When winter hits Hailey, Idaho, your furnace works overtime to keep your home warm and comfortable. But did you know that one of the easiest ways to maintain your heating system’s efficiency is by regularly changing the furnace filter? Many homeowners overlook this simple task, leading to increased energy costs, poor indoor air quality, and potential damage to their HVAC system. So, how often should you change your furnace filter? Let’s break it down. Why Changing Your Furnace Filter Matters Your furnace filter traps dust, pet dander, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating through your home. A clean filter ensures proper airflow, reduces strain on your furnace, and improves indoor air quality. Neglecting this maintenance step can cause your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns. How Often Should You Change It? The answer depends on several factors, including filter type, household conditions, and how often you use your furnace. Here’s a general guideline: Basic fiberglass filters: Every 30 days Pleated filters: Every 60–90 days High-efficiency HEPA filters: Every 6–12 months Homes with pets: Every 30–60 days Allergy sufferers: Every 30 days Heavy furnace usage (winter months): Every 30–45 days If your home has multiple occupants, pets, or someone with allergies, it’s best to check the filter monthly and replace it as needed. Signs Your Furnace Filter Needs Replacing Even if you follow a set schedule, your furnace may give you signals that the filter needs to be changed sooner. Look for these signs: Increased Dust in Your Home – If you notice more dust accumulating, your filter may be too clogged to trap particles efficiently. Reduced Airflow – A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system less effective at heating your home. Higher Energy Bills – If your heating costs are rising without a temperature change, a dirty filter may be making your furnace work harder. Strange Furnace Noises – A struggling system may produce unusual sounds, signaling it’s time for maintenance. Visible Dirt and Debris on the Filter – If your filter looks clogged, it's time to replace it. The Bottom Line Regularly replacing your furnace filter is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining your heating system’s efficiency and prolonging its lifespan. Not only will this improve your indoor air quality, but it will also keep your energy bills in check and prevent costly repairs. Need HVAC Maintenance? Call the Experts! If you’re unsure about your furnace’s condition or need professional maintenance, Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical is here to help.

As temperatures drop in Hailey, Idaho, your furnace is working hard to keep your home warm. But what happens when you start hearing strange noises coming from your heating system? Unusual furnace sounds can be an early warning sign of trouble, and ignoring them could lead to costly repairs down the road. Here are some common furnace noises and what they might mean. 1. Banging or Booming If you hear a loud banging or booming sound when your furnace kicks on, it could indicate a delayed ignition problem. This occurs when gas builds up before igniting, causing a small explosion. If left unchecked, this issue can damage your furnace’s heat exchanger, leading to costly repairs or even system failure. Possible Causes: Dirty burners preventing proper ignition Low gas pressure Ignition system malfunction What to Do: Turn off your furnace and call a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean the burners or adjust the gas pressure. 2. Squealing or Screeching High-pitched squealing or screeching noises are often linked to issues with the blower motor or fan belt. Over time, belts can become loose or worn, and motor bearings may need lubrication. Possible Causes: Worn-out or loose blower belt Motor bearings in need of lubrication Malfunctioning blower motor What to Do: Schedule a furnace inspection to replace belts, lubricate motor bearings, and ensure everything is running smoothly. 3. Rattling or Vibrating A rattling or vibrating furnace could be a sign of loose components or ductwork. If you hear metal-on-metal sounds, it may indicate a more serious mechanical issue. Possible Causes: Loose screws or panels Unsecured ductwork Failing blower motor What to Do: Check for loose screws and panels and tighten them if necessary. If the rattling persists, have an HVAC technician inspect your system. 4. Clicking Sounds While it’s normal to hear some clicking when your furnace turns on and off, excessive clicking could be a sign of a failing ignition system or a faulty relay. Possible Causes: Faulty ignition system Defective flame sensor Electrical component issues What to Do: If the clicking is persistent or your furnace struggles to ignite, call a professional for a thorough inspection. 5. Whistling or Hissing A whistling or hissing noise often indicates an airflow restriction or a gas leak. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off your furnace immediately and evacuate your home. Possible Causes: Dirty or clogged air filter Leaky ductwork Gas leak (if accompanied by a sulfur smell) What to Do: Replace your air filter and check for any visible duct leaks. If you smell gas, leave your home and call your gas provider or HVAC professional immediately. When to Call a Professional If your furnace is making strange noises that persist after simple troubleshooting, don’t ignore the warning signs. At Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical, we provide expert furnace repairs and maintenance to keep your system running safely and efficiently.

When the temperatures drop in Hailey, Idaho, the last thing you want is for your furnace to start blowing cold air. A malfunctioning furnace can quickly turn your cozy home into an icebox, making it crucial to identify and address the issue as soon as possible. Here are some common reasons why your furnace might be blowing cold air and what you can do about it. 1. Your Thermostat Settings Need Adjustment Before assuming the worst, check your thermostat settings. Ensure it is set to "Heat" and not "Fan" or "Cool." If the fan is set to "On," it will blow air continuously, even when the furnace isn't actively heating. Switching the fan to "Auto" allows it to only run when heat is being produced. 2. Your Furnace Filter is Clogged A dirty or clogged furnace filter can restrict airflow and cause the system to overheat. When this happens, your furnace's safety mechanism may shut down the burners, allowing only cold air to circulate. Check your filter and replace it if it's dirty. 3. The Pilot Light is Out If you have an older gas furnace, a blown-out pilot light could be the reason for the lack of heat. Check to see if the pilot light is lit. If it's out, relighting it might solve the problem. However, if it continues to go out, there may be an issue with the thermocouple or gas supply that requires professional assistance. 4. Your Furnace is Overheating An overheating furnace may shut itself down as a safety precaution, leaving only the blower running, which results in cold air blowing through the vents. Common causes of overheating include a clogged filter, blocked vents, or mechanical failures. If replacing the filter doesn't help, it's time to call in an HVAC professional. 5. There’s a Problem with the Gas Supply If your furnace isn't getting enough gas, it won't be able to produce heat. Check other gas appliances in your home to see if they're working properly. If there's an issue with your gas supply, contact your utility company or a licensed HVAC technician. 6. Your Ductwork Has Leaks Leaks in your ductwork can allow warm air to escape before it reaches your living spaces, leaving you with cold air blowing from your vents. If you suspect ductwork issues, an HVAC professional can inspect and seal any leaks to restore efficiency. When to Call a Professional If you've checked your thermostat, changed your filter, and your furnace is still blowing cold air, it's time to call the experts. At Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical, we provide professional furnace repair services to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long.

Winter in Hailey, Idaho, can be brutal, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. The last thing you want is for your furnace to break down when you need it most. Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and keep your home warm all season long. Here are five signs your furnace might need a tune-up before winter fully sets in. ## 1. **Uneven Heating or Cold Spots** Do you notice that some rooms in your home are much warmer than others? Uneven heating could indicate a clogged air filter, issues with your ductwork, or a struggling furnace that needs attention. A professional tune-up can diagnose the issue and ensure every corner of your home stays cozy. ## 2. **Strange Noises Coming from Your Furnace** Your furnace should run relatively quietly. If you hear banging, rattling, whistling, or squealing sounds, it could be a sign of a mechanical issue, such as a loose belt or a failing blower motor. Ignoring these noises can lead to more expensive repairs down the road. ## 3. **Unusual or Burning Smells** A musty smell could mean mold in your ducts, while a burning odor might indicate an electrical issue. If you notice a persistent gas smell, **turn off your furnace immediately and call for emergency service**. A routine furnace inspection can catch minor issues before they become major hazards. ## 4. **Rising Energy Bills** If your energy bills are climbing despite keeping your thermostat settings the same, your furnace could be working harder than necessary due to dirty filters, worn-out components, or inefficiency. A professional tune-up can restore your furnace's performance and help you save money on heating costs. ## 5. **Your Furnace is Short-Cycling** Short-cycling happens when your furnace turns on and off frequently without completing a full heating cycle. This can be caused by a dirty filter, a malfunctioning thermostat, or an overheating furnace. A tune-up can pinpoint the problem and prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your system. ## **Schedule Your Furnace Tune-Up Today** Don’t wait until your furnace breaks down on the coldest night of the year. At **Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical**, we offer professional furnace maintenance and repair services to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. 📞 **Call us today at 208-726-5261 to schedule your furnace tune-up!** Or visit our website to book an appointment online. ### **Stay warm, Hailey!**

Maintaining your home is a year-round responsibility, but each season brings unique challenges—especially in Twin Falls, Idaho, where weather can vary dramatically. From icy winters to dry summers, keeping your home’s plumbing, heating, and mechanical systems in top shape is essential. Follow this seasonal home maintenance checklist to keep your home comfortable, safe, and efficient. Winter: Preparing for the Cold Idaho winters can be harsh, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Protect your home and systems from winter’s chill with these tips: Plumbing Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces, and basements to prevent freezing. Drain Outdoor Faucets: Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor spigots to avoid frozen pipes. Monitor Water Heater: Ensure your water heater is functioning efficiently to handle increased winter usage. Heating Furnace Maintenance: Schedule a professional inspection to ensure your furnace is running efficiently. Check Filters: Replace or clean furnace filters monthly for optimal airflow and heating efficiency. Seal Drafts: Inspect windows and doors for drafts and seal them with weatherstripping or caulking to keep heat inside. Spring: Time for Renewal As the snow melts and temperatures rise, it’s time to assess your home for any winter damage and prepare for the warmer months. Plumbing Inspect for Leaks: Check faucets, pipes, and outdoor spigots for leaks caused by freezing temperatures. Test Sump Pumps: If your home has a basement, ensure the sump pump is functioning to handle spring rains. Clean Gutters: Remove debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Mechanical Systems HVAC Tune-Up: Schedule a professional inspection of your cooling system to prepare for summer. Inspect Thermostats: Test your thermostat to ensure it switches seamlessly between heating and cooling. Summer: Keeping Cool and Conserving Water Hot, dry summers in Twin Falls call for smart water use and efficient cooling systems. Plumbing Inspect Sprinkler Systems: Check for leaks or damaged sprinkler heads and set timers to avoid overwatering. Install Water-Saving Fixtures: Consider adding low-flow showerheads and faucets to reduce water usage. Cooling Maintain Your AC Unit: Clean or replace filters and ensure the condenser unit is free of debris. Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans can reduce the load on your AC by circulating cool air more efficiently. Fall: Preparing for the Frost Fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for winter before temperatures plummet. Plumbing Winterize Sprinklers: Drain and blow out sprinkler systems to prevent freezing. Inspect Water Heater: Flush sediment from your water heater to improve efficiency and extend its lifespan. Heating Furnace Check: Have your furnace inspected and serviced before the cold sets in. Stock Up on Filters: Purchase extra filters to ensure you’re ready for winter maintenance. Why Seasonal Maintenance Matters Routine home maintenance not only prevents costly repairs but also ensures your home remains safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient year-round. By staying proactive, you’ll save time, money, and stress.

When Is the Right Time to Replace Your Furnace in Twin Falls or Sun Valley, Idaho? Idaho winters are no joke, especially in Twin Falls and Sun Valley, where temperatures can drop significantly. Your furnace plays a vital role in keeping your home warm and comfortable during these cold months. But how do you know when it’s time to replace your furnace? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decide. 1. Your Furnace Is Over 15 Years Old The average lifespan of a well-maintained furnace is around 15-20 years. If your furnace is nearing or exceeding this age, it may no longer operate efficiently. Signs to Watch For: Increased energy bills despite regular maintenance. Frequent breakdowns or repair needs. Uneven heating throughout your home. In areas like Sun Valley, where winter weather can be extreme, an old furnace might struggle to keep up with your heating needs. 2. Frequent Repairs Are Draining Your Wallet If you’re calling your HVAC technician more often than usual, it might be time for a replacement. Repairs can add up quickly, and at some point, replacing your furnace becomes more cost-effective. Pro Tip: A good rule of thumb is the 50% rule—if the cost of repairs is 50% or more of the price of a new furnace, it’s time to upgrade. 3. Your Furnace Isn’t Keeping You Warm Do you notice that some rooms are colder than others or that your home doesn’t reach the temperature set on your thermostat? These could be signs that your furnace isn’t distributing heat effectively. This is especially noticeable in Sun Valley homes, where keeping every corner of your home warm is crucial during the frigid winter months. 4. Your Energy Bills Are Rising An inefficient furnace can drive up your energy bills. If your bills have been increasing year after year, your furnace may no longer be running as efficiently as it should. Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient furnace can significantly lower your heating costs in Twin Falls or Sun Valley. 5. Unusual Noises or Smells While all furnaces make some noise, loud banging, rattling, or squealing sounds could indicate serious issues. Similarly, persistent smells like burning or gas could mean your furnace is unsafe. Safety First: If you smell gas, turn off your furnace immediately and contact a professional. 6. Your Furnace Has Trouble Starting If your furnace struggles to turn on or stay on, it might have electrical or mechanical issues. While small repairs can sometimes solve the problem, persistent issues are a clear sign that a replacement might be the better option. Benefits of Replacing Your Furnace Upgrading to a new furnace comes with several benefits, including: Increased Energy Efficiency: Modern furnaces use less energy to produce the same amount of heat. Lower Utility Bills: Save money on heating costs. Improved Comfort: A new furnace provides consistent, even heating. Peace of Mind: No more worrying about unexpected breakdowns during a cold snap.

Top 5 Plumbing Upgrades to Increase Home Value in Twin Falls When it comes to boosting the value of your home in Twin Falls, plumbing upgrades are a smart investment. Not only do they enhance functionality and comfort, but they also appeal to potential buyers looking for a modern, efficient, and well-maintained property. Let’s explore the top five plumbing upgrades that can make a big difference for your home. 1. Install a Tankless Water Heater Traditional water heaters with tanks take up valuable space and can be less energy-efficient. A tankless water heater provides hot water on demand, saving energy and offering an endless supply of hot water. Benefits for Your Home: Energy Efficiency: Lower utility bills. Space Saving: A compact design perfect for any home size. Modern Appeal: Buyers love the convenience and sustainability. 2. Upgrade to Low-Flow Fixtures In Twin Falls, where water conservation is key, low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets are must-have upgrades. These fixtures reduce water usage without compromising performance. Why It’s a Win: Eco-Friendly: Reduces your water footprint. Cost-Effective: Lowers water bills. In Demand: Green upgrades are a selling point for environmentally conscious buyers. 3. Add a Water Softener Twin Falls is known for its hard water, which can cause scale buildup in pipes and appliances. A water softener improves water quality and protects plumbing systems. Value to Your Home: Longevity: Prolongs the life of pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Better Water Quality: Reduces spots on dishes and makes cleaning easier. Healthier Skin and Hair: Soft water feels better and is gentler. 4. Modernize Your Kitchen Plumbing The kitchen is often a buyer’s favorite space, so upgrading its plumbing can make a huge impact. Consider installing: A sleek touchless or pull-down faucet. A garbage disposal unit for added convenience. A reverse osmosis system for clean drinking water. Why It Matters: Modern, functional kitchens are a major selling point. These upgrades also enhance your daily cooking and cleaning routines. 5. Replace Old Pipes with PEX or Copper If your home has older plumbing made from galvanized steel or cast iron, replacing it with modern PEX or copper piping can significantly increase its value. Key Advantages: Durability: Modern materials last longer and are less prone to leaks. Peace of Mind: Buyers appreciate knowing they won’t face plumbing issues in the near future. Improved Water Flow: New pipes often result in better water pressure and quality. Bonus Tip: Combine Functionality with Aesthetics If you're making upgrades, choose designs and finishes that match current trends in Twin Falls homes. Sleek chrome, matte black, or brushed nickel fixtures are popular options that add a modern touch.

You may not hesitate to spend money on something fun like new clothes, a romantic dinner, or a concert, but spending money on a necessity—like your air conditioning system—is never fun. When you notice your air conditioner is failing, or when it’s struggling to maintain temperatures as usual, you might not think to call in the air conditioning technician right away. After all, it hasn’t shut off completely, and you still feel comfortable enough. But this way of thinking can get you in trouble later on. Today, we tell you why it’s so important to schedule air conditioning repair before your air conditioner breaks down completely, even as summer comes to a close. The Problem Can Worsen Okay, so the issue within your air conditioner seems relatively minor. You’ve noticed a slight rise in temperature but it’s something you can manage. However, the longer you wait, the worse the problem can get. A rise in temperatures, for example, could mean refrigerant is leaking from the AC system. With time, it can leak out enough to completely wear down the mechanical components of your air conditioner. It could leak into the compressor, which may force you to replace the entire unit! It’s not worth it to leave it alone. The longer you let it go on, the worse the issue can get! Check out what happens when you wait too long to schedule AC repair. • You wear down your air conditioning system, leading to a potential early replacement. • You spend more money on your monthly bills. • Repairs cost more when you finally do call a technician, since the problem has worsened. A Breakdown Can Happen at the Worst Time Besides, your air conditioner can break down at the worst possible time. It tends to happen by surprise on a hot, humid day. You should not have to wait until you’re sweating it out on a hot day waiting for a technician! Emergency AC repairs can be costly. The repair costs add up as the system wears out more and more, and technicians tend to charge a bit more to come out for an urgent repair or replacement. It’s always better to do it before then! But It’s the End of the Season! We know that the end of summer is near, but that doesn’t mean you won’t need your air conditioner any time soon. It could shut off tomorrow, leaving you to rush to the phone to call a technician rather than feeling prepared by making that repair in advance. Finally, it’s important to be honest with yourself: will you really remember to get that air conditioner repaired before the first heat wave of spring or summer? On a hot, humid day, you’re going to want your air conditioner to be there for you. If it’s broken down for good, you won’t get any use out of your investment, and you’ll have to wait in the heat for a technician to show! Schedule that air conditioning repair in Jerome, ID early. Contact Evans Plumbing Inc today!

Do-it-yourself work is taking over kitchens and bathrooms everywhere. Stick-on tiles allow for beautiful tile backsplashes, for example, and more and more people are sharing their techniques online for adding paint and other personal touches to these rooms. However, some steps involved with revamping the kitchen or bathroom are not so easy to do yourself, especially when they involve your plumbing. If you decide it’s time to replace your kitchen or bathroom sink, our best advice is to call in a plumber. In any case, there are some things that anyone should know before they begin the task of replacing the sink, faucet, and connections and sealing everything into place. The sink can only be so deep Many people choose to upgrade their kitchen sinks to have a deeper basin in which to soak dishes or fill up large pots and buckets. However, there may be a limit to just how deep your sink basin can be. You do not want to interfere with the space where the trap comes to a curve, or else the drains won’t empty properly and you may need to have major plumbing work done. The tailpiece is the pipe fitting between the drain trap and the drain basket. Measure this piece to see how much bigger your sink can actually be before it interferes with the drains. You’ll want a precise number of holes Be aware that different sinks have a different number of holes to fit the faucet and any accessories. Some sinks have only one-hole to accommodate a single-handle faucet. Others could have 4 holes or more to hold the faucet, handles, sprayer attachment, and soap dispenser. What’s really important is that you don’t have too few holes, as there may be no way to add a new one. With too many holes, you can get a plated cover to go over it. However, for the purpose of aesthetics, it’s better to find one with the precise number of fittings. Silicone caulk is the best sealant It was once thought that plumbers’ putty was the best sealant for nearly any plumbing job. However, today’s plumbers know that this is a poor substitute for caulk when it comes to an entire sink assembly. Putty can easily dry out and lead to leaks, and it may damage your sink basin, so look for a quality silicone caulk instead. If you plan to apply caulk yourself, rather than calling in a plumber, be sure that all caulk is properly scraped from the counter first. Check the counter for water damage that may make it more difficult to seal and clamp into place—you might need to replace the countertops too. The whole drain assembly should be replaced Many people attempt to save some money by replacing just the sink and faucet, while leaving the old piping and drain assembly behind. We think this is a mistake. It’s not too much more expensive to purchase new drain parts. In fact, the drain assembly is sold as a complete kit at many hardware stores. If you’re replacing a sink yourself, be sure to discard and replace the drain assembly so you can really start anew. A qualified plumber will do this anyway!