Frequently Asked Questions

Call Us With All of Your HVAC Needs

Trust the experts at Smithmyer Plumbing & Heating LLC for all of your plumbing and HVAC service needs. For nearly seven decades, our team has provided Altoona, PA, and surrounding areas with prompt, reliable, and dependable services. We’re proud to keep our customers informed and educated on their home’s needs. Explore our FAQ below!

What can cause a high water bill?

The most likely culprit is your toilet. If the flapper is not sealing properly water will leak thru and cause high water bill.

How do I prevent my pipes from freezing?

Insulating your pipes is the best way to keep them safe in the winter months. If you have pipes that are hidden by cabinets, like for the kitchen sink, leaving the doors open can help since warm air can reach them easier. If you aren’t able to reach your pipes, leaving a slow drip overnight and keeping the water flowing should prevent freezing.

What can I put in my garbage disposal?

It’s ok to put: ice cubes, dish soap, soft food, non-grease liquids, and cold water. Avoid fibrous foods, grease, oils, and sticky things to keep your disposal working in tip top shape.

What can I do to keep drains from clogging?

You can help avoid build up by installing a drain catcher to catch physical debris. After that, a great way to take care of small clogs is by pouring a mixture of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar down your drains to loosen the build-up. If that doesn’t work, it’s time to call in the drain cleaning professionals.

Why is my faucet leaking?

Bad o-rings, a corroded gasket, or a broken valve are common culprits to your leak. Generally these parts can be changed out without replacing the whole faucet. If the leak continues after checking these problem areas, there might be a larger issue at hand.

What is IAQ?

IAQ stands for Indoor Air Quality and with the onset of the pandemic has become a major concern as many people are spending more time in their homes or isolated in offices. Testing is available to assess IAQ and there are many options to address problems.

What size water heater do I need?

A 40 gallon gas water heater is standard in this area. But a general idea based on the number of people in the home is: 1-2, 30 gallon – 2-3, 40 gallon – 3-4, 50 gallon – 5 or more 80 gallon.