How to Tell if Your Electrical System Needs to Be Upgraded

August 14, 2023

Modern households rely on electricity more now than ever before. The need for reliable and safe electricity in every home is only going to increase, meaning that your electrical system needs to keep up. However, many people neglect to upgrade the electrical systems in their homes for much longer than they should. This isn’t usually due to a lack of caring. Many people don’t know how to tell when their electrical system is due for an upgrade. Luckily, there are many symptoms of an outdated or damaged electrical system that any homeowner can learn to

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Is It Possible to Finance a New Plumbing System?

August 2, 2023

From damaged drywall, baseboards, and flooring to cloudy, discolored water, there are many ways to tell when the plumbing system in your Fox Valley, WI home has reached the end of its lifespan. Although some plumbing systems can last up to 70 years, most are ready for replacement after just 40 years. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean that homeowners themselves are always prepared for replacement costs. If you’re facing the daunting task of paying for a new plumbing system, the following is everything you need to know about financing these projects. There’s More Than One Way to Pay

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A Practical Guide to Understanding the Difference Between Watts and Amps

July 26, 2023

Electricity plays a vital role in modern life. Nevertheless, many people do not know the difference between 50-watt and 75-watt light bulbs or understand the importance of amps in the prevention of power outages. While we often take this natural phenomenon for granted, understanding the basics of electricity can provide insight into when to seek a professional for electrical maintenance and care. A look at the differences between watts and amps can create a wonderful foundation for ensuring that your home’s electrical system remains in excellent condition. What Are Watts? A watt is a unit of

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Steps to Fix a Leaky Faucet

July 15, 2023

A leaking faucet may seem like a minor problem; however, more issues will develop the longer you allow the faucet to leak. The steady drip of water not only creates an irritating sound, but it can also have significant consequences for your home and your wallet. A leaking faucet that drips water once per second wastes approximately 3000 gallons of water annually and will add an extra $20 to your water bill each month. Moreover, the constant moisture can lead to the deterioration of your plumbing fixtures by causing staining and corrosion, which will lead to

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The Differences Between a Heat Pump and Central AC

July 2, 2023

As most residents here in Fox Valley, WI, know, energy efficiency is a priority if you want to keep your monthly bills under control. For that reason, more and more homeowners in the area are reaching out to the team here at Black-Haak to ask about heat pumps instead of central air conditioning systems. Most know that a heat pump offers excellent energy efficiency, but some may not always be clear on how they work and how they differ from conventional central AC systems. So, we’ve put together this guide that explains how a heat pump functions and the specific

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Four Great Ways to Unclog Your Toilet and When to Use Them

June 19, 2023

There’s bound to come a time when someone clogs the toilet in your Fox Valley, WI home. Before you whip out your plunger or reach for a store-bought drain cleaner, it’s important to know how each method works and when to use it. Following are four common ways to unclog a toilet along with information on why they may or may not get the job done. 1. Warm Water and Patience For minor toilet clogs, it can be tempting to wait a few seconds and try the handle again. However, if absolutely no water is moving,

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Steps You Can Take To Help Prevent an Electrical Fire in Your Home

June 13, 2023

The thought of a fire in your Fox Valley home can be quite frightening. One common cause of house fires is issues with the electrical system in your home. While it can be scary to think that a simple spark from an electrical wire could be enough to set your home ablaze, the good news is that electrical fires are largely preventable. By making a few simple changes around your home, you can have peace of mind knowing that an electrical fire is much less likely. From your friends at Black-Haak, here are some simple action steps you can take

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Choosing the Right Size Ductless System for Your Home

June 1, 2023

If you’re considering installing a ductless system in your home, one of the most important factors is sizing. Choosing the right size ductless system for your home’s square footage can greatly affect energy efficiency, comfort, and overall performance. Getting it right the first time will save you a significant amount of time and money. Keep reading to learn how to choose the right size system for your home. Measure Your Home’s Square Footage The first step in sizing your mini split is to determine the square footage of your home. To do this, you first need

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What Should You Do if You Have Hard Water?

May 23, 2023

Many people contend with hard water. “Hard water” is the term used to describe water that has a relatively higher concentration of minerals. These minerals don’t affect the quality of the water in terms of health and safety, but they can have a negative impact in other ways. They can lead to scale buildup, which can clog pipes and affect your appliances, bathroom fixtures, and kitchen sink. They may also cause issues with some people’s skin and hair. Fortunately, there are steps you can take if your home has hard water. Hard Versus Soft Water Before

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Important Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Electrician

May 13, 2023

Electricity is a powerful resource that plays a crucial role in our daily lives. It powers everything from our homes to our workplaces. However, when it comes to electrical work, it’s important to hire a qualified electrician to ensure that the job is done safely and effectively. But with so many electricians out there, how do you know who to choose? Before hiring an electrician, you should ask some important questions to ensure that you’re getting the right person for the job. Read on as we explore some of the key questions you should ask before hiring an electrician.

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