FAQ's
How Much will this cost?
Pricing depends on the job, but you will never be charged before you have approved the price, or before any work is performed. We ensure that you have all of the information necessary to make the best decision for your service needs. You will be made aware of all of your options, and will never receive additional hidden charges after the work is performed.
Can you tell me what to expect if I have never called a plumber before?
Here at Levine & Sons, we are dedicated to exemplary customer service, safety and satisfaction. Each of our technicians goes through a rigorous background check and complete drug testing. We only hire the best, and know that your home is your sanctuary. We have friendly and knowledgeable customer service agents ready to assist you in scheduling a convenient appointment time. We also offer an online service request form for your convenience. Our technicians always call before arriving at your home to let you know who is coming, and what time they will arrive. Technicians always arrive in a visibly marked Levine & Sons truck wearing a uniform and name tag. They will always address you in a respectful and friendly manner while taking time to listen to your needs. They will discuss your options and what they think the best solution is for your situation. Your satisfaction is our guarantee.
Can you install a sink, faucet or toilet that I have purchased myself?
We will not only install it for you, we will make sure it is done properly to ensure your complete satisfaction with your purchase. We take pride in our workmanship and stand behind all of our services. You deserve the best.
What are our options if we both work and cannot be home for a plumber
Levine & Sons operates 7 days a week. We are willing and eager to provide you with weekend service to suit your needs. Please call us to arrange a time that is convenient for your schedule. Regular service rates apply during weekdays for appointments that are scheduled up to 6:00 PM, and on Saturdays until 4 PM.
Do you offer payment options for larger jobs
Levine & Sons offers a variety of payment options. If you have multiple projects, we offer the option to spread out your payments over time through our financing options. We also accept all major credit cards. Please click here to learn more.
How many trips will it take to finish the job?
We arrive at your residence in a fully stocked truck with all of the equipment, parts and tools necessary for most repairs. In the event we do not have the proper tools with us, one of our delivery vehicles will bring it to your residence within minutes, so that we do not waste any of your time.
Do I need to replace my old gas heater with the same BTU capacity?
Generally, the answer is NO because you will not need as large an input furnace. Today’s furnaces obtain 80-90% in efficiency, so in most cases, you do not need a large furnace. Older heaters wasted most of their heat up the flue vent to the outside of your home instead of the inside. A Levine & Sons comfort specialist can help you choose which system is just right for your home.
Will I know when it’s time to replace my current system?
You will most likely know when it’s time to replace your system when there is an increasing need for repairs, and the price of such repairs are no longer cost-effective. When major components of the system start to make unusual noises, or there are other issues present indicating the need for repair, it is usually a sign that the equipment should be replaced. Newer equipment is far more energy-efficient, which eliminates high utility bills in the long run. The purchase of new equipment could actually end up saving you money because of the money you will save every month.
How do I get my heating system ready for winter?
As long as you take good care of your heating system, it will most likely be reliable in providing quick and comfortable heat when you need it. It is important to clean your furnace and have it inspected by one of our expert technicians before the cold weather sets in.
How can I save on my heating bills?
Lowering your thermostat, even by just a few degrees, can save up to 10%. When you go to sleep at night, change the temperature from 72 degrees to 67 degrees. Levine & Sons can also install a programmable set back thermostat that will accomplish this automatically. Make sure to check your home for any air leaks; such as windows, doors, electrical switches and outlet plates on outside walls. Close your fireplace damper tightly, especially when it is not in use. Glass doors on a fireplace can reduce the loss of heated air when it is in use. Only use ventilation fans when needed in the winter. Always ensure that any heating registers and air returns are not blocked with furniture, or any other items. Make sure to have your furnace cleaned and adjusted annually; a dirty furnace can cause high heating bills. If your furnace is old or energy inefficient, consider installing a new, high-efficiency heating system.
How long should my AC system last?
The life of an air conditioner varies greatly. Climate, maintenance, quality of the system and capacity all effect how long your cooling system will last. On average, a residential central air conditioning system will last anywhere between ten to fifteen years.
My showerhead and faucet aerators have a buildup of a white substance around the area where the water comes out. Is there anything I can do other than replace them?
Try pouring a cup of vinegar into a plastic bag, and placing the bag over the showerhead. Use twist ties to keep it in place overnight. In the morning, remove the bag and use an old toothbrush to gently remove the deposits. You may be able to remove the aerators from the faucets; if you are able to do so, you can soak them in vinegar overnight. If this doesn’t work, Levine & Sons is always happy to come out and replace them for you!
What can I do if my air conditioner is not working?
Quite often, the most common cause of failure is as simple as someone having shut off the power supply. Check the circuit breakers and isolators to make sure they are working. Blocked air filters can also cause problems so make sure they are kept clean. If all else fails, contact our service department and we will send one of our qualified technicians to get your air conditioner up and running.
Where should I place a Carbon Monoxide Detector?
Carbon Monoxide is a little lighter than air and may be found with warm, rising air. Therefore, detectors should be placed on a wall roughly 5 feet from the floor. The detector can also be placed on the ceiling. Do not place it next to or over a fireplace, or near any flame-producing appliance, such as a stove. Make sure it is out of reach of children and pets and be aware that each floor of your home requires a separate detector. It is generally a good idea to place it near the sleeping areas in your home, with an alarm that is loud enough to wake you.
How can I get rid of the smell coming from my garbage disposal?
The foul smell coming from your disposal is from a buildup of food debris in the disposer. Placing ice cubes and lemon or orange peels in the disposer, and running it for 30 seconds can help eliminate the odor. After doing so, squirt some liquid dish detergent into the disposer while it is still running. Lastly, run cold water for about 30 seconds to rinse any remaining debris away.
Is indoor air pollution actually serious?
Yes. We know how dangerous outdoor air pollution can be, but most people don’t realize that indoor air pollution can pose health risks as well. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has conducted studies that show human exposure to indoor pollutants may be two to five times, and occasionally 100 times, higher than outdoor levels. The quality of air you breathe in your home matters to your health and well-being.
My throat is dry. Is this because of my heating system?
When the air in your home is too dry, it can make your throat feel irritated and can cause, or aggravate, respiratory illness. Keeping your home at a humidity level between 30 to 60 percent is recommended. During cold weather, your home loses humidity to the outside, and the level may drop to as low as 10 percent. This can be avoided by adding a humidifier to your home. By adding the necessary moisture to the air, you can relieve ailments that are related to dry respiratory membranes.
Should I install a humidifier?
The choice is up to you whether you decide to install a humidifier. However, central heating produces very dry air for several months out of the year. Installing a humidifier helps control the level of moisture in the air and can be beneficial to your health. Whole-house humidifiers work much the same as old-fashioned single room humidifiers do. They add moisture to the air, making the dry air easier to breathe. They use water-mist instead of hot steam, which keeps your entire house at a comfortable humidity level.