Mister Greenway

Memphis HVAC and Plumbing Services

How Do I Keep My Garbage Disposal from Smelling?

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Why Does My Garbage Disposal Smell?

The most common reason your garbage disposals stinks is that food or waste has not been properly disposed of. When food particles and waste are left in the disposal and are unable to drain properly, this will inevitably lead to foul odors. Some of the ways to prevent this include:

  • Running warm water when the disposal is on
  • Running the disposal for at least 30 seconds

What Does it Mean if Your Garbage Disposal Smells Like:

The way your garbage disposal smells can be an indicator of whether or not the problem is simply food that has not been properly disposed and drained or if a more serious problem is to blame.

Rotten Food

When your disposal smells like rotten food, then it’s likely because rotten food is to blame. When you don’t run your disposal for long enough, or when warm water is not running while the disposal is running to help move waste through your plumbing system, food and leftovers can accumulate in just beneath your sink or in your pipes, leading to clogged drains and unpleasant smells. Regularly cleaning your disposal should eliminate the foul odors.

Sewage

If your garbage disposal smells like sewage, it’s time to call the plumber. While temporary fixes may mask the smell, if your disposal smells like sewage, then there’s a good chance there’s a leak that needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.

Mold or Mildew

If your garbage disposal smells like mold or mildew, it’s likely caused by mold or mildew accumulating in your sink and drain. This is most often caused by placing food in the drain and not running the disposal or not running the disposal long enough to properly dispose of waste. Using a mixture of vinegar, warm water, and baking soda can eliminate the mold.

What Not to Put in the Garbage Disposal

One of the most common causes of foul smells from garbage disposals are disposing of foods that should never be put in the garbage disposal in the first place. These foods scraps can cause a buildup of waste, which can cause clogged drains and more serious issues that are much harder to fix than foul smells. To keep your garbage disposal smelling fresh, running smoothly and efficiently, avoid disposing of these foods in your kitchen and opt for the garbage can or a compost pile instead.

Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds should never be poured down the sink, since they can clump and harden along the sides of your pipes and plumbing system. High efficiency drain cleaners can eliminate the problem, and coffee grounds can be repurposed as fertilizer or in compost mixtures. Coffee grounds can also be used to create more acidic environments for plants and flowers that thrive in these locations, such as:

  • Azaleas
  • Beans
  • Begonias
  • Blueberries
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots
  • Cucumbers
  • Daffodils
  • Dogwood
  • Gardenias
  • Hydrangeas
  • Irises
  • Magnolia Trees
  • Marigolds
  • Parsley
  • Peppers
  • Radishes
  • Rhubarb
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Egg Shells

Egg shells are horrible for kitchen sinks, as the yolks can cause the shells to stick to the sides of pipes, which can cause clogs and drainage problems, not to mention the rotten egg smell. Egg shells are better served as fertilizer for your garden, where the calcium helps balance the acidity of the soil. If you have acidic soil and wish to make it more habitable for plants and flowers that thrive in alkaline soil, egg shells can also be beneficial.

Potato Peels + Banana Peels

Potato peels and banana peels can wreak havoc on garbage disposal systems and drains. Often, potato skins and banana peels are not able to be broken down by the garbage disposal, and this can result in clogs and foul smells. Again, adding these items to your compost pile is the easiest and most environmentally-friendly way to dispose of these leftovers.

Bleach

You may have considered using bleach to clean your garbage disposal system of leftover waste and materials, but bleach can actually cause more damage to your disposal by making grease and other sludge harder, and therefore less likely to move through your drain properly. Bleach can also affect the amount of bacteria in your septic tank, which are actually beneficial for breaking down food waste and particles, which can prevent backups, clogs, and unpleasant smells.

How To Clean The Smelly Garbage Disposal

There are a couple of simple ways to keep your smelly garbage disposal in tip top shape. Whether your disposal is older and functioning less efficiently or brand new and not exhibiting signs of wear and tear at all, it’s always a good idea to periodically “clean” your disposal system with the following methods at least once per month.

Garbage Disposal Cleaning Pods

Many grocery stores and large retailers sell garbage disposal cleaning pods that both mask unpleasant odors and help unclog your drain to help prevent the backup of food waste that can lead to strong smells and broken disposal systems. Simply drop a pod or two down the sink, turn on the water, and turn on the disposal, and the cleaning pods will go to work. A package of 5-10 pods typically retails for less than $5.

Ice Cubes for Garbage Disposal Systems

You may have heard ice can help clean your garbage disposal, and it’s true. Ice can help sharpen the blades on your garbage disposal system to help make food disposal more efficient. The problem with both cleaning pods and ice is that while providing a temporary solution to help maintain the life of your disposal system, they won’t fix serious problems, so if you’re noticing frequent odors, or if your system has become less efficient at disposing of waste, call a professional home service today.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Cleaning Solution

A mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and warm water is a natural, non-toxic cleaner that can help eliminate odors and break down leftover food particles in your garbage disposal and drains. Simply allow the mixture to sit for at least ten minutes, and then run both the garbage disposal and warm water to drain the remnants.

Citrus Peels for Odor Elimination

Running lemon and orange peels through your disposal can freshen up your drain and help control stinky smells. A small amount of citrus-scented dish soap placed in the drain while the disposal is running along with warm water can also do the trick.

How Do I Fix a Broken Garbage Disposal?

If your garbage disposal is broken, not working as efficiently as it once was, or if it makes strange humming or whirring noises, we strongly recommend calling a professional Memphis plumber. Because garbage disposal systems use both sharp blades and electricity to function, we strongly advise not attempting to disconnect, reconnect, or repair a broken garbage disposal without the help of a professional.

Those scenes in scary movies aren’t just a possibility – it’s very possible to cause serious damage to yourself or others when working with electricity and sharp objects. Give the experts a call so you don’t have to worry about the dangers of working on your garbage disposal system yourself. Our customer service representatives are standing by and able to assist you seven days a week. Call today or schedule an appointment online.


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5 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Heating System

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When is it Time to Replace My Furnace?

October is still relatively cool in the Mid-South, but winter is fast approaching. There’s no better time of year to take advantage of having your heating system maintained or having a new one installed. Waiting until the middle of winter to replace your furnace or heating system not only means you’ll have to suffer the cold temperatures until your system can be repaired or replaced, but you’ll also more than likely be one of many people requesting emergency repairs.

Take advantage of October’s slow season to have your local heating repair and maintenance provider ensure your system is ready for winter. If your system needs to be replaced, you’ll also want to take care of that as soon as possible to avoid being stuck without a heating system during the coldest time of year. It’s time to replace your system if:

1. You Can’t Remember How Old it Is

If you can’t remember the last time your purchased a new furnace or heating system, chances are it’s time to replace it. If you’ve recently purchased your home and the seller was unaware or unable to identify how old the heating system is, it’s also a good idea to have a maintenance technician inspect it for signs of damage. Additionally, if your furnace or heating system shows signs of rust or if there are visible cracks, call a service technician as soon as possible.

2. Energy Costs are Rising

If your energy bill seems to be getting higher and higher each month without an increase in energy consumption, your heater may be to blame. In addition to replacing old appliances with energy efficient models as needed, a new furnace or heating system can save you a significant amount of money on energy costs.

CAN I DEDUCT THE COST OF NEW APPLIANCES FROM TAXES?

Many new furnaces and heating systems are even created with energy efficiency in mind. Plus, the purchase of an energy efficient system can be tax deductible. Typically, ten percent of expenditures (up to $300) can be deducted.

3. Parts are Broken or Malfunctioning

If your system is noisy or hums frequently, this could be a sign it’s in need of repair or replacement. A properly functioning heater or furnace should not hum, buzz, or rattle. Additionally, if you have to make frequent repairs to your heating system, the cost of new one could outweigh the added repairs you have to pay to make.

4. Some Rooms in Your House Feel Cold

If some rooms in your house are colder than others, or if it takes a significant amount of time to heat certain parts of your home, it could be a sign that your heating system is in need of repair or replacement.

5. You’re Getting Sick More Often

If you’ve noticed yourself or your family members getting sick more often, your heating system could be to blame. Dry air from a lack of humidity can be caused from a faulty heating system on the fritz, while an inability to properly distribute heat can lead to more colds and sick days. Excessively dry air can also impact the pets and plants in your home and exacerbate allergy symptoms.

Heating Repair and Maintenance – Memphis, TN | Nashville, TN

If your heating system is in need of repair or replacement, or if you’d like to have a trained professional evaluate the health of your new or used system, give us a call today. Our trained specialists are on standby and ready to take your call to set up an appointment at your earliest convenience.


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How Can I Protect My Home from Intruders?

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What Burglars Look for in a House

In order to protect your home from intruders, it’s important to first know and understand what burglars look for when choosing homes to target. While some of their methods may be obvious, others you might find surprising. Here are a few things to consider when burglar-proofing your home.

Opportunity

First and foremost, many thieves seek opportunity. The highest reward for the least amount of work is what every intruder is aiming for. This means any opportunity you provide can, and eventually will, be taken advantage of. Some of the ways homeowners provide opportunities for burglars include:

  • Leaving Garage Doors Open
  • Leaving Doors Unlocked or Open
  • Leaving Windows Unlocked or Open
  • Leaving Curtains or Blinds Open
  • Not Installing Curtains or Blinds
  • Neglecting to Install an Alarm System
  • Leaving Cars, Bicycles, and Other Belongings Unattended

Privacy

Another thing burglars will look for in potential targets is privacy. If your home is at the end of an alcove, or if your doors and windows are shaded by large bushes or other landscaping that provide adequate hiding spots and areas to work without being seen, intruders will take advantage of the opportunity.

The Value of What’s in the Driveway

One of the most common methods burglars use to create potential targets is by determining the value of what’s inside the home based on what’s in the driveway. For example, a home with bicycles and toys that are frequently left in the yard or driveway can signal to a burglar that your home has valuable electronics, gaming systems, TVs, and other devices inside. A clean and well-maintained home with modest yet inviting decor, on the other hand, can welcome family and friends without signifying to intruders whether or not your home contains plenty of valuables inside.

Making it Obvious You Aren’t Home

If you go on vacation, even for just a couple of days, it may not always be obvious to your neighbors, but it can be obvious to burglars. A few of the ways burglars are able to determine whether or not a homeowner is at home or away include:

Ringing the Doorbell

Intruders will often ring doorbells to see if anyone answers the door. If your home is not protected by an alarm system, or if no notice of an alarm system is given, it will be obvious to an intruder that your home is potentially unoccupied.

Newspapers in the Driveway

If you are away from your home for more than a day, newspapers can pile up in the driveway. This is one of the surest ways that a homeowner is out of town. Intruders may also check to see if an accumulation of mail has collected in the mailbox to determine how long the owners have been away from the home.

Garbage Cans

Intruders know that most people take their garbage can back to its designated location once the garbage collection services have emptied it out, but if you are out of town, your garbage can may sit on the street for far longer than those of neighbors, a sure sign that a homeowner is not at home.

What Deters Burglars

Remember that burglars are seeking the easiest targets for the least amount of effort. Taking a little time to create burglar deterrents can help protect your home and your family.  

Alarm Systems and/or Alarm System Signage

Whether your home has an alarm installed or not, an intruder is far less likely to attempt to break in if your doors and windows include stickers and decals signifying your home is protected by an alarm. While this is not always the case, since intruders know it can take time for police to respond to alarms, there are ways to ensure burglars are deterred. This includes choosing a reliable alarm company whose services are guaranteed even during a power outage or storm, such as ADT or SimpliSafe.

Installing Landscaping and Architectural Lighting

Landscaping and architectural lighting can not only add value to your home, but it can also deter burglars. If lighting is installed above or below doors and windows, this provides fewer chances for thieves to hide and to enter a home unnoticed. Consider investing in lighting timers that can be set to turn on and off even while you’re away from the home during the day or on vacation to give the appearance of movement inside.

Trim Trees, Bushes and Hedges

Keeping your landscaping maintained is another way to increase the value and curb appeal of your home while also removing opportunities for burglars. Without overgrown landscaping to provide adequate hiding places, burglars are less likely to find a door or window to enter, and they’re far more likely to move on to another target.

Thorny Landscaping

Nothing deters burglars looking for an easy entry like thorny rose bushes and other potentially uncomfortable landscaping. Install thorny greenery in front of windows to prevent intruders from being able to enter your home easily.

Dogs and/or Beware of Dog Signage

In addition to making great pets, dogs also make great burglar deterrents. Even if your home doesn’t have a German Shepherd on guard, a “Beware of Dog” sign can be enough to deter burglars seeking easy access into easy targets.

Where Do Burglars Look for Valuables?

If you’ve seen the faux books and electrical outlets intended to disguise secret hiding places, chances are experience burglars have too. The reality is that most burglars are smart enough to know where you’re hiding your most valuable items, like jewelry, cash, gaming systems, and weapons.

Everywhere

The reality is that if an intruder is able to make his way into your home, he will most likely search each and every room of your house looking for the easiest targets. This includes:

  • Televisions
  • Computers
  • Electronics
  • Weapons
  • Jewelry
  • Car Keys

Jewelry Boxes

This might seem like the most obvious place a burglar will look for valuables, and that’s because it is. If your jewelry box rests on a chest of drawers or in a visible location, a burglar will most surely manage to steal whatever is in inside.

Gun Safes and Cabinets

Next to electronics and jewelry, weapons are the most valuable item intruders are looking to get their hands on. If your home has a gun safe or cabinet, ensure it is locked when you are away from the home, and consider investing in one without a breakable glass exterior.

Will Burglars Come Back?

If your home was relatively easy to break into, and no visible changes have been made to the exterior of your home, such as yard signs advertising an alarm company, or more cars in the driveway, they very well may strike again. That’s why it’s best to protect your home from the inside with a reliable alarm system that can detect and deter intruders.

Is Smart Home Technology Worth It?

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ICON_PLACEHOLDEREstimated reading time: 4 minutes

Table of contents

What is smart home technology?

There are dozens of smart home technology devices on the market today. From keyless entry devices that require numeric passwords rather than keys to thermostats that automatically adjust to maintain a comfortable temperature that keeps utility costs down, there are a variety of ways to implement smart home devices that save you time and money.

Does smart home technology really save money?

While smart home technology is relatively inexpensive to install and operate, you may be wondering if it’s worth it, and if you’ll see the difference in your wallet. Many types of smart home technology have been proven to save money on utility costs, including the Nest Thermostat.

Nest Thermostat

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How does the Nest Thermostat work?

Utility costs can be outrageous, especially in the middle of summer in humid Southern cities like Memphis and Nashville. With the help of temperature sensors placed throughout the home, the Nest Thermostat system is able to read the current temperature, gauge the difference between the current temperature and a comfortable yet cost-effective temperature, and transition to the ideal temperature to save you money on utility costs.

If you live in a pet-free home, you can also set the Nest Thermostat to adjust during hours when no one is home and to return to an optimal temperature before your arrival so that your home can be comfortable while you’re there and energy-saving while you’re away.

Can I use the Nest Thermostat with my phone?

The Nest Thermostat is compatible with iPhones and Android devices that allow you to control the current and ideal temperature remotely so that you can always monitor the temperature at home whether you’re in the home or away.

Nest Protect

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How does Nest Protect work?

Nest Protect can protect your family from deadly carbon monoxide leaks that can go undetected without proper monitoring until it’s too late. Research indicates more than 1,000,000 homes in the United States experience high levels of carbon monoxide each year. Because carbon monoxide is often odorless and colorless, the absence of a carbon monoxide detection system can be the difference between lives saved and lives lost.

What is the difference between Nest Protect and a carbon monoxide detector?

The Nest Protect system detects lethal carbon monoxide gases throughout your home, but unlike traditional carbon monoxide detectors, the Nest Protect conducts its own safety and sound checks to ensure your system is functioning efficiently in the event of an emergency.

Unlike the Nest Protect, traditional carbon monoxide detectors must be tested manually, and sound tests can be loud and inconvenient for residents and neighbors. The Nest Protect relies on its innovative Sound Check technology to quietly test itself without annoying you or the dogs. The Nest Protect system is also sensitive to false alarms, so you don’t have to worry about whether or not to evacuate the home in the event of an emergency.

Nest Cam

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How much does a Nest Cam cost?

In addition to the setup and installation fee, Nest Cams do require a monthly or yearly subscription to Nest Aware, which includes remote live access to your video feed, playback capabilities, the ability to speak through the camera, and more.

If you’re interested in a camera that allows you to monitor your home while you’re away, consider investing in Nest Aware for the ability to know if there’s a false alarm or a real intruder. Nest Cams have even allowed some homeowners to “scare away” intruders thanks to the ability to speak through the camera.

Smart Home Technology Installation: Memphis and Nashville

Attempting to set up smart home technology can make you feel uhh..not so smart. Greenway offers smart home installation services to get your Nest Thermostat, Nest Protect, or Nest Cam set up and ready to operate, so you can sit back and relax while we do the hard part.

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Reasons to Call a Plumber

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When should I call a plumber?

If you want our honest opinion, there are very few instances in which you shouldn’t call a plumber when it comes to working with pipes and plumbing, and chances are you’d rather not get your hands dirty when the task involves dirty sewage and clogged drains. In addition to unpleasant smells, plumbers have to deal with a variety of issues that are best left to the experts. Here are few of the instances in which you’re better off giving the pros a call.

Broken, Blocked, or Busted Pipes

If you believe the water or sewage lines in and around your home are broken, busted, frozen, or blocked, always consult a professional. The last thing you want to worry about when working on home renovations and repairs is having to explain to the insurance company and the city just how exactly you flooded your home and yard. because the water lines in your home are connected to pipes that move water and sewage throughout your neighborhood and city, damaged or broken pipes can affect not only your home and yard, but also those of neighbors and nearby residents.

Greenway technicians have the ability to inspect pipes with cameras that can pinpoint the exact location of a blockage or a breakage. We’ll replace and repair any blocked or broken sewer or water lines in both residential and commercial areas throughout Memphis and Nashville.

Installations and Renovations

If you’re renovating a kitchen or bathroom, or if you’re installing a new sink, toilet, shower, bathtub, water heater, or garbage disposal system in a new or existing home, give a professional plumber a call. In addition to ensuring the correct pipes and lines are connected, a professional plumber can ensure water is properly turned on and off before and after a job.

In addition to working with water lines that are connected to city pipes, plumbers often have to work with electricity when installing and connecting new appliances and fixtures, and there’s probably no need to explain what can happen when you attempt to work with electricity without a professional.

If You Smell Sewage

If you smell sewage in your home or yard, call a plumber immediately. This could be a sign of broken or damaged sewage lines, and delaying a call could be the difference between a small problem and a major catastrophe.

Concerned about a plumbing issue or installation project? Give our team a call. Our professional technicians operate throughout Memphis and Nashville and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re a homeowner or commercial representative, we can provide a variety of plumbing repair and installation services at an affordable price.


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3 Ways To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

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How Do I Save Money on Utilities?

Is your utility bill gradually increasing each month? Do you find yourself wondering how you used so much energy over the course of just one month? You’re not alone. Millions of Americans are looking to find ways to make their home more energy efficient. The good news: making your home more energy efficient won’t break the bank, and it can save you hundreds on utility costs in the long run. From energy-saving appliances to smart home gadgets, here are our top suggestions to consider if you’re looking to make your home more energy efficient.

What is energy efficiency?

Energy efficiency is simply the process of using energy (light, gas, and water) more efficiently. Energy efficient appliances, for example, use less water, electricity, or gas in order to run, while energy efficient gadgets cut down on the excess energy that is being wasted. Both energy efficient appliances and smart home gadgets can help you save on energy costs.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY

1. Energy Efficient Appliances

Utilizing energy efficient appliances throughout your home is one of the easiest ways to cut energy costs. If you’re in the market for a new refrigerator, washer, dishwasher, or other home appliance, consider an energy efficient appliance that can save you hundreds, if not thousands, on utility costs over the course of its lifetime.

Do energy efficient appliances really save money?

That brand new washing machine that boasts an Energy Star appliance sticker, it’s not a gimmick. Energy efficient appliances really can save you money on energy costs. These appliances can work in a variety of ways, and there can be pros and cons to each.

For example, a dishwasher may indeed be energy efficient in that it uses less water than its counterparts, but one normal cycle make take 4 hours to complete, whereas the others may take less than 2. On the other hand, energy efficient appliances can be beneficial as well. The newest models of washing machines, for example, are able to sense the amount of clothing inside, and in effect only draw in as much water as is needed to wash a particular load.

Is it important to use energy efficient appliances?

While it’s not absolutely necessary to use energy efficient appliances, it may actually save you money in the long run. Energy efficient appliances may cost slightly more to significantly more than other models, depending on the brand, size, and other factors, but because they use less water, electricity, and other forms of energy, they can save you hundreds of dollars per year in energy costs. You can also apply for tax credits when you buy energy efficient appliances. Overall, the long-term benefits and savings generally outweigh the extra initial costs.

LEARN MORE: How Do I Get Tax Credit For Making My Home Energy Efficient?

What are Energy Star appliances?

Energy Star appliances are those that have received the government-backed Energy Star seal of approval. In order to receive this distinction, products must be, on average, 20 percent more efficient than traditional appliances. It is estimated that approximately 90 percent of homes in the United States now have at least 1 Energy Star appliance, and in 2017 alone, more than 91,000 homeowners purchased energy efficient appliances bearing the Energy Star seal.

Energy Star ratings are given to products, commercial buildings, and residential homes. Over the last 25 years, millions of homes and office buildings have been constructed to meet Energy Star guidelines and codes, and Energy Star and its partners have helped save American families more than 3.5 trillion kilowatt-hours of energy, which amounts to an estimated $450 billion in energy costs.You can invest in Energy Star in a variety of ways, including:

  • Clothes Washers

  • Clothes Dryers

  • Dishwashers

  • Refrigerators

  • Freezers

  • Vent Hoods

  • Dehumidifiers

  • Water Heaters

  • Water Coolers

  • Room Air Conditioners

  • Furnaces

  • Ceiling Fans

  • Light Bulbs

  • Roofing Material

  • Windows

  • Televisions

  • Telephones

  • Home Audio Systems

  • Computers

  • Computer Displays

  • Copiers

  • Decorative String Lights

  • Commercial Vending Machines

  • Commercial Fryers

  • Traffic Signals

2. Smart Home Technology

Investing in smart home technology is another way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. As with energy efficiency appliances, smart home gadgets may cost more than traditional models on the front end, but the amount saved in energy costs in just a few months or years can more than makeup for the difference in price. Here are our recommendations for 5 gadgets to invest in if you want to take your home from energy enemy to energy efficient.

5 Gadgets to Improve Energy Efficiency

Nest Thermostats

Nest thermostats have become quite popular in the last few years, partly because of their sleek design, but also due to their ability to save hundreds in utility costs each year. Nest thermostats work by “learning” your home, your schedule, and your temperature needs. If you have a 2rd floor or other area of your home or office that is rarely used, for example, a Nest thermostat can create the optimum temperature throughout the home while maximizing your energy savings.

If children and pets are not at home throughout the day, Nest thermostats can also be programmed to turn off after you leave for work and to turn on before you arrive, so your home can be comfortable day and night without wasting valuable energy. Nest thermostats also work with smart phone devices, such as Iphones and Androids, so you can program or power your Nest device remotely from your phone even when you’re away.

Lutron Maestro Room Occupancy Sensors

Lutron’s Maestro occupancy/vacancy sensors are able to detect when you enter and leave a room to automatically turn lights on and off when a space is left unused in order to maximize energy efficiency. Maestro sensors and systems are easy to install, and the startup cost is relatively inexpensive compared to the savings you’ll see in utility costs.

Philips Hue White LED Smart Bulbs

With the Hue smart bulbs, you can control the lights inside and outside of your home with your smartphone. In addition to maximizing energy efficiency by only utilizing lights when they are needed and being able to ensure lights are not left on in your home while you’re away, Philips’ Hue smart bulbs also add an extra layer of security to your home by allowing you to set timers for interior and exterior lights even while you’re at work or on vacation.

Belkin Conserve Socket

Belkin’s Conserve socket allows you to control the power in your home from a smartphone or mobile device, so you can ensure energy is not wasted when you’re away from the home. You can also control which areas of the home receive power, so kitchen appliances and living areas can remain “plugged in,” while unused bedrooms, bonus rooms, offices, and other areas don’t drain energy.

LEARN MORE: What exactly is smart home technology?

Evolve Showerheads

Evolve showerheads are luxurious and elegant while also energy efficient. Evolve utilizes the latest in water pressure sensor technology to balance flow rate, water coverage, and temperature while ensuring your hot water isn’t wasted. While you prepare for your shower, Evolve prepares your water for the optimum temperature and pressure, and when you’re ready, just pull the in-shower cord to engage warm water.

Ready to Make Your Home Smart?

Is your smart home actually smart? With Greenway’s smart home installation services, we can ensure your smart home gadgets and systems are set up correctly and functioning properly, so you can be assured you’re making the most of your smart home investments. Greenway also partners with Nest to install and service Nest thermostats, Nest Protect systems, and Nest cameras.

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3. Improve the Efficiency of Your Air Conditioner

An air conditioner is one of the most essential yet expensive investments you can make in your home. Chances are you are looking for an air conditioner that provides maximum efficiency with minimal added cost and maintenance fees. Greenway offers multiple brands of cooling units to fit every budget and preference, but regardless of which brand you choose, every A/C unit should be properly care for to ensure maximum longevity. Here are 3 ways to improve the efficiency of your air conditioner.

Routine Checkups and Maintenance

Routine checkups and maintenance are essential for ensuring your A/C unit is working properly. Even if your unit seems to be functioning normally, minor problems can become major catastrophes if they are not handled as soon as possible. Without routine checkups and maintenance, it’s difficult to know exactly how well your cooling unit is functioning.

How often should you have your air conditioner serviced?

Your air conditioner receive a checkup at least once per year, but we recommend having a technician service and recharge your unit at the beginning of summer and the beginning of fall. That way you can ensure your unit is working properly before the hottest part of summer arrives and that it’s working efficiently after months of extended use.

How do I maintain my air conditioner?

In addition to having a technician service your air conditioning unit, there are a few things homeowners, landlords, and business owners can do to ensure air conditioning units are cared for as well as possible. These include things like:

  • Vacuuming indoor vents

  • Cleaning around outdoor sensor unit

  • Keeping indoor and outdoor vents free from clutter and debris

Taking proper care of your air conditioning unit not only ensures you will have access to cool air when it’s needed, but that your entire home can remain as energy efficient as possible.

Place Lamps and Other Heat Sources Away from Thermostats and Sensors

Your air conditioning unit can only determine how often it should be running by the temperatures gauged from thermostats and sensors. Placing lamps and other heat sources too close to these thermostats and temperature sensors can drain energy by tricking your air conditioning unit into thinking it’s time to kick it into overdrive to produce cooler air. Likewise, placing fans and other cooling devices near thermostats and sensors can have the opposite effect, preventing your home from becoming as cool as necessary.

Close the Curtains

Believe it or not, closing the curtains can actually maximize efficiency in your home. During the hottest part of the day, sunlight coming through windows and doors can affect temperature readings on thermostats and sensors, which can affect how often your air conditioning units run and how much energy your home uses in order to stabilize indoor temperatures. If no one is home and sunlight is not an issue, closing the curtains and blinds can add dollars in your pocket by saving you money on energy costs.

5 Ways to Save Money on Utility Bills

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How Can I Save Money on My Utility Bill?

Energy costs are steadily rising, and chances are, you’d rather save money on energy costs than waste hours of energy every month. We recognize the importance of saving you time and money while helping you find solutions to conserve energy. That’s why we partner with brands like Nest to offer smart home gadgets that can help make your home more energy efficient. We even install and repair smart home devices, home appliances, and more.

READ MORE:What is a smart home?

1. Invest in a Nest Thermostat

Investing in smart home technology like a Nest thermostat is one of the easiest ways to maximize your energy consumption without wasting money. Nest thermostats are programmable and can even be controlled by your smartphone or mobile device.

How does the Nest thermostat work?

You can either create a custom routine or allow Nest to “learn” your routine in order to lower energy output when you are away from the home while maintaining the optimum temperature while you’re in the home.

Does the Nest thermostat really save money?

Because Nest thermostats allows you to control the temperature in your home, you can effectively cut utility costs by reducing the amount of energy you consume. In warmer months, cooling units account for a significant portion of your overall energy costs, and because Nest thermostats are relatively inexpensive compared to other thermostats, you’ll save energy, and money, in the long-run.

What are the best smart home gadgets?

Read our blog post on how to make your home as energy efficient as possible to learn more about saving money on energy costs by investing in smart home gadgets like energy efficient appliances, occupancy/vacancy sensors, and more. 

READ MORE: 3 Ways To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

2. Invest in Energy Efficient Appliances

Investing in energy efficient appliances is one of the easiest ways to be proactive about increasing your home’s energy efficiency. There’s no need to upgrade all of your appliances today. Simply investing in energy efficiency appliances when you’re in need of an upgrade can save you hundreds, if not thousands, on utility costs over the next few years.

Do energy efficient appliances really work?

Energy efficiency appliances work in a variety of ways, depending on the type of appliance, but yes, they really do work to conserve energy and cut energy costs. Energy efficient clothes washers, for example, are able to conserve water by automatically sensing how much water is needed to clean a particular load, so rather than using an entire drum of water for small and large loads alike, each load receives a custom amount of water tailored to fit its needs.

What are the best energy efficient appliances?

There are hundreds of models of energy efficient appliances on the market today. From home appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators to home technology equipment like sound systems and televisions, there’s an energy efficient option for just about every appliance and piece of equipment in your home. Just a few of the types of energy efficient products available today include:

  • Refrigerators
  • Freezers
  • Dishwashers
  • Hood Vents
  • Clothes Washers
  • Clothes Dryers
  • Furnaces
  • Air Conditioners
  • Water Coolers
  • Water Heaters
  • Televisions
  • Telephones
  • Audio Systems
  • Computers
  • Computer Displays
  • Copiers
  • Light Bulbs

3. Pull the Plug

You’re probably thinking this one is too obvious, but the reality is that most people don’t unplug all of their unused appliances, even though evidence suggests it can save hundreds of dollars per year on utility costs. When not in use, appliances still pull energy that can amount to hundreds of hours of kilowatts each year. There’s no added benefit to keeping appliances plugged in, and in fact, unplugging them can prevent electrical fires and safety hazards, so there’s no reason not to consider saving yourself energy and money!

Does unplugging appliances save money?

Unplugging unused appliances really can save you money. Energy costs from unused appliances can quickly add up to a significant chunk of change on your utility bills each month. While you obviously won’t want to unplug some appliances, like refrigerators and dishwashers, other appliances that are not used daily, or those that live on countertops with easy access to outlets, like coffee makers and toasters, can be easily unplugged to save energy and money.

How much can I save by unplugging unused appliances?

If you don’t want to have to worry about plugging and unplugging appliances on a regular basis, invest in power strips which can easily be turned on and off, or consider buying a Belkin Smart Socket, which allows you to turn appliances on and off remotely with your smartphone or mobile device, even when you’re away from home.

How much does it cost to run unused appliances?

Some of the most commonly used appliances that can be unplugged or turned off include televisions, lamps, coffeemakers, and other devices that don’t require constant energy sources. Here’s an idea of how much it’s costing you to run these appliances:

  • Falling asleep with the television on costs $55 per year.
  • Leaving just one lamp on all day costs an extra $25 per year.
  • Leaving unused audio and video equipment plugged in costs an extra $60 per year.
  • Allowing an A/C unit to run continuously costs approximately $500 more per year.

4. Learn to Read Your Utility Meter

Learning to read your utility meter can save you hundreds of dollars on energy costs each year. We’re not saying your utility company is intentionally keeping you from saving money on utility costs, but utility meters, like any other form of technology, can malfunction. Knowing how to ensure your meter is reading properly can help you understand how much energy you are actually consuming and whether or not you are being overcharged.

How do you read a utility meter?

Reading a utility meter is not complicated, but it can be intimidating on first glance. In order to know how many kilowatt hours you have used, you should know that one kilowatt hour is equivalent to the amount of energy it would take to power a 100-watt light bulb for approximately 10 hours. Follow the link below with step-by-step instructions (and photos) to understand how to accurately read and interpret your utility meter:

READ MORE: How to Read a Utility Meter

Can my utility company reset my utility meter?

If you are actively monitoring your utility meter and usage and you have noticed that your utility bill and meter readings do not add up, contact your utility company in order to request a checkup. If your meter is more than a few years old, it may be in need of being replaced. Many utility companies are also replacing traditional utility meters with digital meters that are more user-friendly, so you might consider placing a request to have your meter upgraded.

Is my utility meter working properly?

If your utility bills are not accurately reflecting your utility use, there can be a number of possible causes. Your utility meters may need to be replaced due to faulty wiring or old age, or the information being distributed to the utility company may be wrong. Whether your utility company utilizes a human meter reader or your meter transmits data electronically, there may be a mistake or error in the transmission process.

Why is my utility bill so high?

In addition to added costs from unused appliances, it’s important to note that many utility companies have rates that fluctuate depending on seasons and “peak usage times,” such as in the evenings when more people are utilizing energy to make dinner, watch television, heat or cool the home, and use other energy-zapping equipment and technology.

5. Make Your Air Conditioner More Efficient

Your air conditioning unit is one of the largest sources of energy consumption on your utility bills, and for good reason, since you would certainly notice the difference if it were gone. To make the most of your home’s energy use, and of your investment, take care of your cooling unit to ensure it’s working properly. There are several ways to ensure your air conditioning unit is running smoothly and efficiently. Some of them require a professional technician, but others are easy enough to do on your own without spending a penny.

Routine Maintenance and Checkups

Each and every air conditioning unit, regardless of brand, model, age, and condition, should be routinely serviced and maintenanced to ensure any minor problems are found and resolved before they become major catastrophes that can costs thousands to repair.

How often should my A/C be maintenanced?

Every unit should be maintenanced at least once per year to ensure your home won’t be left without a cooling mechanism when summer rolls around, but we recommend having your A/C unit serviced in the fall as well, since overuse in the summer months can cause damage that is far easier and less expensive to fix on the front end than after months of use leading up to next summer. Take our word for it – you don’t want to be left without a working an air conditioner and a large repair bill in the middle of June.

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Close Blinds, Curtains, and Shades

Closing blinds, curtains, and shades around the home while you’re away or when you do not need or prefer added light can prevent the sun’s warmth from entering the home and affecting temperatures. Also, the sun’s rays enter your home and reflect on walls and other surfaces. If this happens near your thermostat, it can also affect how hard your air conditioning unit must work to cool your home.

Utilize Fans

Utilizing ceiling fans can cut energy costs by providing a method of cooling and circulating air at a much more affordable cost than running an air conditioner year-round. In the spring and fall, when you don’t need the aid of a cooling unit to create a comfortable temperature in the home, or when you’re away, fans are a great, low-cost alternative.

How do I know if my home is energy efficient?

Wondering how to maximize energy efficiency in your home? Greenway Home Services can recommend energy-efficient appliances and gadgets that can save your family hundreds, if not thousands, on energy costs each year. We can even install and repair most major appliances and smart home technology systems, including:

  • Washers
  • Dryers
  • Refrigerators
  • Microwaves
  • Ice Machines
  • Ranges and Ovens
  • Garbage Disposals
  • Trash Compactors
  • Nest Thermostats
  • Nest Protect Systems
  • Nest Cams

Looking for some help lowering your utility bills? Learn more about Greenway Home Services appliance repair, plumbing services, HVAC replacement, or air conditioning and heating services, contact representatives at our Memphis or Nashville locations today or schedule an appointment online.

MEMPHIS: 901-245-5710
NASHVILLE: 615-492-3258

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Contact Mister Greeeeenwayy!

Mister Greenway Plumbing, Heating & Air
7550 Bartlett Corporate Cv E, Suite 1
Memphis, TN 38133
 (901) 313-8248

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