Author: Eric

Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Plumbing. No Comments on Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?

Not only does a running toilet sound obnoxious, but it can also waste hundreds of gallons of water. If you notice your toilet running, get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid any unpleasant surprises on your next water bill. How can you tell what’s causing your toilet to run? We’ve covered some of the most common causes of a running toilet, how to fix them, and when to call in the pros.

Common causes of a running toilet

Wear and tear on the toilet flapper
The toilet flapper is the rubber seal that stops tank water from flowing into the bowl. When you flush the toilet, a chain attached to the flapper lifts the seal up, allowing clean water to flow through into the bowl.
Toilet flappers accumulate wear and tear over time. Cracked or worn-out toilet flappers are one of the most common causes of a running toilet. If you push down on the flapper and the toilet stops running, you’ve identified the problem.

Improper chain length
If the toilet flapper itself isn’t the problem, the chain attached to the flapper might be too long or too short. Check the chain to see if it’s getting trapped under the flapper or if it’s not long enough to seal the flapper.

Float misalignment
There are two types of floats: cup floats and ball floats. Most modern toilets are equipped with ball floats. Floats are also called ballcocks and float valves.
The float regulates the water level. When you flush the toilet, the float rises up to a certain point, causing the toilet to stop running.
If the float is cracked or positioned too high, water will flow into the overflow pipe, causing your toilet to run. If the float touches the side of the tank, it may be misaligned. Unless the float ball is cracked, you can usually fix this problem by adjusting the float arm.

Malfunctioning fill valve
As its name suggests, the fill valve is the mechanism that refills the toilet bowl after a flush. If you’ve checked the flapper and float, the fill valve could be the cause of your running toilet.
If the water is rising too high and running into the overflow tube, you may need to clean or replace the fill valve.

How to figure out what’s causing your toilet to run constantly
The easiest way to tell what’s causing your toilet to run is to look inside the tank. If you’re checking the flapper or float, you won’t need to turn off the water supply. If you’re replacing the flapper or fill valve, you’ll need to turn off the water supply first.
Once you’ve identified the cause, you’ll usually find the supplies you need at your local hardware store. But before you start drawing up a shopping list, make sure you’ve isolated the problem. You wouldn’t want to replace the toilet flapper only to find that your toilet is still running.

Got a running toilet that needs fixing? Call the Denver plumbing pros

Fixing a running toilet could be as simple as replacing a worn-out flapper and as complex as replacing the whole fill valve assembly. If you’re confused just looking inside the tank, give us a call. We’ll have your toilet up and (not) running promptly!
Golden West technicians are licensed, bonded, and insured for your peace of mind. No Denver plumbing job is too small. Call us or start a chat with us today to schedule your appointment.

Customer Service is Crucial – Here’s how we do it Golden West

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Company Information. No Comments on Customer Service is Crucial – Here’s how we do it Golden West

We often take for granted the technologies and equipment that keep us comfortable and healthy, like water heaters, sewer lines, furnaces, and wifi thermostats. It’s probably safe to say most of us don’t even think about these items on a daily basis, until one of them or stops functioning as expected.

Repairs and replacements are inherently stressful. After all, HVAC and plumbing problems disrupt your life and your comfort. This is just one reason why our team is compassionate and attentive. To us, you’re not just another job, you’re a human being with a busy life. You need your systems repaired promptly so you can focus on the important things.

That’s why top-notch customer service isn’t just a buzzword or a hollow promise here at Golden West. It’s the core of our business philosophy. From the moment you land on our website, our plumbing and HVAC live chat window will greet you. From there, you can connect with us to schedule your job or ask questions. You can also call us right away by clicking on one of the phone numbers on our site.

Once you’ve scheduled your appointment, our technicians will go to great lengths to respect your home, health, and personal space. We wear protective gear, including shoe coverings, gloves, and masks while on the job to keep everyone safe. We work quickly and efficiently to solve your problem and keep you comfortable.

Throughout the job, we’ll even talk you through every step of the process. Education is a big part of what we do. We believe homeowners should have a basic understanding of how their plumbing and HVAC systems work to prevent future problems. But when problems inevitably arise, we’re standing by 24/7 to assist.

Finally, we know that repairing plumbing and HVAC systems can be an unexpected expense, which is why we offer financing for qualifying jobs. We get the job done now, you pay later.

These are just a few ways we go above and beyond to serve our customers. Of course, we don’t expect you to take us at our word. We know most customers like to read reviews before choosing a service. We’re proud of our 1,500+ 5-star Google Reviews and our A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Check out this testimonial from one of our many happy clients:

“Great experience with Golden West all around. The phone was answered promptly when I called. The rep was polite and friendly and answered all of my questions patiently. Chris V arrived in the window and I was given a call to confirm. The guys explained the process, gave me an estimate to repair or replace, and got to work. About 30 minutes later my swamp cooler was working and I was educated. Thanks again for the great service.” – Mike B.

This is just 1 review out of thousands.

Not only do we serve our customers, but we also serve our community. Our annual scholarship program provides financial support to students majoring in engineering, home design, and home improvement. We’re proud of our commitment to help students achieve success in their education and their career.

Rain or shine, day or night, our team is here to assist with plumbing and HVAC emergencies big and small. Start chatting with us or give us a call to discuss your home service needs.

Maintain a Healthy Indoor Air Quality

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on Maintain a Healthy Indoor Air Quality

When many people think of air quality, it’s the outdoors that comes to mind. Large-scale pollution, allergens, and other things that affect the air we breathe are visible and apparent outside. What about inside our house? There are particles that can cause poor indoor air quality inside our homes. Some of them can even be scentless and invisible. Let’s figure out the best ways to improve our indoor air quality.

IMPROVING INDOOR AIR QUALITY:
Understanding and identifying sources of contaminants can help ensure your home is safe. Even the cleanest homes have dust, mold (even if you don’t see it), and other indoor pollutants. So what is the best way to filter these harmful substances?

Eliminate moisture substances – When there is moisture, there is the opportunity for mold. For any high moisture areas, make sure they are properly taken care of. If you have any minor plumbing leaks, it is good to address them right away. Mold can be dangerous. And mold spores in the air can be harmful.
Good housekeeping – If you do find mold, make sure it is cleaned as soon as possible. You can use 10% bleach and 90% warm water or contact a professional company. Other good housekeeping tactics include vacuuming carpets on a weekly basis and keeping towels and linens regularly cleaned.
Ventilate properly – Circulation of air throughout your home is important. Make sure that your ventilation systems work properly. A quick tip that we tell homeowners is to keep their exhaust fans in their kitchen and bathrooms clean of any dust to have them work at maximum efficiency.
Air filters – This is a big one. You should be changing your air filters on a regular basis. Your filters capture unwanted pollutants and dust particles. Golden West changes air filters for homeowners every single day. If you choose to change them on your own, make sure to dispose of them properly so the particles in the filters do not get back into the air.
Cleaning agents, paint, and other chemicals – We have all used strong smelling cleaning agents or painted inside a house. Make sure that these are tightly sealed when you are done using them. If there is a strong odor in the house, open the windows.
Fireplaces, space heaters, and gas stoves – These can be problematic if they are not vented outside properly. It’s important to do a self inspection to have a professional inspect these on a regular basis.

Our Commitment at Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning

At Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we’re fully committed to keeping our customers safe. We always advise our customers to use best practices when it comes to keeping their air quality at a healthy standard. Give us a call and we would be happy to assist with any air quality needs!

Should You Repair or Replace Your Furnace?

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on Should You Repair or Replace Your Furnace?

Winter in Denver is mild compared to other areas in Colorado. But the Mile-High City still gets bitterly cold. No one wants to wake up in a cold house or confine themselves to one room when the heating stops working. Homeowners who find themselves in this predicament face a tough decision: “Should I repair or replace my furnace?”

Furnace repair could require anything from quick fixes to major repairs. Certain issues are beyond repair and require a replacement instead. Here are a few ways to tell if you should repair or replace your furnace. Remember, when in doubt, call the Denver furnace repair pros!

Signs that you need to repair your furnace

Your heating bill is higher than usual.

If you’re not using more heat but your energy costs have increased, it’s a good idea to book a furnace repair appointment. General wear and tear could decrease the unit’s efficiency. Find a furnace repair service near you to identify and fix the problem.

Your furnace isn’t producing enough heat.

A clogged air filter could be the culprit behind this issue. But if you’ve checked the filter and the furnace still isn’t producing adequate heat, it could be time for a furnace repair. If the furnace is on but heat isn’t blowing through the vents, the blower motor might need replacing.

Be sure to book your furnace repair as soon as possible after noticing issues with heating and ruling out simple fixes. A malfunctioning part increases the risk of other components breaking, which could lead to higher repair costs.

Your furnace makes a lot of noise.

Strange noises like rattling, whistling, and clicking are alarming and obnoxious. The issue could be as simple as a loose screw or as complex as a broken furnace blower motor. No matter what kind of noise you’re hearing, a noisy furnace needs professional attention.

Signs that you need to replace your furnace

Your unit is over 15 years old.

Annual tune-ups are essential for maximizing the lifespan of your unit. Some furnaces can last up to 30 years, but that’s the exception, not the rule. The average lifespan of a furnace is between 12 and 18 years. If your furnace is around the 15-year mark, it’s time to start shopping for a new one.

The cost to repair your current furnace is more than half the cost of replacing it.

A new furnace costs anywhere from $2,500 to over $6,500, according to HomeAdvisor. And that’s not including installation costs.

Most Denver furnace repair professionals will recommend replacing the furnace outright if repair costs exceed half the price of a new furnace. High repair costs often indicate that the unit will need future repairs.

You notice soot around the heating vents.

During an annual inspection, a furnace repair technician will remove any soot built up in the furnace itself. But if there’s soot coming up through your vents, call the pros immediately.

Soot in the vents could mean there’s too much carbon dioxide in your furnace. This can damage furniture and impact indoor air quality. Inhaling the soot could also cause breathing problems and other symptoms.

Soot could also be a sign of a dangerous explosion within the furnace called a puff back. A puff back occurs when excess fuel builds up in the combustion chamber. As soon as you notice soot in your vents or smell burning, call an emergency furnace repair service near you.

Should you repair or replace your furnace? Wrapping up

Sometimes it’s hard for a homeowner to know whether a furnace repair or replacement is needed.

Before you break out the user manual, remember that your furnace is a complex machine. Attempting a DIY furnace repair could lead to all sorts of dangers, like fire hazards and carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you’ve noticed any of the above warning signs, call a furnace repair professional near you.

Book your Denver furnace repair or replacement today

Even if your furnace is in tip-top shape, annual maintenance is essential to keep your heating system running smoothly. Call Golden West, the Denver furnace repair pros, today to schedule your annual furnace tune-up before the cold weather hits!

5 Tips for Saving Energy and Staying Warm This Winter

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on 5 Tips for Saving Energy and Staying Warm This Winter

Autumn is a cozy season filled with hearty family meals, hot apple cider, and fun fall festivals. It’s also the perfect time to prepare your home for bitter winter weather.

Did you know heating is the biggest energy expense for Colorado homeowners? The average homeowner spends $500 on heating every year. Poor insulation and inefficient heating units are the main causes of high heating expenses. Proper insulation and more energy-efficient heating systems can slash these costs by up to 20% annually.

Even if you don’t need to replace your current unit, there are a few things you can do to save energy this winter. (And stay toasty warm while you’re at it.) Let’s dive in to some of the most effective tips for saving energy, not just in winter, but in all seasons. Our advice goes beyond installing LED lightbulbs and turning down the thermostat.

Insulate your old water heater

If your water heater is an older model and you’re not in a position to replace it, consider wrapping it in an insulating blanket. This simple tip can save you over 15% on your annual heating costs. It also reduces lost heat by up to 45%.

Insulating blankets are inexpensive, starting at just $20. But not all water heaters will require insulation. Here are a few things you should know before insulating your water heater:

If your water heater is warm to the touch, it could benefit from an insulating blanket.
Newer models likely don’t need an insulation blanket.
Avoid insulating blankets if your water heater has an R-value of 24 or higher.
Do not insulate a leaking water heater. This will need to be replaced.
If your water heater is electric, you might also want to insulate the underside of the tank for an additional 10% savings on lost heat. However, this is best done if you’re installing a new unit.

Got questions about insulating your water heater? Give us a call today to schedule your appointment. You’ll receive personalized advice on saving electricity in the winter for your home and needs.

Lower the temperature of your water heater if you’re planning to travel

Traveling out of town to visit relatives over Christmas? Before you leave, be sure to turn down your water heater.

Running a water heater costs $440 a year on average. You could reduce that amount by up to 10% a year by lowering the temperature even a few degrees.

If you’re planning to travel over the holiday period, consider lowering the temperature since your water won’t be in use.

Winterize your windows and doors

The first step for winterizing your home is to identify leaks in windows and doors. One of the easiest ways to do this is with the smoke test. Turn off any fans or heaters. Light a stick of incense and hold it near the window or door frame. If the smoke blows sideways, you might have a leak.

Plugging drafty doors and windows is easy and relatively inexpensive. You have a few options to choose from:

Caulking
Window films
Door seals
Weatherstripping tape

Once you’ve found and fixed drafty windows and doors, be sure to put your blinds and curtains to good use. On sunny days, let natural warmth in by opening the blinds. On cold nights, draw your blinds or curtains to prevent heat from escaping and cold from entering your home.

Swap out your old appliances for newer, more energy-efficient alternatives

According to a fact sheet published by Colorado State University, older furnaces and hot water heaters are roughly half as efficient as newer units.

Upgrading to a new energy-efficient unit is a considerable investment in the short-term. But it’s one that will quickly pay for itself in energy savings. Not to mention that homeowners using Energy-Star certified appliances often qualify for a tax credit.

Got questions about energy-efficient appliances? Our technicians have answers. Get in touch today to discuss your needs.

Have your heating system inspected annually

If you’re not already having your heating system inspected each year, now’s a good time to start. Scheduling a heating inspection now could save you a lot of time and money later.

During your inspection, our HVAC technicians will identify necessary repairs and potential problems. We pride ourselves on prompt, efficient service. Education is a big part of what we do. If you have any questions during your assessment, please don’t hesitate to ask.

These energy saving tips will serve you well this winter. But they’re also general tips that everyone can put into practice.

Want personalized guidance on saving energy? Call Golden West today to schedule your maintenance appointment. Your technician will review the efficiency of your heating system and make recommendations based on your needs and budget.

How to Prepare for Your HVAC Service Appointment

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on How to Prepare for Your HVAC Service Appointment

It’s safe to say many homeowners don’t stop to think about their heating and cooling systems until they malfunction. Booking your first HVAC service appointment can be a daunting task for inexperienced homeowners.

Need a replacement or repair? Here are a few things you can do to prepare for your appointment, plus a few questions you should ask your technician.

Preparing for your HVAC service appointment

Here are a few things you should do to ensure your HVAC service appointment goes smoothly.

When booking your appointment, describe your needs using as much detail as you can. The more your tech knows about the problem, the better they can assist you. Taking photos and knowing roughly when the issue started is helpful. Compile documentation of previous maintenance on the unit if applicable.
Clear the work area of any clutter or obstructions. Repairing and replacing HVAC systems requires a safe work environment. Make the workspace easy to access and remove any clutter or obstructions. Outdoor units require at least one foot of clearance on all sides.
Secure pets and children. This is for their own safety as well as the technician’s.

7 questions to ask your HVAC technician

There’s no such thing as a silly question regarding HVAC systems. These units can be a large investment to purchase and replace, so if you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Here are a few questions we encourage customers to ask before, during, and after their appointment.

What experience and qualifications do you have servicing homes like mine?
Although many HVAC company websites often provide this information, it’s best to double-check. At the bare minimum, your preferred HVAC company should be able to provide you with proof of insurance, show pictures of previous work, and customer testimonials. Our techs will be glad to discuss similar jobs to yours.

How do you handle quotes and payment?
Find out upfront if any overtime or hidden fees apply. If your technician offers a quote over the phone, take that as a red flag. While technicians might offer a rough estimate for common repairs, an in-home examination is needed to determine the cost and scope of the job, particularly for installations.

To avoid delays, confirm accepted payment methods with your HVAC servicer before the appointment. Our technicians will always offer upfront pricing, options, and no hidden fees.

Can you talk me through the job so I know how to maintain my HVAC systems?
Any experienced technician should be willing to educate you on how to maintain your HVAC systems. All homeowners should have a basic knowledge of how their heating, ventilation, and cooling systems work. Not only does this ensure their comfort, but it could also prevent major problems down the line.

Our technicians take pride in educating our customers. If you have any questions about maintaining your systems before, during, or after the job, just let your tech know.

What products do you recommend for my needs and budget?
If you’re replacing a unit, discuss your options with your technician beforehand. Address any budget concerns then and there to prevent any unpleasant surprises.

Our technicians will recommend replacement units based on their observations and your situation. We will never recommend products that don’t suit your needs or are out of your budget.

What are some ways I can save energy?
This is a common question our technicians receive, and we’re always happy to answer it. Your tech can evaluate your current systems and recommend ways to optimize it.

These might include replacing a window unit with an energy-efficient cooling system or installing inexpensive window films. Instead of simply Googling how to cut energy costs, you’ll receive personalized advice at no extra cost to you.

Do you offer 24-hour emergency services?
It’s always better to find out whether your local HVAC company offers 24/7 services
before you need them. Golden West offers 24-hour emergency service 7 days a week. Give us a call and we’ll be sure to help with any needs.

Do you offer financing?
HVAC repairs, maintenance, and replacements can be an unexpected investment for homeowners. If you’re concerned about price, ask if the company offers financing.

We offer financing for most jobs — your systems are repaired now and you pay later.

Book your Denver HVAC appointment today

Whether you need a repair, replacement, or just an annual check-up, Golden West has got your Denver HVAC needs covered. Contact us today to request an HVAC service in Denver and the surrounding area.

When you choose Golden West, you’re choosing to support a family-owned and operated local business. Our technicians are professional, highly experienced, and fully qualified. Read one of thousands of reviews from our satisfied customers to discover why we’re A+ rated with the Better Business Bureau.

How Long Does a Furnace Last? A Quick Guide

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on How Long Does a Furnace Last? A Quick Guide

How long does a furnace last? Different sources will give you different answers. Some say 15 years, some say 20. Others say newer furnaces can last as long as 30 years.

Those answers are all technically correct. But it’s important to remember that several factors influence how long a furnace lasts, including:

the type of furnace
when the furnace was made
how well and how often it’s maintained

Generally, the average lifespan of a furnace is between 12 and 18 years. On average, a furnace needs replacing after 15 years. Some newer models can last between 20 and 30 years.

Let’s explore which factors affect your furnace’s lifespan. (Plus a few things you can do to keep your furnace in good condition.)

Types of furnaces

When you think of furnaces, you probably picture a gas furnace. That’s just one type of furnace. Let’s take a look at a few others.

Gas furnaces

Gas furnaces are one of the most common types of residential furnaces. Natural gas heats nearly 50% of American homes. In Colorado and surrounding states, that number is slightly higher at over 65%.

Older gas furnaces aren’t as efficient as their newer counterparts. New models are up to 98% efficient, compared to older models with a maximum efficiency of 65%. Additionally, older furnaces aren’t as durable, lasting between 12 and 18 years on average.

How many years should a gas furnace last? That largely depends on when it was made and how well it’s maintained. New models could last as long as 30 years. On average, gas furnaces last between 16 and 20 years.

Oil furnaces

You won’t find many oil furnaces in Colorado. These are most common in the Northeast. While they’re less expensive than a gas furnace, they’re also less efficient at 85% on average. They do tend to last a little longer, with an average lifespan of 25 years.

Electric furnaces

Many modern homes come equipped with an electric furnace. This type of furnace is just as efficient as a new gas furnace and can last up to 10 years longer. The unit itself is less expensive than a gas furnace. But the higher cost of electricity will quickly surpass those initial savings.

Maintain your furnace to maximize its lifespan

The average lifespans we’ve mentioned above assume that the furnace is serviced each year. Without annual maintenance, a furnace likely won’t last as long as they could.

Annual maintenance can prevent minor issues from escalating into major repairs. It also protects your warranty’s eligibility. Some manufacturers void the warranties of units that aren’t inspected regularly.

Finally, proper maintenance ensures your furnace works at peak efficiency all winter long. A local furnace repair technician can replace clogged filters and worn-out parts before they cause bigger problems.

How to maintain your furnace

If you’re like many homeowners, you might search for DIY fixes before calling in the professionals. But your furnace is a complex machine. Not to mention a dangerous one, especially if something goes wrong during a DIY repair.

Attempting to fix something yourself can cause anything from fire hazards to carbon monoxide poisoning. To keep your home and family safe, avoid attempting to service your furnace yourself. Instead, call your local furnace repair technician. Watch them while they work and ask them to walk you through the process. They’ll guide you through maintaining your furnace safely step-by-step.

Any furnace repair company that doesn’t allow you to be part of the process isn’t worth your time or hard-earned money. As the premier Denver furnace repair business, we take great pride in educating our customers. We believe all homeowners should know how their systems work. This not only prevents problems, but it also teaches you how to recognize and respond to furnace-related hazards.

How long will a furnace last? Wrapping up

Ultimately, how long your furnace lasts depends on how well you take care of it. Keep your furnace in tip-top shape and it could serve you for 20 years or even longer. If your furnace is 15 years or older and requires constant repairs, it’s time to start shopping for a new one.

Rather than trying to maintain your furnace yourself, book a service appointment with a professional. It’s as easy as searching “furnace repair near me”.

Book your Denver furnace repair or tune-up today

Winter has arrived early this year in the Mile High City. Book your Denver furnace repair or maintenance appointment today to stay toasty all winter long. Our expert technicians are trained to service all types of furnaces. We pride ourselves on delivering prompt, polite, and professional service — rain, shine, sleet, or snow.

Booking a Denver furnace repair in 2020 is vastly different compared to previous years. Rest assured that we take every precaution to protect your family, your home, and your health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about our health and safety procedures, and let us know if you have special requirements for your appointment.

What Can Cause a Furnace to Stop Working?

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on What Can Cause a Furnace to Stop Working?

What can cause a furnace to stop working? You might be surprised to learn it’s not always the furnace’s fault. A powered-off switch, faulty thermostat, or air duct issues could be to blame.

Let’s look at some of the most common culprits behind a malfunctioning furnace.

What can cause a furnace to stop working? 8 potential causes

Furnace switch powered off

Furnace power switches often look like light switches. It’s easy to turn them off, thinking you’re turning out the light. Before checking for other issues, make sure the power switch is turned on.

Furnace door safety switch

This is one of the first problems you should rule out before checking everything else. The safety switch stops the furnace from working when the door is removed.

If you’re recently removed the furnace door for whatever reason, make sure the safety switch has been reactivated.

Dead batteries in the thermostat

This is obviously a problem with the thermostat, not the furnace itself. Check to see if your thermostat is working. If there’s no power, change the batteries. Lithium batteries last much longer than alkaline batteries.

Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse

If the thermostat is on but there’s no warm air coming through the vents at all, check your circuit breaker or fuse box. If the breaker has tripped, you’ll need to reset it. Or, change the fuse.

Broken thermostat

If you’ve changed the thermostat batteries and your furnace still isn’t working, your thermostat could be broken. Several issues could cause a thermostat to malfunction, including:

Faulty wiring
Dust and debris
Malfunctioning transformer
Broken heat anticipator

If your thermostat isn’t functioning properly, consult your local HVAC experts for recommendations on new equipment and installation services.

Clogged filters

This is one of the most common culprits behind a malfunctioning furnace. If your furnace isn’t producing enough heat, chances are the filters are clogged.

Furnace filters trap dirt, fine particles, and other debris. Warm air can’t flow through clogged filters. The furnace might not stop working outright, but it will be much less efficient.

Filters should be changed once every season, about every 3 months. Annual maintenance can prevent filters from getting clogged and save you money on repairs and lost energy.

Air duct issues

Inconsistent heat is a tell-tale sign that your air ducts are the issue, not the furnace. If you notice one room is significantly warmer or colder than the others, your air ducts are likely leaking.

Inspect your ductwork for any obvious signs of damage. If your furnace is working properly, you should be able to feel heat escaping through the leaking ducts.

Sealing the leaks with duct tape could be a temporary fix. But there’s always a chance that a small leak will be left behind. Your local furnace repair experts have the tools and equipment needed to permanently seal leaks.

If you can’t find any leaks, the problem could be as simple as opening the dampers that control airflow into each room. But if they’re open and the heating is still uneven, it’s a good idea to call your local HVAC service. Some leaks are small and hard for homeowners to detect.

Age

Even the best-maintained furnaces will need replacing eventually. If your furnace is more than 15 years old and suddenly stops working, it’s time to replace it. You’ll end up paying more to repair an old furnace than to replace it.

Related: How long does a furnace last?

Why Is My Water Bill So High? 4 Potential Causes

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Plumbing. No Comments on Why Is My Water Bill So High? 4 Potential Causes

Unlike most things in life, your water bill should be relatively stable and predictable. A sudden spike in water charges could indicate anything from lifestyle changes to a major water leak.

Wondering why your water bill is suddenly so high? We’ll explore 5 potential causes and their solutions later in this article. But first, let’s take a look at average water costs in Denver so you know about how much you can expect to pay each month and year.

How much does water cost in Denver on average?

Compared to other major cities, Denver has some of the lowest water charges in Colorado. The average water bill for a single family living in Denver is around $530 per year or roughly $45 per month as of 2020. The cost of water in Denver varies based on an array of factors, including the type and size of the residence as well as the billing rates of the water provider.

Denver Water is the main water service provider, delivering clean drinking water to over 1 million residents in the Mile High City.

Looking at your water bill can be a little confusing. In addition to a fixed monthly charge, Denver Water charges residential customers different rates based on:

location: inside city or outside city
consumption: fixed minimum rates apply per 1,000 gallons of water used
property type: residential, commercial, multi-unit, or irrigation
service type: Denver residents living in the suburbs are charged a different rate
meter size: different meter sizes incur a different monthly fixed charge

Denver Water also implements a tier system that determines the rate per 1,000 gallons. Tier 1 is the lowest rate and applies to residential customers. The rate per 1,000 gallons for Tier 1 will increase to $2.39 in 2021.

Why is my water bill so high? 4 common culprits and what you can do to fix them

Now that we’ve taken a brief look at the fine print of your Denver water bill, let’s investigate why your water bill might be high. Here are 5 common reasons for a high water bill, plus potential solutions.

Changes in water consumption

This one is perhaps the easiest to fix. Long showers, leaving the faucet running while you’re brushing your teeth, and forgetting to turn the sprinklers off are just a few examples.

New appliances like a washing machine or dishwasher can also use more water than you’re used to.

How to fix it: The obvious solution is to be mindful of how much water you use and make an effort to reduce your water consumption. If you’re shopping for a new appliance, choose a highly efficient unit that uses less water. (Look for the WaterSense logo.)

Leaky and dripping faucets

A leaky faucet wastes anywhere from a third of a gallon of water to 90+ gallons of water per day. That probably doesn’t seem like much, but it adds up over time. Especially when you consider the ecological impact of all the dripping faucets out there.

Not only do leaky and dripping faucets waste money, but they also waste precious clean water. The EPA estimates that all the leaking faucets in America waste 1 trillion gallons of water collectively each year.

How to fix it: The required repair depends on where the faucet is leaking. If it’s from the spout, you might need to change the faucet cartridge or screw/washer. If it’s the base, the O ring is likely worn out or cracked and needs replacing. If the pipes under your sink are leaking, you probably have a loose or cracked pipe.

Running toilets

A running toilet can waste up to nearly 6,500 gallons per day. Although fixing a running toilet is relatively easy and inexpensive, it’s something you should do ASAP to prevent any unpleasant surprises on next month’s water bill.

How to fix it: Open up the tank and take a look inside. The problem might be a worn-out toilet flapper or misaligned float.

Water softener issues

A water softener is a handy addition to your home, removing minerals and preventing hard water stains. Unfortunately, it can also contribute to high water bills in certain circumstances.

When a water softener gets stuck in regeneration mode, it cycles continuously and will draw water non-stop. A leak is another, less common issue. Loose connections and worn-out or cracked parts could cause a water softener to leak.

How to fix it: To fix a leaking water softener, first check to see if any parts are loose, cracked, or worn out. If cycling is the problem, a part likely needs replacing. This could be the timer or control switch. Your best bet is calling in a water softener specialist. They’ll be able to quickly identify and install whichever part needs replacing.

Contact us today with your Denver sewer and plumbing repair needs and questions

Worried about your high water bill? Our expert technicians can identify and fix the problem promptly. Call us today with all your Denver plumbing and sewer repair needs.

How Does a Video Sewer Pipeline Inspection Work?

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Plumbing. No Comments on How Does a Video Sewer Pipeline Inspection Work?

What is video sewer pipeline inspection? As its name suggests, a video sewer pipeline inspection uses video technology to inspect the condition of an existing sewer pipeline.

This could be the sewer line that connects to the mainline on the street that runs to the local wastewater treatment facility. Or it could be individual pipes within your home, like your kitchen sewer line that connects to your home’s mainline.

A video sewer pipeline inspection identifies the cause of a potential sewer problem, such as a blockage or pipe damage. Let’s take a look at how video sewer pipeline inspections work, plus a few other things homeowners should know about this type of inspection.

How does a video sewer pipeline inspection work?

If you’re having unidentified sewer system issues, first you’ll need to contact a local plumber near you. A technician will schedule an inspection.

On the day, the technician will run a protected cable with a camera attached to the end through the sewer line. The camera will pass through the sewer, searching for any damage and blockages. This cable is fed manually through the pipe.

Once the problem is identified, the technician will leave the camera pointed at the issue, which is usually a blockage. A built-in transmitter will give off a signal, which the technician can detect using a locator.

At Golden West, we use only the best in video inspection technology. Our high-res cameras come equipped with auto-focusing capabilities and bright lights for maximum control and visibility.

When do you need a video sewer pipeline inspection?

If you’re planning big renovations or you’re buying a new home, we recommend booking a video sewer pipeline inspection.

For renovations, a video sewer pipeline inspection ensures your current sewer line can accommodate new plumbing fixtures.

For new homeowners, a video inspection can prevent minor issues from snowballing into major repairs.

Another reason why you might need a video inspection is an unidentified sewer problem. If you have a blockage that a plunger or drain cleaner can’t fix, a video inspection will

Can you perform a video sewer pipeline inspection yourself?

You can — but that doesn’t mean you should.

Drain cameras are available online for anywhere from $300 to $900. Despite the hefty price tag, these cameras aren’t professional quality. Their lead lines aren’t long enough to inspect the full sewer line and usually cap out at 100 feet. Not only are the cameras mediocre, but some don’t even have lights for visibility.

Compare that to professional equipment, which costs tens of thousands of dollars. In addition to high-res cameras and powerful lights, our cameras also have auto-leveling capabilities, which means the video always displays upright. Our cameras are also able to record the inspection, making it easy to play back the video to ensure we didn’t miss anything. Plus, our lead lines can reach in excess of 1,000 feet.

Not to mention that homeowners often lack the training and expertise needed to successfully identify and remove a blockage. In a world where there are so many DIY fixes for common problems, some issues are best left to the pros!

Benefits of a professional video inspection

Aside from saving hundreds of dollars that you might have otherwise spent on inferior equipment, the main benefit of a professional video inspection is accuracy. Video is the best way to identify and repair sewer blockages and root intrusions. It also saves tons of time and labor costs and prevents guesswork and digging to find the issue.

Contact us for video sewer pipeline inspections in Denver and the surrounding area

A video sewer pipeline inspection isn’t your everyday plumbing procedure. But it’s especially useful for certain situations, like renovations, new homes, and stubborn blockages.

If you require a video sewer pipeline inspection in Denver or the surrounding area, call us today.