March 2021

Plumbing Issues That Could Signal You Have A Larger Underlying Problem

Plumbing Issues That Could Signal You Have A Larger Underlying Problem

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Scheduling home plumbing repairs is understandably not something that any resident in Waterloo, Indiana, wants to do. When you are faced with an emergency, such as a ruptured pipe that allows water to spill through your home, you may not hesitate to call a plumber for help. However, how do you handle issues that may not seem like a plumbing emergency? If you have any concerns, it is best to stay on top of your plumbing system’s condition by scheduling an inspection with our team at Kaufman Well Drilling.

Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

Some emergency plumbing situations are so distressing that you may almost instinctively pick up the phone to call for professional help. When the signs of trouble are less obvious, you could assume that they are not as pressing or damaging. These warning signs may be a regular source of irritation or concern that is easy to forget about within a few minutes. However, some of the most serious plumbing issues could go undetected and unrepaired for many long weeks or even months. In the process, they could inflate your water bill unnecessarily, create property damage that may have otherwise been diminished, and have other significant consequences. What are the warning signs that you should never ignore?

Foul, Persistent Odors

Do you smell sewage or other foul smells coming from your toilets, faucets, and other fixtures? Do you notice this smell each time you walk into your yard? These could be signs that the sewer line is backing up or has ruptured. Another smell you may notice is natural gas. Your plumber is adequately experienced and trained to diagnose and repair damaged gas lines as well.

Discoloration

Discolored hot or warm water generally signifies that the water heater needs to be drained or replaced. When the water is discolored at room temperature, it could be indicative of other issues. Yellowish or brownish water could mean that your home’s pipes are corroded or rusted. Cloudy water often means that air is somehow seeping into the pipes. A plumbing inspection will reveal if any of the pipes should be replaced.

Low Water Pressure

Have you noticed a weak flow or low water pressure throughout all of the fixtures? When this issue is widespread throughout the home, the problem may be related to the water heater or the main water line. The most comprehensive and accurate way to determine what type of plumbing repair is needed is to request a licensed professional’s diagnostic inspection.

Slow Drainage

Most people have dealt with a developing clog in a tub or sink drain. The water in that particular feature will drain slowly until you clear out the clog. When slow drainage is widespread throughout the home, there could be an issue with your sewer line. For example, a tree root may have grown into the line and may be impairing waste removal from the home.

Water Dripping or Flowing Sounds

When your home is quiet, you may be able to hear faint sounds that go undetected throughout most of the day. The sound of dripping or flowing water may immediately cause you to check all of the faucets. If the taps are not on, you should schedule a plumbing inspection to determine if you are dealing with a hidden leak.

Schedule Service with Kaufman Well Drilling Today

Have you noticed any of these signs or other unusual signs? It is always best to know precisely what you are dealing with rather than assume that the issue is minor. To schedule a diagnostic inspection and the plumbing repair service that your home in Waterloo, Indiana, needs, contact our team at Kaufman Well Drilling today.

Stethoscope checking up the car with car service icon, Concept of car check-up, repair and maintenance..

What Routine Maintenance Is Required for My Car? 

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 Your vehicle is a machine, and just like any other machine, it needs maintenance. Most vehicles need to be maintained after 5,000 miles, and from there, the cycle continues every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. However, it is better to check your car more often than this.

 Maintenance lets your car run smoothly and safely for much longer than a vehicle that lacks regular upkeep. You will find all the information in your owner’s manual and what you need to do and when you need to do it so that you can stay prepared. The Kruse Automotive Service team in Fort Wayne, IN, would like you to know that you can do most of the basic maintenance tasks yourself by following the advice below.

 Get Acquainted With Your Owner’s Manual 

 The owner’s manual is a thick book often placed inside the glove box, and your car has one. If you don’t find yours, an electronic copy could be available online. If not, contact your dealer to get one.

 In your owner’s manual, check the maintenance schedule section. Check for the intervals to carry out maintenance tasks such as tire rotation, engine oil, hoses, belts, oil filter, and much more. To keep your engine running smoothly, stick to these manufacturer recommendations.

 Change the Engine Oil

 Newer vehicles no longer require an oil and filter replacement after every 3,000 miles. High-quality oil products and high-efficiency engines have transformed our approach to this service. Some cars don’t need an oil change more than once between 7,000 and 10,000 miles. Because of the efficiency of motor oils and engines, the traditional advice may no longer be correct.

 Changing the engine oil is a straightforward way to keep your car in good running condition. If clean oil does not efficiently lubricate the moving parts of the engine, critical damage can occur. Remember, failure to maintain the oil can void your warranty and cause engine failure. In such a case, you will incur expensive auto repairs.

 The regularity of changing your car’s oil depends on the type of oil you use. If you use conventional motor oil, most likely, you should change it every 3,000 miles or after three months. However, if you use synthetic oil, you will probably change it every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, or between 6 and 12 months. So, check your owner’s manual to know the oil recommended for your vehicle.

 Check the Tire Pressure and Tread Depth

 Apart from visual observation, check whether your tires are up to the task using a pressure gauge. Doing so ensures your car’s fuel efficiency and keeps you safe on the road.

 Ensure the tire pressure is within the range recommended by the manufacturer. Remember to keep a spare tire and check its tread as well. 

 It is usual for the entire tire to wear consistently. But an uneven tread could be a sign of misaligned wheels or improper tire inflation. If you notice uneven tread on your tires, consult your auto mechanic in Fort Wayne for inspection. 

 Check Out the Seals

 Your car’s driveshaft, axle, and other seals will eventually wear out. But since they’re out of sight, we always neglect them until we notice a gear lube or transmission fluid stain on the floor, which eventually develops into a big problem.

 Replace your seals before they leak to avoid fluid loss, which can culminate into overheating and extreme wear. Bad seals allow contaminants and dirt to access the system. Soon the fluid deteriorates, leading to a breakdown or expensive repairs.

 Check Your Brakes

 Don’t wait for screeching sounds to know that the brake pads are worn out. Having your brakes examined regularly by an auto mechanic will keep you safe and your car on the road. Never neglect your brakes.

 Replace the Timing and Serpentine Belts When Necessary

 Most experts recommend replacing your timing belt every 60,000 miles and the serpentine belt approximately every 40,000 miles. Again, check these in your owner’s manual as advised by your manufacturer. If you don’t have the manual, do an online search for your particular car’s actual recommendation and use it as a guideline. Let your mechanic examine the belts when it’s time to replace them, depending on the mileage. If they’re still in excellent condition, don’t change them. But if they are worn out, replace them as soon as possible because if they fail, you will incur expensive damage to other accessories as well. 

 Check the Air Filter

 Most problems in a vehicle occur when the air filters are clogged or if they’re loose-fitting. Air filters prevent dust and other contaminants from accessing your engine, which preserves the engine’s integrity. A dirty filter reduces the engine’s airflow, reducing its fuel economy and performance and reducing the engine’s power. Experts recommend you replace the air filter every 12,000 miles.

 Examine Your Battery

 One of the most critical components needed for your car to run is the battery. It provides a vast amount of electrical current for the engine, starter, and other electronics in the car. When the battery is exposed to extreme temperatures, its performance reduces. So, test your battery regularly to ensure that it will perform when it is needed. 

 Check the Spark Plugs and Ignition System

 Hard starting, “check engine” light on the dashboard, and rough running indicate that the ignition system components are failing. Your mechanic will plug a computer into your car and search for an error code that will determine what needs to be replaced.

 The replacement timing primarily depends on the type of spark plugs installed in the car. Most new vehicles have titanium or iridium spark plugs, which can last up to 100,000 miles. Be careful because cheap spark plugs made of copper are still available, and you need to replace them at 30,000 miles. 

 Remember, these tips are simply guidelines, and you need to consult your owner’s manual for the manufacturer-specific maintenance schedule. Also, avoid aggressive driving because it wears out mechanical parts faster. If you need help with your car maintenance or repair, consult the Kruse Automotive Service experts to receive support.

Image of Car air conditioning

What To Do When Your Car Air Conditioner Quits Working

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On warm summer days in the Fort Wayne area, it can be downright miserable and even dangerous at times to drive without a functional air conditioner. While you may overlook seemingly minor issues, these could be warning signs that the AC system is about to stop working altogether. The best time to deal with a developing problem is as soon as you suspect something may be wrong. 

 Your car’s climate control system is complex and includes heat exchangers, a compressor, refrigerant, and other essential components. With so many important components that all must function well, many issues could develop over time and regular use of the AC system. Because of this, there, unfortunately, is not a quick fix that will resolve all issues. At Kruse Automotive, our insured and licensed auto specialists have helped local drivers stay cool and comfortable on the road for 50 years. You can count on us to quickly diagnose and properly repair the issue.

 Observe Signs That Auto Repairs Are Needed

 Some car AC systems will completely stop responding to the controls. Others will blow lukewarm or hot air. In some cases, the air may have an unpleasant smell or the system may make an unusual sound when it operates. Many of the signs of damage could have multiple causes, so it is not always possible to accurately diagnose the issue on your own. When you bring your car to us, our auto specialists will thoroughly diagnose the problem and will tell you about the recommended repairs upfront. 

 Understand What the Problem Could Be

 Many drivers will quickly search the internet for a fast solution when their car’s AC system stops working. While there could be a few easy solutions to some problems, many AC issues should be repaired by an auto mechanic because of how complex this system is. Your car’s air conditioner compressor draws power from the engine. At the same time, the evaporator and condenser are linked to two heat exchangers. The refrigerant flows throughout the system and converts between a liquid and gas form. This material is regulated by an expansion valve. Everything from a refrigerant leak to a blown fuse, damaged hoses, blocked air intake ports, a damaged condenser, and more could be causing your AC system’s problems today. 

 Get a Professional Diagnosis

 Because so many issues could impact your car’s complex air conditioning system, a professional diagnosis from a licensed auto mechanic is a crucial first step. A thorough inspection of your car’s air conditioner includes a review of the fluid levels, belts, hoses, and sensors. While some aspects of the inspection are completed through direct observation, others require advanced diagnostic technologies. A comprehensive inspection will reveal the condition of all components in the system. In addition, it enables your mechanic to create an accurate up-front estimate and to fully resolve the issue on the first visit to the auto shop.

 Enjoy Fast Results from Your Auto Mechanic

 We are your complete source for all types of automotive heating and cooling system needs. Our diagnostic process may reveal the need to replace major systems, the replenishment of fluids, or the need to clean and repair some of the components. We always have a great inventory of replacement parts in stock for our experienced auto mechanics to use, and our mechanics have access to all of the tools and modern technologies they need to work efficiently. Our AC services include refrigerant charging, temperature sensor calibration, and all other essential services. When you bring your car to our auto shop in Fort Wayne, you are assured that we can resolve the issue and send you back out on the road in comfort with a well-maintained AC system. 

 Keep Your Car Running Well with Routine Maintenance Services

 Through routine auto maintenance services completed by our mechanics, you can prevent many types of auto repairs from developing. At the same time, you could avoid a breakdown and optimize your vehicle’s life and value. Your car’s AC system should receive maintenance service annually. This is only one of many maintenance services that your car requires, and our shop is equipped to handle all auto maintenance needs. From oil changes to tire rotations, factory-scheduled inspections, and more, we are proud to be your full-service source for all of your auto maintenance needs today and in the future. 

 Schedule an Appointment with Our Auto Specialists Today

 Is your car’s AC system acting up, or do you want to prevent issues from developing during the hot summer months? Whether you bring your car to Kruse Automotive for AC repairs or maintenance services, your next visit is also the perfect time to get caught up on all of its other maintenance needs. Schedule your appointment for auto repair work and maintenance services today.

Man Calling Plumber In Front Of Water Leaking From Sink Pipe

Signs You Might Need to Call a Plumber

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Your home’s plumbing system serves the vital purpose of delivering fresh water to you and your family while also removing wastewater. A wide range of minor to severe issues could develop between the pipes, faucets, water heater, and other features. Some of these issues may develop slowly over time, and others may develop seemingly out of the blue. All issues should receive your prompt attention.

Top Signs You Need to Call a Plumber

Depending on the issues you are facing today, you may not be able to use some of your home’s plumbing features to draw freshwater as needed or remove wastewater efficiently. Perhaps you are dealing with a leaking pipe that could result in severe property damage. While some signs indicate the need to schedule plumbing repair service, others may not be so obvious.

Slow Drainage

You would understandably call a plumber if you have a significant clog that prevents any water from circling down the drain. Slow drainage may not seem like an urgent matter, but it indicates a developing clog and should receive prompt attention. Cleaning the pipes now can prevent serious damage down the road.

Poor Toilet Function

When you flush the toilet, the wastewater should be evacuated fully and relatively forcefully. If you are increasingly concerned about the toilet’s functionality, scheduling a plumbing service now can help you to prevent a messy situation with an overflowing or non-functional toilet.

Discolored or Foul-Smelling Hot Water

Your water heater may continue to produce warm water on demand, but it could need professional attention if the water is discolored or if it smells foul. You could optimize the life of your water heater by taking care of the issue today.

Unexplained Puddling in the Yard

In many cases, leaking pipes in the walls of your home are immediately and apparent. When the pipes leading to and from your home develop leaks, the issues may go undetected for a long time because the pipes are concealed. However, if you notice one area of the yard that is constantly moist for no explained reason or if the grass in one area is significantly lusher than in other areas, it may be time to get a plumbing inspection.

Urgent Warning Signs That Signal an Underlying Issue

From time to time, home plumbing systems develop issues that are more difficult to identify unless you know what to look for and are particularly observant. For example, you may not notice a hidden leak in a slab foundation unless you pay attention to your water bill. A sudden and unexplained increase in water usage warrants a detailed inspection. A sewage leak in the yard may not be observed immediately because the sewer line is buried. When a leak in this pipe develops slowly, you may gradually notice a subtle sewage smell. This smell will become increasingly rancid over time. Whether your pipes are rattling in the walls, you have noticed a brown spot developing on the ceiling in the garage, or you have other causes for concern, it is always best to be proactive. By calling a plumber today, you can learn about your plumbing system’s condition and recommended repairs.

Schedule Service Today

Kaufman Well Drilling is the company that residents in Waterloo, Indiana, and throughout the region know and trust with their property’s care. Whether you have noticed undeniable signs of a plumbing issue or you think that you may be dealing with a hidden or underlying problem, contact Kaufman Well Drilling today for diagnostics and plumbing repair services.

Remodeling Your Home? Strike a Balance Between Design and Functionality

Remodeling Your Home? Strike a Balance Between Design and Functionality

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Remodeling your home is a great way to add value to it. However, during your remodeling process, you may find that the choices you’re making are more design-based than function-based. Or, for those with smaller homes, you may need more functionality, but you don’t want to lose your design ideas either. Luckily, there’s a way to marry the two. Here’s how.

Understand Your Storage and Functionality Needs

It’s pretty clear that Americans need more space in their home for all of their stuff. How much storage you need is relative to your home’s size and the number of things you have.

One sage advice is to declutter before you attempt any interior design changes. Removing clutter can decrease the amount of storage that you need.

Once you know just how much storage you’ll need, you can trust an interior decorator to help you choose the storage pieces you need.

Functionality is another thing to consider. What does functional mean to you? Is it automated? Or does it just need to work? If you live in Fort Wayne, an interior designer can help you find Smart and automated appliances and other electronics that don’t clash with your design.

Determine Your Interior Design

There are tons of different interior designs from which to choose. Do you love the minimalism of modernism? Perhaps you enjoy the warm sensations inspired by a chic farmhouse design? No matter what design makes you feel like home, you’re sure to find what you need at Hassett Designs. An interior decorator can put together pieces, wall paint samples, and other decorations to help bring your design together.

We can choose furniture or shelving units that provide that storage without sacrificing your design because we understand what your storage needs are.

Consider Lifestyle Changes

Every home changes. If you have children, then they’ll eventually move out. You may be left with large rooms that you don’t know what to do with. For the time being, you’ll want to wait on remodeling your home to include more space. You’ll likely end up needing less space in a few years, anyway.

Instead, it would help if you planned for the future. That might mean that your functional design gears a bit more toward practical than design. We can help you determine what rooms you should keep and what spaces can be transformed into something else.

When the time comes that your kids have moved out, then you’ll want to revisit those rooms and remodel them again. It may finally be time to have your own home office or a personal gym area.

Make The Home Energy-Efficient

One part of functionality that shouldn’t be overlooked is how energy efficient your home is. The design can also include certain materials or appliances that can improve that efficiency. You may want to remodel your windows, for example.

Remodeling your windows to make them larger can increase the natural lighting of your home. This can make rooms feel more spacious. It can also decrease the need you have to light it with artificial lighting.

Certain appliances are also more energy-efficient than others. With your design in mind, you can pick the one that will give you the most significant energy savings and still fits the design of the room.

Use Design Pieces to Make Messes Disappear

One of the coolest aspects of some design pieces like furniture is that it can also be used for storage. Bench seats can open up and have items placed within them. Even couches may have a drawer on the bottom that gives you more places to store things. You can use your favorite type of furniture to give your home more functionality in storage space.

An experienced interior designer can even help you find secret ways to add storage to your home without sacrificing the design. You can create drawers in your stairs, for example, for a quick way to put away items. Because the stairs already exist, it doesn’t take away from the design of the room.

You can even paint the stairs a certain shade of color to make them match the rest of the design of the room.

Start Your Design Today

Functionality doesn’t have to be sacrificed to have a great-looking home. For those in Fort Wayne, all it requires is an interior decorator and the high-quality products of Hassett Designs. Take a look at our website today to see some of the incredible projects we’ve worked on in the past. Give our skilled and experienced team a call today to get your remodeling project started. By the time our team has done, you’ll have the perfect home that does what you need it to do and looks how you’ve always dreamed it should look.

Gray kitchen with bar close up

Top 5 Reasons to Hire an Interior Decorator

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Designing your space can be a daunting task. There are multiple elements to consider: the colors, the furniture, the styles, and so much more. Also, you need to factor in the professionals: carpenters, architects, plumbers, and painters. “Getting it right” is a dream, but never one that manifests itself in your reality. This outlook on designing your space can change. You can teleport the vision for your home from your dreams to actuality. Your only decision is to hire an interior decorator.

An interior designer is your “pre-packaged meal” for a beautiful space. Interior designers come with professional training, unexpected ideas, and a vast network of merchants. These are the top five reasons to hire an interior decorator:

1. Hire for the expert eye.

Many home and office owners consider themselves competent in preparing their spaces the way they see it in their minds’ eye. However, after many trips to furniture stores and hardware, they finally concede- they are novices. Do not make that mistake. Learn from the experiences of those who chartered the waters before you. Hire an interior decorator for their expertise! Professionals who design spaces for a living develop an eye for style. They do not merely force their style unto your palate. Instead, they help you to see your vision come alive.

A designer allows you to visualize your dream from the start and thereby eliminate many failures. Designers are visual storytellers with an eye for detail and an appreciation of art that translates into style. Take Hassett Designs as an example; this company transforms your space from regular to extraordinary. When your friends visit or potential buyers (based on your space’s purpose), you are well represented because you chose exceptional representation.

2. Hire for the network.

Home and space designers create a network of skilled workers at their disposal at any given time. They have expert knowledge of the best and most reliable craftsmen available. Using a professional eliminates the need for you to tackle individual merchants on your own. They take on problems such as project deadlines and project delays and find ways to fix whatever does not work. Adding to this is the preferential treatment that is afforded frequently to designers.

As a result of their work, stores may offer pre-sales where they can choose from the best stock available. There is also the option of getting discounts because of the quantity of work they do with some suppliers, which reduces the amount of money you spend from the pocket. You do not have access to these privileges as an individual buyer.

3. Hire for the savings.

Professional designers are guaranteed to save you money. As a novice, there are several mistakes you can make when designing your home or office space. These mistakes are sometimes very pricey and rack up your spending long before your project is complete. Designers’ training tells them where to put the bulk of their budget and where to cut back and conserve. If you are selling a home in the Fort Wayne area, you may need to enlist Hassett Designs’ help. This company serves the Fort Wayne, Angola, and Auburn communities for well over thirty years.

4. Hire for the liaison.

A designer is your “voice of reason” while you re-design or create your space. These professionals act as the channel through which you can communicate with your craftsmen without being sidelined or overlooked. The designer ensures that all parties understand the client’s needs- your needs- and follows through to ensure that those needs come to life. This meticulous and well-rounded professional saves you money and time when all workers are in harmony while completing your project.

5. Hire for the outcome.

The result crowns the work when it comes to designing your interior space. An interior designer is trendy. They know what works for the current era and previous years if that is what you want. They know existing suppliers, products, and recent developments. Most of all, however, they help to bring your story to life.

What was just an idea in your head becomes the envy of those who see it in real life. Designers have a knack for using single pieces to shock and awe. While your creative genius awakens for specific occasions, designers are everyday creative geniuses. They take what is average and bland, make it exciting and flavorful.

It is not true that only the wealthy can afford a designer. It is also not true that using the services of a designer is a waste of time. On the contrary, a designer can save you both money and time if you allow them to lavish you with their services. Get a complimentary consultation with Hassett Designs. You will be glad you did.

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