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Battling the Winter Blues: Community Giving Beyond the Holidays

Did you know that January and February are the coldest months in Edmonton and the surrounding area? As the holiday decorations come down and the winter chill sets in, it’s the perfect time to warm hearts through community giving. Many charitable organizations could use a few more donations or volunteers to make it a season of giving.

Donation Timing Matters

While many think of donating before Christmas, the reality is that post-holiday is when many families need help the most. Families often stretch their budgets during the holidays, leaving them financially strained afterward. The aftermath sees a surge in individuals seeking assistance to meet basic needs.

Many holiday-specific aid programs conclude with the festivities. Once the decorations are packed away, there’s a void in ongoing support, making post-holiday donations essential for bridging this gap.

In colder regions like Edmonton, the winter season persists well into January and February. These prolonged cold spells increased the demand for warm clothing, shelter, and nourishment, amplifying the necessity for community assistance.

How We Support The Community

Embracing our role in the vibrant tapestry of Edmonton, we take great pride in contributing to our community. A cornerstone of our commitment is our annual employee Christmas raffle, where we rally together to raise funds. A significant portion of these proceeds finds its purpose in supporting local initiatives like the Mustard Seed and YESS, amplifying our impact where it matters most.

At the heart of our corporate culture is a deep-seated belief in giving back. Actively championing volunteerism and charitable endeavors, our employees enthusiastically participate in various community initiatives. Always Plumbing and Heating supports the Mustard Seeds golf fundraising events. Beyond the financial contributions directed to local charities, you’ll often find Glenn and our dedicated crew lending a helping hand to bring food as well as serve at the Mustard Seed kitchen, preparing breakfast for families at Ronald McDonald House, and steadfastly sponsoring a multitude of charity events.

Our Local Heroes

Let’s spotlight the unsung heroes in our community—local charities, shelters, and kitchens that tirelessly need support throughout the year. These organizations embody the spirit of compassion, and it’s time to shine a light on their invaluable work, inspiring our readers to step forward and make a difference.

1. Edmonton Food Bank

A pillar of support, the Edmonton Food Bank works relentlessly to alleviate hunger in our community. They graciously accept donations of both food and non-perishables, ensuring that no one goes to bed hungry.

2. Local Fire Stations

Beyond their heroic firefighting duties, local fire stations actively engage in community service. They welcome donations of food and non-perishables, contributing to their commitment to serving and protecting the community in multiple ways.

3. The Christmas Bureau of Edmonton

The Christmas Bureau of Edmonton is a nonprofit organization dedicated to spreading holiday joy and providing assistance to individuals and families in need during the Christmas season. Established to ensure that everyone in the Edmonton community can experience the warmth and generosity of the holidays, the bureau focuses on delivering food hampers, toys, and other festive essentials to those facing economic challenges.

4. Goodwill

Goodwill is a non-profit organization that accepts donations of clothing, household items, and furniture. It also provides support for the community with food, non-perishable items, and vouchers for shelter, help with utilities when funds are available.

5. Habitat for Humanity Canada

Habitat for Humanity Canada’s efforts align with its vision of a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. Through its innovative approach and community collaboration, the organization addresses housing challenges and helps families build a foundation for a brighter future.

6. CanadaHelps

CanadaHelps is a nonprofit organization based in Canada that operates an online platform designed to facilitate charitable giving and support for various charitable causes. Established in 2000, CanadaHelps aims to make donating to Canadian charities accessible, efficient, and secure through digital channels.

Volunteer Opportunities

Beyond financial contributions, giving back through volunteering is a powerful way to make a meaningful impact in your community. Here are various ways individuals can dedicate their time and skills to create positive change:

1. Community Events

Participate in or organize local events such as clean-up drives, festivals, or fundraisers. Your involvement can help strengthen community bonds and contribute to the overall well-being.

2. Mentorship Programs

Offer your expertise to mentor individuals in need, whether it’s career guidance, academic support, or personal development. Your time and guidance can make a lasting difference in someone’s life.

3. Elderly Care

Volunteer at local senior centers, and nursing homes, or offer assistance to elderly neighbors. Simple acts like companionship, running errands, or helping with household tasks can greatly enhance the quality of life for seniors.

4. Food Banks and Shelters

Contribute your time to local food banks or shelters. Help with sorting and distributing food, serving meals, or organizing donation drives to ensure those in need receive essential support.

5. Environmental Initiatives

Get involved in environmental projects such as tree planting, park clean-ups, or community gardens. Your efforts can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable local environment.

6. Educational Support

Volunteer at schools or community centers to assist with tutoring, after-school programs, or literacy initiatives. Your involvement can positively impact the educational journey of young learners.

7. Healthcare Volunteerism

Offer your time at local hospitals, clinics, or healthcare facilities. Tasks may include assisting patients, providing companionship, or supporting administrative tasks.

8. Animal Shelters

Volunteer at animal shelters to help care for and socialize with animals. Your time can improve the well-being of sheltered animals awaiting adoption.

9. Crisis Helplines

Volunteer for crisis helplines or support services. Your compassionate listening and assistance can provide crucial support to individuals going through challenging times.

10. Arts and Culture

Contribute to the local arts scene by volunteering at museums, galleries, or cultural events. Your involvement helps preserve and promote the cultural richness of your community.

Much-Needed Items for Shelters

As the chill of January and February settles in, shelters and soup kitchens face increased demands. To ensure donations have a direct and positive impact, here’s a practical guide highlighting the top things these organizations need during the coldest months:

1. Warm Clothing:

Coats, jackets, and thermal layers
Hats, scarves, and gloves
Socks and insulated footwear

2. Bedding and Blankets:

Sleeping bags and thermal blankets
Warm comforters and blankets for beds

3. Non-Perishable Food Items:

Canned soups, stews, and chili
Instant noodles and pasta
Nutritious, easy-to-prepare meals

4. Hot Beverages:

Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate
Instant soup packets and warm beverage mixes

5. Hygiene and Personal Care Items:

Hand warmers and heating pads
Moisturizers and lip balm for protection against the cold
Hygiene kits with essentials like toothpaste, toothbrushes, and sanitary products

6. Winter Accessories:

Thermal underwear
Ear muffs and earmuffs
Hand and foot warmers

7. Medical Supplies:

Cold and flu medications
First aid kits and supplies
Tissues and cough drops

8. Heat Sources:

Portable heaters (if safe and permitted)
Warm blankets and throws
Insulated sleeping mats

9. Monetary Donations:

Contributions to cover heating costs
Funds for emergency medical expenses
Financial support for additional staff during peak cold periods

10. Volunteer Time:

Assistance with serving meals
Help with organizing and distributing donated items
Support in maintaining a warm and welcoming environment

By focusing on these items, donors can make a direct impact on the well-being of individuals seeking refuge from the harsh winter conditions. This practical guide ensures that the generosity of the community aligns with the specific needs of shelters and soup kitchens during the coldest months.

Furry Friends Matter Too

And let’s not forget our beloved four-legged friends who also need assistance during the winter months. Including them adds a heartwarming touch to our community-giving efforts.

11. Pet Supplies:

Pet food, especially for dogs and cats
Insulated pet shelters or beds
Coats or sweaters for pets to stay warm

12. Veterinary Care:

Contributions toward veterinary expenses
Donations for pet vaccinations and check-ups

13. Adoption Support:

Supplies for animal shelters, including bedding and toys
Financial contributions to support adoption initiatives

Our furry companions bring joy and companionship, and ensuring they have warmth and care in the winter months is a compassionate extension of our community support. Including these items in our giving efforts adds a heartwarming touch to our collective endeavor.

As we navigate the post-holiday blues, let’s come together as a community. At Always Plumbing and Heating, we encourage our friends and neighbors to help each other before and after the holidays. Whether through donations or volunteering, every small effort makes a big difference. Let’s make this winter a season of warmth and kindness.

Top Tips for Saving Money on Your Water Bill

Saving money on your water bill is not only beneficial for your wallet but also for the environment. By implementing a few simple tips and making conscious changes in your daily water usage habits, you can significantly reduce your water consumption and ultimately lower your water bill. In this blog post, we will provide you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you save money on your water bill.

Top Tips for Water Conservation that Will Save You Money

Conserving water is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective. Here are 12 effective water conservation tips that will help you save money:

1. Use a Dishpan or Basin: When washing dishes by hand, fill a dishpan or basin with soapy water instead of letting the faucet run continuously. This way, you can rinse multiple dishes at once, using less water compared to continuous running water.

2. Fix Leaks Promptly: Act promptly if you notice any leaks in your plumbing fixtures, pipes, or irrigation system. Even small leaks can waste a significant amount of water over time and increase your water bill. Repairing leaks as soon as they are detected will help conserve water and prevent unnecessary expenses.

3. Water Your Lawn Efficiently: When watering your lawn, do it during the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation. Adjust sprinklers to avoid watering sidewalks, driveways, or other non-landscaped areas. Consider installing a smart irrigation system that adjusts watering schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels, ensuring optimal water usage.

4. Insulate Hot Water Pipes: Insulating your hot water pipes helps to retain heat, reducing the time it takes for hot water to reach your faucets. This means less water wasted while waiting for hot water to flow, resulting in both water and energy savings.

5. Take Shorter Showers: Showers are notorious for consuming a significant amount of water. By reducing the duration of your showers, even by a few minutes, you can save a considerable amount of water over time. Consider using a timer or playing your favorite song to keep your shower time in check.

6. Turn Off the Water: Simple habits like turning off the water while shaving or brushing your teeth can make a big difference. Letting the water run unnecessarily while performing these tasks can waste gallons of water. Be mindful and develop the habit of turning off the faucet when not in use.

7. Collect and Reuse Water: Instead of letting water go down the drain, consider collecting and reusing it. For example, capture the water that runs while waiting for the shower to warm up and use it for plants or other household chores.

Additional Steps You Can Take

8. Upgrade to Water-Efficient Fixtures: Consider replacing old and inefficient fixtures with water-saving alternatives. Install low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets, which are designed to reduce water usage without compromising performance. These fixtures can significantly contribute to water savings and ultimately lower your water bill.

9. Utilize Rainwater Harvesting: If local regulations permit, consider implementing a rainwater harvesting system. Collecting rainwater from rooftops and directing it to storage tanks can provide a sustainable and cost-effective source of water for tasks like watering plants or washing outdoor areas. This reduces reliance on municipal water supply and can help save money in the long run.

10. Monitor Your Water Meter: Keep an eye on your water meter to track your usage and detect any sudden spikes or unusual patterns. Monitoring your water consumption regularly allows you to identify any hidden leaks or excessive water usage promptly. By being proactive, you can address issues promptly and prevent them from inflating your water bill.

11. Time Your Water Usage: Some utility companies have peak and off-peak pricing for water usage. Check with your local provider to determine if they offer differential rates. If off-peak rates are available, consider scheduling tasks like laundry or dishwashing during those times to take advantage of the lower rates and reduce your overall water bill.

12. Educate Your Household: Ensure that everyone in your household is aware of the importance of water conservation and actively participates in saving water. Educate family members about the various tips and encourage responsible water usage habits. By working together, you can maximize the impact of your efforts and achieve greater savings.

The Importance of Saving Water

The amount of water wasted in a year can vary depending on various factors such as individual water usage habits, household size, and efficiency of water fixtures and appliances.

However, studies estimate that a typical household can waste thousands of gallons of water each year due to leaks, inefficient appliances, and wasteful practices. For example, a small faucet leak that drips once per second can waste around 3,000 gallons of water in a year. That is equal to 180 showers.

Similarly, older toilets can use more water per flush compared to water-efficient models, leading to substantial water waste over time.

How to Check for Leaks in the House

Undetected leaks can lead to wasted water and unnecessarily high bills. It’s essential to regularly check for leaks in your house to identify and fix them promptly. Two common areas to inspect are running toilets and dripping faucets. A running toilet can waste a large amount of water, while a dripping faucet may seem insignificant but can add up over time. By fixing these leaks, you can prevent water wastage and reduce your water bill.

To effectively identify and address leaks, you can follow these simple steps:

1. Monitor your water meter: Start by turning off all faucets, appliances, and water-consuming devices in your home. Take note of the current reading on your water meter. Avoid using any water for a couple of hours, and then check the meter again. If the reading has changed despite not using any water, it indicates a possible leak in your plumbing system.

2. Inspect your water bill: Keep a close eye on your water bill each month. If you notice a sudden and unexplained increase in your water usage or an unusually high bill, it could be an indication of an undetected leak. Compare your current bill with previous months to identify any significant deviations.

3. Listen for running water: Pay attention to any unusual sounds of running water in your home. Even a slight hissing or trickling sound can suggest a hidden leak. Start by turning off all faucets, appliances, and water outlets. Listen carefully in different areas of your house, particularly near toilets, sinks, and water supply lines. If you hear any persistent running water sounds, it’s worth investigating further.

4. Check toilets for leaks: Toilets are common culprits for water leaks. Add a few drops of food coloring into the toilet tank and wait for about 10 to 15 minutes without flushing. If the food coloring appears in the toilet bowl, it indicates a leak in the flapper valve or another component of the toilet’s flushing mechanism. Promptly repairing or replacing faulty toilet parts can help prevent significant water wastage.

5. Inspect faucets and pipes: Examine all visible pipes, faucets, and showerheads for any signs of leakage. Look for water droplets, wet spots, or mineral deposits that might indicate a leak. Even small drips can add up to a considerable amount of water waste over time.

6. Hire a professional: If you suspect a hidden or complex leak that you are unable to detect on your own, it is advisable to seek the expertise of a professional plumber. Experienced plumbers have specialized tools and knowledge to identify and repair leaks effectively, ensuring water efficiency in your home.

By regularly checking for leaks in your house and promptly addressing any issues, you can prevent water wastage, conserve this valuable resource, and save money on your water bill. Remember, even minor leaks can have a significant impact on your water consumption, so staying vigilant and proactive in leak detection is key to responsible water usage.

FAQs

Are there any government programs or incentives available to support water conservation efforts?

A: Yes, there may be government programs and incentives available to homeowners who want to conserve water. It is recommended to check with your local water authority or government website to explore potential rebates, grants, or water-saving initiatives

How can I reduce water usage in my outdoor irrigation system?

A: To reduce water usage in your outdoor irrigation system, consider the following steps: set irrigation timers to water during optimal times, such as early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation, adjust sprinklers to avoid watering non-landscaped areas like sidewalks or driveways, regularly check and maintain your irrigation system for leaks or malfunctions, and explore the option of installing a smart irrigation system that adjusts watering schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

Implementing these water-saving tips can lead to significant savings on your water bill. If you find yourself in need of a repair, call the experts at Always Plumbing & Heating. Our experienced technicians can help identify and resolve any plumbing problems efficiently, ensuring optimal water usage and cost savings.

What Does “Home Comfort” Truly Mean?

You may have heard our jingle on the radio or seen our motto online, but when we say “We Want to Bring You Comfort”, what does that truly mean? By comfort, we mean home comfort, which is extremely important to your overall happiness and health. Many will agree that there is nothing worse than coming home from work in the winter only to have to pile on wool socks, sweaters, and blankets because their home is cold and drafty. Or, in the summer with days so hot that one may wrongfully assume they’re having hot flashes and their family can’t sleep with blankets on, let alone get much sleep at all. Home comfort technology fixes these nuisances by creating and maintaining a comfortable indoor environment in your home. The best equipment will adjust to extreme temperature fluctuations and keep you and your family comfortable season after season. Home comfort involves utilizing technology that delivers the best in temperature, humidity, and air quality.

Temperature

The average homeowner spends a lot in household energy, and some of this cost is to heat and cool their homes. Energy consumption and costs vary based on where you live, the length of the heating or cooling season, the age and structure of your home, and the type of mechanical equipment that you have. To maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, it is not only important to make sure that your home has adequate insulation and windows, but also to ensure that your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) equipment is efficient, maintained, and replaced when needed. Some key points to remember regarding temperature and home comfort are:

Ideal indoor temperature – Keeping your indoor temperature between the range of 20-22 degrees celsius is optimal. This may need to be slightly higher if you have seniors or infants in the home. While you are away the temperature can be reduced to 18 degrees celsius.
Smart thermostats – Utilizing a smart thermostat will allow you precise temperature control during the heating and cooling season. Many smart thermostats, such as the Google Nest, will recognize your patterns, will adjust the temperature accordingly when you leave or come home, and will send you reports on your energy use and energy savings. Read more about the benefits of smart thermostats.
Equipment tune-ups – It is strongly recommended to have your furnace and air conditioner professionally inspected and serviced no less than once per year. An improperly maintained HVAC system is linked to higher energy consumption, more frequent breakdowns, emergency repairs, and premature replacement of your entire system. Many manufacturer warranties are void if you neglect this important task. Don’t wait for equipment to fail before paying attention to it: Avoid being without heat in the middle of winter, or without cooling on the hottest summer days, by having your equipment professionally maintained.
Equipment replacement – As your furnace and air conditioner age, their energy consumption increases. Newer technology is more energy-efficient. When it is recommended to replace your furnace or air conditioner, it is best to do so before waiting for it to break down completely. This will ensure continual home comfort (and energy savings) for you and your family.

Humidity

The level of humidity in your home can certainly affect your home comfort. Your home should have a humidifier attached to its furnace, and it should be set accordingly to obtain ideal humidity levels. This is an important discussion to have with your furnace technician at the time of your annual maintenance appointment. A home that is too dry or too humid can lead to many issues for your family including the following:

Health problems – nose bleeds, dry skin, and sinus problems can all be triggered by dry air. These problems tend to get worse in winter months when our furnaces are running more often.
Damage to your home – Wood furniture and flooring can become damaged by a home that is too dry. If you notice new spaces between your floorboards or splintering and cracking of your floors or wood furniture, you most certainly have a low-humidity problem. Alternatively, if your home is too humid (less common in Alberta climate), you may notice excessive condensation on your windows, damage to your wall, and mould or mildew problems.

Air Quality

Air pollutants like mould, fungi, bacteria, and dust mites can get into your home’s central ventilation and cause problems to your home comfort and ultimately to the health and wellness of your family. You can protect your indoor air quality in a number of ways:

Ventilation – Ensure the air is moving in your home by keeping your furnace fan running all the time. Your furnace filter will then trap larger contaminants and prevent them from recirculating.
Upgraded air filters – You may consider upgrading your furnace filters to a HEPA system to trap smaller particles and reduce air contamination.
UV lights – If anyone in your family has health issues, it is highly recommended to have a UV-C light installed on your central HVAC. A UV-C light system will purify your air 24 hours a day, destroying airborne viruses and bacterias.

Always Plumbing & Heating is dedicated to your comfort with true 24/7 service. We’re here to recommend ways that will not only make you more comfortable today but help you save money down the road. By offering you state-of-the-art solutions, committing our team to continuous training, and helping you take care of the equipment you already have, it adds up to fewer repairs and non-stop comfort, season after season. “We want to bring you comfort”, not only in your home but in the service we provide.

Next time you face a heating or plumbing concern, reach out to the expert plumbers and home comfort technicians at Always Plumbing & Heating.

You can call on us anytime. Yes. ANY time. That’s why our name is ALWAYS.

Call us at 780-489-8118 today to get started.

Thinking of Selling Your Home? Consider These Upgrades Before Listing

Have you decided to put your home on the market? Selling a home gives you an opportunity to make a profit, and you want to maximize this profit, right?

Here are some simple and cost-effective plumbing and heating maintenance and upgrades that you can perform to maximize your return when your home sells.

7 Steps To Increase Your House Appeal To Home Buyers

1. Source out a professional whole-home plumbing inspection. This will not only allow you to tend to any existing problems but also will provide you with a checklist that you can share with the buyer indicating that your mechanical system has been professionally inspected and maintained.

2. Have your furnace and air conditioner serviced by a professional. Manufacturer warranties on this equipment are typically null and void if you fail to perform annual maintenance on them. Performing an equipment tune-up will not only allow you to tend to any existing problems but also will provide you with a checklist that you can share with the buyer indicating that your equipment was recently maintained.

3. Update your faucets. It’s not overly expensive to replace your plumbing fixtures with new, modern, water-saving faucets. You will increase the overall visual appeal to potential buyers when your plumbing fixtures are updated.

4. Descale your fixtures. If your faucets are relatively new, descale them for a better appeal, and remove and clean the aerators to maximize water pressure.

5. Re-caulk your bathtub and sinks. This is something that you can do yourself, and it drastically improves the appearance in your bathrooms and kitchen.

6. Re-pipe your water lines. If your home has older plumbing that is frequently springing leaks, particularly if your home has polybutylene plumbing (also known as poly-b), replacing this is worth its weight in gold in resale. Poly-b was recalled after being used in many homes in the 1980s-1990s. Some home insurers will not insure your property if these pipes are not replaced. This can be a big deterrence for buyers. Read more about the implications of poly-B Piping.

7. Think about the Millennial homebuyer. Millennials comprise the largest generation in history, and they represent the largest group of homebuyers. It is important to think about what may appeal to the Millennial homebuyer. Research has shown that this age group values things such as technology, energy-efficiency, and comfort. You may consider adding a Google Nest thermostat which is a relatively inexpensive upgrade that doesn’t go unnoticed. A wifi-capable smart sump pump alarm is another must. You can even add a Flo by Moen smart water shutoff valve, to monitor water leaks and prevent disastrous flooding if a leak is detected. This group of buyers wants to be comfortable in their homes, so an air conditioner is a must-have item, and will be a huge selling point when you place your house on the market.

The bottom line when you make upgrades to your home is that they should increase the overall resale value and buying appeal. Upgrades and maintenance to your home’s plumbing and heating systems show the buyer that you have taken pride in your home and taken care to maintain it. This is a huge selling point for the buyer.

As the seller, you want to make the most cost-effective upgrades that increase the appeal before selling. Some of these upgrades you can do yourself, and others are best left to a professional who can provide you with a thorough inspection and maintenance of your home’s mechanical system.

When you are thinking about selling your home, Always Plumbing & Heating can help you start off on the right foot when you call their professional plumbers for a full in-home plumbing and heating evaluation and tuneup. Once your maintenance work is complete, and urgent repairs are tended to, then you can think about what upgrades you want to add to your home before selling.

The experts at Always Plumbing & Heating can lend you a hand when it comes to upgrading any part of your home’s plumbing or heating equipment. All of our technicians are certified and receive the best training available in the industry. You can trust us to be there on time, there when you need us 24/7 with the right tools for the job – in this home, and your next home – Always! Call us 780-489-8118 or book online today.

Finance Options for Homeowners During COVID-19

Always Plumbing & Heating recognizes the fact that mandated closures of several businesses and services by the government are having a significant financial impact on many Canadians.

With our customers and potential customers in mind, Always Plumbing & Heating would like to remind you that we do offer financing options on many of our goods and services. We have worked diligently with finance companies to negotiate reduced financing costs that we can pass on to you, the customer.

As of March 18, 2020, Always Plumbing & Heating has been offering customers reduced financing including 9 months with no payments and no interest, with affordable payments starting next year on select equipment installs with approved credit. This is an option that most major credit card companies will not attempt to match. When you make a purchase on your personal credit card, generally speaking you have about 30 days to make the payment or you start paying interest from that date forward. By utilizing in-house financing for purchases such as your homes mechanical equipment (furnace, air conditioner, hot water tank), you can avoid having to pay anything upfront, and you won’t have to make any payments for up to 9 months, with no backdated interest.

While most customers report that our equipment is affordable and our estimates are comparable, we also understand that many, many people right now are undergoing unplanned financial strain because of COVID-19. We strongly encourage our customers to utilize finance options if they so choose, during these unprecedented times.

If a new air conditioner is something that you have been thinking about this year, we can certainly provide you with a free in-home estimate, with no obligation to purchase. Financing options are something that can be discussed with your technician at the time of your estimate, with a payment schedule that is best suited to your needs. We will ALWAYS do our best to ensure that you get the best financing offer available at the time of your purchase.

We want to say thank you to all of our customers and potential customers for shopping locally and supporting small businesses like Always Plumbing & Heating during this time. We are pleased to be here restoring home comfort to families like yours, at a time when your comfort is more important than ever.

Visit our Finance Options to find out more about current financing options and visit our COVID-19 Update to read about additional measures we have in place to continue to safely offer our services to homeowners during a pandemic.

Disclaimer: The above financing offers are available on approved credit, and subject to change at any time.

Meet Our Mascot, Al-Wez

Yup, you’ve read that right. Always Plumbing & Heating has its very own mascot!

His name is Al-Wez, a friendly alien technician who is always smiling while delivering “service that’s outta this world!”.

Al-Wez landed at Always Plumbing & Heating in Spring of 2019, after traveling 18,000 lightyears from Planet Plumbing. While he is technically an alien, he’s no alien to our service model and was drawn to the positive culture of our team. He saw a lot of the teams’ characteristics in himself, and he sure fit right in! While he may look a little funny, he becomes a fan favorite with his ever-growing enthusiasm, wit, and curiosity. He’s also quite a handy little fella if you know what we mean! With those 4 arms, he is great on the tools. He’s always willing to lend a hand (or four) to our technicians when they are tackling a tricky plumbing or heating job. And with that big eye, he sure knows how to focus, and multi-task! His pointy alien ears make him a great listener too, just like our technicians.

Keep an eye out for Al-Wez in the community, as he likes to make the occasional appearance at community events. Give him a high-five and you may even see him do a little dance! He loves to be the centre of attention and is thrilled to share his quirky uniqueness to make you smile. And when you use the services of Always Plumbing & Heating, Al-Wez is going to guarantee that you get an “outta this world” service experience…ALWAYS!

We Are The Top Air Conditioning and Heating Company of 2019

Always Plumbing & Heating Wins Top Air Conditioning and Heating Company of 2019

We are humbled and honoured to have been nominated by our customers for the top choice award for the category of Top Air Conditioning and Heating Company of 2019.

After a lengthy voting process, we found out we were selected as the winner of the 2019 Top Heating & Air Conditioning company in Edmonton & area! Without our amazing customers, this would not have been possible.

The Top Choice award is one of the most prestigious and reputable business awards in North America and exists to provide the absolute best choices to consumers. For us, this means that we will be connected with more great customers (like yourself) who are looking for a trusted heating and air conditioning service company.

Always Plumbing & Heating offers all heating, air conditioning & plumbing services, from repairs and maintenance to installation of new furnaces, A/C’s, hot water tanks, boilers and more. With every service, we offer a plumbing & HVAC inspection for the entire home FREE of charge, giving you peace of mind service and saving you money on future maintenance costs.

Thank you again Edmonton and area for voting for Always Plumbing & Heating as your Top Heating and Air Conditioning company of 2019!

Call us at 780-489-8118 for all of your AC, Heating and Plumbing needs!

A Better Business: Always Plumbing & Heating’s Commitment to Service and Community

Always Plumbing is proud to be an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 1999. Our A+ standing with the organization is not simply a rating to trumpet in advertising, it’s a true reflection of our commitment to service and community. In addition to our exceptional service record, our community involvement with various charities including the Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS), the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northern Alberta and the St. Albert Food Bank has fostered strong ties to our Alberta neighbors and given our Always Plumbing family a greater purpose. Our 17 year partnership also reflects our dedication to superior business and advertising practices, which is essential in our continued growth throughout Alberta and surrounding communities.

Though the BBB is a well-known organization, many people are unaware of its background – and the stringent requirements needed for accreditation. The BBB, founded in 1912, is a nonprofit that functions as an intermediary between a customer and a business. It collects and provides unsolicited reviews on more than 4 million businesses. It also handles a variety of disputes between a customer and a business. Their rating system represents the BBB’s opinion of how a business will most likely treat their customers based on information it obtains. This information includes customer complaints, the years it has been in business and its business practices. Here’s a thorough overview of the rating system.

This well regarded institution consists of 112 independently incorporated organizations in Canada and the US. But those organizations all work together since August 16, 2011 when the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) integrated the operations between Canada and the US. The unification was motivated, according to the official statement, ‘…for an improved customer experience for those who purchase goods and services across the border.’

The BBB researches and reports on a number of important factors that customers should know about a business. The business profiles that the BBB makes public are:

Proper Licensing
Appropriate and Truthful Advertising
Government Actions (Regarding Marketplace Conduct)
Out of Business Designation
Misuse of BBB Name/Logo
Bankruptcy
Returned Mail

It’s not that easy for a business to gain BBB Accreditation. A stringent BBB Code of Business Practices (Accreditation Standards) must be met and maintained. Always Plumbing takes these standards very seriously – and abides by them in both practice and philosophy. These practices, also referred to as the BBB Standards for Trust, (taken from their site) are:

Build Trust (Establish and maintain a positive track record in the marketplace.)
Advertise Honestly (Adhere to established standards of advertising and selling.)
Tell the Truth (Honestly represent products and services, including clear and adequate disclosures of all material terms.)
Be Transparent (Openly identify the nature, location, and ownership of the business, and clearly disclose all policies, guarantees and procedures that bear on a customer’s decision to buy.
Honor Promises (Abide by all written agreements and verbal representations.)
Be Responsive (Address marketplace disputes quickly, professionally, and in
good faith.)

Safeguard Privacy (Protect any data collected against mishandling and fraud, collect personal information only as needed, and respect the preferences of customers regarding the use of their information.)
Embody Integrity (Approach all business dealings, marketplace transactions and
commitments with integrity.)

Full list of BBB Accreditation Standards

Are you looking for a home services company with a stellar BBB rating and a reputation for superior work? Call Always Plumbing today at 780-489-8118 to set up an appointment!

*All information regarding the BBB was taken from their official site.

Category: Always Plumbing & Heating