Boilers have very few moving parts, which is a big reason why they're known for being durable and reliable. However, they will eventually wear out, and an HVAC heating expert can help you get a new, improved, and more efficient replacement.
Did you know that an energy star rating on your heating system translates to better air quality as well as increased efficiency? For instance, this type of furnace is designed to reduce the risk of backdrafting dangerous carbon monoxide fumes into the home.
Did you know that you can lower your energy costs by 3 percent to 5 percent if you lower the water temperature in your home by ten degrees? Speak to your HVAC heating specialists for other hints on how you can improve the energy efficiency of your heating system.
Studies show that heat loss from basements accounts for 25 percent of the energy loss your home undergoes during winter months. Insulating your basement properly can reduce this energy loss and help you save money on heating costs.
If you are not sure if your home heating system was properly installed – especially in an older home that added central heating after construction – have it inspected. One sure sign of a problem is poorly located return air openings, as they can interfere with fuel combustion.
Electric space heaters are a common addition to homes that do not have central air. If you do have this type of heater, be sure to keep it away from flammable items, and allow plenty of clearance around the appliance.
The efficiency of new furnaces is measured by the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE), a measure of seasonal performance. Furnaces today are between 80 percent AFUE and 98 percent AFUE. If your system is any less than this, then it is considered to be inefficient.
Do you know how the typical oil-fired furnace works? When a room thermostat is turned up, or the room temperature drops below the thermostat setting, the unit signals the furnace or boiler that additional heat is needed.
If you are looking to replace your heating system, then it is good to know that some power companies provide an optional service, called "green pricing," that allows customers to pay a small premium in exchange for electricity generated from clean, renewable energy sources.
The air temperature in the heat exchanger reaches a predetermined temperature, which is controlled by a fan-and-limit control, the furnace blower begins pulling cool room air through the return air registers and ducts, then that air is passed through the heat exchanger, where it is warmed by hot combustion gases.
If you're an environmentally conscious person, there are central heating systems that are geared directly toward those who are environmental activists or just want to leave less of a carbon footprint on the world. These systems use solar power and alternatives to fossil fluids.
If you’re going to travel during winter, you shouldn’t completely turn off your heat since you risk freezing your pipes. Don’t set your thermostat below 58 degrees.
The movement of air through spaces—specifically the rising of heat in buildings—is known as the so-called “Stack Effect.” Also, did you know that older radiators were constructed of cast iron, which weighs about 450 pounds per square foot.
Did you know that how your furnace sounds while it’s operating indicates that it might be in need of repair? Noises that indicate a potential problem include a low-pitched humming, high-pitched squealing, and loud banging.
Heat pump water heaters are more energy efficient than tankless water heaters, up to two to three times as efficient, and cost less to run.
If you're planning a party, consider turning down your thermostat. Each guest is equivalent to a 175-watt heater, and a large gathering will warm your home without any help from the furnace or heating system.
While we’ll certainly do everything we can to keep your heating system running when the weather turns cold, there may come a time when your system is beyond help. Let’s talk about the replacement options that could work for your family’s budget.
The ancient Romans weren't the only ones who had centralized heating systems. Ancient Koreans developed a process called "ondol," which used the stove's warmth to heat the house. However, it was actually the Russians who designed modern central heating.
It’s not unusual for your heater to make a few creaks when you first turn it on for the season. A mild burning smell is also normal as dust is burned off.
Did you know that certain types of furnaces run off of a low-moisture corn? Since the same corn you can find at feed stores is the fuel source, it's usually easy to find enough fuel in the winter.
Have you heard about the term MERV? It stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It has numbers ranging from 1 to 16 and is used to rate the efficiency of filters. A higher number indicates good efficiency of the filter.
When you’ve lived in your home for a number of years without replacing your heating equipment, you may not realize how much that old unit is costing you each month. If you’re ready to explore the more energy-efficient options, we’re always happy to help.
Before installing a new heating system, an HVAC contractor will first perform a heating load calculation to determine what size is needed. This will look at square footage, insulation levels, air tightness, window orientation, and other factors that might impact the amount of heat needed.
Heating systems can be classified as central or local. Central heating systems produce warm air at a single point and distribute it throughout your home. Local heating systems serve smaller spaces, and produce the heat where it is needed.
