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Allen Service Allen Service
Fort Collins (970) 431-6574
Denver Metro (303) 529-7362

FAQ

FAQs Made Simple

(Because Home Care Doesn’t Have to Be Hard)

  • General HVAC

    • An HVAC contractor specializes in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. They install, maintain, and repair equipment that controls home temperature, humidity, and air quality. If you're wondering what an HVAC contractor is, these trained professionals handle everything from furnace installations to AC repairs and maintenance. Our licensed HVAC experts at Allen Service provide quality service to keep Fort Collins homes comfortable year-round.
    • An HVAC contactor is the essential electrical switch in your air conditioning system that controls power flow to your compressor and outdoor fan motor. This small but critical component allows your AC to turn on and off based on thermostat signals. When contactors fail, your entire cooling system can stop working, often during the hottest days. Regular maintenance by our technicians can prevent these unexpected breakdowns. Learn more about what HVAC contractor does and what causes them to fail in our detailed guide.
    • When selecting an HVAC service provider, choosing an HVAC contractor who delivers quality results is essential. Look for proper licensing, experience, positive reviews, fair pricing, and strong warranties. Allen Service has served Fort Collins for over 60 years with trained technicians, fully stocked trucks, and a reputation for reliability.
    • Yes, HVAC contractors in Colorado must be licensed to operate legally. Colorado's licensing requirements ensure technicians are trained to safely work with heating and cooling systems. All Allen Service technicians hold the required licenses and certifications, exceeding state standards through our commitment to ongoing professional education. For detailed information about Colorado's HVAC licensing requirements and why they matter for your home, visit our guide on Are HVAC contractors licensed in Colorado?
    • HVAC contractor rates in Colorado typically range from $75-$150 per hour. For a detailed breakdown of pricing factors, check our complete guide to HVAC contractor hourly rates. At Allen Service, we provide upfront, transparent pricing before beginning work. Our certified technicians deliver efficient service that solves problems correctly the first time, offering the best long-term value for Fort Collins homeowners and businesses.

  • Furnace Repair

    • The most common furnace problem is a dirty or clogged air filter, which restricts airflow and forces your system to work harder. This leads to inefficient operation, higher energy bills, and potential overheating. Other frequent issues include faulty ignition systems, malfunctioning thermostats, and worn-out blower motors. Regular maintenance can prevent most of these problems and extend your furnace's lifespan.
    • The average cost of furnace repair in Fort Collins ranges from $150 to $450, depending on the specific issue and parts required. Simple fixes like replacing ignitors or flame sensors tend to be on the lower end, while more complex electrical or mechanical repairs cost more. At Allen Service, we provide upfront, transparent pricing before any work begins, and we offer financing options for larger repairs to make unexpected heating expenses more manageable.
    • The most expensive furnace repair is typically replacing the heat exchanger, which can cost between $1,500 and $3,500 depending on your furnace model. Heat exchanger cracks often indicate a furnace nearing the end of its useful life. Other costly repairs include replacing the blower motor assembly ($800-$1,500) or control board ($500-$1,100). When facing expensive repairs on older units, our technicians will honestly advise whether repair or furnace installation offers better long-term value.
    • A furnace can stop working due to several issues, including electrical problems (tripped circuit breakers, blown fuses), thermostat malfunctions, ignition or pilot light failures, broken blower motors, or safety switch activations. Gas furnaces may stop due to gas supply interruptions or valve issues. Preventative maintenance can identify potential problems before they cause complete system failure. If your furnace stops working, our Allen Service technicians are available for prompt diagnosis and repair to restore your home's comfort quickly.

  • Ductless Mini-Splits

    • The experienced team at Allen Service installs, repairs, and maintains ductless mini split air conditioning systems.
    • A mini split heat pump can sometimes cut energy usage by up to 60%. The amount of energy you can save will vary with each home.
    • Our team installs single-zone, multi-zone, wall-mounted, floor-mounted, and ceiling cassette mini split systems.
    • Mini split systems come in multiple sizes. Our team can determine the correct size for your home based on your square footage, ceiling height, and the local climate.
    • We install and work on all types of mini split systems. We recommend going with a trusted brand in the industry and would be happy to recommend the best system for your needs.

  • Air Conditioning

    • We recommend having your Fort Collins AC serviced at least once a year to ensure it is functioning efficiently and to catch any potential issues before they become major problems.
    • Absolutely. Our team of experts can assess your space and cooling needs to recommend the best system for your home.
    • Yes, we understand that your home cooling systems can break down unexpectedly. That's why we offer 24/7 emergency repair services for our customers.
    • The time it takes to install a new AC system can vary depending on the size and complexity of your home. Our team will provide you with an estimated timeline during the initial consultation.

  • Air Conditioning Repair

    • The cost of AC repairs in Fort Collins typically ranges from $150 to $650, depending on the issue. Simple fixes like replacing a capacitor or contactor might cost around $150-$300, while more complex repairs involving refrigerant leaks or compressor issues can range from $400-$650. At Allen Service, we provide upfront pricing before beginning any work, so you'll know exactly what to expect without any surprises.
    • When your AC is running but not cooling effectively, several issues could be to blame: clogged air filters restricting airflow, refrigerant leaks reducing cooling capacity, dirty condenser coils preventing proper heat exchange, thermostat malfunctions, or duct leakage. Our technicians can quickly diagnose the specific cause and recommend the most cost-effective solution to restore your comfort.
    • This depends on several factors, including the age of your unit, repair frequency, and efficiency. Generally, if your AC is less than 10 years old and repairs would cost less than 50% of a new unit, repairing makes financial sense. However, if your unit is older than 15 years, requires frequent repairs, or uses R-22 refrigerant (which is being phased out), replacement often provides better long-term value through improved energy efficiency and reliability.
    • The most common AC problem we encounter in Fort Collins homes is restricted or reduced airflow, typically caused by dirty filters, blocked condenser units, or duct issues. This seemingly simple problem can lead to frozen evaporator coils, increased energy usage, and even compressor damage if left unaddressed. Regular maintenance from Allen Service can prevent these issues and extend the life of your system.
    • Air conditioners typically stop working due to electrical problems (blown fuses, tripped circuit breakers, faulty wiring), thermostat malfunctions, refrigerant leaks, frozen evaporator coils, or compressor failures. Extreme weather conditions in Fort Collins can also strain your system beyond its capacity. With our 60+ years of experience, Allen Service technicians can quickly identify and resolve whatever is causing your AC to stop working, often on the same day you call.

  • Plumbing

    • Finding a trustworthy plumber in Fort Collins involves asking neighbors, friends, and family for referrals, checking online reviews across multiple platforms, and verifying proper licensing and insurance. Look for plumbers with experience in your specific issue, request references, and get written estimates before work begins. A reliable plumber should offer clear communication and stand behind their work with some form of guarantee.
    • Professional plumbers install, repair, and maintain the systems that move water, waste, and gas throughout homes and businesses. This includes fixing leaky faucets, clearing clogs, repairing water heaters, installing fixtures, addressing sewer issues, and providing preventative maintenance. Many plumber plumbing professionals also offer consultation on water efficiency improvements and system upgrades, using specialized tools to diagnose complex problems accurately.
    • Plumbing service rates in Fort Collins typically range from $75 to $150 per hour. Factors affecting the rate include job complexity, emergency or after-hours service, and the plumber's experience level. Some companies charge flat rates for common services rather than hourly rates. When comparing costs, consider that experienced plumbers may complete work more efficiently, potentially providing better value despite higher hourly rates.
    • Call an emergency plumber when facing situations that pose immediate risks to your property or health, such as burst pipes, major leaks causing water damage, sewage backups, gas leaks, or complete loss of water supply during extreme weather. Issues with your home's only toilet or water heater failure during cold weather also warrant emergency plumbing attention. Prompt professional response can prevent extensive damage and costly repairs.
    • Common plumbing issues in Fort Collins homes include frozen and burst pipes during winter months, hard water mineral buildup in fixtures and appliances, tree root intrusion in sewer lines in older neighborhoods, water pressure problems, and clogged drains. Many local homes also experience water heater problems, especially in areas with mineral-rich water. Regular maintenance from a qualified Fort Collins plumber can help prevent these regional plumbing challenges.

  • Emergency Plumbing

    • A plumbing emergency is any situation that poses an immediate threat to your home or requires urgent attention. This includes burst or severely leaking pipes, sewer backups, gas leaks, no hot water in winter, frozen pipes that may burst, overflowing toilets that won't stop with plunger use, and major water leaks that could cause structural damage. When experiencing water damage, contamination risks, or complete system failure, it's important to call emergency plumbers right away.
    • The cost of an emergency plumber visit varies depending on several factors, including the time of day, complexity of the issue, parts required, and the extent of the repairs needed. While emergency services may have additional fees compared to scheduled appointments due to their urgent nature, most reputable companies offer transparent pricing. Professional plumbers typically provide upfront estimates before beginning work. Addressing plumbing emergencies quickly often prevents more expensive damage to your home.
    • Most professional plumbing companies prioritize emergency calls and strive to respond as quickly as possible. In most cases, emergency plumbers can arrive within 1-2 hours of your call. During extreme weather events or periods of high demand, response times may vary. The 24/7 availability of emergency plumbing services means that crews are ready to dispatch at any hour, day or night, to address urgent plumbing needs promptly.
    • A clogged toilet can qualify as a plumbing emergency depending on the circumstances. If you have multiple bathrooms and one toilet is clogged but others are functioning, it may not be an immediate emergency. However, if it's your only toilet, if sewage is backing up, if water is overflowing onto the floor, or if the clog doesn't respond to plunger use, it's time to call for emergency assistance. Persistent clogs can indicate deeper issues in your sewer line that require professional attention to prevent property damage and health hazards.

  • Water Heaters

    • Tankless water heaters heat water directly as it flows through the device, without using a storage tank. When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. The advanced technology behind tankless water heaters uses either a gas burner or an electric element to heat the water instantly. This provides a constant supply of hot water without the standby energy losses associated with traditional tank heaters.
    • Traditional tank water heaters typically last 8-12 years with proper maintenance. Tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan of 15-20 years. Understanding water heater lifespan factors can help you maximize your unit's performance. Regular maintenance, including annual flushing of sediment and anode rod inspection, can extend your water heater's life. Fort Collins water conditions may impact these timeframes due to mineral content.
    • Water heater costs vary based on type, size, and energy efficiency. Standard tank water heaters typically range from $700-$2,000 installed. Tankless water heaters generally cost $1,800-$4,500 installed. Comparing water heater installation costs can help you make a better investment decision. High-efficiency models may qualify for tax credits that offset some of this cost. Allen Service provides free estimates for your specific situation.
    • The "best" water heater depends on your specific needs. Tank heaters are good for families needing multiple hot water sources running simultaneously. Choosing the right water heater type for your home involves considering several factors. Tankless heaters save energy and space while providing endless hot water. Electric models work well in homes without gas lines. Gas units heat water faster and often cost less to operate. Our technicians can help you choose based on your home size, hot water usage, budget, and energy priorities.
    • Water heaters warm and maintain water at a set temperature for household uses including bathing, showering, washing dishes, laundry, and cooking. The essential functions of residential water heaters include connecting to your home's plumbing system to deliver hot water on demand to various fixtures and appliances throughout your home. Without a properly functioning water heater, you'd be left with only cold water for all household tasks.

  • Electrical

    • If your home is over 20 years old with its original panel, or you're experiencing frequent tripped breakers and flickering lights, it's time to consider an upgrade. Modern homes require significantly more electrical capacity than older panels can provide. Learn more about signs you need an electrical panel upgrade to determine if your system can handle today's electrical demands.
    • Watch for warning signs like frequent power outages, burning smells from outlets, scorch marks around switches, or outdated wiring materials such as knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring. These indicators suggest your home's electrical system may be unsafe or inadequate. Discover the complete list of home rewiring warning signs to protect your family and property.
    • It’s always recommended to hire a licensed electrician for any electrical repairs to ensure safety and avoid potential hazards. Attempting to do repairs without proper knowledge and training can be dangerous.
    • Yes, we provide round-the-clock emergency electrical services for urgent situations that pose immediate safety risks. Whether it's a power outage, sparking outlets, or electrical fires, our certified electricians are available 24/7. Contact us immediately for emergency electrical services near you when safety cannot wait.
    • While simple tasks like changing light bulbs are safe for homeowners, electrical repairs should always be handled by licensed professionals. DIY electrical work can lead to serious injuries, fires, or code violations that affect your insurance coverage. Understand why hiring a licensed electrician is essential for your safety and peace of mind.
    • Schedule an electrical inspection when buying or selling a home, after major renovations, if your system is over 25 years old, or if you're experiencing electrical issues like frequent breaker trips or flickering lights. Additionally, homes with older wiring systems should be inspected annually, while newer homes benefit from inspections every 3-5 years. Learn about optimal timing for home electrical inspections to maintain safety and prevent costly electrical problems before they occur.

  • Ceiling Fans

    • Choosing the right ceiling fan for your home can be a daunting task. The design of the ceiling fan is extremely important, but there are other considerations that are often overlooked. Things to keep in mind when choosing the right ceiling fan include energy efficiency, noise, wind speed, air circulation capabilities, and durability.
    • It’s important to choose the proper size when having a ceiling fan installed in your home. Get the measurements of the room you want your fan installed in so you have a good idea of how large or small the fan will be compared to the room size. Your preferences are the most significant factor when it comes to determining the size of your fan.
    • Moisture is the main difference between indoor and outdoor ceiling fans. Indoor ceiling fans are dry rated and only designed to service indoor areas that are not exposed to moisture. Outdoor ceiling fans can be wet rated or damp rated. Wet rated ceiling fans can withstand the elements, including rain. Damp rated outdoor ceiling fans are for covered, damp areas that are not directly exposed to the elements.
    • Adding a ceiling fan to your home can provide you with many benefits. A new ceiling fan can enhance your home’s décor, comfort, and add beauty and style. Most ceiling fans offer another source of light that can brighten up any area of your home. Ceiling fans are best known for cooling down a room and circulating air. Adding a ceiling fan can also help you save money because you may not need to run your air conditioner as often. If you’re ready to add a ceiling fan to your Fort Collins home, contact Allen Service today to request an appointment.

  • Circuit Breakers

    • The cost of installing or replacing your home’s circuit breaker varies depending on how old it is, if it was wired correctly the first time, and how readily available the parts are for your purchase. Don’t be tempted to save money by cutting corners and doing it yourself. Your home’s circuit breaker acts as the lifeblood of your home and requires proper installation. We provide transparent cost estimates, so you know exactly how much you’ll pay.
    • Whether you can add more breakers to a panel depends on the capacity of the circuit breaker panel. If the panel is able to handle the extra load, our electricians can add new breakers to your panel. If you aren’t sure if your breaker box can handle the load, our team will be happy to find out for you.
    • Since the electrical panel acts as the brain and lifeblood of your home, it’s essential that the job is done right. It will often cost you more if you do the work wrong and require a professional to make it right. Save money, time, and hassle by hiring Allen Service the first time around.
    • If your home has old circuit breakers, you may be starting to feel the pinch. If your circuit breakers are frequently tripping, it’s time to do something about it. Circuit breakers tend to go bad after years of use. Circuit breakers should be replaced immediately if they produce a burning smell or feel hot. You may be in danger of electric shock or fire if you have a Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) electrical panel. The benefits of replacing your circuit breakers include protecting your expensive electronics, preventing possible data loss, avoiding interruptions to your internet connection, minimizing your fire risk, and more.
    • There are three basic types of circuit breakers, including standard breakers (single-pole and double-pole), ground fault circuit interrupter breakers (GFCIs), and arc fault circuit interrupter breakers (AFCIs).
    • Circuit breakers work by interrupting the flow of electrical current when it exceeds a pre-set amount.
    • There are several common reasons for circuit breakers to trip. These reasons include, but are not limited to, the following: an overloaded circuit, a short circuit, a ground fault, or an arc fault.
    • On average, the lifespan of electrical circuit breakers is between 30 and 40 years, though this can lessen if there are electrical issues, such as poor power ratings or fluctuating voltages.

  • Electrical Installation

    • Generally, fuse panels running your electricity is not a safe practice. This is because any electrical system using a panel is undoubtedly old, and older systems suffer from wear and tear as well as an inability to keep up with modern electrical needs. If you’re running your electricity on fuse panels, you should seriously consider upgrading. Our team can assess your fuse panels and electricity needs and provide you with a free price quote.
    • The main difference between a fuse and a circuit breaker is that a fuse will not have to be replaced once it has been tripped, whereas a circuit breaker will not require replacement. Both accomplish the same function, which is to disrupt the flow of electricity when a fault is detected.
    • Figuring out what size electrical service system you will need for your property is a difficult task involving a lot of numbers and math. If you need a new electrical service system installed in your home, Allen Service would be happy to help you figure out what size system you need and how much it will cost to have it installed.

  • Lighting Installations

    • In order to determine how much to budget for lighting, you will need to have a lighting expert from Allen Service visit your home and work with you to figure out your lighting needs. Our team members will also be able to give you a free price quote.
    • If you’re looking to conceal the lighting in your ceiling, you can work with a lighting expert to assess your home and lighting needs and advise you on how to achieve your goals.
    • Timers can be used on outdoor lighting. You can achieve this by having a photocell attached to your transformer, so your lights automatically turn on at sunset and off at sunrise. You can also use a timer and set it, so your lights turn on and off at the times you prefer. We also offer smart lighting control for all your interior or outdoor lighting. Just think, controlling your lighting systems from your phone on a beach anywhere in the world.

  • Home Surge Protection

    • Surge protectors are typically installed in the main panel box, the home’s electrical system. Surge protectors are designed to halt power surges at the panel before they enter the rest of your home. Panel surge protectors divert all the energy away from your home out to the grounding system to prevent potential catastrophes. Surge protectors can be life-saving additions to your home by preventing severe house fires.
    • Surge protectors provide many benefits but are not designed to help you save money on energy bills. Surge protectors act as a gatekeeper to protect your home. The power that comes into your surge protector will have already passed through the meter and recorded with your electrical service provider. Surge protectors block surges in energy to prevent electrical mishaps.
    • Surge protectors protect almost everything in your home, but there are a few rare instances in which lightning or surges could still travel along the main electrical, cable, or phone lines and strike your home. Lightning typically takes the path of least resistance and quickly exhausts all of its energy. Whole-home surge protectors are your best protection against lighting and surges and provide an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

  • Switches & Outlets

    • In most modern homes, it’s possible to add a new outlet and use the existing circuits. We highly recommend hiring our expert electricians when installing any circuits or outlets because this work can be very hazardous.
    • The average cost of installing an electrical outlet in the U.S. is $160. Your price depends on multiple factors, and Allen Service always offers fair and honest free quotes before we perform the job.
    • Modern bedrooms generally require one outlet for every 12 feet of wall space and a minimum of one outlet on each wall. Some homeowners prefer additional outlets, and we will work with you to ensure you have all the electrical outlets your home needs.

  • Sewer & Drain

    • Most residential drainage systems benefit from professional cleaning every 1-2 years, though this can vary based on several factors. Homes with large families, older plumbing systems, or numerous trees near sewer lines may require more frequent maintenance. Watch for warning signs like slow drains, gurgling sounds, or recurring clogs—these indicate your system needs immediate attention.
    • A residential drainage system operates through a network of pipes that use gravity and pressure to move wastewater away from your home. When you use fixtures like sinks, showers, or toilets, waste and water flow through individual drain pipes that connect to larger branch lines. These branch lines feed into your main drain line, which carries all wastewater out to the municipal sewer system or your private septic tank.
    • Surface drainage systems are the most common type for residential properties in Fort Collins. These systems manage water that collects on your property's surface through components like gutters, downspouts, channel drains, and yard drains. For interior plumbing, gravity-fed drainage systems are standard in most homes, using the natural force of gravity to move wastewater through pipes. French drains are another popular option for properties experiencing yard drainage issues, as they redirect groundwater away from foundations and basement walls. The ideal drainage system for your property depends on several factors including your soil type, property slope, and specific water management challenges.
    • The cost of a new drainage system in Fort Collins typically ranges from $1,500 to $15,000, depending on the scope and complexity of the project. Simple repairs or partial replacements might start around $500, while complete system overhauls for larger properties can exceed $20,000. Factors affecting cost include the system's size, pipe materials (PVC, cast iron, etc.), accessibility of existing plumbing, labor requirements, and whether excavation is necessary.
    • The lifespan of sewer drains varies significantly based on pipe material, installation quality, soil conditions, and maintenance practices. Modern PVC pipes typically last 50-100 years, while cast iron pipes generally serve 75-100 years before requiring replacement. Clay pipes, common in older Fort Collins homes, usually function well for 50-60 years. Concrete pipes have a similar lifespan of 50-60 years under ideal conditions. However, these estimates assume proper installation and regular maintenance. Factors that can shorten drain lifespan include tree root intrusion, ground shifting, chemical damage, and lack of professional maintenance.

  • Hydro Jetting

    • Water jetting costs vary depending on the severity of the blockage and length of pipe that needs cleaning. Several factors affect pricing, including hydro jetting cost factors Fort Collins like pipe accessibility and blockage type. At Allen Service, we provide upfront pricing with no hidden fees so you know exactly what to expect.
    • Most residential water jetting jobs are completed the same day, including the initial camera inspection and final verification. The complete water jetting process timeline varies based on blockage severity and pipe length, but we'll explain your specific timeline before we start work.
    • Yes, especially for recurring drain problems. While water jetting costs more upfront than basic drain cleaning, the benefits of hydro jetting over traditional drain cleaning show that it provides a permanent solution, preventing repeated service calls and protecting your pipes from damage caused by harsh chemicals.
    • Professional water jetting requires proper equipment and training. Our technicians adhere to strict hydro jetting safety requirements, including thorough pipe inspections, precise pressure settings, and protective measures for the home. This prevents pipe damage and keeps your family safe.
    • Most Fort Collins homes benefit from regular water jetting, though frequency depends on usage and pipe conditions. Homes with heavy cooking or older sewer lines may require more frequent preventive hydro jetting maintenance schedules to prevent emergency situations.

  • Emergency Plumbing Denver

    • A plumbing emergency typically involves situations that threaten your property with water damage or create health hazards. These include burst pipes, major leaks that can't be stopped by shutting off a local valve, sewage backups, complete drain blockages causing overflow, and no water throughout your entire house. If you're unsure, call us—we can help determine if you need immediate service.
    • Due to the after-hours nature of the work, emergency plumbing service in Denver typically costs more than regular business-hour appointments. Exact pricing depends on the specific problem, necessary repairs, and the time required to fix it. Allen Service always provides upfront pricing before beginning work, so you'll know exactly what to expect. We never surprise customers with hidden fees or charges.
    • No, you should not call 911 for plumbing emergencies. Emergency services should only be contacted if there's an immediate threat to life or safety. For plumbing emergencies, call a professional emergency plumber like Allen Service directly. However, if your plumbing issue has caused a dangerous electrical situation or if gas leaks are involved, evacuate the home and call 911 first, then contact us.
    • Act quickly to minimize damage when facing a water emergency in your Denver home. First, locate and turn off your main water valve (usually near your water meter or where the water line enters your home). Move valuable items away from water if it is safe to do so. For localized issues like an overflowing toilet, close the fixture's shutoff valve instead. Soak up standing water with towels or mops to prevent further damage. Take photos for insurance purposes if needed.
    • Denver's climate creates unique plumbing emergencies. Winter brings frozen and burst pipes during cold snaps. Spring snowmelt often causes sewer backups as the ground becomes saturated. Water heater failures spike in winter when units work harder. Other common emergencies include water line breaks, major toilet clogs causing floods, and sump pump failures during summer storms. All require immediate attention to prevent costly water damage.
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