Monday 24 December 2018

Hardy Houseplants That Will Survive the Indoor Heating


During winter, a lot of houses become inhospitable for houseplants. Several spaces are drafty, others are over-heated, and some have less natural sunlight coming from the windows. Here are some houseplants that are easy to care even during the winters.

Image Courtesy: Pixabay
  1. ZZ plant:
This is one of the hardiest plants you will find, which makes it the perfect option. The thing that makes this plant especially notable is its extraordinary ability to survive in areas with less natural light. Though this plant can also survive in brighter areas, its capability of thriving in the dark is what makes it a great option for the winters.

  1. Maidenhair fern:
Several varieties of fern do not require a lot of sun light as they are used to thriving in forests, completely shaded by trees. However, ferns do demand high humidity and have to be misted and watered frequently. Therefore, this plant is only for those who are hands on. While most houseplants like to dry out after being watered, ferns prefer staying moist. Maidenhair fern makes for a pretty choice with lacy, delicate leaves.

  1. Chinese evergreen:
Aglaonema are known to have beautiful green, patterned leaves. They can easily survive low light and keep their growth and color intact. However, if you keep your plant inside a low-lit room, pay close attention to the amount of water you put into the plant as there is a big chance of overwatering. Apart from this, in case the room does not have enough natural light, substitute sunlight with the light of a lamp.

  1. Clivia:
In case you have a chilly room that receives very less sunlight, then clivia is the best plant to have. This tough plant actually does well in cooler weather. Low temperature permits the beautiful blooms to arise, typically in yellow or orange. This plant does not only blossom in drafty houses, but the vivacious colors also add brightness to the space. Moreover, clivia does not require a lot of watering.

  1. Moss terrarium:
For securing your plants from a strong breeze close to the front door or window, think of glass terrarium. It can hold humidity inside the glass and secure the plants from cold and hot drafts. Not only will the terrarium secure the plants within, but will add to the decor of the room.

  1. Jade plant:
Most plants do not like the combination of hot radiator air and cold air. However, there are certain plants that tolerate it. Jade plant is one of those floras that can survive any kind of temperature variation. It is a kind of succulent, which will work best close to an open window during winters. It does not require a lot of water and is able to flourish with watering in every 21 days.

With the winters on their way, there is no need to worry about what you can do to make the insides of your home more hospitable and greener. These plants will add life and beauty to any house and will even survive the HVAC heating.

Friday 23 November 2018

Working of a Ductless Heat Pump


If you wish to enhance the comfort in your house, a ductless heat pump is one of the best solutions you will find. However, how do ductless pumps really work, and how are they the most efficient option for air conditioning and heating?

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Working of mini splits:

Mini splits are also popularly known as ductless mini splits or wall-mounted units.Ductless heat pumps come with two parts: an outdoor condenser as well as an indoor evaporator coil.

Heat pumps –ductless and traditional – have the capability of providing heat during winter times and cool air during summers. They are very similar to air conditioners. The only difference is they have a reversing valve, enabling them to work backward by sucking out heat from outside and transferring it inside your house during chilly winter months.

One of the greatest differences between normal heat pumps and ductless ones is that the air is ushered inside through a built-in air handler, which helps to eliminate the requirement for ductwork. Small openings within the wall permits wires and pipes to pass among the outdoor and indoor units, and several interior air handlers can fix to a singular outdoor condenser, helping towards whole-house cooling and heating with no requirements for ducts!

The many advantages of ductless heat pumps:

Energy efficient:

The regular ducted system leads to about 40% decrease in efficiency because of poor insulation and air leaks. On the other hand, the losses in energy connected to ductless cooling and heating is about 1 to 5%.

Ductless pumps are also better at keeping the house heated when temperatures drop outside in comparison to conventional heat pumps. You can enjoy constant indoor comfort.

Less intrusion

Ductless heat pumps offer heating and air conditioning, making them a lot more useful in comparison to window ACs. This is particularly true if you reside in an old house with no ductwork, and you are not ready to bear the expenses and hassle of getting ducts installed.

Cleaner air

Ductwork is one of the greatest sources for air pollution indoors, within homes with regular HVAC systems. Mold spores, dust, insulation particles, and the like,get inside the ductwork and flow from one room to the next. Alternatively, ductless heat pumps offer state of the art filtration for purifying the air before dispensing it in the living area, getting rid of almost 99.9% of contaminants in the air.

Built-in Zoning

Segregating a house into different sectors helps in controlling sections on an individual level for enhanced energy savings and comfort. When it comes to ductless heat pumps, there is a built-in zoning system. All you require is a single outdoor condenser which is joined to indoor air handlers. Handheld controls help to change airflow settings and temperature for individual units all through the house.

If you want affordable, comfortable, whole-house cooling and heating without ductwork, it is best to get in touch with a skilled HVAC expert who has the right knowledge and expertise in dealing with ductless units.

Friday 26 October 2018

Allergens and Air filters


If you suffer from allergies, there is a big chance that you have searched for every method to filter those allergen particles from your home. It is advised that those suffering from asthma and allergies, upgrade to an efficient air filter to keep the air particle free. However, what is the right air filter for allergies? Here is a closer look,

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Air Filters make a very Important tool for decreasing allergens:

The dirt hidden under the rugs can hurt you or irritate your sensitive body. Your filters are a very important part for safeguarding the air quality of the house, especially when the right kind of air filter is utilized. Cheap air filters that are readily available from the hardware store do absolutely nothing for enhancing the quality of air within the house. They just serve for preventing big dirt, dust particles and hair from harming HVAC equipment (if altered regularly). However, the ordinary filters do very little towards removing dust mites, microscopic dust, pollen, mold, dander, mildew, and other irritants, which are so tiny they slip from the fibers to get blown back into the living space. To trap the particles, it is important to use specialized air filters.

  1. Mechanical Filters
Specialized mechanical filters have the ability to physically trap allergens. They were developed during world war two for preventing the leakage of radioactive elements from labs. They can capture approximately 90% of the particles, removing irritants, allergens, and toxins for keeping the air within the house cleaner. The best quality filters can capture 99% of the dust, pollen, and smoke particles. However, not all filters work the best. Pay close attention to MERV ratings. From MERV 1 to MERV 12, the greater the number, the minute the elements the air filter can get rid of. For blocking allergen-inducing elements, selecting a MERV rating of ten or greater is best.

  1. Electrostatic Filters
These filters make use of an electrical charge for attracting irritants and allergens for deposit on the collecting plates.

  1. Hybrid Filters
These filters blend the elements of both electrostatic and mechanical filtration, which is combined with other features of air quality preservation such as, humidifiers/dehumidifiers and UV light (for pathogens). Incorporating such features into the ‘whole house system’ which is connected to and works in combination with HVAC equipment can enhance filtration, decrease noise in the house and save space.

Air filters play a very important role in making sure your air quality remains intact. If you are tired of suffering from dust and other allergies, get your HVAC checked from a professional.

HVAC experts can guide you on the right filters to use and if you require a complete HVAC change to improve the air quality in your house. However, make sure the service or professional you choose has the expertise and skill to handle your problems. The best way to find out about genuine HVAC services is to search online or ask family and friends for valuable suggestions.

Monday 24 September 2018

How Much Does Ductless Air Conditioning Cost?

Do you wish to add an air conditioning unit to your house without the pricy ductwork? Ductless air conditioners are a great option when compared to window AC units. They are less obtrusive, a lot more efficient, and permit you to open the windows during pleasant weather conditions. Ductless AC also offers heating during winters!

The money you may have to pay for buying and installing ductless air conditioning ranges from USD 3,000 to approximately USD 5,000 or even more. This price is greater than a normal window air conditioning unit, but a lot less than the central air conditioner, particularly if you have no ductwork. How much the entire system will cost you will depend on several factors such as,

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Cooling needed:

Do you wish to air condition and heat the whole house, or just a room? What kind of house do you reside in? Is it a ranch-style home or a comfortable condo? The greater the square footage, the greater and costlier the ductless system can get.

A ductless, one-room air conditioning unit comes with a singular air handler connected with a condensing unit outside through a tiny hole within the wall. You can connect multiple air handlers with a single outdoor unit, which permits you to cool the entire house while saving heavily on the cost of installation in comparison to central air conditioning.

System Efficiency

Different systems have different efficiency rating. This helps in estimating operating costs. High-efficiency equipment can cost a lot upfront, but can decrease your electricity bills for several years. This ensures that the investment is actually worth it.

Hourly Rate and Installation Time

One of the costs of installation is labor. Installation entails a professional to put the indoor unit over the wall and place the outdoor system on a slab within the yard. It is also important to cut a hole within the wall for running refrigerant lines, electrical connections, control wiring between the outdoor and indoor units.

While the process of installation is extremely straightforward, it may take time, and the professional has to be paid for it. Remember, the labor and time costs needed for performing the job go up if there is also a need to remove the existing equipment. The good thing is, the installer can get rid of the older system.

Power Requirements

Outdated home wiring should be up to date if you wish to install a new HVAC system. This will necessitate you to employ the services of an electrician for adding a new circuit or an outlet. However, this will add to the installation cost in general.

For the best home cooling solution with no ductwork, ductless air conditioner is the most efficient.  However, it is best to hire a good HVAC expert for advice and installation.

Thursday 23 August 2018

August Home Checklist

August is a good time to get the house ready for the changing season by ticking off some of these things on your checklist.

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Check all of your safety devices. 

Make sure you test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and get all your batteries replaced as needed. Watch for the expiration date on the extinguisher and replace what is needed.
Remove all your window air conditioning units. 

If you make use of window AC units, it is now time to either cover them with insulation or remove them. It is best to remove the units as this will help you to shut the windows, reducing loss of heat during the chilly weather. In case you choose to leave them during the coming months, make sure to buy insulating covers made for this purpose and attach them outside securely.

Use weather stripping. 

The contemporary double-pane windows do not require weatherstripping, However, if you have old windows, then weatherstripping can assist in retaining heat and stopping drafts. Inspect areas that have weatherstripping from last season and replace or remove as needed.

Check the gutters and roofs. 

It is normally fine to wait till all the autumn leaves have fallen for cleaning out the downspouts and gutters, but giving a quick visual check to these areas is always a good idea. Pull out the debris obstructing the gutters, and keep a note of any seals that are worn-out around chimneys and vent pipes. In case you feel uncomfortable using a ladder, hire a specialist to do the job for you. Plan any required repairs now to make sure your house is secure during the winter months.

Schedule furnace and chimney maintenance. 

Make sure the heating system and fireplace are safe, clean, and ready by having a professional inspect it. If your chimney is clean, make sure you don’t start a fire with an animal family inside. And in case there is no chimney cap, get one installed. 

Consider increasing the insulation. 

If you want to save on your electricity bills this season you should think about adding more insulation to the attic space or within the walls. This will help and make a huge difference in how well the house retains heat during winter time and how the house stays cool during the summers.

Order firewood. 

In case you utilize a wood stove to get the coziness and warmth, it is a good time now to stock upon firewood. However, to avoid pests, do not store the wood right against the house, but make sure you keep it secured from snow and rain by keeping it beneath a shelter.

It is time to get everything in place so that your house is cozy and comfortable during the entire season. You can also call a professional HVAC expert to get your space in good shape.

Monday 23 July 2018

What to Look for When Considering a Used Furnace?

If your furnace has stopped working, you may be exploring different ways for saving on replacing the system. Buying a new furnace can be extremely expensive but there is another way of saving money: by buying a used furnace.

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Here are some things one must look for to get a good deal.

Always buy from a commercial seller who offers refurbished furnace

You may be tempted to buy a used unit from a private seller. However, the possibility of added costs and scams are not worth it. The seller may hide problems, and in case the system requires uninstallation, that will be an added cost.

Purchasing from a commercial seller is a lot safer. You can depend on the claimed quality of the equipment. However, it is still wise to get a technician to inspect the unit professionally before buying it.

Things you should ask a seller selling a used furnace:

Do not get roped into promises of a cheap rate. You must ask the furnace seller the following questions:

  1. How old is the furnace?
  2. Why did the previous owner want to sell?
  3. Which brand is this?
  4. What kind of fuel does the furnace use?
  5. How good is the performance?
  6. Has the furnace received regular maintenance?
  7. Is the furnace under warranty?
Some of the things you must check before making the purchase:

You must remember that any heater that was previously owned has experienced at least a little wear and tear. This may lead to several issues. Make sure you check the state of following components before you purchase a used furnace:

  1. Pilot light or electronic ignition
  2. Burners
  3. Heat exchanger
  4. Motor and blower fan
  5. Pressure switches, limit switch
  6. Mechanical gears that may squeak, rumble, or rattle
Things to consider when installing a used furnace:

Installing a refurbished furnace to save money is a great idea. However, if you do not get it installed professionally, you may miss an important aspects required for efficient, safe, operation, such as fuel and venting pipes needed for models with high-efficiency. The ductwork may also waste energy by leaking, leading to increased heating bills.

Investing in a proper installation done by a specialist will add to the upfront cost of purchasing a refurbished furnace. However, improved longevity and performance are all worth it! Moreover, you can be rest assured that your system is properly installed.

If you are worried about investing money in a refurbished or used product, you have other choices for saving money. You can purchase a furnace from a wholesaler at reasonable rates. Models of the previous year can also be bought at a discounted rate.

Irrespective of where you purchase a new furnace for sale, it is extremely important to hire a professional HVAC expert. It takes years of knowledge and experience to diagnose the issues, determine overall condition and assess the age of the furnace.

Friday 22 June 2018

Technical Talk: Budget for an AC Replacement This Summer

Having an AC to keep you cool is a necessity during those hot summer months. But do you find your AC performing at its optimum? This is a good time to re-evaluate how well your unit is working. Is it being able to run efficiently? Or, is the air-conditioning struggling to perform with your electricity bills skyrocketing? If so, then it is time to get a replacement.

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How to find out if you require an AC replacement?

The most sophisticated air conditioners will also require replacement at some point. When summer months are close, it is the right time to decide if you need a replacement. Here are a few things that can help you notice if the system is not performing well:

1. You hear odd noises: If you have had your AC for a few years, you must already know how it sounds when working. If suddenly it starts making odd noises, the unit may be asking for a replacement.

2. Higher than normal cooling bills: Rising rates of electricity can be a reason for the bills but inefficient and old air conditioners also lead to higher cooling bills. If you budget for a replacement you may end up saving.

3. You don’t feel comfortable: cold and hot spots, humidity, and other distresses may indicate towards a system which has reached the end.

4. A decade old AC: while most of the issues mentioned above may be repairable but if your system is more than a decade old it serves in your best interest to replace it instead.

How should you budget?

Installation of a brand new air conditioner is a big investment. In case you have a tight budget, make sure you start saving at least four months before the start of the hot summer months. Here is how you can make your budget:

Research for a fair price: The brand, rating and size of the unit determines the cost of the unit. Make sure you compare estimates from at least four contractors before staring work.

Look for discounts and special offers: many brands may come out with limited time offers and lucrative discounts. Always keep looking for such offers and buy your unit when it is at its best price. Also, if you replace your heating and cooling equipment during the same time, you may save more.

It is best to calculate your annual costs before you make the purchase: even if you have made the initial purchase, using and operating the air conditioner is expensive. Make sure you check the unit for a yellow Energy Guide sticker to lower future cooling costs. You can also talk to an AC specialist for suggestion.

Wednesday 23 May 2018

Cleaning Your Outdoor Air Conditioning Unit

If you keep your outside AC unit clean you can expect your system to run efficiently while prolonging its lifespan. If you want to clean your unit on your own then here are a few tips that can help!

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How many times should you clean your outside unit?

For most owners, cleaning it twice a year is enough, once before winters as you will be using the heating and once before summers as you will want to turn on air conditioning.

What are the different supplies and tools needed to clean an outside unit?

Here is a list of tools that will come in handy when cleaning the unit:

1. Vacuum

2. Garden hose

3. Screwdriver

4. Replacement filter

5. Rags

6. Fin comb

7. Pipe cleaner 

Preparation

Apart from cleaning the system, you will have to remove any branches, leaves, sticks or other form of debris lying over and around the unit. Also, you must never keep shrubs or plants too close to the unit to ensure better air flow. From gum balls to pine needles and leaves and tall weeds, ensure that the space around the unit is clean and clear.

Time to clean!

1. Before starting, make sure the power to the outside unit is switched off.

2. For any remains you could not clear away, a dry/wet vacuum with a bristled attachment can help to capture any dirt, dust, or other small debris from the system.

3. In case you observe the fins are bent, you can use a butter knife or a fin comb or other small objects are useful for straightening them.

4. Remove the AC filter after locating it, wash it using a tough spray from the garden hose. If your filter is one that's made of fiber or cardboard, buy a new one to replace the dirty one.

5. Remove the panel at the top and put it aside.

6.Inspect for dirt, dust, debris and other kind of build-up that may impact operation. Once you have removed as much dirt as possible just rinse it with a garden hose and clean away the remaining debris. Be careful while vacuuming to make sure you don't end up damaging or bending fins or coils.

7. To clean the fan blades, a wet rag is enough. Check the vents of the fan and wipe or vacuum away any debris build-up.

8. Now it is time to get the access panel back in its position. Just screw it in place, and turn on power.

Cleaning the outside of the AC is not that challenging. However, effort and time spent will be all worth it as your family will enjoy summers and winters comfortably.

Monday 23 April 2018

What is a Heat Pump and how does it work?

Those who reside in moderate climates may find heat pumps as popular home fixtures. However, for those who live in colder areas, these pumps are far less, as there are more efficient heat generating systems including, boilers and furnaces found more commonly.The difference due to climate is because of the variation in heat pump function.


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Identifying a heat pump:
Heat pumps are available in electric and gas models, and can be installed as a package system, split system, or as ‘mini-split’ or a ductless system. One of the easiest ways of identifying a heat pump is to go outside to the huge metal box, and browse through the information printed on the machine. If the box particularly states, ‘heat pump,’ or contains both ‘Seasonal Performance Heating Factor,’ and an ‘Energy Efficiency Seasonal Ratio’ it is a heat pump.

Working of heat pumps:

There is no heat created by heat pumps. Using a refrigerant, they merely transfer warm air. From outside to inside during winters, and vice-versa during summers. This is why during colder climates, pumps may not be able to cope with the heating needs as there is no heat outside to transfer. During ‘emergency heat mode’ heat is alternatively generated through electricity, which is just not as efficient.

There are numerous kinds of heat pumps, pertaining to how heat is sourced:

Air source

This is extremely common with heat being transferred from the temperature/air outdoors.

Geothermal / Ground source

These make use of the more steady temperatures in the water or earth sources.

Combination

Including air/ ground source, and air boiler/ source combinations for enhanced efficiency.

Using a heat pump effectively:

A lot of users get high power bills as they do not understand the right way to use a heat pump. To make sure you do not end up getting high energy bills, keep these tips in mind:

Do not play with the thermostat:

Just set the thermostat at an ideal temperature and don’t change it after that. If you jack the temperature down or up you will not heat or cool your house any faster. In fact, it will only make your system work less efficiently and harder.

Make sure you plan ahead.

Make sure you add a programmable heat pump friendly thermostat to ensure efficient utilization of your system.

System maintenance.

Properly charged and cleaned system functions a lot more efficiently than a system that has been disused.

Never hold back on a replacement.

At the time of replacing your heat pump, choose an efficient model, paying close attention to its ratings. Heat pump models that are the most efficient produce more heat in comparison to lesser models, utilizing equal amounts of energy. With cooling and heating accounting for almost 48% of the usual electric bill, there is some serious saving annually.


If you feel you are overdue for a heat pump maintenance it is a good idea to schedule an annual professional maintenance with a reputed company.

Friday 23 March 2018

Do not load your HVAC

A compressor is extremely important to ensure the cooling and heating of your home. By pumping coolant into the system, it produces heat as a standard part of operation. However, in case it gets very hot, it will shut down.

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Overloading of the compressor:

Overload of AC compressor is extremely common reason for malfunction, and normally happens on the coldest or hottest days, when the HVAC is working round the clock. It’s accountable for almost 50% of component failures. This is a very serious issue – and can also be very expensive if it develops into compressor failure. Pertaining to the system’s age, it may require complete replacement of the system.


Compressor Burn out - Causes:

The main cause of compressor burnout is bad installation, neglect, and maintenance, including…

1.     Dirty condenser coils.
2.     Dirty air filters.
3.     Undercharged or overcharged refrigeration system.
4.     Leaks in the refrigerant.
5.     Moisture within the refrigeration system.
6.     Added heat sources situated close to the condenser.
7.     Improper airflow.
8.     Lack of airflow from debris.
9.     Other failures.
10. Loose corroded wires and insufficient electrical supply inside the house, leading to low voltage problems.

How to prevent compressor overloads from damage?

Do not neglect maintenance.

It is a good idea to change the air filter quarterly. Clear all debris from the external system, keeping a clearance of 18-36 inches at all sides, and about four feet above.

Hire a trusted professional.

If you want your HVAC to be properly installed make sure you hire a professional. It is also advisable to undergo routine seasonal maintenance such as, verifying the refrigerant levels, connections and lubrication, operation confirmation, coil cleaning, and the like.

Consider extra protection.

If you add a compressor overload protector, it can secure your HVAC system. Situated close to the condenser, this superior sensor observes temperatures, and shuts the compressor down temporarily for preventing it from overheating. If you turn off the system to let the compressor cool, it can prevent any overload and warn you against problems that may otherwise become very expensive.

In case you have a compressor which is overheated, it is extremely important to uncover why, and not just replace components as that could lead to a repeat. In case your HVAC has experienced increased overheating, make sure you seek help, before it gets too late.

With just a little effort and knowledge, you can make sure that your system runs smoothly and efficiently. It is also a good idea to hire a professional HVAC expert who has the knowledge and expertise to keep your system from running smoothly. Do not neglect HVAC maintenance if you wish to spend less money repairing the system.  

Friday 23 February 2018

Using a Humidifier

If you are living in a cold climate, you most likely deal with low humidity levels every winter. It is difficult for cold air to hold moisture, so your house dries out naturally this time of year. The best solution is running a humidifier.

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What are humidifiers?

The main purpose of this equipment is to enhance the levels of humidity in an interior space. Essentially, there are two kinds of humidifiers:

Portable humidifiers: these are small enough and can be set on the tabletop. There is a water reservoir that can be refilled periodically for keeping the humidifier running. This is the best option if you wish to humidify just one room in the house, like your bedroom.

Humidifiers for the entire house are installed within the HVAC system and they work together with your furnace. The output of the water is controlled by the humidistat, connected directly to the plumbing. While these units require professional installation, their end result is good, with homes that are evenly humidified.

How do humidifiers really work?

There are various kinds of humidifiers, with each working differently:
             
       1. Evaporative humidifiers: these humidifiers feature a wicking filter and a cold-water reservoir. Air is blown over the filter through a fan. The filter in turn absorbs water, vaporizing the moisture then sending it only at regulated rates.

       2. Impeller humidifiers tend to toss water into a comb-like diffuser from a spinning disc. This separates the water in tiny droplets that puff into the air.
     
       3. Ultrasonic humidifiers work silently with the use of a metal diaphragm that shakes at a very high frequency to create a cool mist.

      4. Vaporizers or steam humidifiers boil water and tend to release the warm steam in the air.

What are the benefits of humidifiers?

Here are a few ways humidifiers benefit you in the winters:

      1. Keep healthy: Humidification assists in decreasing the spreading of germs in the air. Balanced humidity also helps in easing congestion and helps you recover from illnesses.

     2. Sleep well: when you keep your room in comfortable humidity level you are able to sleep soundly and get up feeling relaxed instead of dried out.

     3. Prevent dry hair and skin: a lot of people only make use of lotion during dry winters. To prevent flaky scalp, dry skin, and brittle hair, use a humidifier at your house.

    4.  Save on utility bills: When you humidify, less moisture vaporizes from your skin, which means you can reduce the thermostat by a few degrees without feeling any discomfort.

There are so many benefits of humidifiers. However, for best results make sure you use a whole-house humidifier. It will ensure that the entire space is comfortable. It’s particularly beneficial to run a humidifier when you feel congested, or are prone to bloody noses or dry skin during the winters.

Tuesday 23 January 2018

Inspecting your Heater before you turn it ON

The chilly winter season has started, but is your house really ready for the cold? Before you take out your winter wear make sure your house is safe and comfortable with a pre-season evaluation before you turn on the furnace for the very first time this season.

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Not every system is GO

Before you turn on your unit, a thorough pre-season examination is required to ensure proper and safe operation. This preventive but simple maintenance keeps you and your family safe, secured against unproductive operation and wasted power, and most essentially decreasing the likelihood of costly and unexpected repairs on the coldest days of winter.

How do you actually execute a pre-season inspection of your heater?

1.     Make sure you clear the way:

Get rid of any objects that block airflow around the vents, furnace, and registers, storing inflammable items inside a space which is away from the heating furnace. Make sure you clean nearby areas with the help of a vacuum.

2.     Replace air filters:

Make sure you get rid of last season’s air filters and install new ones.

3.     Install or test safety detectors:

Change batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide to make sure everything is working correctly.

4.     Make a test run. 

It is advised to perform a test on your heater before the setting in of chilly winter nights.

Get in touch with a pro.

Experts suggest that you get your unit serviced every year. Professionals can easily recognize a cracked combustion chamber or heat exchanger, which is usually invisible to am amateur as well as get rid of other blockages in the vent that may cause carbon monoxide leaks within the house. Professional inspection may also identify costly duct leaks that reduce levels of comfort and cause a lag in system performance.

In case you notice any peculiar smells when running the heater the first time in the season, there can be a range of probable causes. If you’ve just changed the filter, you can discount any issue with the filter. However, there could be dust on other components of the system such as, the heat exchanger and air ducts that burn off with early operation – normally in half an hour. Foul smells, however, must never be overlooked, as they may indicate towards something important. A smoky smell may indicate towards a chimney/ vent blockage, and a possibly lethal carbon monoxide level. In case the issue persists and you have been able to change the air filter, get in touch with a professional HVAC service provider for maintenance and service immediately. Remember, it is always a good idea to get the heating looked at by a professional instead of doing it yourself.