach the Set Point

During a cold snap, your system may struggle. Before you crank the setting higher, check the simple stuff:

  • Filter: Replace if dirty to restore airflow.
  • Vents: Open and clear any furniture or rugs blocking registers.
  • Thermostat location: Avoid drafts or direct sun that can throw off readings.

If issues persist—burner cycling, unusual noises, or no heat—book furnace repair. If your equipment is aging and fixes are adding up, we can compare heating system replacement options, including high-efficiency furnaces and cold-climate heat pumps. We also service hybrid systems and provide heat pump repair when needed.

Why Homeowners Choose Done! Heating & Cooling

Winter in Denver can change fast. You need clear guidance, on-time service, and work that holds up to the next cold front. Done! delivers all three. Since 1999, our licensed HVAC technicians have helped homeowners across Aurora and Greater Denver set schedules that work, prevent frozen pipes, and keep systems running efficiently. You get straightforward explanations, upfront pricing, and results that last.

  • Fast, reliable help: Same-day solutions whenever possible.
  • Transparency from start to finish: Clear pricing with no surprises.
  • Local know-how: Advice grounded in Denver’s climate and housing stock.
  • Simple experience: Friendly pros, tidy workspaces, and follow-through.

If you’re ready to lock in the best temperature to set thermostat in winter for your home—or you want a smart upgrade that boosts thermostat energy savings in winter — One Call… It’s Done!

Understanding furnace cleaning costs shouldn’t feel like guesswork — especially when your comfort and energy bills are on the line. Most homeowners just want two things: clear prices and confidence they’re making the right call. That’s exactly what we provide at Done! Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric. Our technicians focus on transparency, reliable workmanship, and practical guidance that helps you take care of your system without unnecessary spend.

In this guide, we’ll explain what’s included in a professional furnace cleaning, typical inspection and tune-up cost ranges, and the factors that influence your final price. We’ll also outline simple, safe steps you can take between visits to keep your system running smoothly. Whether you’re planning ahead or troubleshooting a concern, this breakdown gives you the clarity you need to protect your home, and your wallet, with confidence.

What’s Included in a Furnace Cleaning

A thorough cleaning focuses on safety, reliability, and efficiency. Our trained technicians remove dust and debris, inspect critical parts, and confirm that your system is operating the way it should. Here’s how service levels typically break down, and what the furnace cleaning cost and furnace maintenance cost look like:

Basic cleaning and safety check: typically $100–$200. Includes standard filter replacement, vacuuming accessible compartments, burner inspection, and a carbon monoxide safety test. This visit covers the essentials and helps you stay on track with annual maintenance.

Advanced cleaning and tune-up: generally $200–$400. Includes deeper cleaning of the blower assembly, accessible heat exchanger surface cleaning, burner calibration, ignition system service, condensate line cleaning for high-efficiency units, and airflow checks. A heating system tune up at this level is ideal if it’s been more than a year since your last service.

Premium cleaning with full maintenance visit: could be as much as $500. Includes advanced cleaning plus thorough diagnostics, minor adjustments, and priority scheduling. This level is designed to reduce breakdown risks and stabilize comfort all winter.

What affects your price:

  • Furnace type: High-efficiency condensing units and oil-fired systems take longer and may require specialized steps, impacting oil furnace cleaning cost.
  • Accessibility: Tight spaces or obstructed units add labor time.
  • Condition: Heavy dust, pet hair, or soot can bump a basic visit into a deeper clean.
  • Filter type: Media filters and HEPA upgrades increase materials cost.
  • Local rates and demand: Prices can rise during peak heating season.

Basic vs. advanced cleaning:

  • Basic: Best for well-maintained systems; keeps warranty requirements aligned and catches small issues early.
  • Advanced: Smart when your furnace hasn’t been serviced in over a year, for older units, or if air quality and efficiency have dropped. The added furnace maintenance cost can pay back with smoother, more reliable performance in winter.

Why Professional Furnace Cleaning Is Worth It

Professional service from Done! delivers consistent heat, fewer surprises, and better energy performance. Our certified technicians use specialised tools and calibrated testing to find hidden problems and fine-tune combustion and airflow — work that’s difficult and risky to manage without training. With Done, you get quick responsiveness, a customer-first approach, and work backed by our transparent service guarantee.

Efficiency and longevity benefits:

  • Optimized airflow reduces strain on motors and prolongs component life.
  • Precise burner calibration for our high altitude to support steady heat and fewer stop–start cycles.
  • Preventive checks catch early wear on igniters, sensors, and belts, helping you avoid emergency calls.

Health and safety advantages:

  • Less dust and allergens circulating through ducts.
  • Verified carbon monoxide safety with calibrated instruments.
  • Cleaner heat exchanger surfaces reduce the risk of overheating and shutdowns.

Impact on energy bills:

  • A tuned furnace can lower heating costs by 5–15% compared to neglected units.
  • Clean filters and blowers mean shorter run times and more consistent temperatures.
  • Proper gas pressure and adjustments prevent waste and stabilise utility bills.

How long does it take? A standard visit usually lasts 60–90 minutes. Advanced cleanings and detailed diagnostics can 2 hours depending on your unit and condition. If you’re wondering how often should I have my furnace inspected, most homes benefit from annual maintenance with seasonal check-ins for high-efficiency systems.

How Much DIY Furnace Cleaning Can You Safely Do?

There are a few simple things homeowners can do between professional visits, but it’s important to keep DIY maintenance in the safe zone. Light upkeep helps your system breathe better, but anything involving calibration, burners, or internal components should always be handled by a trained technician. Staying within the right boundaries protects your equipment—and helps you avoid costly repairs.

What you can safely do yourself:

  • Turn off power to the furnace before you start.
  • Replace your furnace filter using the correct size and MERV rating.
  • Vacuum loose dust around the blower compartment and return area without touching wiring or delicate parts.
  • Gently wipe accessible surfaces with a dry cloth—avoid liquids near electronics or ignition components.
  • Check vents and registers around your home for blockages so airflow stays consistent.

These quick tasks typically cost $15–$60 in basic supplies and help keep things running smoothly between tune-ups.

When DIY stops being safe: If you see soot, smell something unusual, hear odd noises, or feel uneven heat, it’s time to pause. Cleaning burners, adjusting sensors, handling electrical components, or opening sealed areas can easily lead to damage, safety issues, or voided warranties.

That’s where we come in.

Join the Care Club and enjoy an annual Done! furnace tune-up that includes comprehensive cleaning, testing, and safety checks you can’t — or don’t want to — perform yourself. This membership significantly reduces the risk of breakdowns and helps keep your energy costs consistent. If you notice any issues or want to arrange your yearly maintenance, our dedicated team is ready to assist you. We ensure a straightforward, efficient process that values your time.

Tips to Lower Furnace Cleaning Cost

Smart planning helps keep your visit affordable while protecting your system. Done offers programmes and deals designed to deliver lasting value with minimal disruption, and our no-hidden-fee pricing keeps every furnace maintenance cost transparent from the start.

Join the Done! Care Club for regular heating and cooling maintenance:

  • Priority appointments, exclusive discounts, and scheduled tune-ups that reduce emergency repairs.
  • Consistent service history that supports warranty requirements and future resale value.

Seasonal offers for installations and repairs:

  • Promotions and special offers help you upgrade or fix issues at competitive rates.
  • Transparent quotes show scope and price before work begins—no surprises.

Bundle services for savings:

  • Combine furnace cleaning with AC tune-ups, duct cleaning, or indoor air quality upgrades for multi-service discounts.
  • One visit, multiple tasks — save on trip fees and keep your whole system in sync.

When you compare furnace inspection cost and furnace cleaning cost across providers, look for measurable results: combustion checks, airflow readings, and safety tests. We document these on every visit so you can see the improvement.

Clear Pricing and Dependable Service

Choosing the right partner matters. With Done, you’re choosing a team that values your comfort and satisfaction as much as you do. We bring technical expertise and a caring, customer-first approach, backed by a transparent service guarantee and 24/7 availability.

Reliability and transparency:

  • Upfront estimates, no hidden fees, and detailed service reports.
  • On-time arrivals, respectful service, and careful attention to your home.

Quality you can trust:

  • Certified technicians who follow proven checklists and best practices.
  • We measure outcomes—airflow, combustion, and safety—so you see clear improvements.

All-in-one home service:

  • Heating and cooling, plumbing, and electrical—coordinate multiple needs with one trusted provider.
  • Simplified scheduling keeps maintenance fast and convenient.

If you’re weighing furnace maintenance cost against long-term reliability, our approach keeps your system efficient and safe without surprises. For oil-fired equipment, we’ll explain oil furnace cleaning cost and outline any soot-related steps before work begins.

Get a Fast, Accurate Furnace Cleaning Quote

Ready for a smoother heating season? Tell us your furnace type and any issues you’ve noticed, hot and cold spots, higher bills, unusual sounds, and we’ll provide a clear estimate. If you need service right away, we offer same-day appointments whenever possible. One call, and it’s Done.

Serving Denver and Aurora homeowners since 1999, we understand busy schedules and unpredictable weather. We keep communication simple, pricing upfront, and work efficient so you can get back to normal quickly. Whether you’re comparing furnace cleaning cost, furnace inspection cost, or planning annual maintenance, our team is ready to help with urgency, care, and results you can feel.

When cold weather hits, frozen pipes can quickly turn into leaks, water damage, and an unexpected mess. At Done, we know how stressful that can be — especially when it interrupts your day. That’s why we believe homeowners deserve clear guidance and fast, reliable help. This guide walks you through how to keep pipes from freezing, how to prevent pipes from freezing, and what to do if your pipes freeze so you can protect your home before problems start.Since 1999, Done has been a trusted name for homeowners across Denver, Aurora, and nearby communities, offering expert plumbing service, transparent pricing, and 24/7 support you can count on.

Understanding Pipe Freezing and Vulnerable Areas

When temperatures drop below 20°F, unprotected or poorly insulated pipes can freeze fast. Ice expands inside the line, creating pressure that can cause pipes to burst or leak. Metal pipes like copper and steel are most at risk, but even PEX pipes can fail around fittings if left unprotected.

If you’re wondering how to prevent your pipes from freezing, start by checking these high-risk areas in your home:

  • Basements, crawl spaces, and garages
  • Attics and knee walls
  • Cabinets on exterior walls
  • Areas near drafts, vents, and unsealed openings

Understanding where problems start helps you stay ahead of them — before freezing temperatures turn into expensive repairs.

Effective Strategies to Prevent Frozen Pipes

If you’ve ever dealt with frozen plumbing, you know it’s no small problem. The good news? Preventing frozen pipes during cold weather doesn’t require anything complicated — just a few smart habits that keep warm air moving and cold air out.

Here’s how to prevent pipes from freezing this winter:

1. Insulate exposed pipes. Wrap foam sleeves or heat tape around pipes in basements, garages, and crawl spaces. Don’t forget fittings and elbows — they lose heat faster than straight runs.

2. Maintain consistent heat. Keep your home at 55°F or higher, and bump it to 60–65°F during severe cold. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls so warm air can circulate.

3. Use heat cables where needed. UL-listed heat cables can keep vulnerable pipes safely warm. Follow manufacturer directions carefully and avoid overlapping the cables.

4. Let faucets drip slightly. A slow, steady drip keeps water moving and relieves pressure — one of the simplest ways to keep pipes from freezing.

5. Protect outdoor lines. Disconnect hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and seal gaps around windows and doors. Even small openings can let in enough cold air to cause a freeze.

6. Know your main water shutoff. If something goes wrong, you’ll save time (and damage) by knowing exactly where to shut off the water.

Night and Travel Precautions

Nighttime often brings the coldest temperatures. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F — or 60–65°F during an extreme freeze. If you’re leaving town, maintain steady indoor heat, open cabinet doors for airflow, and close garage doors to help your home retain warmth.

These small steps make a big difference when it comes to preventing pipes from freezing and keeping your plumbing safe during Denver’s coldest months.

What To Do if Your Pipes Freeze

Even with preparation, a sudden freeze can still catch you off guard. Signs of frozen pipes include little to no water flow, visible frost on the line, or unusual noises when you turn on the tap.

If you suspect a burst or leak, turn off your home’s main water supply right away. Open faucets to relieve pressure and use gentle, indirect heat — like a hair dryer or space heater — to thaw the pipe. Start near the faucet and work toward the frozen section.

Once water flow returns, inspect for leaks and wrap exposed areas with insulation. If the freeze is behind walls or in a hard-to-reach spot, it’s best to call a professional.

At Done, we’re available 24/7 for emergency plumbing repairs and frozen pipe service across Denver and Aurora. Our licensed plumbers will quickly identify the issue, make safe repairs, and help prevent it from happening again.

Quick Solutions and Support

Frozen or burst pipes demand immediate attention — and we’re ready when you need us. Done provides fast, licensed plumbing service with no hidden fees, transparent communication, and lasting results.

Whether you’re looking for how to prevent your pipes from freezing, need advice on preventing frozen pipes during cold weather, or are dealing with a current freeze, we’re here to help.

You can schedule service online or call for immediate assistance. We’ll assess your plumbing, explain your options, and complete the repair safely and efficiently.

For expert help preventing frozen pipes or repairing a freeze that’s already happened, trust Done Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric — the Denver-area team homeowners have relied on since 1999.

An air handler typically looks like a large metal box or cabinet, usually rectangular, that contains the blower motor, evaporator coil, and air filter. It is connected to your ductwork and is often located in a basement, attic, garage, or utility closet, depending on the home’s layout.

How to Identify an Air Handler in Your Home

An air handler is one of the main components of your HVAC system, and at first glance, it usually looks like a plain metal box or cabinet. Most air handlers are rectangular and range in size from a large suitcase to a tall appliance, depending on the system and the size of the home. Inside the cabinet are key parts like the blower motor, evaporator coil, and air filter, all of which work together to circulate conditioned air throughout your home.

In many Denver-area homes, air handlers are commonly found in basements, utility rooms, attics, garages, or interior closets. Newer homes may have more compact, vertically mounted units, while older systems are often larger and easier to spot. You may also notice insulated ductwork connected to the unit, along with electrical wiring and a condensate drain line.

If you’re unsure whether you’ve found your air handler, or if the unit looks rusted, noisy, or oversized for the space, it may be a sign that it needs professional attention. For homeowners across the Denver metro area, including those in southern Denver with easy access from Aurora, Done! Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric can help identify your air handler, inspect its condition, and recommend repair or replacement options when needed.

Common Places to Find an Air Handler

In many homes, the air handler is installed in the attic to keep ductwork centralized and out of living spaces. Other homes may have air handlers in basements, garages, or dedicated utility closets where there is enough space for the equipment and access for service.

Why Location Varies by Home

The location of an air handler depends on factors like home size, climate, available space, and how the duct system was designed. Some systems are placed to reduce noise, while others are positioned for easier airflow or maintenance access.

Why Knowing the Location Matters

Knowing where your air handler is located helps with filter changes, routine maintenance, and identifying potential issues such as airflow restrictions or moisture concerns. If access is difficult or the location is unclear, a professional inspection ensures the system can be serviced safely and operates as intended.

Done! can help locate your air handler, inspect its condition, and confirm it is working efficiently as part of routine AC service or maintenance.

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