TLC Plumbing Blog

Swamp coolers are popular in dry, arid climates like New Mexico because they’re cost-effective and eco-friendly. But what are the…

A leaking shower faucet might sound like a simple, easy fix. What many homeowners don’t know it that repairing or…

Faucet drips and leaks are common plumbing problems for homeowners. TLC plumber Shannon answers the top five questions about faucet…

If your natural gas cost shot through the roof recently, you might be wondering if your furnace is to blame.…

Furnaces are the most common heat source for homes in New Mexico. It’s important to know how your furnace works…

New Mexico has a dry climate (yes, we’re stating the obvious). Many New Mexico residents prefer it that way, but…

Every homeowner needs to know these five things about their house. It will make service calls go smoother and might…

Summertime in New Mexico brings bright sunshine, toasty temperatures, and wonderings about refrigerated air and how to stay cool. You…

Backflow preventers systems are designed to keep harmful contaminants from getting into the municipal water supply. These systems are required…

Chico Apachito, Your HVAC Expert Chico has lived his whole life in New Mexico. He grew up in Alamo on…

Electrical system inspections can prevent unexpected power failures or other electrical problems that can impact your business.…

Having issues with your furnace? Think it may be time to call in professional help? If so, you’re probably asking…

Cost is probably the biggest factor weighing on your mind if you need a new furnace. It’s also one of…

It’s no secret that the more efficient your HVAC system, the more you get out of your heating and cooling…

So you’ve noticed that your air conditioner is blowing not-so-cool air. In fact, the air you feel coming from your…

We’re about halfway through the summer! What should you be thinking about when it comes to your home? We asked…

If you’re in the market for a replacement AC, the first question on your mind is probably, “How much will…

As everyone has begun to deal with the “new normal” brought about by the many changes as a result of…

Wire theft is a common problem for business owners in New Mexico. When the copper wire in your electrical system…

That’s a tough question to answer. It really all depends on what’s wrong with your AC system— and believe us,…

Should I Get a Swamp Cooler or Refrigerated Air? Choosing between a swamp cooler and refrigerated air isn’t an easy…

Many businesses in Albuquerque are pivoting and working hard to find ways to make things work during these challenging times.…

Spring is right around the corner. Even though New Mexico weather is unpredictable, there’s no doubt it’s getting warmer. Cooling…

Spring is right around the corner. Even though New Mexico weather is unpredictable, there’s no doubt it’s getting warmer. Cooling…

Nobody wants to pay for furnace repairs right before spring hits. That’s why we asked Cody to give us a…

Updated on 12/15/19 to reflect changes in EPA regulations. R22 refrigerant is being phased out, here’s what that means for…

It has been said that knowledge is power. That’s especially true when it comes to the plumbing in your home.…

In light of everything going on in our world today, many of us are working and caring for our children…

You start your furnace up on a cold morning and… What is that? It sounds like a house-elf is trying…

Laundry is a chore that most of us don’t enjoy because it takes a lot of time. The last thing…

Winter is coming, and even though New Mexico stays relatively mild, it still drops below freezing. It’s important to make…

Understanding the Return on Investment for Your Business Preventive maintenance tends to be one of those things that get pushed…

Have you ever wondered if something’s wrong with your water heater, but you didn’t know how to tell? Here are…

Every space is unique, with its own special storage needs and challenges. Whether you have a large walk-in closet or…

The pantry and the kitchen work together to bring the magic of food to your table! A dose of creativity…

If you’re a homeowner in Albuquerque, you’ve probably heard about aluminum wiring. How do you know if you have it?…

Calling the plumber isn’t something most of us enjoy doing. When you have a plumbing problem, it is usually unexpected.…

Why Are Some Rooms in My Home Hot or Cold? Is there a room in your home that just doesn’t…

It’s really easy to forget how dangerous electricity is. We use it for almost everything we do, and it makes…

All of our homes are run by an invisible power that most of us take for granted: electricity. It’s easy…

Some of us are handy people. Many of us are not, but those of you who are good with tools…

You know your kitchen needs a new look. It’s time for it to join the 21st Century, but where do…

Ducts are an important part of many heating and cooling systems. Refrigerated air, furnaces, and swamp coolers have of air…

It is every homeowner’s nightmare. You come home from vacation or a long day at work to find a flood…

If you have a swamp cooler in your home, you are familiar with the balancing act of keeping the house…

Natural gas is one of the most common fuels used in New Mexico homes. Many water heaters, furnaces, clothes dryers…

This flu season has been rough so far. And with the Coronavirus in the news, it can be unsettling to…

It’s starting to get cold around here! The temperature has already dipped below freezing several times in Albuquerque (how about…

Ensure your heating system is operating safely Winter brings thoughts of cozying up by the fireplace, hot chocolate, and warm…

Most of us are familiar with Murphy’s Law. Ole Murphy likes to burst onto the scene at the worst possible…

It’s officially that time of year again! We’re in full swing of the holiday season, which means that people across…

If you are thinking about updating your shower, you have tons of options! Recent bathroom trends are elegant and functional.…

Every day, we are exposed to carbon monoxide (CO), a gas commonly found in the air inside and outside of…

Buying a new home is a big commitment! It requires a lot of thought and attention to detail. Many aspiring…

A water leak in your home can be expensive and frustrating. Leaks can cause water damage and unusually high water…

How Can TLC’s Preventive Maintenance Agreement Save You Money? It is easy to take our home’s plumbing, electrical, heating and…

Electrical issues can be frustrating and sometimes hazardous. Here are the top 5 electrical problems our electricians see. Top 5…

A clogged toilet happens to everyone on occasion, but if it happens to you all the time, you may need…

Many homeowners would agree that a remodeled room or house feels fresh and new! It is exciting to make your…

Many things can clog drains in your home. Roots, feminine hygiene products and even toys can make their way down…

Have you ever wished for a place you could call your own? Man caves and she sheds are popular ways…

If you are struggling to stay cool with your swamp cooler, you may be thinking about converting to refrigerated air.…

If you have a Mastercool or Aerocool, cleaning your swamp cooler pads is something that should be done on an…

Attic Fan vs Whole House Fan If your home has an attic, you are probably aware of how hot it…

Outdoor space upgrades are popular and trendy this year! From furniture to architecture, the family outdoor living space is becoming…

Summer usually means an increase in your water bill. Much of this is normal based on outdoor watering, running the…

Tankless water heaters are typically more expensive to install than standard water heaters.  The cost difference is due to the process to…

Wondering why your hot water smells like rotten eggs? The most common odor problem from water heaters is a rotten…

When was the last time you changed the air filter in your home’s central heating and air conditioning system? Has…

What Is the Problem With Hard Water? If you are a homeowner in New Mexico, you have probably heard about…

TLC’s purpose has always been to improve the quality of life for our employees and the community. We have spent…

Did you know that 95% of homes in New Mexico have hard water? Our soil is rich in minerals such…

Most homeowners have no idea what goes on inside their home’s air vents. The fact is they can be littered…

Cost is one of those questions that everyone has on their mind when making a large purchase – and rightfully…

Have you ever wondered why your hot water faucet gives you cold water when you first turn it on? Depending…

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heaters consume 14%-25% of a home’s annual energy usage. So when it’s…

You probably have insurance on your house, your car, your health, your spouse, and maybe even your pets. But what…

Being a knowledgeable homeowner empowers you to make informed decisions about your home, so it’s important to know the basics…

As we move into 2018 and approach the Spring months, one of the big activities is to plan what to…

If you’re considering installing a new water heater yourself, you may want to reconsider after you’ve been able to evaluate…

While liquid drain cleaners can be a quick and easy fix for slow or clogged drains, the problem is that…

Finding out if your toilet is leaking can be tricky. Leaks will often go unnoticed until you get hit with…

Being a knowledgeable homeowner empowers you to make informed decisions about your home, so it’s important to know the basics…

If you are still reeling from this week’s episode of This Is Us, you’re not alone. **SPOILER ALERT** if you…

Winterizing your outdoor faucet, also known as a hose bib or water spigot, is a simple project. If it’s not…

The cold weather probably has you thinking about your heater and it’s important to keep your home warm for you…

As a homeowner you know that like any appliance, water heaters break down over time and need to be replaced.…

For many, winter utility bills can be a pocketbook pain point. In fact, home heating is the largest energy expense…

Chances are you’re paying much more in utility bills during the winter months to heat your home. Here are 7…

What Temperature Should you Set your Home Heating System Thermostat to During Winter? People often ask us what they should…

Many people may not know that there’s a difference between plumbing and drain problems and we often equate them to…

Fall is here! It’s the time of year when it’s tempting to run your AC during the day and your…

Removing chlorine from your water will eliminate the taste and smell of your water. Find out how TLC can help.…

It’s almost that magical time again in the Land of Enchantment where green chile aroma fills the air, the morning…

It is the season for swollen eyes, runny noses and sneezing. If New Mexico’s second round of allergy season snuck…

If you have never heard of Zozobra many local Santa Feans describe it as, “They make this giant man-thing and…

As you know, your swamp cooler works by using water to moisten your swamp cooler pads, so that as the…

New Mexico is known for its many outdoor wonders especially the many hiking trails. Got the itch to take your family…

Hard water and your swamp cooler problems If you have a swamp cooler and have hard water you need to…

Celebrating our nation’s freedom with food and fireworks is fun. The 4th of July is a special time to make…

Earlier we wrote about summer actives for kids in Santa Fe. In part 2 of our series, we are reviewing…

Summer, is officially in Santa Fe and it is hot outside. Are you a few weeks into the kid’s summer break…

You’d be hard-pressed to find a New Mexican complaining about the plethora of bright sunny days and our relatively mild…

Why Should You Shut of Your Water When on Vacation? With the start of summer and the end of school,…

Undoubtedly, online shopping has drastically changed the way that Americans consume goods. The reality is that every online purchase is…

Tank and Tankless water heaters both provide hot water But what are the pros and cons of each? More and…

Installing a Tankless Water Heater? We hope we’ve given you enough information in this guide to make an informed decision…

Our technicians explain if and how a tankless water heater can save homeowners money.…

Are tankless water heaters energy efficient? Yes, but to understand how it impacts you, lets first explore how energy efficiency…

What is Home Automation and How does it Work? Before our smartphones became an extension of our lives it was…

What are Tankless Water Heaters? Tankless water heaters have grown in popularity over the years. A lot of new homes…

It is that time of year when we’re all working on our taxes. If you are going to be receiving…

When you think of home flooding problems, you might think they’re caused by broken pipes. What many homeowners do not…

It is a known fact that restaurants mark up their menu prices around Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day. They know…

It’s hard to believe but we are almost through the first month of the year and while many of us…

Ever wonder how a water softener works? Water softeners use a process called ion exchange.  Softeners use resin that is…

So if you have been researching furnaces you may also be thinking what kind of furnace should I buy?  There…

Most of the time when you are replacing your furnace it is typically replaced with the same size of unit…

The most efficient Furnace you can buy is a 98% modulating variable speed furnace.  Almost every manufacturer has a variation…

It’s that time of year again….across America, New Year’s Resolutions are being made! What better time is there to start…

Carbon monoxide dangers can happen anytime in your home. However, winter definitely increases your exposure to carbon monoxide dangers. Carbon…

Follow these important safety tips when putting up or taking down the Christmas lights this year.…

In honor of National Computer Security Day today, we asked our IT Manager for some tips we could share.  Below…

Why should you choose a Kinetico Water Softener? We will walk you through the things to consider when making this…

When the temperature drops in New Mexico the last thing you want is your furnace to go out and your…

For the most part, the temperatures have been fairly mild as we gear up for colder temperatures in New Mexico.…

TLC’s Modern Bathroom Remodel Recently TLC was hired to completely remodel this master bathroom in a home built in the…

When the chill is in the air here in Albuquerque, we all know Fall is just around the corner and…

Keeping your kids busy is always a challenge, especially in summer when they have lots of free time on their…

One of the biggest reasons most homeowners in New Mexico choose to convert to refrigerated air is temperature control. As…

So you’ve done your homework and are ready to convert your swamp cooler to refrigerated air.  Now that you have…

What is SEER rating and what you need to know? If you have central air conditioning in your home or are…

The simple answer is yes, in most cases your energy bill will rise because you will use more electricity with…

Those hot summer temperatures are just around the corner, are you ready? We are getting closer and closer to those…

Are you dreading the hot temperatures? Worried that your swamp cooler will not be able to cool your home? If…

Honestly, this is a question that we get a lot this time of year. There are two different types of…

It’s no secret that owning a pet can improve your life. Owning a dog lowers the chance of heart disease,…

With so many home improvement shows on TV today, it is easy to get inspired and get some great ideas…

Imagine coming home after a long, exhausting day of work to find a large puddle of water covering your floor.…

Water spots on dishes. Crusty build up on the dishwasher or around the faucets. The need to use more laundry…

A furnace that is running properly cycles on and off to maintain the temperature in your home. If your furnace…

(Editor’s Note this article was originally posted in November 2015.  However, it has been updated to include current information and…

If you’ve recently received a water bill that is much higher than normal you’re probably wondering if you have a…

Stress affects most of us in some form or another. And while a little stress is ok, often times many…

This Blog was originally posted in 2015 and we’ve since updated it to reflect the most recent Daylight Savings information for…

When remodeling or updating your home, there are a lot of decisions to be made. Some of those decisions are…

The cold weather hit us fast and unexpectedly this week. Which is quite common for New Mexico. One day it…

(Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in October 2015, it has been updated to reflect current information). Your safety…

It’s that time of year again the balloons are going up this morning and that means the Balloon Fiesta is…

There are several reasons to get your furnace inspected by a professional. It isn’t just about making sure everything runs…

It’s hard to believe that fall is upon us. The kids are back in school and the temperature is starting…

Editor’s Note: This blog was originally posted in 2015. However, it has been updated to reflect current information. Winter usually…

If you own an older home, you may have a dated bathroom or two. Maybe you may have the peachy-pink…

Editor’s note,this blog was originally posted in August 2015 but it has been updated to reflect current, valid information  Kids,…

Here in the 505 we bask in the glow – quite literally – of blue clear skies and sunshine for…

Refrigerated air or central air conditioning is very comfortable and more homeowners in Albuquerque and Santa Fe are making the…

My struggle with cooling my home I have a confession to make, I should know more about maintaining my cooler…

Well, summer is definitely here and we’re working around the clock fixing air conditioners and repairing swamp coolers all over…

Your drain system is something that largely goes unnoticed until you have a problem, whether it be a slow drain,…

Choosing which toilet to purchase can be a daunting task. This Guide to choosing a toilet by our Plumbing experts…

Swamp cooling or evaporative cooling, is a popular, cost effective way to cool your home here in the southwest. Swamp…

With the recent news story on KOB Channel 4 about faulty plumbing we wanted to provide you with some information,…

Did you know your water heater can cause burns if the temperature is too hot? How do you know if…

A wall-mounted ductless air conditioner also referred to as a mini split system or ductless mini split system is an…

The summer heat is here and the temps are starting to soar! Are you worried about how well your swamp…

Thermostat Problems vs. Furnace Problems It is common for furnaces or heaters to stop working and the homeowner to believe…

Albuquerque & Rio Rancho residents, especially those in Cabezon have experienced major pressure spikes. What does that mean for you…

Here are a few tips and important bits of information when choosing a plumber.…

Diagnosing a Furnace that Turns On and Off There are a couple of different reasons this may be happening and…

Your water heater delivers hot water that can be adjusted to your comfort level. But, it requires maintenance and care…

So, you have a clogged drain in your home. With all of the products and services available today, there are…

Over 1/3 of the water you use in the bathroom comes from your toilet. And since bathroom water amounts to…

This is a very common question that we hear often. The answer can be different for everyone so here are…

Christmas is a busy time of year for your plumbing. From visiting relatives to elaborate meals, your drains are getting…

If you fill your glass from the tap, you may be drinking more than just water. In Albuquerque, there are…

(Editor’s Note: This blog was originally posted in November 2014, but has been updated to reflect current information and tips.)…

Coming home to a cold home isn’t fun, but many homeowners do it in the interest of saving money on…

How well do you know your heater? There are probably more types of heating out there than you think. TLC…

Cooler weather has finally arrived, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about your swamp cooler. You’re going to need…

Is your water heater gurgling or popping? Do you know how old it is? Water heater energy standards are changing.…

Every day, we live with carbon monoxide in our air, inside and outside our homes. So, why do you need…

October is on our doorstep, which means it’s time to pack up the short sleeves and fire up the furnace.…

Apps are awesome. From checking your bank account balance to checking your email, smartphones apps have made it convenient and…

Every year, the American Subcontractors Association honors exceptional companies in the construction industry, recognizing them for their outstanding service, excellence…

At TLC Plumbing, we’re committed to creating a great work environment for our employees day in and day out. Every…

Here in New Mexico, things can be so hot and dry one moment and so wet and rainy the next.…

Compared to cities like Phoenix or Las Cruces, Albuquerque is actually somewhat temperate, thanks in part to the river and…

Every family has their own schedule. Between work, school, activities, and dinner, it’s important to maintain a comfortable temperature in…

Summer is officially in full swing. That means the days are long, hot, and full of glorious New Mexico sunshine.…

Good airflow is an essential component to any cooling system, but it is especially important for swamp coolers. Without proper…

No excerpt…

For many years, propane was a practical and effective way to produce energy. But, with the cost of fuel on…

Spring has finally arrived! With abundant sunshine and life blooming at every turn, a heating and cooling changeover may be…

Quality is a Priority at TLC Plumbing In 1991, a challenge began. The challenge was to make New Mexico a…

Anyone who runs a restaurant knows it’s a lot of work. From the drains to the appliances, restaurants need systems…

With the development of technology, plumbers are now able to perform inspections of drain lines and duct work to diagnose…

  Your septic system was created to give you many years of service, but like many things, it can get…

Next time you decide to flush that wipe down the toilet, you may want to reconsider. Happening more often than…

Without notice, your family uses numerous gallons of water a day, and depending on your location in Albuquerque, chances are…

It seems easy enough – we turn on the shower and hot water comes on. But, instant hot water actually…

When it’s time to upgrade your heating and cooling system, you may want to do more than install a new air…

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to get gifts for everyone on your list.  Committed to saving you…

On November 4, TLC technicians visited the homes of 7 senior residents to turn their heaters on in preparation for…

Holiday Garbage Disposal Tips We can all somewhat agree that having a kitchen garbage disposal is extremely efficient, especially when…

Your furnace isn’t just a hunk of metal hanging out in the garage or the hallway closet of your home;…

At TLC Plumbing, we love what we do! It’s that simple. From our workplace to our community to our customers,…

Known as the most popular heating solution in Albuquerque, forced-air heating is one of the most effective ways to heat…

In autumn and winter months, your heating can use half of the energy in your home. In addition to driving…

It is a heartbreaking truth, but every year New Mexico children are diagnosed with cancer. In honor of Childhood Cancer…

Heating systems come in all shapes and sizes, but winter only comes in one variety: cold. With a commitment to…

Free Water Inquiries from TLC Plumbing The water from your faucet may be drinkable, but is it pure?…

Why Your New Mexico Home is Better with Soft Water Hard water is a common reality in New Mexico. To…

We live in the era of information, where anyone is but a type stroke away from finding answers to problems.…

When fire season in full swing, air quality is a major concern for New Mexico homeowners. While your cooling system…

TLC is proud and excited to announce that we are now members of the PNM Trade Ally Program. As a…

On a hot day, nothing hits the spot quite like a glass of cold water. But, what if that water…

If you’re new to New Mexico or you’ve recently moved to a home with a swamp cooler you may be…

To Convert or not to Convert? In Albuquerque, actually New Mexico in general, we’ve all grown up with the ol’…

If you’re cooler doesn’t seem to be putting out enough air, there are a few simple things to check before…

With all the talk about going “Green” these days, the debate over tankless vs. tank type water heaters is becoming…

The new houses being built today are vastly different from those of yesteryear. Even in the last ten years there…