Open nights, weekends, and holidays!
Open nights, weekends, and holidays!
AC maintenance at B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing means giving your system a complete check so it’s ready for our hot New Mexico summers. Our technicians look over every essential part of your cooling system — inspecting coils, checking refrigerant levels, tightening electrical connections, testing airflow, and confirming that everything is running safely and efficiently. It’s a thorough service built to keep your AC dependable when temperatures climb. And if we discover that your system needs more than a light cleaning, we’ll walk you through what we found and provide a clear quote before moving forward.
For homeowners who want ongoing protection and savings, our Care Club home maintenance program includes your routine AC tune-ups along with priority scheduling and additional benefits, helping you stay ahead of unexpected repairs.
Evaporative swamp coolers should be serviced at least twice a year, once before the cooling season begins and again after the season ends. Regular maintenance helps ensure efficient cooling, prevents breakdowns, and extends the life of the system.
Evaporative swamp coolers rely on clean water flow, properly functioning pads, and unobstructed airflow to cool effectively. Because these systems pull in outside air and use water continuously, they require more routine maintenance than traditional air conditioning systems, especially in Albuquerque’s dry, dusty climate.
Pre-season maintenance prepares your swamp cooler for reliable summer operation. This typically includes inspecting and replacing pads, cleaning the water distribution system, checking the pump and motor, adjusting belts, and making sure the unit is delivering consistent airflow throughout the home. Addressing these items early helps avoid mid-season failures when temperatures are highest.
Post-season maintenance is just as important. Shutting the system down properly at the end of the cooling season helps prevent mineral buildup, corrosion, mold growth, and freeze damage during colder months. It also makes spring startup faster and more predictable the following year.
Regular swamp cooler service improves cooling performance, reduces water waste, and helps extend the life of the unit. Skipping maintenance often leads to weak airflow, poor cooling, unusual noises, or higher repair costs over time.
B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing has been servicing evaporative swamp coolers in Albuquerque since 1971. Our technicians understand how these systems perform in local conditions and provide thorough maintenance that keeps swamp coolers running efficiently, season after season.
Yes — we’re here for plumbing and HVAC emergencies whenever you call.
A real person answers our phones 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to understand what’s happening and guide you toward the right next step — whether that’s immediate dispatch or the next available appointment during regular hours, including Saturdays.
Not every urgent situation requires a middle-of-the-night dispatch — but many do. When there’s a safety concern, flooding risk, sewer issue, or a major comfort system failure in extreme weather, it should be treated as an emergency.
Emergencies usually fall into one of three categories:
If you’re unsure, calling is always the right move — we’ll walk through the problem and help you decide.
Common emergencies usually fall into two categories — urgent plumbing/drain issues and heating or cooling failures during unsafe conditions. Below is a quick guide to the types of problems we treat as emergencies, along with resources from our blog to help you understand what’s happening.
| Emergency Issue (with Blog Link) | Why It’s an Emergency |
|---|---|
Burst Pipe or Major Leak |
Water escaping where it shouldn’t can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and electrical hazards within minutes. Shut off your water and call immediately. |
Sewer Backup or Strong Sewer Odor |
Sewage backing up into drains or entering your home is a direct health risk. This requires immediate professional attention. |
| No Water or Sudden Loss of Water Pressure | A sudden drop in water pressure or no water at all may signal a broken main line, a major underground leak, or severe blockage. These issues can worsen rapidly and require prompt diagnosis. |
No Heat During Freezing Temperatures |
In freezing weather, losing heat can quickly become unsafe for children, older adults, and pets. This should always be treated as an emergency. |
HVAC Failure During Extreme Heat |
Albuquerque heat can push indoor temperatures to dangerous levels. A sudden AC failure or evaporative cooler blowing hot air during a heatwave is more than uncomfortable — it can be unsafe. |
Burning Smells, Smoke, or Electrical Issues from HVAC Equipment |
These symptoms may indicate overheating, electrical failure, or fire risk. Turn off the system and call immediately for guidance. |
When you’re dealing with an emergency, you need calm guidance and fast help from people you can trust. Here’s what you can expect from B. Carlson:
We know this is stressful — and we’re here to help. Whether it’s plumbing, drains, heating, or cooling, our team will guide you step by step and get you the quickest solution possible.
Call us anytime, and we’ll help you figure out what to do next.
Swamp coolers pull hot outdoor air through water-soaked pads. As the water evaporates, the air temperature drops before it’s pushed into your home. In the high desert, this can work extremely well, especially during long stretches of dry heat. Swamp coolers are simple, energy-efficient, and familiar to many New Mexico homeowners.
The trade-off? As humidity rises, cooling performance drops. That’s why many homeowners notice their swamp cooler struggling during monsoon season.
Air conditioners use a closed refrigeration system to remove heat and humidity from indoor air. A compressor, refrigerant lines, and indoor coil work together to deliver steady, predictable temperatures throughout the house.
In a swamp cooler vs AC comparison, the difference is simple: evaporation versus refrigeration — and consistency versus conditions.
In Albuquerque and throughout central New Mexico, installed costs typically fall in these ranges, depending on home size, layout, and system design:
Evaporative coolers are simpler systems. Installation typically involves mounting the unit, connecting a water line, and basic electrical work. Parts are fewer, and labor time is shorter.
Air conditioning installations are more involved. Depending on the system, that can mean installing an outdoor condenser, refrigerant lines, indoor coils or air handlers, duct modifications, condensate drainage, and system balancing. Ductless systems avoid ductwork but still require careful design and multiple indoor units.
If homeowners ask, “Is a swamp cooler cheaper than air conditioning?” upfront, the answer is usually yes. Over time, the answer depends on comfort needs and how often the system can realistically meet them.
Swamp coolers use significantly less electricity because they run a fan and small pump — not a compressor. During dry stretches, that difference can be noticeable on monthly utility bills.
Evaporative cooling uses water, especially during peak summer heat. In Albuquerque, water use is something homeowners increasingly factor into the decision.
When comparing coolers vs air conditioners, swamp coolers often cost less month to month — but they do require more hands-on seasonal attention.
Swamp coolers shine in hot, dry weather — exactly what Albuquerque is known for. But when humidity rises, cooling effectiveness drops fast. Refrigerated air conditioning doesn’t rely on outdoor air conditions, so performance stays consistent.
AC systems maintain steady indoor temperatures throughout the day and across rooms. Swamp coolers can feel uneven, especially in multi-level homes or during changing weather.
Swamp coolers add moisture, which can feel good early in the season but uncomfortable during monsoon storms. AC removes moisture, which improves comfort, protects finishes, and reduces musty odors.
Evaporative systems draw outdoor air across wet media, which can feel fresh but requires clean pads and proper care to avoid mineral buildup. AC systems filter air to capture particulates; higher-grade filters and add-ons can improve indoor air quality further.
Bottom line: a lower utility bill doesn’t always equal better comfort. Steady temperatures and dehumidification help you sleep better, reduce hot spots, and keep the house feeling balanced.
| Feature | Swamp Cooler | Air Conditioning |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Energy Use | Low electricity + water | Higher electricity, no water |
| Climate Fit | Best in hot, dry air | Works in dry and humid conditions |
| Humidity Control | Adds moisture | Removes moisture |
| Temperature Consistency | Variable | Stable and precise |
| Maintenance | Seasonal pads, pump, belt | Filters, tune-ups, coil cleaning |
about utilities. It’s also about how often the system meets your needs.
Many Albuquerque homeowners ultimately choose refrigerated air because:
That’s why the swamp cooler vs air conditioner decision often becomes less about the cheapest option and more about the most livable one.
Converting to AC is often worth considering if:
We walk homeowners through central AC and ductless options and help plan conversions that make sense for Albuquerque homes, not generic systems.
Our team provides:
If you’re asking “Is a swamp cooler cheaper than air conditioning?” or thinking about converting, we’ll explain your options clearly and help you choose what actually works for your home.
Yes — we’re here for plumbing and HVAC emergencies whenever you call.
A real person answers our phones 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to understand what’s happening and guide you toward the right next step — whether that’s immediate dispatch or the next available appointment during regular hours, including Saturdays.
Not every urgent situation requires a middle-of-the-night dispatch — but many do. When there’s a safety concern, flooding risk, sewer issue, or a major comfort system failure in extreme weather, it should be treated as an emergency.
Emergencies usually fall into one of three categories:
If you’re unsure, calling is always the right move — we’ll walk through the problem and help you decide.
Common emergencies usually fall into two categories — urgent plumbing/drain issues and heating or cooling failures during unsafe conditions. Below is a quick guide to the types of problems we treat as emergencies, along with resources from our blog to help you understand what’s happening.
| Emergency Issue (with Blog Link) | Why It’s an Emergency |
|---|---|
Burst Pipe or Major Leak |
Water escaping where it shouldn’t can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and electrical hazards within minutes. Shut off your water and call immediately. |
Sewer Backup or Strong Sewer Odor |
Sewage backing up into drains or entering your home is a direct health risk. This requires immediate professional attention. |
| No Water or Sudden Loss of Water Pressure | A sudden drop in water pressure or no water at all may signal a broken main line, a major underground leak, or severe blockage. These issues can worsen rapidly and require prompt diagnosis. |
No Heat During Freezing Temperatures |
In freezing weather, losing heat can quickly become unsafe for children, older adults, and pets. This should always be treated as an emergency. |
HVAC Failure During Extreme Heat |
Albuquerque heat can push indoor temperatures to dangerous levels. A sudden AC failure or evaporative cooler blowing hot air during a heatwave is more than uncomfortable — it can be unsafe. |
Burning Smells, Smoke, or Electrical Issues from HVAC Equipment |
These symptoms may indicate overheating, electrical failure, or fire risk. Turn off the system and call immediately for guidance. |
When you’re dealing with an emergency, you need calm guidance and fast help from people you can trust. Here’s what you can expect from B. Carlson:
We know this is stressful — and we’re here to help. Whether it’s plumbing, drains, heating, or cooling, our team will guide you step by step and get you the quickest solution possible.
Call us anytime, and we’ll help you figure out what to do next.
An air handler typically lasts 10 to 15 years when properly maintained. Factors like system usage, air quality, and regular maintenance all affect its lifespan, and older units may become less efficient or more prone to breakdowns over time.
Most air handlers are designed to last around 10 to 15 years, but their actual lifespan depends heavily on how they’re maintained and the conditions they operate in. Regular filter changes, annual HVAC tune-ups, and prompt repairs all help reduce wear on components like the blower motor and coils, which are critical to performance.
As an air handler ages, homeowners may start noticing warning signs such as weak airflow, rising energy bills, uneven temperatures, or frequent repairs. These issues don’t always mean immediate replacement is required, but they often signal that the system is becoming less efficient and more expensive to keep running.
In Albuquerque homes, dust, dry air, and long cooling seasons can put additional strain on air handlers, especially if maintenance has been inconsistent. That’s why lifespan questions are often closely tied to related concerns like air handler repair vs replacement, HVAC efficiency, and cost to replace an air handler — even if those questions aren’t asked directly.
B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing has been helping Albuquerque homeowners evaluate HVAC systems since 1971. When an air handler is aging or underperforming, our technicians assess its condition, explain realistic options, and help homeowners decide whether continued repair or planned replacement makes the most sense.
If you’ve ever wondered what is a boiler or how it actually heats a home, you’re not alone. Many homeowners hear the term but aren’t quite sure what sets a boiler apart from a furnace or a water heater. In simple terms, a boiler is a heating system that uses water to move heat through your home instead of blowing warm air through ducts.
At B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we help New Mexico homeowners choose, install, and maintain boiler systems built for steady warmth and long-term reliability. This guide breaks down the basics—from how boilers work to what makes them efficient—so you can decide if a boiler for your house is the right fit.
Because water holds heat more effectively than air, boiler systems often feel more consistent and even. Rooms stay comfortably warm without the drafts or hot-and-cold swings that forced-air systems can create.
Boilers can also provide domestic hot water when connected to an indirect storage tank or built as a boiler water heater combination unit. That makes them a two-in-one solution for homeowners who value both comfort and efficiency. A boiler heating system warms water (or turns it into steam) to distribute heat throughout your home. Instead of heating air like a furnace, it circulates heated water through radiators, baseboard panels, or in-floor tubing. As the water releases its heat, it cools slightly and returns to the boiler to be reheated—creating a closed, efficient cycle.
Boilers come in several designs, each with its own advantages depending on your space, fuel availability, and heating goals.
When we design a boiler for your house, we match the type and size of the unit to your home’s insulation, square footage, and comfort needs—so you get efficient, dependable warmth all winter long.
Every boiler system follows the same basic steps:
If your system produces steam, the process is similar—only the water is boiled until it vaporizes, travels upward through pipes, and condenses back into liquid as it cools.
Modern boilers also include important safety features like pressure relief valves, low-water cut-offs, expansion tanks, and precise electronic controls. These keep your boiler heating system safe, quiet, and efficient year after year.
At B. Carlson, we take safety and code compliance seriously. Every installation is carefully tested for proper venting, combustion air, and system performance before it ever heats your home.
Knowing the main parts of a boiler can make maintenance and troubleshooting easier:
A well-maintained boiler system operates almost silently and lasts decades. That’s why B. Carlson’s annual boiler service includes full inspections, cleaning, safety testing, and efficiency checks to keep things running like new.
A boiler’s efficiency determines how much of the fuel it uses actually becomes usable heat.
Several factors influence real-world performance:
When we install or service a boiler heating system, we take time to size it correctly, verify combustion settings, and fine-tune controls for maximum comfort and efficiency.
Selecting a boiler for your house depends on more than just square footage. A professional evaluation looks at:
For smaller homes or condos, a combi boiler—which serves as both a space heater and boiler water heater—can be an efficient, space-saving choice. Larger homes often benefit from a system or regular boiler paired with a dedicated hot-water cylinder for higher flow rates.
At B. Carlson, our team walks you through every option, showing you what fits your home, your budget, and your long-term energy goals.
Boiler heating isn’t new—it’s been trusted for generations because it works quietly, efficiently, and reliably. Here’s why many homeowners in Albuquerque still prefer it:
Hydronic heat also pairs beautifully with radiant floors, which add a luxurious, energy-efficient touch to kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces.
Like any appliance, a boiler performs best with routine maintenance. Annual boiler service ensures safety and efficiency while extending system life. A typical tune-up includes:
These small steps prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency, and keep your heating bills predictable. If you can’t remember the last time your boiler was serviced, it’s time to schedule a visit before winter arrives.
Even the best boilers eventually wear out. If your system is more than 15–20 years old, struggles to heat evenly, or shows rising fuel costs, it may be time for an upgrade. New high-efficiency models provide better control, quieter operation, and lower emissions—making them a smart investment for comfort and sustainability.
A boiler heating system replacement also gives you the chance to integrate features like outdoor reset controls, zoning valves, or a combination boiler water heater for added convenience.
Our team at B. Carlson can evaluate your current setup and help you decide whether repair or replacement makes the most sense for your home and budget.
At B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we’ve been helping New Mexico families stay warm since 1971. Our licensed technicians understand the unique heating challenges of Albuquerque’s climate—cold desert nights, dry air, and older homes with mixed heating systems.
We specialize in:
Whether you need a brand-new boiler for your house or want to bring an older system up to modern standards, you’ll get transparent recommendations, expert workmanship, and long-term support from a team that treats your home like our own.
If you’re asking yourself “what is a boiler and is it right for my house?”—our team is here to help. From design and installation to ongoing boiler service, B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing provides everything you need for dependable, efficient heat in every season.
Schedule your appointment online or call today to talk with one of our friendly, knowledgeable technicians. We’ll help you find the boiler heating system that fits your home perfectly—because at B. Carlson, your comfort and confidence come first.
Yes. A gas leak from a water heater is dangerous and can lead to fire, explosion, or carbon monoxide exposure. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the home immediately and contact emergency services or your gas provider before having a licensed professional inspect and repair the water heater.
Gas water heaters rely on a controlled flow of natural gas to heat water safely. When that gas escapes due to a faulty connection, damaged gas valve, or internal component failure, it creates a serious safety risk. Even a small leak can allow gas to build up in enclosed spaces, increasing the risk of fire, explosion, or carbon monoxide exposure.
Some homeowners first notice a gas leak by smelling sulfur or “rotten egg” odors near the water heater, while others may hear hissing sounds or experience unexplained pilot light issues. These warning signs should never be ignored. Gas leaks are not something to troubleshoot or repair without proper training and equipment.
In Albuquerque homes, aging water heaters, seismic movement, corrosion, or improper past installations can all contribute to gas-related issues over time. That’s why any suspected gas leak should be treated as an emergency. After the immediate danger is addressed, the water heater should be professionally inspected to determine whether repair is possible or if replacement is the safer option.
B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing provides professional water heater repair and replacement services for Albuquerque homeowners. Our technicians are trained to diagnose gas-related water heater problems, make safe repairs, and ensure your system is operating correctly and in compliance with safety standards.
A typical gas line installation can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. The exact time depends on factors like the length of the line, where it needs to run, the type of appliance being connected, and whether permits or inspections are required.
Gas line installations vary because no two homes or projects are exactly the same. In many cases, installing a gas line for a stove, water heater, dryer, or outdoor appliance can be completed in a single visit. More complex installations, such as longer runs, multiple appliances, or lines that need to be routed through walls or underground, can take longer and require additional planning.
The time it takes to install a gas line is closely tied to cost. Factors like the distance from the gas source, pipe sizing, materials, access, and required permits all influence both how long the job takes and the overall investment. Safety is also a major consideration. Gas lines must be installed, pressure-tested, and inspected properly to ensure there are no leaks and that the system operates safely.
In Albuquerque homes, older gas systems, corrosion, or previous modifications can add complexity to new gas line installations. That’s why professional evaluation is important before any work begins. A licensed technician can assess the existing system, determine the correct pipe size, and design a gas line that safely supports the appliance it’s serving.
B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing installs gas lines for Albuquerque homeowners with a focus on safety, code compliance, and long-term reliability. Our technicians explain the scope of the work up front, complete installations efficiently, and ensure everything is tested and operating correctly before the job is finished.
Yes — we’re here for plumbing and HVAC emergencies whenever you call.
A real person answers our phones 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to understand what’s happening and guide you toward the right next step — whether that’s immediate dispatch or the next available appointment during regular hours, including Saturdays.
Not every urgent situation requires a middle-of-the-night dispatch — but many do. When there’s a safety concern, flooding risk, sewer issue, or a major comfort system failure in extreme weather, it should be treated as an emergency.
Emergencies usually fall into one of three categories:
If you’re unsure, calling is always the right move — we’ll walk through the problem and help you decide.
Common emergencies usually fall into two categories — urgent plumbing/drain issues and heating or cooling failures during unsafe conditions. Below is a quick guide to the types of problems we treat as emergencies, along with resources from our blog to help you understand what’s happening.
| Emergency Issue (with Blog Link) | Why It’s an Emergency |
|---|---|
Burst Pipe or Major Leak |
Water escaping where it shouldn’t can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and electrical hazards within minutes. Shut off your water and call immediately. |
Sewer Backup or Strong Sewer Odor |
Sewage backing up into drains or entering your home is a direct health risk. This requires immediate professional attention. |
| No Water or Sudden Loss of Water Pressure | A sudden drop in water pressure or no water at all may signal a broken main line, a major underground leak, or severe blockage. These issues can worsen rapidly and require prompt diagnosis. |
No Heat During Freezing Temperatures |
In freezing weather, losing heat can quickly become unsafe for children, older adults, and pets. This should always be treated as an emergency. |
HVAC Failure During Extreme Heat |
Albuquerque heat can push indoor temperatures to dangerous levels. A sudden AC failure or evaporative cooler blowing hot air during a heatwave is more than uncomfortable — it can be unsafe. |
Burning Smells, Smoke, or Electrical Issues from HVAC Equipment |
These symptoms may indicate overheating, electrical failure, or fire risk. Turn off the system and call immediately for guidance. |
When you’re dealing with an emergency, you need calm guidance and fast help from people you can trust. Here’s what you can expect from B. Carlson:
We know this is stressful — and we’re here to help. Whether it’s plumbing, drains, heating, or cooling, our team will guide you step by step and get you the quickest solution possible.
Call us anytime, and we’ll help you figure out what to do next.
P-traps are typically made from:
Bonus tip: Older homes sometimes used S-traps, which loop downward in an “S” shape. These are no longer allowed by code because they siphon dry too easily, causing sewer smells. P-traps replaced them as the safer, modern standard.
The P-trap uses a very simple physics principle: water blocks air.
Here’s what happens each time you run the faucet:
A P-trap can stop working if:
P-traps aren’t just under bathroom sinks — they’re everywhere wastewater leaves a fixture.
These are the most visible and the easiest to service.
You won’t see these traps, but they’re there — hidden under the floor or inside the framing.
Washing machines and some dishwashers connect through systems that rely on a plumbing trap to prevent sewer odors.
Yes. Building code requires every shower to have a functioning P-trap.
Why it matters:
If you smell sewage near a shower, the trap may be:
Yes, but not the kind you see under a sink.
A toilet has a built-in P-trap molded directly into the porcelain bowl. This is why water always sits in the bottom of the toilet — that’s the trap seal preventing odors.
Because toilets have their own internal traps, they do not use an additional trap in the floor line.
Even though P-traps are simple and reliable, a few issues come up again and again in Albuquerque homes. The most common include dry traps, leaks, cracks, clogs, and installation mistakes. Knowing the signs early helps you avoid sewer odors, water damage, and costly repairs down the line.
A P-trap needs water to seal out sewer gases. When a sink, shower, or floor drain isn’t used regularly, the water in the trap slowly evaporates. Once the water seal disappears, nothing stops those sewer gases from creeping into your home.
Leaks are the second most common P-trap issue. They typically occur from:
Because the trap sits under the sink, leaks often go unnoticed until they’ve caused damage.
Even small, slow leaks can cause rot, cabinet damage, mold growth, or a broken trap seal — allowing sewer gases into your home.
Clogs form when debris builds up inside the bend of the trap. For sinks and showers, this often includes:
Wire-hanger-style DIY methods can scratch the inside of the pipe, creating rough surfaces where future clogs form even faster.
Best Solution
Have a licensed plumber safely remove and clear the trap, check the rest of the drain line, and ensure no deeper blockage is forming.
A full replacement may be needed if:
New PVC or ABS traps are durable, affordable, and handle moisture better than old metal ones.
Routine drain cleaning and periodic plumbing inspections help catch issues early. A plumber can confirm:
This type of maintenance protects your home from both sewer odors and long-term water damage, especially in older Albuquerque neighborhoods with aging plumbing.
If you’re dealing with sewer smells, slow drains, leaks under the sink, or recurring P-trap issues, the safest move is to call a professional. A licensed plumber can diagnose whether the trap is the problem or if something deeper is happening in your drain or vent system.
At B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, our expert plumbers handle everything from clearing clogs to replacing damaged traps to fixing underlying venting or drain issues. We’ve been helping Albuquerque homeowners stay safe and odor-free since 1971 — and we’re available 24/7 when you need us most.
If something doesn’t smell right or drain right, call B. Carlson right away.
As scale increases, homeowners may notice slower hot water delivery, inconsistent temperatures, higher energy use, or new system noises. A professional tankless water heater descaler treatment dissolves hardened mineral buildup, restores proper heat transfer, and helps the system operate the way it was designed to.
The heat exchanger is the heart of a tankless water heater — and one of its most expensive components. Scale buildup restricts heat transfer, increases operating temperatures, and adds unnecessary strain to internal parts.
Many manufacturers list descaling as required maintenance. Skipping it doesn’t just reduce efficiency; it can shorten the life of the unit and, in some cases, affect warranty coverage. Regular descaling is a preventative step that protects your investment and helps keep daily routines running smoothly.
These two terms are often confused, but they serve different purposes.
Descaling uses an approved tankless water heater descaler to chemically break down hardened mineral deposits bonded to the heat exchanger and internal water pathways. This is the only way to remove stubborn scale buildup caused by hard water.
Flushing moves clean water or a mild rinse through the system to clear out loosened debris after descaling. Flushing alone does not remove hardened scale.
For best results, professional descaling is typically followed by a post-service flush to clear residual material. This process uses an approved tankless water heater cleaner to break down mineral scale, then flushes the system to remove loosened buildup. In some situations, especially with older equipment or systems that haven’t been maintained in years, a technician may recommend additional inspection before any cleaning is performed. When that happens, we explain what we’re seeing and recommend the safest path forward.
For most Albuquerque homes, annual descaling is a solid baseline.
Homes with very hard water, high hot water usage, or skipped past maintenance may benefit from descaling every 6 to 9 months. Water quality can vary by neighborhood — and even by street — which is why the best timing is based on actual system condition rather than a one-size-fits-all rule.
Staying ahead of scale buildup helps maintain efficiency, prevent performance issues, and avoid more costly repairs down the road.
Scale buildup often shows up gradually. Common warning signs include:
These symptoms don’t always mean the system is failing — but they often point to mineral buildup affecting performance. A professional water heater descaler treatment can restore normal operation and reduce unnecessary wear on the heat exchanger.
DIY descaling is often presented as simple, but it comes with risks. Using the wrong solution, skipping steps, or missing early signs of damage can lead to leaks, component failure, or voided warranties.
Professional service is especially important for:
Our certified technicians evaluate the condition of the unit, select the appropriate tankless heater descaler, perform the cleaning safely, and verify proper operation afterward. It’s preventative care that protects your system and helps avoid larger repairs.
Unchecked scale forces the heater to run longer and hotter to meet demand. That leads to higher energy use, increased stress on internal components, and a greater risk of overheating or shutdown.
Over time, performance declines and system lifespan can shorten. Regular descaling supports efficient operation and helps keep manufacturer requirements intact.
For more than five decades, B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing has helped Albuquerque homeowners keep their hot water reliable and their homes running smoothly. From routine maintenance to expert water heater repair in Albuquerque, our team brings local experience, certified training, and straightforward recommendations you can trust.
When your home needs professional tankless water heater descaling or dependable water heater repair in Albuquerque, you want it done right. We treat your home with respect, explain your options clearly, and make sure your system runs efficiently, safely, and consistently.
That’s the kind of dependable help Albuquerque homeowners have come to expect from B. Carlson — Your Best Friend in Home Services.
Yes — we’re here for plumbing and HVAC emergencies whenever you call.
A real person answers our phones 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to understand what’s happening and guide you toward the right next step — whether that’s immediate dispatch or the next available appointment during regular hours, including Saturdays.
Not every urgent situation requires a middle-of-the-night dispatch — but many do. When there’s a safety concern, flooding risk, sewer issue, or a major comfort system failure in extreme weather, it should be treated as an emergency.
Emergencies usually fall into one of three categories:
If you’re unsure, calling is always the right move — we’ll walk through the problem and help you decide.
Common emergencies usually fall into two categories — urgent plumbing/drain issues and heating or cooling failures during unsafe conditions. Below is a quick guide to the types of problems we treat as emergencies, along with resources from our blog to help you understand what’s happening.
| Emergency Issue (with Blog Link) | Why It’s an Emergency |
|---|---|
Burst Pipe or Major Leak |
Water escaping where it shouldn’t can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and electrical hazards within minutes. Shut off your water and call immediately. |
Sewer Backup or Strong Sewer Odor |
Sewage backing up into drains or entering your home is a direct health risk. This requires immediate professional attention. |
| No Water or Sudden Loss of Water Pressure | A sudden drop in water pressure or no water at all may signal a broken main line, a major underground leak, or severe blockage. These issues can worsen rapidly and require prompt diagnosis. |
No Heat During Freezing Temperatures |
In freezing weather, losing heat can quickly become unsafe for children, older adults, and pets. This should always be treated as an emergency. |
HVAC Failure During Extreme Heat |
Albuquerque heat can push indoor temperatures to dangerous levels. A sudden AC failure or evaporative cooler blowing hot air during a heatwave is more than uncomfortable — it can be unsafe. |
Burning Smells, Smoke, or Electrical Issues from HVAC Equipment |
These symptoms may indicate overheating, electrical failure, or fire risk. Turn off the system and call immediately for guidance. |
When you’re dealing with an emergency, you need calm guidance and fast help from people you can trust. Here’s what you can expect from B. Carlson:
We know this is stressful — and we’re here to help. Whether it’s plumbing, drains, heating, or cooling, our team will guide you step by step and get you the quickest solution possible.
Call us anytime, and we’ll help you figure out what to do next.