Posted by Debi Skaggs on Tue, Feb 08, 2011 @ 09:11 AM
February is usually the coldest month of the year in this area. Your heating equipment will be working it's hardest and Murphy's law dictates that this month is when you'll have problems.
Before you call for a technician to come out, check a few simple things. This can help when speaking with the technician and may save you the service call altogether.
1. If you have a propane furnace check the tank to see if you have gas.
2. Check to see if any breakers may have tripped.
3. In a snow event, make sure that your heat pump has been shoveled around to allow air circulation, for gas furnaces make sure the exhaust pipe is clear.
4. Have you changed the filter lately? Clogged filters can restrict air flow. (You would be surprised how often this is the reason for no heat calls)
5. Is the thermostat working and on the proper settings? Some thermostats require batteries.
The list is short but they are commonly occurring problems. Although our technicians are happy to assist you with any heating problems you might have, the list of commonly overlooked issues can save you time and money.
In the event a technician is required to assist you you will be able to answer his questions about the problem as an informed customer.
Posted by Debi Skaggs on Tue, Oct 12, 2010 @ 05:41 PM
Furnace repairs from stink bugs is on the rise.
Damage to fruit and vegetable crops from stink bugs in Middle Atlantic States has reached critical levels, according to a government report. That is in addition to the headaches the bugs are giving homeowners who cannot keep them out of their living rooms. Home owners can keep the ones they see in check with a vacuum cleaner (so far our best defense), but they can cause damage you can't see.
The insects are seeking refuge from the cooler weather this fall and many are coming into homes through the flue pipes for our gas appliances, ie water heaters, furnaces, etc. If your gas appliances start making noises and/or stop working call a technician to make the repair. Mention that you have had an infestation problem and ask the technician to make sure he checks for the bugs. They can seek refuge deep inside where a typical homeowner cannot get to them. There may be somewhat delicate parts or gaskets that could be damaged in an attempt to eradicate the pests.
Do not cover the flue in an attempt to keep the bugs out. This can cause a build up of dangerous gases that will be worse than the bug infestation. Do be aware that it may be a problem and address it if you suspect any problems.
Posted by Debi Skaggs on Wed, Sep 08, 2010 @ 01:49 PM
You’ll save energy and money by having your HVAC Contractor perform a furnace tune up and/or heat pump system check regularly. Changing filters is one of the key maintenance tasks you can do to keep your furnace running efficiently and prevent costly repairs.
Your furnace’s heat exchanger and air-conditioning coil have narrow, hard-to-reach passageways. When they get dirty, the efficiency of your heating and air conditioning system will suffer, and your equipment’s lifespan will be reduced.
When filters get clogged with dirt, airflow through the ducts is reduced and your air system’s performance and efficiency suffer. Without a filter, your blower, furnace, and air conditioning coil can get dirty.
Make sure that you know where your furnace filter is located and what size it is. Your filter is usually located in the return grill, in the main return near the furnace, or inside the furnace near the blower.
Inspect it periodically, and replace it when it is dirty. If you have a washable filter, clean it with soap and hot water. Homes that are off a dirt road, have animals living in them and/or use fireplaces frequently should check the filters at least once a month.
Other furnace maintenance tasks should be performed by a professional. Have a heating contractor perform the following cleaning chores and safety checks.
- Measure the furnace's combustion efficiency, and make the required adjustments.
- Monitor flue draft to ensure it removes combustion gases from the home under all conditions.
- Inspect the cooling coil
- Inspect the blower Components
- Check for cracks or holes in the heat exchanger.
- Monitor Volt & Amp draw
- Adjust gas pressure if necessary & inspect pilot
- Inspect & Test Safety Controls
- Inspect thermostat operations
Posted by Chad Levitt on Thu, Aug 05, 2010 @ 01:37 PM
Whether you are installing a new system or replacing an existing system, our knowledgeable technicians are able to assist you in choosing the right heating and cooling system for you. We offer a range of options to choose from depending on whether your objective is based on initial cost or long term savings. Our job is to help you make an informed decision on which system is right for you.