At Crisafulli Bros., we help homeowners throughout the Capital Region, Hudson Valley and North Country keep their systems running smoothly—and quietly.

Here’s a guide to the most common noises you might hear and what they could mean:

Common HVAC & Plumbing Noises (And What They Might Mean)

1. Rattling

Sounds like: Loose change in a dryer

Possible causes:

• Loose screws or bolts
• Damaged fan blades
• Debris in the vents
• Unsecured ductwork

Action: Rattling can escalate into major wear and tear. It’s best to have a technician check it out before parts loosen further.

2. Squealing or Screeching

Sounds like: Nails on a chalkboard (ouch!)

Possible causes:

• Worn-out fan belts
• Failing motor bearings
• High-pressure flow in pipes

Action: If it’s your HVAC, the belt may need replacing. If it’s your plumbing, it could be a pressure or valve issue.

3. Banging or Popping

Sounds like: Someone slamming a cabinet

Possible causes:

• Expanding or contracting air ducts
• Dirty furnace burners
• Ignition delay in gas systems

Action: This one can be tricky. While some duct noise is normal, sudden bangs could mean ignition issues, which need a professional.

4. Hissing

Sounds like: Air escaping from a balloon

Possible causes:

• Refrigerant leak in AC system
• Leaking air duct
• High water pressure escaping through a valve

Action: A hissing HVAC system could be losing efficiency (and costing you money). If refrigerant is involved, it’s especially urgent to call a pro.

5. Gurgling

Sounds like: A percolating coffee pot
Possible causes:

• Air trapped in plumbing lines
• Slow-draining pipes
• Sediment in water heater

Action: Gurgling plumbing is often caused by improper venting or buildup. Don’t ignore it—it could be a sign of a brewing blockage.

When to Call the Experts at Crisafulli Bros.

Some HVAC and plumbing noises are minor. Others could be early warnings of a system failure. If you hear any of the above, especially if the sounds are new or getting louder—it’s time to call in a professional.

At Crisafulli Bros., we:

• Diagnose problems quickly and accurately
• Provide honest, no-pressure repair recommendations
• Offer 24/7 emergency services
• Keep homes across Albany, Clifton Park and the surrounding cities in the Capital Region, Hudson Valley and North Country safe, efficient, and comfortable

Hear Something? Let’s Take a Listen.

Don’t wait until a strange noise becomes a big breakdown. Contact Crisafulli Bros. Home Services today to schedule your HVAC or plumbing inspection and bring peace and quiet back to your home. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

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Unveiling the Mystery: Why Your Sump Pump Is So Loud

Sump pumps can become noisy for several reasons, often indicating repair needs. Let’s explore the common culprits behind why your sump pump is so loud and how to address them.

1. Check Valve Clatter

A check valve prevents backflow, ensuring water flows in one direction out of your sump pit. If this valve is faulty or absent, the reverse flow can cause loud banging noises. Installing a quiet check valve or assessing the existing one for functionality can mitigate this noise.

• Vibrations and Discharge Pipes

Improperly secured discharge pipes can lead to significant noise due to vibrations. Ensuring pipes are tightly fastened and adding rubber grommets can dampen the sound, addressing why your sump pump is so loud.

• Impeller Issues: Grinding and Gurgling Noises

A damaged or faulty impeller can cause grinding noises, whereas air trapped in the system might result in gurgling sounds. Inspecting the impeller for damage and ensuring proper venting can solve these sump pump noises.

• Motor Mayhem

The motor, the heart of the pump, can be a source of loud operational sounds if it’s wearing out or if the pump is straining. Considering a silent model or servicing the motor can reduce this disruptive noise.

How to Diagnose Your Loud Sump Pump

Why is your sump pump so loud? To diagnose the problem, start by identifying the type of noise and when it occurs. Is it a gurgling noise or a banging noise? Does it happen during operation or after the pump has stopped? These clues can help pinpoint the issue.

Solutions for a Quieter Sump Pump

If you’re tired of a loud sump pump noise coming from your basement, you probably want to fix the issue as soon as possible.

1. Regular Maintenance and Inspection

Preventative maintenance can catch a problem early, avoiding more severe issues down the line. Check for debris in the sump basin, ensure the pump is standing upright, and inspect the impeller for damage.

• Install a Quiet Check Valve

A quiet check valve is designed to reduce the noise of water slamming back into the pit. If your current check valve is the source of noise, replacing it with a quieter model can make a significant difference.

• Upgrade Your Sump Pump

If your pump is old, upgrading to a newer, quieter model can be a game-changer. Submersible sump pumps tend to be quieter than pedestal sump pumps, offering a less intrusive presence.

You may also want to consider installing a water-powered backup sump pump. These models are generally quieter than their electric counterparts and provide peace of mind during power outages.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’ve tried troubleshooting your sump pump but can’t resolve the noise issue, it may be time to call in the experts. Loud sump pump noises can indicate a serious problem that, if left unaddressed, could lead to pump failure and significant water damage.

Your Go-To Sump Pump Experts in the Capital Region and North Country.

Crisafulli Bros. offers comprehensive sump pump repair and installation services. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, our plumbers in Albany and the surrounding areas can diagnose and fix any sump pump issue, ensuring your basement stays dry and your pump operates quietly.

Ready to Quiet Your Sump Pump? Contact Crisafulli Bros. Today!

A loud sump pump can be more than just a nuisance; it can signal underlying issues that need attention. By understanding why your sump pump is so loud and taking steps to address the problem, you can protect your home from water damage while maintaining peace and quiet. Remember, scheduling regular maintenance and professional sump pump repair when necessary are key to keeping your sump pump running smoothly.

For residents experiencing sump pump problems in Albany, Clifton Park, Glens Falls and surrounding areas, don’t let the noise become the soundtrack of your home. Schedule a service with Crisafulli Bros. right away and let our team of expert plumbers provide you with a quiet, efficient sump pump solution. If you’re ready for professional sump pump service near Albany, NY, reach out to us today!

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Unexplained Water Pools and Dampness

One of the most obvious signs of a burst pipe is the presence of water where it shouldn’t be. If you notice puddles forming under sinks, near water pipes, or along walls, it’s likely a sign of a leaking or burst pipe. Water stains on ceilings and walls are also telltale signs. These indicators suggest that water is escaping from somewhere it shouldn’t, often due to a burst pipe.

Changes in Water Pressure

A sudden or gradual decrease in water pressure can be a critical sign of a burst pipe. When pipes burst, the water that should be flowing to your faucets or shower heads leaks out, resulting in lowered pressure. If you’re experiencing fluctuating water pressure or a significant drop, it’s a strong indication that you may have a burst or leaking pipe in your plumbing system.

Unusual Sounds in the Plumbing System

An often-overlooked sign of burst pipes is the sound they make. If you hear dripping sounds, hissing, or a distinct rushing water sound within your walls, it’s a clear sign of a plumbing problem. These sounds indicate that water is escaping from your pipes and flowing into areas where it shouldn’t be.

Foul Odors and Discolored Water

If you detect a foul smell resembling rotten eggs or notice discolored water coming from your faucets, it could be due to a busted water pipe. These symptoms often occur when a pipe bursts underground, contaminating the water supply. Additionally, standing water from burst pipes can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors.

Spike in Water Bills

An unexpected increase in your water bill can be a sign that a pipe burst has occurred. When pipes burst, water leaks continuously, leading to higher water usage and, consequently, higher bills. If your water consumption habits haven’t changed, but your bill has spiked, it’s time to investigate for burst pipes.

Preventing and Addressing Burst Pipes

If you want to prevent burst pipes, it’s essential to maintain your home’s plumbing system — especially during freezing temperatures. Insulate exposed pipes, keep your home at a warm temperature, and routinely check for any signs of water leaks. If you identify any of the signs mentioned, it’s crucial to call a professional plumber immediately to avoid serious water damage.

Crisafulli Bros. provides expert plumbing services, including pipe repairs and installations. Our team of skilled piping and plumbing system technicians is equipped to handle any plumbing emergency, ensuring your home is safe from the havoc of burst or leaking pipes.

Schedule Your Emergency Plumbing Services Today!

Don’t let a burst or broken pipe disrupt your winter. If you’re experiencing any signs of a burst pipe or need professional guidance, contact Crisafulli Bros. today. We proudly serve the residents of the Albany, NY and Glens Falls, NY areas with the best emergency plumbing services.

Remember, identifying the signs of a burst pipe early can save you from costly repairs and significant damage to your home. You can count on the Crisafulli Bros. experts for all your plumbing needs!

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Take action to protect your plumbing system, health, and the environment by choosing the right solution for your drain cleaning needs.

The Reality of Chemical Drain Cleaners

Before we discuss whether or not drain cleaner is bad for pipes, it’s crucial to know what options there are. Drain cleaners are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They come in various forms, including liquid, gel, foam, and crystal. The main types are:

• Caustic drain cleaners: Containing substances like sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, these cleaners generate heat to break down clogs.
• Oxidizing drain cleaners: These include nitrates, bleach, and peroxides, which cause the organic material in the clog to lose electrons and become more soluble in water.
• Acidic drain cleaners: Containing sulfuric or hydrochloric acid, these are often more potent and hazardous.

Harsh Chemicals and Their Impact

Chemical drain cleaners are popular for their promise of quick and effortless unclogging. However, drain cleaner is dangerous in some instances. That’s because these products often contain harsh chemicals such as sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, and lye. These substances can corrode and weaken pipes, especially in older plumbing systems or PVC pipes. This corrosion can lead to leaks and even broken pipes, resulting in expensive repairs.

Health Risks of Drain Cleaners

Drain cleaner is bad for pipes in some cases and may pose significant health risks as well. Inhalation of fumes can lead to respiratory issues, and accidental skin contact might cause severe burns. These products are highly toxic, and their misuse can result in serious health hazards.

Environmental Concerns

Sure, drain cleaner is dangerous for pipes when used on a frequent basis — but it can also wreak havoc in our environment. These products can contaminate water sources, harming aquatic life and ecosystems. The chemical reactions they induce contribute to environmental damage, making them an unsustainable choice for drain cleaning.

Alternatives to Chemical Drain Cleaners

For minor clogs, natural solutions like a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can be effective. These ingredients cause a chemical reaction that helps break down organic material without damaging pipes or posing health risks.

Mechanical Methods

Physical methods like using a drain snake or plunger often provide a safer and more effective solution. These tools can remove clogs without the need for harmful chemicals, protecting your plumbing system and health.

Preventative Measures

Regular maintenance — such as avoiding the disposal of grease or large food particles in the sink and using strainers in drains can prevent clogged drains. This proactive approach reduces the need for drain cleaners altogether.

Professional Assistance

For stubborn clogs, seeking the assistance of a professional plumber is advisable. They can address the issue without resorting to damaging chemical cleaners. Experienced plumbers have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix plumbing concerns effectively.

Schedule Your Drain Cleaning Services Today!

So, is drain cleaner bad for pipes? The answer is clear: while effective in the short term, chemical drain cleaners can cause long-term damage to pipes, pose health risks, and are harmful to the environment. For safe and effective solutions to clogged drains, consider mechanical methods or natural alternatives. Regular maintenance and mindful usage can prevent most clogging issues.

A clogged drain can be a pain, but you don’t have to deal with it alone. If you’re in need of professional help, turn to Crisafulli Bros. for services you can trust! We’re proud to offer professional drain cleaning in Albany, NY, Glens Falls, NY and the surrounding areas. Don’t let a temporary solution cause permanent damage. Choose safer methods for your home and the environment.

Whether you need routine maintenance or emergency plumbing in Albany, we’re the team to call. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in Upstate NY!

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Traditional water heaters with large storage tanks are being replaced by their sleek, compact counterparts that offer a great benefits. In this post, we’ll delve into the advantages of making the switch to a tankless water heater.

1. Lower Energy Bills

One of the most compelling reasons to switch to a tankless hot water heater is its energy efficiency. Traditional tank water heaters need to constantly heat and reheat a large volume of water, which can be energy intensive. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, only heat water as it’s needed, which can save a significant amount of energy. In fact, tankless water heaters can be up to 50% more energy efficient than traditional tank water heaters. This not only saves energy, but it can also result in lower energy bills.

2. Endless Hot Water

Another benefit of tankless hot water heaters is their ability to provide an endless supply of hot water. Traditional tank water heaters have a limited amount of hot water they can store, which means that once the tank is empty, you have to wait for it to heat up more water. This can be frustrating, especially if you have a large household or if multiple people are trying to use hot water at the same time. With a tankless water heater, you’ll never run out of hot water, as the water is heated on demand as it flows through the unit.

3. Compact Design

In addition to their energy efficiency and endless hot water supply, tankless hot water heaters are also more compact and space-saving than traditional tank water heaters. Tankless water heaters are much smaller in size, as they don’t need to store a large volume of water. This makes them ideal for small homes or apartments where space is at a premium.

4. Longevity

Tankless hot water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional tank water heaters. Tank heaters typically last for about 10 years, whereas tankless water heaters can last for 20 years or more! This means that you’ll likely need to replace your tankless water heater less often, which can save you money in the long run.

5. Reduced Water Waste

Waiting for the water to heat up is not only frustrating but also contributes to water waste. With a tankless hot water heater, there’s no need to let the tap run while waiting for the water to reach the desired temperature. This reduction in water wastage can have a positive impact on both your water bill and the environment.

6. Customizable Temperatures

Tankless water heaters often come with temperature control options. This means you can set the water temperature to your preference, avoiding scalding or lukewarm water issues. Some models even offer remote control or smartphone apps that allow you to adjust the temperature conveniently.

7. Minimal Maintenance

Tankless hot water heaters require less maintenance compared to traditional heaters. The absence of a storage tank eliminates the risk of tank leads and sediment buildup. While periodic flushing is recommended to prevent mineral buildup, overall maintenance is generally less demanding.

Making the switch to a tankless hot water heater can bring about a range of benefits, from energy and space savings to continuous hot water and reduced water waste. As technology advances, these tankless systems are becoming increasingly efficient and affordable, making them an attractive option for homeowners looking to upgrade their water heating systems. 

Contact the expert plumbers at Crisafulli Bros. to discuss the benefits of making a switch and to receive a customized solution tailored to your specific home’s needs.

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Oftentimes, drainage work is the most foreign to our customers. To help you get an idea of what can cause a drain problem, as well as how such issues can be fixed, we have compiled a quick glossary of drain terminology every property owner should know.

Commonplace drainage terms you may hear or recognize:

• Backflow: Water that flows in reverse, or back into your home. Backflow can come from any faucet or water outlet, but typically occurs in a sewer line, meaning hazardous sewer water can flood back into your home.
• Collection box: In many drainage systems, water collected through a grate is first pooled into a collection box. Another pipe attached to the collection box to drain water from there. Collection boxes help prevent the permanent loss of valuables that fall through a grate.
• Discharge: Any water removed through a drainage system is generally called discharge.
• Downspout: Any pipe installed vertically in a drainage system. A common downspout is the one that leads from your roof’s gutter system down to the ground.
• French drain: A drainage system topped with loose rocks or gravel, which helps redirect water towards a grate or collection box. French drains are popular for their appearance and helpfulness in preventing ground movement due to heavy rain.
• Grade: As it is with mathematics, grade in drainage systems refers to the ground’s slope compared to the foundation. Negative grades pool water back towards the foundation and, thusly, are not desirable. Positive grades move water away from the foundation.
• Kitchen drain: Any drain in your kitchen or that drains from your kitchen. There may be multiple drains within your kitchen other than the sink, such as for the dishwasher and the refrigerator.
• Pop-up valve: A specialized end of a drainage system that allows for manual opening when more rapid drainage is needed.
• Snaking: When there is a bad clog in a drain or pipe, plumbing technicians can use a snaking system to remove it. The “snake” is not the animal, but instead a flexible auger that can be fed deeply down the drain to reach the source of the clog.
• Storm drain: A typically-large drain to remove great amounts of water during strong storms and discharge it into the city’s main sewer line. Storm drains on your property are likely your responsibility to service and keep in good condition.
• Sump pump: A pump system placed in basements, cellars, and low points in some yards where immediate drainage is not installed. The pump will siphon pooling water and send it down an attached hose, where it can discharge as needed at the other end. Sump pumps can be turned on manually or automatically, depending on the unit.
• Swale: A small concrete tunnel that helps direct water away from areas where it can collect. Swales often run alongside driveways so discharge can easily reach the street’s gutter.

Have more questions about sewer and drainage terms and services? Please feel free to call (518) 868-0494 and speak with Crisafulli Bros. of Albany. With more than 80 years of industry experience, you can trust that our knowledge is accurate. You can also contact us online to arrange a service today.

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Here are a few reasons why clogs form in drains during springtime, and some helpful advice you can take to proactively combat these clogs and prevent them from forming in the first place.

Rapid Growth of Tree Roots

When trees come out of hibernation at the start of spring, they look for additional sources of water to fuel their growth over the next several months. To do this, their roots will grow and spread, looking for more water in the soil. Unfortunately for home and business owners, the most convenient and concentrated source of both water and nutrients is found in your drain lines.

In a typical property, water runoff flows directly to your storm and perimeter drains, significantly increasing the volume of water flowing through these drains over the rainstorm season. This is only compounded by the fact that many properties in the Albany area have their storm and perimeter drains tied in with their sanitary drains, essentially meaning that every drain in your property flows through to the same main sewer line. Should a tree root intrude into this line, the influx of water will cause the tree root to grow rapidly, eventually filling the diameter of the pipe and blocking all of your drains.

Tree root intrusion is a serious problem, especially in older properties where this single main sewer line is a clay pipe. Clay is not a commonly-used material anymore, but many older or historic homes and businesses with original plumbing still rely on clay. Clay is one of the materials that’s the most prone to tree root intrusion, as over time they can form microscopic cracks and stress fractures which create pathways for tiny tree roots to sneak in. When these roots find the excessive rush of water during the heavy rains of spring, they grow, expand to the diameter of the pipe, and suddenly you’ve got a complete blockage.

How to Stop Tree Root Intrusion

The easiest way to stop tree root intrusion is to simply keep trees away from your main drain lines. While there’s not much you can do if a tree has already been planted and your main drain line has already been run, most modern construction and buildings will strategically keep trees away from drain lines for this very reason.

As experienced plumbers, we’ve seen what can happen with drain blockages, and we recommend being proactive about your drain maintenance with regular camera inspections to ensure your lines are clear and in good condition. If necessary, we will recommend snaking or jetting your pipes to keep them free and clear.

If you have clay lines, you may want to consider replacing them with more commonly used pipes made from plastic material. This type of drain line is extremely durable and can withstand decades of use without issue. Plastic pipes are also far less prone to the micro-fractures and small holes which tree roots can intrude into. Replacing a drain line can be an intrusive and costly endeavor, but trenchless pipe replacement could be an option for you, depending on your circumstances. Our plumbing experts can provide you with solutions and recommendations.

If your storm or perimeter drains clog up this spring, call the Albany plumbers at Crisafulli Bros Plumbing & Heating Contractors at (518) 868-0494 and let us get it fixed and flowing smoothly again.

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As easy as it is to forget about the functionality and maintenance of your toilet, it can be all you think about once it stops working. As with so many things, you don’t know what you have until it’s gone. In order to avoid a fiasco like a nonoperational toilet, make sure you know what signs to look for before your toilet breaks for good.

When it’s time to get a new toilet, you may notice the following clues:

1. Your toilet frequently clogs. A clogged toilet might occur because you tried to flush something too large, but if it the clogs happen frequently, it might indicate a bigger issue. In some cases, this might mean you have a blocked sewer line or a localized clog.

2. It never flushes completely. When your toilet isn’t flushing completely, the flushing mechanism in the toilet might be broken.

3. The water within your toilet bowl doesn’t refill after each flush. When a toilet bowl does not refill with water after it is flushed, it usually means something is going wrong with the valves.

4. Your toilet is cracked. Cracked porcelain can be dangerous because it may cause the toilet to break apart. Or, small fissures may lead to major leaks that cause water damage within your bathroom.

5. You notice water gathering around the toilet base. If you notice water around your toilet, the seal between the toilet and floor may be broken, or the porcelain itself could be cracked. A water leak might also be the result of an overflowing toilet. Whatever the case, it can lead to severe, costly water damage.

6. Your toilet is constantly running. When you hear the sounds of your toilet running nearly all the time, you likely have a broken mechanical part within the toilet, called the flapper.

Dealing with a broken or malfunctioning toilet can be very inconvenient, and might even cause serious plumbing issues. It can be easy to forget about maintaining your toilet, but with how often we use these crucial plumbing components, we should know more about keeping them functional. If you notice something off going on with your toilet, make sure you contact an experienced, skilled plumber.

While it may be tempting to try to solve these issues yourself, do-it-yourself methods can worsen the issue and lead to more damage in the end. Instead, reach out to our professional plumbers at Crisafulli Bros. Plumbing & Heating Contractors, Inc. for help with your toilet concern. We can assess the issue, propose a way to fix it, and perform the necessary maintenance, repair, or replacement in a timely fashion.

Ready to get started? Contact Crisafulli Bros. Plumbing & Heating Contractors, Inc. to speak with our Albany HVAC technicians and plumbers, today!

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• As the summer heats up in the afternoon, we are prone with those heavy rains showers or thunderstorms. Excessive rain can get into sewer pipes through cracks and cause the sewer line to back up. You might also experience trouble if tree roots spread underground and crack the pipes. If you see any signs of sewer line trouble such as water from the toilet backing up into the bathtub drain, call a qualified plumber right away.
• It’s also a good idea to make sure your sump pump is working properly during the summer months. You may want to consider a back up system if you are concerned about water damage should your current pump stop doing it’s job!

The best defense to ensuring your plumbing is running properly is to schedule an annual maintenance inspection!

Enjoy the summer with your family and friends!

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