FAQ Tag: maintain

Drain Cleaning Vs. Hydro Jetting

Traditional drain cleaning is often used to break apart or remove a blockage. It’s effective for common clogs caused by hair, debris, or minor buildup.

Hydro jetting goes further. This high-pressure water method thoroughly cleans the inside of the pipe, removing grease, sludge, and root intrusion. It is often recommended for recurring clogs or heavily restricted sewer lines.

Our team evaluates your specific situation and recommends the most effective solution.

Plumbing Repairs Backed By The Mainstream Guarantee

Mainstream stands behind the quality of our plumbing work. Our team provides clear recommendations and upfront pricing before any repair begins, so you know what to expect.

Our workmanship is backed by the Mainstream Guarantee, giving you added confidence that the job will be completed properly and professionally.

If you’re looking for long-term protection, our Care Club maintenance program helps reduce future plumbing issues through preventive service and priority scheduling.

How To Prevent Costly Plumbing Repairs

Many plumbing emergencies start as small issues that go unnoticed. Proactive maintenance and early detection can reduce the risk of sudden failures.

To help prevent major plumbing problems:

  • Schedule routine plumbing inspections
  • Address small leaks promptly
  • Avoid flushing or draining inappropriate materials
  • Maintain your water heater regularly
  • Consider enrolling in a preventive maintenance program like the Care Club

Ongoing system care can extend the life of your plumbing and reduce the likelihood of unexpected disruptions.

Full-Service Plumbing Solutions For Spokane Homes

Mainstream offers comprehensive plumbing services designed to keep your home’s water systems operating safely and reliably.

Our plumbing services include:

  • Emergency plumbing repair
  • Water heater repair and replacement
  • Leak detection and pipe repair
  • Sewer and drain services
  • Gas line installation and repair
  • Sump pump installation and service
  • Kitchen and bathroom plumbing repairs
  • Water quality and filtration systems

Whether you’re facing an urgent issue or planning an upgrade, our licensed plumbers are equipped to handle projects of all sizes.

How Often Spokane Valley Homeowners Should Schedule HVAC Maintenance

Routine HVAC maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment.

For most Spokane Valley homes, maintenance should be scheduled twice per year:

  • Spring: Prepare your air conditioner for summer use
  • Fall: Ensure your furnace or heating system is ready for winter

Regular tune-ups can help:

  • Reduce unexpected repairs
  • Lower energy costs
  • Improve airflow and comfort
  • Catch small issues early

Many homeowners also choose a maintenance plan like the Care Club for priority scheduling and ongoing system protection.

How To Choose The Right HVAC Company For Spokane Valley Homes

A good HVAC company should make your decision feel straightforward. In Spokane Valley, where winter heating and summer cooling both matter, the “right” company is the one that can respond quickly, diagnose accurately, and explain your options clearly.

Here’s what to prioritize when comparing HVAC companies:

  • Licensing and qualifications: Choose a company with licensed technicians trained to work safely and correctly.
  • Clear communication: You should understand what’s wrong, what it takes to fix, and what your options are before work starts.
  • Upfront pricing: Avoid vague estimates. A trustworthy company provides clear pricing and explains what’s included.
  • Local experience: Spokane Valley’s temperature swings can stress equipment. Local technicians know the common failure points and the best long-term fixes.
  • System coverage: Make sure they service your equipment type—furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, ductless mini-splits, and airflow components.
  • Maintenance options: A strong maintenance plan helps prevent breakdowns and improve efficiency over time.

If you’re choosing between repair and replacement, a reputable HVAC company will explain the pros and cons of both—without pressure—so you can make the right call for your home and budget.

If you’re wondering what a water heater inspection costs, you’re not alone. Most homeowners don’t think about their water heater until something starts acting up — no hot water, strange noises, or a leak that shows up out of nowhere.

The good news? A professional inspection is one of the easiest ways to catch problems early, stay safe, and avoid surprise breakdowns.

In the Spokane area, water heater inspection costs are usually pretty straightforward.

Water Heater Inspection Cost in Spokane

At Mainstream, most standard residential water heater inspections fall in the range of:

  • $150–$225 for traditional tank water heaters
  • $200–$300 for tankless water heater inspections

What’s Included in a Water Heater Inspection?

A proper water heater inspection is more than just a quick glance at the tank. Our technicians take the time to make sure everything is operating safely and efficiently.

A typical inspection includes:

  • Checking for leaks, corrosion, or visible damage
  • Inspecting water lines, fittings, and shut-off valves
  • Testing the temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve
  • Evaluating heating performance and recovery time
  • Inspecting venting and combustion safety (for gas units)
  • Checking electrical connections (for electric systems)
  • Looking for sediment buildup or signs of wear
  • Providing clear recommendations if repairs or maintenance are needed

Our goal is simple: help you understand what shape your water heater is in — and what to do next.

What Can Affect the Cost of a Water Heater Inspection?

Most inspections fall into the ranges above, but a few factors can influence the final cost.

Type of Water Heater

Tank water heaters are usually quicker to inspect, while tankless systems require more detailed testing and component checks.

Age and Condition

Older water heaters often need a closer look, especially if rust, sediment, or past repairs are involved.

Accessibility

If your unit is tucked into a tight utility closet, attic space, or hard-to-reach area, the inspection may take longer.

Residential vs. Commercial Systems

Commercial water heaters are typically larger and more complex, which can raise inspection costs.

Additional Diagnostic Services

Sometimes homeowners request add-ons like flushing, combustion testing, or water quality checks, which may increase the total.

Typical Water Heater Inspection Pricing in Spokane

Here’s what most homeowners and businesses can expect locally:

  • Standard tank water heater inspection: $150–$225
  • Tankless water heater inspection: $200–$300
  • Commercial water heater inspection: $300+
  • Optional add-ons (flush, testing, diagnostics): varies by need

We know pricing matters — and we believe you should always know what you’re paying for.

Why a Water Heater Inspection Is Worth It

A water heater inspection may feel like a small thing, but it can save you from some big headaches.

Regular inspections can help:

  • Prevent sudden leaks or water damage
  • Catch failing parts before they break down
  • Improve energy efficiency and lower utility bills
  • Extend the life of your water heater
  • Keep gas systems operating safely

In short: it’s a smart investment in your home.

Signs You Should Schedule an Inspection Soon

Not sure if it’s time? Spokane homeowners often call us when they notice:

  • Rumbling, popping, or banging noises
  • Water pooling near the unit
  • Hot water running out faster than usual
  • Temperature swings in the shower
  • Rust-colored water
  • A sudden increase in energy bills

If something feels off, it’s always better to check sooner rather than later.

Water Heater Inspections with Mainstream in Spokane

At Mainstream, we treat water heater inspections the same way we treat every service call — like we’re helping out a neighbor.

When you schedule with us, you can expect:

  • Friendly, experienced local technicians
  • Honest recommendations, never pressure
  • Upfront pricing and clear explanations
  • Thorough inspections focused on safety and reliability

Whether your water heater is brand new or pushing 15 years old, we’re here to help you keep it running strong.

Ready to Get Your Water Heater Checked?

If you’re unsure about your water heater’s condition or just want peace of mind, scheduling an inspection is a smart next step.

And if an inspection uncovers a leak, worn-out part, or system that isn’t heating properly, Mainstream can help with fast, reliable water heater repair in Spokane — done by local technicians who treat your home like it’s their own.

Schedule online or give us a call today, and we’ll make sure your hot water stays dependable year-round.

Why Furnace Filters Matter More in Cold Weather

As temperatures drop, your furnace runs more often and for longer periods. That increased runtime means more air moving through the system—and more dust, pet hair, and debris getting pulled toward the filter.

A dirty or clogged filter restricts airflow, which forces your furnace to work harder than it should. Over time, this added strain can reduce efficiency, increase wear on components, and raise the chances of a mid-winter breakdown.

One of the easiest ways to avoid heating problems is simply keeping your furnace filter clean and current.

How Often Should You Change a Furnace Filter?

For homes with a standard 4-inch furnace filter, replacement is typically recommended about every 6 months. However, usage, pets, dust levels, and household size can all affect how quickly a filter gets dirty.

A quick visual check can help. If you remove the filter and can see light clearly through it, airflow is still good. If little or no light passes through, the filter is restricting air and should be replaced.

Regular filter changes help your furnace stay clean, operate efficiently, and last longer overall.

Understanding MERV Ratings on Furnace Filters

Furnace filters are rated by MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value), which measures how well a filter captures airborne particles.

  • MERV 8 filters allow the most airflow and put the least strain on the system, but they provide the lowest level of filtration.
  • MERV 11 filters are a common mid-grade option, offering a good balance of air filtration and airflow.
  • MERV 16 filters capture very fine particles but significantly restrict airflow, which can make your furnace work harder.

Higher filtration isn’t always better. Using a filter that’s too restrictive for your system can reduce efficiency and contribute to mechanical issues over time.

Choosing the Right Filter for Your Home

The best furnace filter is one that matches your system’s design and your household’s needs. Homes with pets, allergies, or higher dust levels may benefit from mid-grade filtration, while others may prioritize maximum airflow and system performance.

If you’re unsure which filter rating is right for your furnace, a professional can help you choose an option that protects both your air quality and your equipment.

Preventing Furnace Breakdowns with Simple Maintenance

Many winter furnace issues in Spokane start with something small, like restricted airflow caused by a dirty furnace filter. Keeping up with regular filter changes is one of the easiest and most effective ways to help your heating system run efficiently and avoid unexpected breakdowns during cold weather.

If your furnace is running longer than usual, making unusual noises, or struggling to heat your home evenly, checking the filter is always a smart first step. When problems continue beyond that, professional furnace repair in Spokane can help identify airflow issues, system strain, or other underlying concerns before they turn into a no-heat situation.

Why Kitchen Drains Clog More During the Holidays

The holiday season puts extra strain on kitchen plumbing. More cooking, more cleanup, and more food waste often lead homeowners to rely too heavily on the sink and garbage disposal.

While disposals can handle small food remnants, they are not designed to process heavy, fibrous, or starchy waste. When these materials go down the drain, they don’t always wash away. Instead, they can settle inside the pipe and begin building a clog.

This is one of the most common reasons Mainstream sees drain backups around the holidays.

Foods That Should Never Go Down the Drain

Some foods are especially problematic for drains, even if they seem harmless at the sink.

Items to keep out of your drain include:

  • Vegetable and fruit peels of any kind
  • Eggshells, which are heavy and don’t break down well
  • Pasta, rice, and other starchy foods that swell in water
  • Meat scraps, including chicken
  • Large amounts of leftovers

Eggshells are a frequent issue. They can travel partway down the line, settle, and start catching other debris—eventually forming a solid blockage that stops water completely.

Why Garbage Disposals Don’t Prevent Clogs

A common misconception is that a garbage disposal makes food safe to send down the drain. In reality, disposals only grind food into smaller pieces. Those pieces still have to travel through your plumbing system.

Starchy foods, peels, and shells can clump together after grinding. Over time, this buildup narrows the pipe and restricts flow, leading to slow drains or sudden backups.

Using the disposal for occasional, small scraps is fine. Using it as a replacement for the trash or compost bin is not.

The Easiest Way to Prevent Drain Clogs

The simplest prevention strategy is also the most effective: throw food waste away.

Leftovers, peels, pasta, and shells belong in the garbage or compost. It’s okay—and safer for your plumbing—to scrape plates into the trash before rinsing them in the sink.

This small habit change can prevent major clogs, emergency plumbing calls, and water damage during one of the busiest times of year.

When a Clog Is Already Forming

Slow drains, gurgling sounds, or water backing up in the sink are signs that buildup has already started inside the pipe. These issues rarely resolve on their own and often get worse with continued cooking and cleanup, especially during the holidays.

When food waste has settled deep in the line, professional drain cleaning is often the safest way to fully remove the blockage without damaging your pipes. If you’re dealing with ongoing slow drainage or a recurring backup, it may be time to clear clogged drains in Spokane before the problem escalates into a full kitchen shutdown or water damage situation.

Addressing early warning signs helps keep your plumbing flowing reliably when your home is busiest.

If you’re looking up water heater flush cost here in the Spokane or North Idaho area, you’re not alone. We hear this question all the time from neighbors who want to avoid unnecessary expenses and keep their water heater running strong, especially with our region’s hard water and long winters.

A flush is one of the simplest pieces of maintenance you can do to protect your home’s hot water supply. Below, we break down real-world pricing for both tank and tankless systems and help you figure out whether DIY or professional maintenance is the better fit for you.

What Spokane Can Expect to Pay

Across Spokane, Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Post Falls, and Coeur d’Alene, the typical cost to flush a water heater looks like this:

  • Starting at $100 for a standard tank water heater flush
  • Starting at $150 for a tankless water heater flush (descaling)

Tank heaters are simpler to drain. Tankless systems need special pumps and cleaning solutions, which is why the tankless water heater flush cost comes in a bit higher.

Your exact cost depends on:

  • How much sediment our hard water has left behind
  • The age and condition of the heater
  • Whether the unit is tucked in a tight corner or crawl space
  • Whether the heater needs a little extra cleanup or valve work

If your heater hasn’t been flushed in years, or you’ve noticed popping or rumbling, don’t be surprised if the appointment takes a little longer. That’s normal for homes in our region.

A Yearly Flushing Makes a Big Difference

Our water is rich in minerals. That’s not a bad thing, but it does mean your water heater works harder than systems in other parts of the country. Minerals settle in the bottom of tank heaters and coat heat exchangers in tankless units.

If flushing gets skipped, you’ll start to notice:

  • Hot water running out faster
  • Rising energy bills
  • Strange noises from the tank
  • Longer heat-up times
  • Extra wear on valves and heating elements
  • A shortened system lifespan

The annual water heater maintenance cost is small compared to the repair bills we see when sediment goes unchecked.

At Mainstream, we treat every home like it’s our own. And, trust us, we flush our own heaters every year, too.

Is DIY Cheaper? Sure, But Here’s What to Know

A lot of Spokane-area homeowners look at DIY first, hoping to save money. We get it. Draining a tank heater sounds simple until you’re dealing with scalding water, stuck valves, buckets of sediment, or a drain that just won’t open.

For tankless heaters, DIY gets even trickier. You’ll need:

  • A descaling pump
  • Hoses
  • Flush solution
  • A place to safely discharge the cleaning chemicals

The upfront cost of that gear often outweighs the savings, especially if you only use it once a year.

If you’re comfortable working with hot water, valves, and gas or electric shutoffs, DIY might work. But if you’d rather not risk damaging an aging valve or ending up without hot water, a professional flush is the safer—and often cheaper—route in the long run.

Want Predictable Maintenance Costs? Join the Care Club.

We created the Care Club for homeowners who want reliable maintenance without juggling reminders or worrying about repairs sneaking up on them. If you want to lower your yearly water heater maintenance cost and keep things simple, this is the easiest way to do it.

Care Club members get:

  • Automatic annual maintenance, including water heater flush
  • Priority scheduling
  • Discounts on repairs
  • A full system check to catch issues before they turn into emergencies

It’s a small investment that helps protect one of the most important systems in your home—and it takes the hassle right off your plate.

Solutions, Not Surprises.

For homeowners across Spokane and Northern Idaho, water heater flush costs typically start around $100 for tank systems and $150 for tankless units. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your hot water, improve efficiency, and avoid costly surprises—but it can also be one of the more inconvenient homeowner projects to tackle on your own.

If you’d rather skip the stress, the mess, and the yearly chore, our Care Club makes maintenance effortless. Mainstream has served this community for more than two decades, and we’re proud to help our neighbors keep their homes safe, efficient, and comfortable year after year.

When winter settles in across Spokane and Northern Idaho, your heating system becomes essential. If you’re asking, “what is a furnace tune up?” think of it as a focused, professional service that keeps your furnace safe, efficient, and ready for heavy use. At Mainstream Electric, Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing, we’ve spent over two decades helping homeowners stay ahead of the cold with thorough heating and cooling maintenance near me. Our technicians inspect, clean, test, and calibrate key components so small issues don’t turn into no-heat emergencies. The result is dependable comfort, steady performance, and peace of mind when temperatures drop.We’re often asked, “what does a furnace tune up include?” In short, it’s more than a quick look. It’s a structured checklist aligned with manufacturer standards and our regional experience. Whether you’re planning a furnace tune up, an ac furnace tune up, or a combined ac and furnace tune-up before a seasonal shift, our approach is designed to protect your home and your investment.

Why Tune-Ups Matter

Regular heating tune up service isn’t just good practice—it’s smart protection. A tuned system uses less energy, runs more consistently, and is less likely to fail when you need it most. Scheduling a yearly furnace tune up with Mainstream helps you:

  • Reduce energy use: Clean burners, proper gas pressure, and balanced airflow allow your furnace to produce heat without strain, which can lower utility bills.
  • Avoid surprise breakdowns: Early signs like worn parts, loose connections, or ignition issues are easier and less costly to resolve during routine service.
  • Support cleaner indoor air: Filter replacement and targeted cleaning limit dust and debris circulating through your ducts, helping your home feel fresher.

If you’re searching for heating and cooling maintenance near me, consistent tune-ups are the foundation of safe, efficient operation throughout our long winter season.

What Does a Furnace Tune-Up Include?

Homeowners ask this often: what does a furnace tune up include? Our process is detailed and transparent. Mainstream’s technicians follow a proven checklist to confirm safe operation and reliable heat output. Your furnace tune up includes:

  • Component inspection: Heat exchanger, burners, ignition system, blower motor, belts, electrical connections, safety controls, flue, and visible ductwork—checked for wear, corrosion, improper draft, and other performance or safety risks.
  • Cleaning of critical parts: Dust and carbon removal on burners, flame sensor cleaning, blower assembly service, and filter replacement or washing. Clean components restore airflow and combustion quality.
  • Testing and calibration: Gas pressure measurement, vent draft verification, ignition and safety shutoff testing, airflow balancing, and thermostat accuracy checks to ensure operation within manufacturer specs.

Wondering again, what is a furnace tune up? It’s this complete sequence of inspection, cleaning, and calibration—applied with care. If you’re planning an ac furnace tune up or a combined ac and furnace tune-up, we tailor the checklist to your equipment and season.

A diagram outlining the basic parts of a residential furnace

How Often Should You Schedule Service?

Most homes benefit from annual service, ideally before heating demand spikes. An annual heating tune up supports warranties, helps you plan small fixes on your schedule, and lowers the chance of mid-winter surprises.

  • Annual timing: Late summer or early autumn is ideal for a furnace tune up, so your system is ready for the first cold snap.
  • High-demand systems: If your furnace faces long, heavy winters, a mid-season check can be worthwhile—especially after renovations or duct changes.
  • Don’t ignore signs: Uneven heating, frequent cycling, unusual noises, rising energy bills, or dusty air are cues to schedule service now.

If you’re searching “heating and cooling maintenance near me,” aim for consistent, yearly appointments. It’s a practical way to stabilise costs and reduce risk.

DIY vs. Professional Service

There are quick homeowner tasks—like filter changes—but the full furnace tune up is best left to trained professionals. Today’s gas, electrical, and ventilation systems require specialised tools and knowledge to test safely and correctly.

  • Why pros matter: Certified technicians use instruments to measure combustion quality, verify safety controls, and calibrate settings. They recognise early failure patterns and provide code-compliant fixes.
  • Risks of DIY: Without proper testing, problems like cracked heat exchangers, improper draft, or gas leaks can go unnoticed. Incorrect adjustments can reduce efficiency and shorten component life.
  • Long-term value: Routine service typically costs less than emergency repairs or premature replacements. A scheduled heating tune up keeps efficiency and reliability on track.

If you’re weighing an ac furnace tune up or asking what is a furnace tune up, professional evaluation is the safer path. Mainstream provides straightforward guidance and reliable results.

Signs Your Furnace Needs Attention

Changes in sound, smell, or performance often signal it’s time for a furnace tune up. Call for service if you notice:

  • Unusual noises or odours: Rattling, grinding, or booming can indicate loose components or ignition issues. Musty or burning smells may point to dust accumulation, overheating parts, or combustion problems.
  • Inconsistent heating or airflow: Cold spots, weak vents, or frequent on-off cycling suggest dirty filters, blower problems, or thermostat inaccuracies.
  • Rising energy bills: A sudden increase in costs can stem from dirty burners, restricted airflow, or failing parts.

Addressing these signs promptly reduces the risk of a no-heat situation and protects your system. If you’re searching “heating and cooling maintenance near me,” we can get you on the schedule quickly.

Maximise Performance with Practical Habits

Steady comfort comes from good habits and professional care. Mainstream offers maintenance plans and responsive service that make an ac and furnace tune-up or a dedicated heating tune up simple and effective.

  • Simple upkeep: Replace filters every one to three months, keep vents clear, and maintain open space around the furnace for proper airflow. Check thermostat settings and consider a programmable or smart thermostat.
  • Don’t delay small fixes: Worn belts, weak igniters, and noisy bearings are unlikely to improve on their own. Prompt service prevents additional damage.
  • Choose a dependable provider: Look for licensed, insured technicians with strong local reviews, transparent pricing, and clear communication. Mainstream documents findings, follows manufacturer standards, and provides options that fit your home.

Prepare your home for winter with a furnace tune up that prioritises safety, efficiency, and comfort. If you’re searching heating and cooling maintenance near me, we’re ready to help.

What to Expect from Mainstream

We aim to make seasonal maintenance straightforward and stress-free. With more than twenty years serving our region, Mainstream brings practical experience and steady professionalism to every furnace tune up.

  • Clear, upfront pricing: Know what your service includes and what it costs. If we find a concern, we explain your options and provide transparent estimates.
  • Experienced, licensed technicians: Trained on major manufacturers, equipped with modern diagnostics, and focused on safe, efficient operation.
  • Respect for your time: Convenient appointment windows, responsive scheduling by phone or chat, and consistent communication throughout your visit.
  • Documented results: We share findings and recommendations so you can plan for maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.

Whether you’re booking an ac furnace tune up, asking what does a furnace tune up include, or comparing furnace tune-up cost options, we provide clear answers and dependable service.

Schedule Your Furnace Tune-Up

If you’re ready to stop searching “heating and cooling maintenance near me” and get your system prepared for Spokane’s colder months, we’re here to help. Mainstream offers transparent furnace tune-up cost information, senior-friendly savings, and responsive scheduling. Book your furnace tune up or an ac and furnace tune-up by phone or online chat. We can set seasonal reminders and follow up to ensure the service meets your expectations.

Ready for safer, efficient heating? Schedule your visit today. We’ll deliver a clear, thorough service so your home stays comfortable all season long.

Professional AC maintenance means giving your system a full checkup so it’s ready for the seasons ahead. At Mainstream Electric, Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we look over every key component — inspecting coils, checking refrigerant levels, tightening electrical connections, and testing airflow — to make sure your AC is operating safely and efficiently. It’s a thorough service that helps keep your home comfortable and your system dependable all summer long. And if we discover your AC needs more than a light cleaning, we’ll let you know and provide a clear quote for a deeper cleaning so you can make the best decision for your home.

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