How Are Furnaces and Heat Pumps Different?

November 15, 2023

Here in San Antonio, TX, homeowners need reliable heating systems to get through the winter. Although we don’t get many sub-freezing days, you still don’t want to get caught without adequate heat. As a result, most homes here rely on a gas furnace to stay warm each winter. However, homeowners are increasingly looking to heat pumps as a replacement for their aging gas furnaces. Here’s how the two systems differ and how to choose between them. The Benefits of Furnaces and How They Work There are multiple good reasons why gas furnaces are so popular here in San Antonio. One of them is that they offer some of the most efficient heating you can get. That’s because the average gas furnace operates at 80% efficiency, while some models are up to 98.5% efficiency. On top of that, natural gas is plentiful and relatively inexpensive. That means gas furnaces are among the cheapest heating systems to operate. They’re also quite safe to operate, as gas furnaces feature robust safety systems and rely on mature technology. Gas furnaces are also relatively simple machines, too. They feature a gas valve that controls the flow of natural gas into their burners. There, the gas...

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5 Benefits of Having a Furnace Inspection Before Winter

October 19, 2023

Most homeowners assume that their furnaces will work reliably and keep them warm during the winter. They may be right if their heating systems aren’t that old and haven’t required too many repairs, but there are still some good reasons to have your furnace inspected at least once a year even if it’s been working reliably. Here are just five reasons to schedule an inspection before the winter season. 1. Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is deadly in large doses. A furnace that isn’t kept in good condition can leak carbon dioxide into your home and create a serious health hazard for your family. An HVAC technician can identify a furnace that is in danger of leaking carbon dioxide into your home and fix it, so be sure to schedule a tune-up before you have to turn on your furnace for the winter. Even if your furnace is seemingly safe, you should invest in at least one carbon monoxide detector for your home. 2. Keeping Your Furnace Working Efficiently Regular inspections and tune-ups will ensure your furnace works efficiently throughout the winter. A more efficient furnace will use less energy, which is better...

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3 Benefits of in Home Air Purification

September 21, 2023

Poor indoor air quality is an incredibly common problem that can affect you in many ways. Indoor air is generally always much more polluted than the air outside, and there really isn’t much you can do to prevent this from being the case. As such, it’s always a good idea to take some steps to improve the quality of the air in your home, and installing a whole-home air purification system is the most effective option in this regard. To help you understand why whole-home air purification can be such a good investment, here are some of the biggest benefits this type of system will provide. 1. Reduce Allergy and Asthma Triggers Whole-home air purifiers are extremely effective and will filter out almost all allergens from your home’s air. Dust, pollen, dust mites and mold spores are found in every building, and there is no effective way to keep these allergens out. If you have pets in the home, you’ll also have lots of pet dander present that can also trigger allergy symptoms and asthma. With a whole-home air purification system, you’ll be able to breathe more easily and suffer from fewer symptoms since the system will constantly work to...

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Do Not Put Off An AC Inspection

August 16, 2023

After years of operation, you learn to notice the familiar hum of your air conditioner. When the sounds deviate from the norm, it likely means that your AC is crying out for help. Strange noises can occur before, during, or after the cooling cycle. Abnormal Noises Your Air Conditioner May Make One of the most common ways that your AC lets you know that something is wrong is by making strange noises. Some of the common sounds that come from a malfunctioning AC include: Squealing Whining Buzzing Rattling Clicking Whistling Hissing Abnormal sounds from your air conditioner almost always mean a problem with your unit’s function. Over time, wear and tear can cause parts to become loose or damaged and are the most common causes of strange noises during operation. When strange noises occur, you must take immediate action and seek an inspection to protect your AC components. Trust your system to the capable hands of . Reasons Your Air Conditioner Makes Strange Noises Responding quickly to strange AC noises is one of the most effective ways to prevent further damage. Even if your AC is not making noises now, it is wise to keep these in mind so you...

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Do Mini-Splits Require Regular Maintenance?

July 17, 2023

Mini-splits, or ductless air conditioning systems, are a great option for those wanting to heat and cool their homes in an efficient manner. Unlike traditional air conditioning systems that use ducts to circulate air throughout the home, mini-splits use individual indoor units mounted on walls inside the home. Like whole-home HVAC units, mini-splits operate best when they undergo routine maintenance. Energy-Efficiency A typical ductless mini-split is made up of several parts that must work together seamlessly for the system to run efficiently. If any of these components experience wear and tear, it can reduce the efficiency of the entire unit. For example, a dirty air filter or clogged condenser coils can cause the system to work harder and use more energy than necessary. The compressor, on the other hand, can malfunction if it is not properly lubricated and maintained, leading to issues with the system’s cooling power. Regular maintenance and servicing can help to ensure that all of these components work together optimally so that the system remains as energy efficient as possible. Prolonged Lifespan Mini-splits are designed to last for many years with proper care and maintenance. But if they go too long without being serviced, the system can...

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4 Early Warning Signs That You Need an AC Repair

June 13, 2023

Regular maintenance from a trained HVAC technician can keep your cooling system in tip-top condition and maximize its lifespan. Unfortunately, your unit may develop issues even after servicing it periodically. It’s essential to look for signs indicating that your appliance is malfunctioning and get a professional inspection and repair before it’s too late. Here are four of the early warning signs that your AC unit may need repair. 1. Strange Noises Most modern home ACs are relatively quiet while they are running, so you might have a serious issue if your cooling unit suddenly starts producing strange, loud noises. Some of the noises might result from loose parts hitting the other parts. A whistling or grinding sound might signal a more serious problem that might soon cause your air conditioner to stop working. If your unit produces sudden or unusual sounds when you turn it on, contact a trained HVAC technician from . We will skillfully inspect your appliance to determine why it is producing unusual sounds and then take the necessary repairs to ensure that your cooling unit produces minimal noise. 2. Abnormal Air Patterns Your air conditioner may also need a tune-up if you notice abnormal air patterns...

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3 Advantages of a Ductless Mini-split System

May 10, 2023

Ductless mini-split systems have become effective and convenient for heating and cooling interior spaces in many residential and small commercial buildings in recent times. These systems differ from traditional central HVAC systems because they do not rely on ductwork to distribute conditioned air throughout your home. Mini-split systems have two primary units: an outdoor compressor and an indoor air-distributing unit. The indoor air handlers are small and installed in specific indoor spots within your home to regulate the air around them. Even so, you may be wondering what the real benefits of these units are. Here are three reasons why you should consider installing a ductless mini-split unit in your home. 1. Easy to Install Looking at the ease with which ductless mini-split units can be installed compared to other types of HVAC systems is astounding. Because of the ducts, installing a central unit can take a surprisingly long time. In addition, you have to tolerate all the disruptions in your home as long as the process lasts. On the other hand, the process of installing a ductless mini-split system is less invasive. Thus, depending on the number of rooms in your home, the unit may be up and running...

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Is Regular Service Necessary for Keeping My HVAC System Under Warranty?

April 19, 2023

The right warranties and insurance policies can significantly lower the costs of maintaining systems and appliances in your San Antonio, TX home. In some instances, insurance policies and warranties can even prevent out-of-pocket spending altogether especially as it concerns your heating and cooling equipment. If you’ve recently purchased a new furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner, it’s important to diligently adhere to the terms of its manufacturer warranty. Having your HVAC system serviced regularly is one of the terms you must adhere to if you do not want to void the warranty on your unit and for good reason. Warranties Are Mutually Binding Agreements All warranties are mutually binding agreements. While these contracts make provisions for protecting consumers, those who issue these warranties make provisions to protect themselves. The product warranties for your HVAC equipment ensures that you’ll never have to pay for problems resulting from defective manufacturing or materials. If your HVAC equipment was broken or poised for failure when you bought it, you won’t have to pay to have it repaired or replaced. However, undue system stress can also cause HVAC systems to fail long before their time. Even something as simple as forgetting filter changes can result...

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When Should You Replace Your HVAC Air Filter?

March 15, 2023

Your HVAC filters pull allergens and other contaminants from the air before they can circulate and impact your air quality. They’re also vital in preserving your HVAC system’s efficiency. If you leave your filter in place for too long, it can put excessive strain on the system and impede airflow. This will make it harder for your furnace or air conditioner to get the air it needs to maintain effective temperature control. Keep reading this guide to determine the best filter replacement schedule for your household. Filter Type Every type of filter comes with manufacturer guidelines on their maximum useful lifespan. The most commonly used types are fiberglass air filters and pleated air filters. Fiberglass options are more affordable, but they won’t be able to remove as many particles from the air. They should generally be changed out every month. Pleated air filters are more expensive and can last up to 90 days. They’re more efficient at trapping particulates like dust, hair, pollen and lint. If you struggle to remember to buy new filters, consider signing up for a subscription service that will periodically deliver more filters on a routine schedule. Outdoor Air Quality Your local air quality can play...

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Cleaning and Maintenance of Your HVAC Unit

February 2, 2023

Your HVAC system is one of the most important appliances in your home, as it plays a vital role in maintaining indoor comfort and air quality. Your HVAC system provides heating, cooling, and ventilation to ensure proper air circulation and indoor air quality. A well-functioning system is essential for maintaining a comfortable living environment, particularly during extreme weather conditions. Neglecting the maintenance and upkeep of your HVAC system quickly leads to increased energy bills, decreased indoor air quality, and the need for more costly repairs. By adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, you can ensure your HVAC system’s smooth operation and longer lifespan. The Importance of Cleaning Your HVAC System Over time, dirt, dust, and other contaminants can build up in your system, affecting its performance and causing it to work less efficiently. A dirty HVAC system can also spread pollutants and allergens through your living space, posing a health risk to all of your family members. Other consequences of a dirty HVAC system include: Reduced unit efficiency Increased energy bills Shorter unit lifespan Poor indoor air quality Health and safety concerns Cleaning Care and Maintenance of Your HVAC System: Essential Steps To make sure you’re getting the most out...

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