How To Care For Your HVAC System Before Going On Vacation

Warm weather and vacations usually go hand-in-hand. With the summer still in full swing, many are departing to leave for family vacation.  However, regardless of whether you plan a vacation in summer or winter, you still have to prepare your home before going. This preparation should include your heating and cooling equipment.

Getting a professional to conduct a tune-up on your AC or furnace will ensure that you do not come home to an uncomfortable home. Moreover, you get to enjoy your vacation thoroughly. You won’t worry whether or not your HVAC system will still work when you get home.

For fast and reliable HVAC services, make sure to contact Skylands Energy. We specialize in cooling and heating repairs, tune-ups, installations, and more.

When you schedule a maintenance checkup or any other HVAC service, we will provide you with superior service at honest prices. Our NATE certified technicians are ready to ensure that your HVAC system can provide you with optimum efficiency and comfort. Call Skylands Energy today for a free estimate.

Schedule An Appointment: (908) 707-1776

HVAC Maintenance Somerville NJ: Steps To Take Before Leaving On Vacation

Your heating and air conditioning system helps make your home comfortable. Preparing your system before you go on vacation ensures that it’s still in perfect working order after you return home. This article covers some tips to help make sure that your unit stays efficient and economical even while you’re away.

Don’t Turn Your System Off

Keep your HVAC system turned on. You probably think that shutting your system off is the best thing to do while you are away. After all, turning a piece of equipment off when it’s not in use does make sense. However, your heating and cooling system is an exception. Your HVAC system is designed to run around the clock. Thus, frequently turning it on and off will strain your system.

Moreover, your HVAC system is responsible for three things. First, it provides cool air during the summer and warm air during the cold winter months. Second, it dehumidifies your home. It acts as humidity control. Lastly, your unit keeps dust and other contaminants from circulating in your home.

Turning your system off will only result in poor indoor air quality. You will end up getting in a hot or cold, dusty, and humid home after your vacation.

Check Your Air Filter

The air filter in your HVAC system plays a vital role. It traps contaminants from entering your home. Also, it is essential for the overall functionality of your unit. A dirty air filter can cause multiple problems to your unit. Therefore, before you leave, make sure that your air filter is clean. A clean air filter assures you that your system is less likely to malfunction while you enjoy your vacation.

Check The Vents And Windows

The next thing you need to check is your vents and windows. Walk around all the rooms in your home and make sure that all vents are open. Airflow is essential for the efficiency of your system. Opening all these vents ensures that you get proper airflow. Also, close all the windows. It will help your system’s effectiveness as well. Doing so ensures that your home is secured while you are away.

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Install A Surge Protector

Blackouts and other electrical interruptions can happen unexpectedly. Thus, it is possible that one happens while you are away on vacation. Voltage spikes can undoubtedly cause damage or even system failure to your HVAC system. To prevent that from happening, make sure that you install a surge protector. A surge protector will protect your heating and cooling system from any damages due to sudden voltage spikes.

Install A Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat enables you to use programmed settings while you are on vacation. These settings adjust the temperature in your home to maximize the efficiency of your HVAC system.

It can also be set depending on the season. You can set it so that your AC reduces the cooling in your home while you are on summer vacation. If you are going away during the winter, you can also set it so that your furnace reduces the heat while you’re gone. Likewise, you can set it so that your system kicks on right before you get home. This way, you come home to a comfortable house. Also, you will not dread getting high utility bills at the end of the month.

HVAC Maintenance

A tune-up before you go on vacation is the best way you can prepare your HVAC system. Routine maintenance includes inspecting every component of your AC or heater. This way, you are ensured that every part is working correctly. Also, the technician can address any existing issues right away. Resolving any problems right away prevents them from escalating into major and costly repairs.

Contact a trusted HVAC contractor to conduct a tune-up. Even if you aren’t gone long, you will greatly benefit from getting a maintenance checkup. There is less of a chance that your system malfunctions while you are away. Therefore, you will be coming home to a system that performs well. It will also save you the inconvenience of getting repairs after you come back.

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Conclusion

Just as we’ve discussed, you must keep your HVAC system turned on even while you are away on vacation. You should also check your air filters. Make sure that all vents are open and all windows are closed. More importantly, schedule a tune-up before you leave.

When searching for fast and reliable “HVAC technicians near me,” contact Skylands Energy. We guarantee that our home AC and furnace tune-ups will improve your system’s performance and enhance its efficiency.

Our NATE certified technicians also offer other home comfort services. We specialize in heating repairs, cooling tune-ups, installations, replacements, and more. You can count on us to provide you with superior services at affordable prices. Call us today to schedule an appointment. We provide free estimates.

Call Now: (908) 707-1776

Some of the areas we service include Bridgewater, Hillsborough, Raritan, Somerville and
these zip codes: 08807, 08844, 08869, 08876 as well as all surrounding areas in central New Jersey.

Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!

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Tips To Help You Slash Your Water Heating Bills

Heating water is expensive. In fact, it accounts for 12-18% of your utility bills. It is only second to the heating and cooling costs of your home. As a homeowner, it is no wonder that you want to do everything you can to reduce this cost. Luckily, every homeowner can do something to heat water more efficiently.

One of the best ways to use less water and make sure that your water heater is working as expected is to contact Skylands Energy. Our licensed plumbing professionals have years of experience and the necessary skills to perform excellent plumbing services. We specialize in water heater installations, leak repairs, toilet replacements, and more. Call us today to schedule a free estimate.

Schedule An Appointment: (908) 707-1776

Ways To Reduce Your Water Heating Costs Using A Tankless Water Heater & Other Methods

Reducing your water heating costs can be as easy as tweaking a few home habits you and your family have. Listed below are a few steps you can take to save money on your water heating bill.

Turn Off The Water When Not In Use

The most obvious way you can save money on your utility bills is by conserving water. Take the time to assess your water usage. For instance, do you leave the water constantly running when you brush your teeth? The few seconds that you leave the water on might not seem like much. However, the accumulated water that is wasted during these times adds up. Turning the faucet or shower off when you are not using them will surely save you money.

Turn Down The Tank’s Thermostat

The standard temperature of a water heater is 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you will save money on your yearly water heating bill by merely lowering your water heater’s temperature to 120 degrees.

When you reduce your tank’s temperature by 20 degrees, you save around 6-10 percent on your water heating costs. Therefore, your tank will use less energy to heat water, and you will save you money. Moreover, turning down your thermostat to 120 degrees ensures that the water remains warm without burning yourself.

Use Less Hot Water When Doing Laundry

Using less hot water is always good for the environment and in lowering your utility bills. Wash most of your laundry with cold water. If hot water is necessary for washing clothes, opt to wash it using warm water instead. This way, you will save money but still have the same amount of washing efficiency your clothes need. For the rinse cycle, always use cold water.

Drain The Sediment In Your Tank

Sediment tends to settle at the bottom of your water heater. These sediments are a mixture of any solid material or debris from the well or water mains and calcium carbonate. Unfortunately, this sediment tends to overstrain your water heater. In turn, your utility bill will be higher. It also makes your water heater more prone to wear and tear. Contact a trusted plumber to drain your water heater as needed.

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Check Your Bathing Habits

Long, hot baths are also a culprit when it comes to driving up your water heating bills. Filling a bathtub, even when not filled to the brim, uses a lot of hot water. Try and cut back from this luxury. Take short, hot showers instead.

Moreover, you might also want to consider installing a low flow showerhead and aerated faucets. Older showerheads tend to use more water. Modern low-flow models do not exceed more than 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). This way, you will use less hot water and cut back on water heating costs. Also, you can have up to a 25%-60% increase in water savings.

Consider Installing A Tankless Water Heater

Installing a water efficient water heater model will help cut back your water heating costs. A gas or electric tankless water heater is an excellent replacement for your old conventional one.

Many benefits come with installing a tankless water heater. One of it is that it doesn’t take up as much space as a tank water heater. In fact, it could be mounted up in a wall or inside a cabinet. Also, its lifespan is 5-10 years longer than tanked heaters.

The most vital benefit, however, is that you will never run out of hot water. Tankless water heaters work by directly heating the water without the use of a storage tank. When you turn the hot water faucet, the cold water will pass through the unit and heat it. Thus, a tankless water heater lets you and your family enjoy an unlimited supply of hot water.

Tankless water heaters are more efficient than conventional water heaters because there is no standby heat loss. You can cut out as much as 20 percent off your water heating bill by installing a tankless water heater. After checking out tankless water heater reviews and looking into tankless water heater pros and cons, you will find that there are far more benefits to these systems than their tanked counterparts.

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Conclusion

Skylands Energy has professional and licensed plumbers on staff when you are in need of expert plumbing services. We offer water heater repairs, clogged drain repairs, leak repairs, plumbing fixture replacements, tankless water heater installations, and more.

We can correctly diagnose and repair any plumbing issues you are dealing with. Our plumbers will make sure that your system is in perfect working order. We also provide 24-hour plumbing services if you have any unexpected plumbing emergencies in your home. Call us today to set an appointment. We offer free estimates and in-home consultations.

Call Now: (908) 707-1776

Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!

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Why HVAC Air Filter Replacements Are So Critical

When did you replace your HVAC’s air filter last? Unfortunately, this essential task is something that is often overlooked by homeowners. Since air filters are an integral part of your AC, replacing filters should be a part of your air conditioner maintenance checklist. A filter is responsible for your home’s indoor air quality, trapping contaminants, allergens, and various other indoor air pollutants. It prevents safety hazards and fire hazards as well.

If your HVAC unit is in need of a tune-up, a repair, or a replacement, call Skylands Energy. Our team of professional HVAC contractors is NATE certified, and they deliver superior heating and cooling service. Their skills and training ensure that your home’s air conditioning or heating system is working optimally.

Our friendly technicians know the best strategies to achieve a comfortable home. We guarantee high-quality services that fit your budget.

During an air conditioner maintenance service, we’ll make sure to look out for any developing issues. This way, these issues are addressed early on, reducing the potential for a significant repair expense down the road. Our services aim to increase your comfort, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and more. Call us to set up your appointment now.

Schedule An Appointment: (908) 707-1776

Your Air Filter & Air Conditioner Maintenance Bridgewater NJ

The air filter performs many vital functions. It is crucial that air filters be changed regularly to fulfill these functions correctly. This article will discuss the importance of changing your HVAC filter regularly.

Dirty Air Filter

Your air filter is often made of a spun fiberglass material. In some cases, it is made up of pleated paper or cloth. A cardboard frame usually encloses the filter. With use, this fine mesh becomes denser and denser with particulates.

Airflow is unable to flow freely with a dirty air filter. When there is an obstruction, your A/C’s blower fan strains to push air. This blockage results in uneven room temperatures and inadequate cooling. Therefore, it is crucial to clean or change your air filter regularly.

Extended Lifespan

The dense buildup in your dirty air filter decreases air flow. This blockage makes your HVAC system less efficient. It also causes other heating and cooling components of your AC to overstrain to help air push through the buildup. Your system might eventually experience system failure when this happens.

Every machine has an expected lifespan. However, your air conditioner won’t last long without regular professional central air conditioner maintenance. Air conditioning preventive maintenance checks are essential as professional technicians will make sure that every part of your AC is working correctly. These checks include cleaning or changing your air filter when needed. Having routine maintenance will help you prevent costly repairs and early replacement. More importantly, it will extend your unit’s lifespan. Be sure to search for “air conditioner maintenance near me” to find a reputable heating and cooling specialist in your area. Only a professional truly knows how to clean a central air conditioner to achieve the best results.

Maintaining Energy Efficiency

A clean air filter means that heated or cooled air easily travels through the furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner in your home. On the other hand, your HVAC system tends to work harder when contaminants clog the surfaces of your air filters. If you do not remedy this immediately, your HVAC unit’s efficiency will steadily decline.

An inefficient HVAC system means that you will be paying more for your power. A dirty air filter reduces your AC’s efficiency by as much as five percent to as much as fifteen percent. Therefore, cleaning your air filter often will ensure that you are receiving optimum thermal comfort.

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Fewer Repairs

Dirty air filters can lead to a multitude of problems including overheating and other issues. One of the common problems it can cause is a frozen evaporator coil. Because of the reduced air flow, warm air does not pass through the cold evaporator coils. Ice will eventually form and may cause your air conditioner to leak. These damages caused by a clogged air filter can lead to system failure unless serviced immediately.

Moreover, a frequently malfunctioning system is an unnecessary inconvenience. Repairs, parts, and services are costly. Cleaning or changing your dirty air filters are vital if you want your HVAC system to remain both efficient and economical at the same time.

Better Indoor Air Quality

Air quality largely contributes to how comfortable you feel at home. A clean HVAC filter means that you and your family are receiving high-quality, healthy indoor air. After all, an air filter’s primary responsibility is to trap contaminants including dust and pollen.

With that said, a clogged filter with accumulated particles loses its protective function. Harmful debris is re-circulated back into your home instead of filtered out. These contaminants can cause severe respiratory illnesses or skin irritations. It can also affect the electronics in your home because the dust and dirt that your system disperses shorten your electronic’s lifespans. A clean air filter promotes a healthier indoor air quality for everyone in your household.

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Preventing Mold

The thick debris on your dirty air filter attracts condensation. This dampness is a perfect environment for mold or bacteria growth. Mold will damage the overall function of your HVAC system. However, what is alarming is the harm that it can cause to your body and home.

If you are experiencing nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, and eye irritations without any apparent cause, then you might want to check your HVAC filter. Mold can also cause skin irritations and severe allergies. Also, this fungus can damage the walls and floors of your home. Prevent mold growth and all mold-related issues by keeping your HVAC filters clean.

 

Conclusion

Typically, you need to clean your HVAC filter every month during heavy use. During off-peak times, change or clean it at least every three months. Regularly changing your air filter means your heating and cooling unit is a more efficient and cost-effective system.

When you are looking for reliable cooling and heating companies, call Skylands Energy. Our experienced and skilled HVAC technicians can evaluate your air conditioning equipment and offer you solutions at honest prices.

We specialize in HVAC services including tune-ups, repairs, and installation services for your air conditioning system. You can also schedule a free consultation. Our friendly technicians will be happy to answer all your HVAC questions and concerns. Call us now!

Call Now: (908) 707-1776

Some of the areas we service include Bridgewater, Martinsville, Raritan, Somerville, and these zip codes: 08807, 08836, 08869, 08876, as well as all surrounding areas in Somerset County, New Jersey.

Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!

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Leaking Air Conditioning Unit: Causes & Solutions

It is always a hassle when your AC malfunctions. A broken cooling system means that you are left feeling hot and sticky especially now that the scorching summer heat is upon us. It is only when this happens that you realize how much you rely on our air conditioner to keep you cool and comfortable. One of the most common air conditioning malfunctions experienced by homeowners is water leakage from their A/C unit.

To ensure that your air conditioner is in tiptop shape, call Skylands Energy. Our heating and cooling technicians have the knowledge and expertise to help you with all your HVAC issues. We guarantee fast and reliable services that fit your budget. Get your free estimate by contacting our office today.

Schedule An Appointment: (908) 707-1776

Bridgewater HVAC Contractors Share The Top Reasons For A Leaking AC Unit

Water leaking from your AC causes more than just puddles in your home. It can produce a tremendous amount of damage in your home if left unchecked. In this article, we will take a look at five of the most common causes for A/C water leakage and how to repair them.

Cause #1: Clogged Condensate Drain Line

The condensate drain plays an essential role in your air conditioning system. It is responsible for removing the condensation produced by your A/C’s evaporator coil. Dirt and dust can accumulate along the drain pipe’s walls. If this is not cleaned correctly, it creates the perfect environment for mildew and algae to grow. The mold growth can clog the drain. Because the condensation cannot pass through the drain line, the water leaks out of your air conditioner instead. This situation also leads to elevated humidity and musty odors inside your home.

There are a couple of unclogging methods to free the drain line from the blockages. For example, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to clean your AC condensate drain. The most guaranteed way to clean it is to call your trusted heating and cooling technician. Professional local HVAC contractors have the right tools and expertise needed to clean the drain line thoroughly.

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Cause #2: Drain Pan Damage

The drain pan is the basin under your A/C’s evaporator coil that catches the water that drips off from this coil. The drain line connects to the drain pan where it directs the water out of the system. Unfortunately, cracks and holes can develop in your AC’s drain pan, especially if your unit is over ten years old. Corrosion in the drip pan happens naturally over time or when something comes in contact with the pan. These cracks and holes cause water to leak out and potentially damage your air conditioner.

The best way to make sure that there are no holes or cracks in the drain pan is to schedule regular AC routine maintenance. An HVAC contractor can check it if there is any damage in your drain pan. If this is the case, a professional tech can replace it with a new one.

Cause #3: Broken Pump

The condensate pump is designed to pump and lift water from the drain pan to a floor drain or a utility sink. However, water isn’t pumped out of your home when the pump breaks. Contact an HVAC technician to assess the damage and repair or replace the broken pump. You can search for “residential HVAC contractors near me” to find the best one in your area.

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Cause #4: Blocked Air Filter

The air filter in your AC traps any contaminants from getting inside your home. This buildup on the air filter only gets denser as time passes. When the air filter is dirty, it blocks the airflow, and the warm air cannot pass through. Without warm air blowing over it, the evaporator coil gets too cold and freezes over. Ice forms in the surface of the coil. When it melts, the water leaks out of the A/C.

This issue is an easily preventable problem. All you need to do is have routine checks to see whether or not your AC’s air filter is dirty. Replace the filters when necessary. If you live in a particularly dusty area or if you have a furry pet at home, you might have to replace the air filters more often.

 

Cause #5: Low Refrigerant Level

The refrigerant is the coolant used in your air conditioner’s refrigeration cycle. There are a few indications you’ll notice on your AC if your refrigerant is low. One of the indicators is that your AC isn’t cooling your house well. Also, there could be a refrigerant leak if you hear a hissing sound from inside your A/C.

When the refrigerant level is low, the evaporator coil will form ice around it. The ice will eventually melt, and the excess water will leak out of your cooling system. If you suspect that this is the case, you need to call an HVAC contractor to repair this right away. If possible, have an EPA-certified technician do the job as they specialize in handling refrigerants. Licensed HVAC technicians all have this certification. You can find the most reputable HVAC companies in your area by searching for “best HVAC contractors near me”.

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Conclusion

Large amounts of water leakage from your air conditioning system is not normal. Make sure that you contact only the best heating and cooling technicians when looking for “HVAC companies near me”. Check the HVAC contractor reviews to ensure that they offer fast and reliable home air conditioning repairs.

Contact Skylands Energy for expert HVAC services. We guarantee that the NATE certified technicians in our team have ample experience and training. They have the necessary skills to provide high-quality service at affordable prices. Our friendly and professional technicians assure you that their visit will be a pleasant experience for you. Call now and schedule a free estimate today.

Call Now: (908) 707-1776

Some of the areas we service include Bridgewater, Martinsville, Raritan, Somerville, and these zip codes: 08807, 08836, 08869, 08876, as well as all surrounding areas in Somerset County, New Jersey.

Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!

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