“Is it best to replace my AC and Furnace at the same time?”  This question is often asked and the short answer is – it really depends. Replacing your Furnace and AC typically depends on the age of your home, the age of the Furnace and AC, and the features and efficiencies you desire. A matched system is always the best choice although we will want to keep in mind your home and budget.

New Heating and Cooling Systems = One Comfortable Home

Certainly there are benefits of installing a new Furnace and AC at the same time.

• Lower Repair Costs.  Purchasing brand new Heating and Cooling units will come with warranties on parts and labor. Besides annual maintenance costs, you should not have to worry about spending money on your new system for some time.
• Better Airflow.  The new High-Efficiency systems have variable speed blower options which provide better airflow throughout your home. They constantly filter your air at peak efficiency without raising your energy bills.
• Less Noise. When your system ages, it will become noisier during operation. The newer models are designed to be quieter during use.

Furnaces

Consider the differences between single and two-stage systems.

Understand potential savings associated with High Efficiency Furnaces. Consider the AFUE rating.

Air Conditioners

When replacing your Air Conditioner – it is important to have an appropriately sized unit.

Consider potential savings with the SEER rating. The higher the SEER rating, the less energy used.

CONCLUSION

There are many factors you want to take into account when deciding whether to replace your Furnace and Air Conditioner at the same time.  Trust your experts at Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning to assist you with this decision. Call us today for a free quote! 364-HEAT (4328).

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Is your Water Heater in need of repair? Many of us depend on hot water in our daily lives.  Trust Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning to restore your hot water in no time! Most importantly, we work on both Tank and Tankless Water Heaters. There are a few indicators it may be time for repair.

1. Rust Colored Water.  If the water coming out of the faucets and shower heads looks dirty, there is a pretty good chance the water heater is going bad.
2. Water Heater Leak.  If you see water leaking near the base of your water heater, this could be sign that your unit is failing. Certainly give us a call to schedule a plumber to stop out.
3. Insufficient Hot Water.  If you are getting an insufficient amount of hot water or no hot water at all, this could indicate mineral deposits have built up on the heating element within the water heater and this must be addressed. Also, if you are receiving no hot water at all, there may be an issue with the pilot light. If you need assistance relighting the pilot, please give us a call and we will send over a professional.
4. Strange Noises.  You should hear minimal noises within your water heater. If you hear loud knocking or banging noises, it could be a sign there is a problem.
5. Odd Taste and Smell.  If your water has a metallic taste to it, your water lines may be rusted. “Call the Guys You Can Trust,” at Colony to fix all of your Plumbing problems!

COLONY IS HERE FOR ALL OF YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your Water Heater or any other Plumbing needs – call us today! Above all, if your Water Heater needs replaced rather than repaired, we have options of Tank and Tankless Water Heaters. In addition, check out this video below featuring Justin in our Plumbing Department.

CONCLUSION

In short, for all Water Heater repair and replacement needs in the Cedar Rapids, North Liberty, Iowa City area – look no further than Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning. Check out the wide variety of Plumbing Services we offer. Give us a call today for Water Heater service.  319-364-HEAT (4328)

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Is it time for a New Heater? Maybe you have had issues with your heating the past few seasons. You may have heard weird noises and the heat isn’t holding its temperature. It may be time for replacement due to the units age. Make the call to Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning for all your Heating needs! We make the process easy and offer Free Estimates on new equipment.

Signs You Need a New Heater

• Higher Energy Bills: Rising energy bills on an older unit is a leading sign it’s time to replace your heater.
• System Age: Is your system approaching 15-20 years old? It is time to consider replacement.
• Frequent Issues: Do you find yourself putting money into costly repairs for an older system year after year?

Which Heater is Right for You?

The most common type of heating unit you will find in Cedar Rapids and across the country is a Forced-Air Heating System, or Furnace. Another option would be a Ductless Heating/ Cooling system, or Mini-split. You also have the options of Geothermal systems or Heat Pumps.  Our experts will help you choose the best system for your application.

Trust Colony to make your home comfortable this winter with a new heater. We offer new installations in Cedar Rapids, Mt Vernon, Anamosa, Oxford, Lisbon, Bertram, Center Point, North Liberty, Walford, Shellsburg, Solon, Watkins, Amana, Coralville, Iowa City, Swisher, Marion, Vinton, Springville, Tiffin and other surrounding communities.  “Call the Guys You Can Trust”  364-HEAT (4328)

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“Should I replace my Air Conditioner and Furnace at the same time?”  We are frequently asked this question and the short answer is – it really depends. Replacement of your Furnace and AC typically depends on your home’s age, the age of the units, the climate conditions and the features and efficiencies you desire. A matched system is probably the best choice – keeping in mind your home and budget.

Two New Systems = One Comfortable Home

There are a few things to consider when shopping for new Furnace and AC systems. It is important to note new technologies, efficiencies and warranties.

Furnaces

When replacing your Furnace – bigger is not always better. A Furnace that is too big for your home will heat your home too quickly. This results in the Furnace starting and stopping frequently, which is hard on your system.

Consider the differences between single and two-stage systems.

Understand potential savings associated with High Efficiency Furnaces. Consider the AFUE rating.

Air Conditioners

When replacing your Air Conditioner – it is important to have an appropriately sized unit.

Consider potential savings with the SEER rating. The higher the SEER rating, the less energy used.

CONCLUSION

There are many factors you want to take into account when deciding whether to replace your Furnace and Air Conditioner at the same time.  Trust your experts at Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning to assist you with this decision. Call us today for a free quote! 364-HEAT (4328).

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If you’ve decided this is the year you need to replace your home Furnace, begin your research now so your new system will be installed before winter. Is your Furnace more than 15 years old? The average life expectancy for a Furnace is between 16 and 20 years.

Brands such as Trane and Bryant offer modern features and energy-efficient options that should factor into your purchasing decision.

When it comes time to replace your Furnace, you want reliable equipment that minimizes operational cost while delivering the best home comfort.

NEW FURNACE FEATURES

While searching for new Furnaces, you’ve probably come across “single” and “two-stage” systems. A large part of the difference between single and two-stage is flexibility. To learn more about the differences and which system may be right for you, give us a call to schedule a free estimate.

FURNACE SIZE DOES MATTER

Bigger is not always better. For example, a Furnace that is too big for the home will heat the home too quickly. It will reach the set temperature and shut off. When your home cools, the Furnace will kick back on and repeat the cycle. This starting and stopping is hard on your system.

WHAT IS AFUE EFFICIENCY RATING?

The AFUE  or (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating of Furnaces is the measurement of fuel efficiency, or how well a unit converts fuel to produce heat. The minimum AFUE rating requirement for Furnaces is 80% – but many have ratings that are much higher.

Furnaces with AFUE ratings between 90% – 98% are considered “High Efficiency” Furnaces. With Higher Efficiency comes a higher upfront cost. These units can save you money in the long run and offer more features. Depending where you live, you may qualify for a rebate from your utility provider.

ANNUAL SERVICE AGREEMENTS

To keep your new Furnace running efficiently and smoothly, we recommend an Annual Clean and Check. Rest easy during the cold season knowing your Heating equipment has been serviced by the professionals at Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning.

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When it comes to Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and other services – it can be difficult to find a company you truly trust. Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning has been servicing Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and the surrounding communities for over 40 years.

Keep your peace of mind and trust Colony for all Plumbing and HVAC services in residential and commercial applications.  Above all, our professionals are available 24/7 for Emergency Services.

TYPES OF SERVICES

Colony offers a variety of Plumbing services at affordable rates. We handle everything from Water Heater repair and replacement to full kitchen and bathroom remodels. Above all, our commercial and residential Plumbers are “second to none!” Click HERE for a full list of Plumbing services.

SERVICE YOU EXPECT FROM THE “GUYS YOU CAN TRUST”

Doug Kohoutek, President of Colony, has hired each and every employee for their skills and integrity. “We continue to train our employees in customer service and technical skills in our constantly changing business. I believe if you can trust someone, nothing else matters. If you cannot trust someone, nothing else matters.”

If you are seeking fast, friendly, efficient and professional Plumbing services – Call Colony today! 364-HEAT (4328).

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Look no further for Plumbers in Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities! Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning offers a wide range of Plumbing Services from fixing toilet issues to commercial Plumbing installations. We are Eastern Iowa’s Premier Plumbers! Furthermore, if you are in need of a new Water Heater, Sump Pump or Garbage Disposal – we have you covered.

PLUMBING SERVICES

Are you looking for value and dependability when it comes to Plumbing? Check out the Plumbing Services we offer:

• Plumbing New Construction
• Commercial Plumbing
• Boiler Systems (Water)
• Water Filtration
• RPZ \ Backflow Certification
• Bathroom or Kitchen Remodel
• 24/7 Plumbing Service
• Water Heater Installation and Repair
• Water Quality Testing
• Infloor Heating

QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP – AFFORDABLE RATES

Trust Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning to tackle your next Plumbing job.  Above all, Colony is home to some of the best Plumbers in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and the surrounding communities. Even more, we pride ourselves on honesty, attention to detail and maintaining your homes longevity.  We have a very large variety of brands for faucets, sinks, tubs, surrounds, shower doors, custom showers, toilets and accessories to choose from including Kohler, Bemis and Delta. “Call the Guys You Can Trust,” Today! 364-4328 (HEAT).

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With the warmest part of the summer approaching, it’s time to think about replacing your old Air Conditioner.  If your unit is 18+ years old, you may want to begin looking into replacement options and be proactive. Not to mention, these older units are generally an eye sore. We offer Free Estimates and we will find the correct size of condenser for your home. There are a variety of reasons you want to make sure you have an appropriately sized Air Conditioner.

SIZE MATTERS

Why is it important to have an appropriately sized unit?

• Too Big – You may have a system that is too large for your home. The large unit will quickly cool down your home and shut off, not allowing the Air Conditioner to run through its proper cycle. This causes the unit to turn on and off frequently, using more energy and raising your utility bills.
• Too Small – If you have an undersized unit, it may still cool your home but it is working much harder and more frequently. The initial cost of the smaller unit may have saved you money but it will not offer savings in the future on your energy bills.
• Just Right – Efficiency is our middle name. During our Free Estimate, we will stop out to your residence and take a look at your system and square-footage. This will help us determine the exact size of unit needed for your application to maximize efficiency and save you money.

CALL THE GUYS YOU CAN TRUST

Whether you are building a new home or replacing an existing unit, our professionals will be there with you every step of the way. Trust Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning for all your cooling needs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and surrounding communities.  We offer Financing options as well. Call the Guys You Can Trust, today!

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Don’t get caught on a hot summer day without your Air Conditioning unit working. Let’s check out a few conditions that may be a sign it’s time to replace.

Increase in Energy Bills – Have you noticed your energy bills take an extreme jump during the summer months? More than normal? This could be due to your inefficient air conditioner. Consider getting a new unit with a higher SEER rating. You can even get a rebate from your local utilities supplier!

Loss of Air Flow – You may notice your air is not blowing as forceful or as well as it use to. This could be an early indication the unit is breaking down and needs replaced. Stay proactive and keep an eye and ear to your vents. If your unit is over 20 years old, it could be running on borrowed time and it may be time to replace.

Constant Running – This is generally not a good sign and can usually be helped by an annual clean and check. IF the unit is 20+ years old, this could be a clear indicator the unit needs replaced.

Weird Noise – If you hear a high pitched noise, there could be an issue with one of the motors. Rattling in the shell could indicate a loose part. Call the professionals at Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning to diagnose and take care of the problem.

General Signs of Aging – How does the outer shell look on the unit? Has the unit had issues in the recent past? Is the unit getting up there in age? Call us 364-HEAT (4328) today to have a salesman stop out for a free quote. Let us help you stay cool this summer. “Call the Guys You Can Trust.”

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