Furnace Repairs You May Need Before Winter

Your heating unit is probably the last thing on your mind, especially when preparing for the upcoming season However, it is best to check on it before the cold months begin. After all, its performance will help determine just how comfortable and safe your house will be during the winter season.

Therefore, it is a good idea to know some furnace repair tips. You should know that your heating system requires essential maintenance, at least before the cold season arrives. This way, you reduce the chances of it breaking down when you need it the most. It is a must, especially if your current system is old or if you overworked it last winter.

This article will talk about some of the signs that indicate your furnace needs repair. We also included a few furnace repair tips that’ll come in handy when you think you have a faulty furnace. This article also includes a short guide you can use when looking for an HVAC contractor in your area.

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Signs That You Need A Furnace Repair

How old your furnace is undoubtedly a factor, but it isn’t likely the only reason why your heating system needs repair. After all, a new furnace might get damaged, especially if it is neglected. Here are a few telltale signs to watch out for to help you determine if your HVAC system needs to be repaired:

Uncomfortable House

A house that is either too hot or too cold means that your furnace might not be working at its best. Some parts could be faulty. It could have a blocked filter, a loose belt, or a damaged fan motor. These and a couple of other issues could contribute to why your furnace is acting up.

High Energy Costs

A well-functioning furnace is energy-efficient. This is reflected in how much energy it consumes. If you notice a sudden increase in your energy costs without any reasonable explanation, your HVAC system likely needs to be checked. Call a licensed expert to conduct a proper inspection.

Hot/Cold Spots

If you notice that some parts of your house are cold while other parts are warm, then there could be a problem with your HVAC system. An HVAC system that’s in excellent condition should be able to cool or heat your home evenly. Cold or hot spots are an indication that you should have your furnace checked immediately.

Gas Leakage

Turn off your heating system when you smell gas or fuel. Call your local HVAC technician immediately as well. A leak in your furnace puts you and your family at risk. A tiny spark could cause a fire, or you could experience dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms.

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Troubleshooting Your Furnace

Not all of the issues that your furnace experiences need the hands of a professional. Homeowners can conduct a few simple repairs and preventative procedures to help keep your system operating efficiently. Some of the basic fixes you can do are:

• Furnace Filter Check: Filters block the impurities in the air from being distributed throughout your home. Therefore, air quality and airflow are negatively affected when it becomes clogged. It can even result in premature breakdowns and become a fire hazard. To prevent these issues, check the filter at least once a month. A blocked air filter should be cleaned or replaced when it is dirty.
• Thermostat Check: See if the batteries need to be changed. If there are any dust and dirt on the unit, use a soft brush or a soft, dry cloth to remove it.
• Power Check: Check the switch and electrical panel periodically. If your furnace doesn’t turn on, the electrical breaker might have been turned off. Check the fuses as well. Make sure to get them replaced with new ones if there is any damage or discoloration.
• Pilot Light Check: Ensure that both the pilot light and furnace flame are on. Check the owner’s manual before you try and relight the pilot light. Make sure you follow the instructions correctly. Check for any leaks before you try relighting it. If you detect a leakage, switch off the system and contact a local HVAC technician as soon as possible.
• Vent Check: Check if all registers and vents are open. Your furnace won’t heat your home evenly if they are closed, or something is blocking them. Remove any objects that are obstructing the vents to restore proper airflow.

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Common Furnace Issues You Might Encounter

Some of the common malfunctions that your furnace might experience include:

Damaged Blower Belt

If you hear a high-pitched squeal from your furnace, the culprit is most likely a damaged blower belt. It needs to be replaced for your furnace to operate correctly again.

Worn-Out Bearings

If you notice a scraping sound when you turn on your furnace, then you might have worn ball bearings on your hands. Call an HVAC technician immediately to have them replaced.

Frequent Cycling

A clear sign of short cycling is when a furnace repeatedly turns on and off. If this is the case, check if the issue is caused by the thermostat, a dirty filter, or blocked airflow. Call a professional if the problem isn’t any of the above.

Yellowish Or Flickering Pilot Light

The pilot light should be a blue flame with a yellow tip. If it is flickering or is yellow in color, the carbon monoxide level in the gas furnace is high. Call an expert immediately.

Cracked Heat Exchanger

Some of the signs that you have a damaged heat exchanger include an unusual smell around your house, and corrosion, soot, and cracks in your furnace. Contact an HVAC repair company to assist you.

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Repairing Or Replacing Your Furnace

Your furnace problem can be solved in either one of two ways. Sometimes, repairs work effectively. However, some situations call for a heating system replacement. Here are a few things to help you determine whether you need to replace your furnace:

• Age: It is recommended that you replace a system that is 17 years old above and has been in regular use. Of course, the best way to determine the condition of your furnace is by consulting with an HVAC contractor.
• Cost-Effectiveness: If you notice that your monthly heating costs have been steadily rising through the years despite regular tune-ups and repairs, then it may be time for a replacement.
• Poor Performance: A system does not operate as effectively as before will require a replacement. You might notice that there are cold or hot areas around your home.
• Frequent Repairs: Replace your furnace when your furnace requires many repairs or one that would cost 50 percent or more of a replacement system. If this is the case, buy a new furnace instead.

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Top Tips For Choosing An HVAC Repair Company

A trustworthy heating and cooling company gives you peace of mind. That is, you can rely on a company that can help you whenever things go wrong with your HVAC system. With a reliable HVAC company, your furnace will be back in perfect working condition in no time.

However, finding a good HVAC repair company isn’t that easy. Most homeowners will likely have a bad experience with a company at one point. Some of the problems a homeowner might encounter include the tech showing up late or not at all. The contractor might even cause more harm than good to the system as they try to fix a problem.

There are generally a few tips that can guide you when searching for a reputable HVAC company. Here are a few to help you find one in your area:

 

Look For A Specialist Heating Company

When looking for a professional for furnace repairs, look for a company instead of a repairman. Look for companies that specialize in heaters. This will be more advantageous to you.
First of all, you should contact an expert who has extensive knowledge of furnaces. They will also have experience working with various brands and models. Therefore, they will have the confidence to inspect your furnace and determine the issue correctly.

Working with a company also means you can work with more than one technician. If one cannot solve the problem, then another tech from the same company might be able to. Having a reputable company do the job might mean you have to spend a bit more than going for cheap HVAC repair. However, you will have the peace of mind knowing that your system is in capable hands. Moreover, you don’t have to pay twice for the same repair.

HVAC Company: Check The Website & Reviews

To help you choose the best HVAC company, check their website. This allows you to get a general sense of the company. The website should look professional and has a high production value. It should include the information you need to know about the company, including history and contact details. If it only has the bare minimum and the info is outdated, then you might want to think twice about hiring the company.

Look into the reviews and ratings that customers leave as well. These might actually help you with some questions regarding their professionality, response time, attitude, and more. Some companies include customer feedback on their website. This feedback will be helpful, but you also have to remember that the company runs the site. Therefore, they can control what goes on it.

If you want to read both bad and good reviews, go to Google or social media platforms. These sites have the reviews and ratings of all previous customers without the company controlling what gets posted or not. This is the best way to know what former customers actually think of the company. Search for key terms like “furnace repair near my location” or “furnace repair near me” to find a trusted HVAC company in your area.

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Reach Out To The Heating Repair Company

Call the company you have an interest in. Speak to a representative and assess the company’s values and principles. If the person you are talking to sounds friendly, knowledgeable, and glad to be of help, you should be in good hands. However, if they sound annoyed and confused, you might want to start looking for another HVAC company.

After you talked to several companies, go with the one you felt most at ease with. Listen to your instinct and give the company a chance.

 

Call Skylands Energy Service For All Of Your Furnace Repair Requirements

A highly-skilled technician is a must when you need furnace repairs. It is not something that an untrained individual can perform as a furnace should never be a DIY project. A tech will have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to fix your heating system properly. Not all HVAC companies provide the same quality of work, so be sure to find one that’ll fit your needs.

When looking for an excellent HVAC system repair company, do not hesitate to contact Skylands Energy Service. We will be happy to assist you. We provide free, no-obligation, in-home consultations.

Skylands Energy Service hires only the best licensed and certified HVAC technicians. Our services include HVAC maintenance, installations, repairs, and replacements. Rest assured that we can fix your HVAC system correctly and on time. All our heating and cooling services are affordable. When you need to replace your current system, we can help you find the best one that suits your needs and budget. Schedule an appointment by calling us today.

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What Happens When You Skip Annual Furnace Maintenance?

All machines need tune-ups to ensure that they operate in tiptop shape for a long time. This includes your furnace. Professionals recommend that your heating system receive annual furnace maintenance from an HVAC technician so that it continues to be a reliable heat source. Most homeowners know that this is a vital thing to do.

However, many still neglect to have their furnaces checked every year. Some forget to schedule a tune-up while others skip it altogether to save on costs. These people are satisfied with how their furnaces work and think nothing is wrong with their heating unit anyway. However, they do not realize that failure to have their furnaces checked leads to higher chances of their furnace experiencing several problems down the line. Naturally, this costs more.

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What Happens When You Skip Annual Furnace Maintenance?

This article will talk about the effects of skipping your annual furnace maintenance.

Failure To Address Furnace Problems Early On

Homeowners usually do not have the necessary training to spot if anything is wrong with their furnace. However, an expert’s trained eye can assess and determine issues your furnace is starting to have. These symptoms that amateurs might not notice as easily can be determined by an expert who has seen it many times before.

A furnace problem that is spotted early means it can be solved early. An expert can conduct the necessary repairs to keep the issue from getting worse. The solution is usually easy, cheap, and quick during this time. For instance, an HVAC technician will clean the furnace interior, lubricate the machine, replace the air filters, repair frayed wires, among others. Furnace maintenance keeps major breakdowns and expensive repairs from happening.

Furnace Breakdowns

A furnace that has faulty parts can result in the furnace eventually breaking down. It will not operate efficiently. It also won’t be able to keep your home warm and comfortable when you need it the most. If it is not remedied immediately, the issue might grow and affect the other components of your furnace. As a result, your heating system’s lifespan also decreases. Furnaces typically last for 10 to 15 years. However, skipping on furnace tune-ups can result in you needing to replace your furnace before that.

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Increase In Home Heating Costs

Without annual HVAC maintenance, the system will strain to provide the heat needed to keep your home warm and comfortable. Your system will require more energy to reach the set temperatures. As a result, there will be an increase in your monthly energy bills. You might have thought that you are saving money from skipping on furnace maintenance. However, the high heating costs associated with your unmaintained system actually costs you more. The upward push in your bill can be either gradual or sudden. Investing in an annual furnace tune-up will ensure this does not happen to you.

Fire Risks Due To Faulty Heating Units

Furnaces can cause a fire if it does not receive regular maintenance. Furnaces rarely spark fires, but it can still happen. Therefore, it must be taken seriously. The usual suspect for this is frayed wires.

During heater tune-ups, an HVAC expert will inspect all the system wirings to ensure that they are all in perfect working condition. Any potential danger will be corrected immediately as well. Professional furnace tune-ups allow you to use your system without fear. They also give you the confidence that your family is safe even with constant use.

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Poor Indoor Air Quality

The air that passes through your furnace carries contaminants, including dust, dirt, dander, pollen, and bacteria. Your furnace is equipped with air filters to block these impurities from getting distributed throughout your home. Unfortunately, these can get clogged as time passes. A dirty air filter is not as effective in blocking out these contaminants. As a result, these particles are spread throughout your house and cause health issues like coughs or allergies. These impurities can also harm the components of your furnace and affect its performance. Maintenance includes HVAC air filter replacements so that these problems are avoided.

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Reduced Home Comfort Level

A heating system provides consistent and even heating throughout your house. There are no cold spots, and you remain warm in any part of your house during the cold season. However, you might notice certain areas in your home feeling warmer than others. This reduced level of comfort might be a result of an aging heating system. However, it could also be because of blocked vents across the system. Professional HVAC technicians can help prevent this from happening as the vent system is part of their furnace maintenance checklist. They will also repair any leaks and make sure that air is flowing properly throughout the house.

Void A Furnace Warranty

Warranties are put in place to help deal with any needed repairs without the owner having to spend out-of-pocket. These will help the homeowner avoid financial difficulties from unexpected furnace breakdowns. Homeowners only need to remember that they need to keep their end of the contract for the warranties to remain valid. Otherwise, the manufacturer can void them. One of the usual stipulations from these warranties is that the need for regular professional maintenance. Therefore, schedule a yearly checkup for your furnace and make sure to keep all the records. This way, you can easily give them when a manufacturer asks for proof of maintenance.

When To Schedule A Furnace Tune-Up

The best time to arrange for furnace maintenance is from late spring to early fall. This is because the weather isn’t as cold and there are shorter wait times. Do not wait for the last minute to schedule a furnace tune-up. Call your local HVAC technician today and book a furnace maintenance appointment.

 

Call Skylands Energy Service For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

Skylands Energy Service offers high-quality HVAC services throughout Central New Jersey. Our company hires the best licensed and certified experts who can perform excellent HVAC services. These include heating and cooling repairs, maintenance, installations, and replacements. All our techs have years of experience and extensive knowledge, so rest assured that your HVAC system is under capable hands.

Our company offers competitive pricing for all our heating and cooling services. Our tune-up services will increase your system’s energy efficiency. They will also improve your home comfort and reduce your energy costs. When you need to have your HVAC system repaired or replaced, we can provide you with a solution that will best fit your home and budget. Your satisfaction is important to us, so all our work is backed with a guarantee. Schedule a service appointment by calling Skylands Energy Service today. We offer free, in-home estimates.

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Common Furnace FAQs

We are beginning to see a drop in temperatures as we are nearing the winter season. As such, this is the right time for homeowners to see if their furnaces are in good working condition. After checking the furnace, if you notice that something is not working properly or simply have doubts about the functionality of the furnace, it is best to call a heating expert to come and do repairs or a tune-up. Make sure that you take the necessary steps now because if you delay, it might be hard to get HVAC services in the middle of winter.

Many homeowners find themselves with a lot of questions regarding their furnaces around this time of the year. One of the major questions has to do with choosing the ideal service provider. For people who are looking to buy a new heating system, they would need advice regarding the best furnace for their home, as well as the long and short-term costs. This is where professional HVAC contractors come into play. They can answer all the questions that you may have regarding these issues.

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Common Furnace FAQs

In this article, we discuss some of the answers to the most common furnace FAQ.

Is Furnace Maintenance Really Necessary?

Absolutely. Servicing your furnace regularly is very important. You should note that manufacturers will honor a warranty only if you can provide proof of furnace maintenance. Usually, when you purchase the heating system, it comes with step by step instructions regarding how to maintain the unit. If you are a homeowner, the best thing you can do is to make sure that you follow the instructions in order to avoid unnecessary breakdowns and repairs. Regular servicing will ensure that the unit is safe for use, will last longer, and will always be working efficiently.

When Is The Right Time To Call An Expert For Repairs?

You should contact a heating professional the moment you see that there is an issue with the unit. If you hold off on calling for assistance, the problem might worsen and you might end up paying more in order to fix the issue. Contact a reputable HVAC company as soon as you can so that problems are fixed early.

When Should I Replace My Furnace?

There are many variations of furnaces on the market today. They differ in terms of quality and durability. As a result, it is difficult to come up with a particular timeframe within which to replace your furnace. A lot of these units can last for more than ten years if they are being maintained well. So, maybe you can start considering purchasing a new system after a period of about a decade or so; providing the one you have has lasted for that long.

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What Are the Signs That I Should Replace My Furnace?

Usually, you will know that you need to install a new furnace when you notice multiple issues such as unusual smells, pilot light failure, slow ignition, and insufficient heat. If you notice that your system doesn’t seem as energy efficient as it used to, it means that more energy is being consumed, resulting in increased monthly bills.

How Often Should Furnace Air Filters Be Replaced?

HVAC filters help to provide clean and safe indoor air quality by stopping dust and dirt from getting into the unit. But as time goes on, those pollutants can clog up the surface of the filter. That is why air filters should be replaced on a regular basis according to the manual provided by the manufacturer.

Which Is The Best Furnace For My Home?

You can choose the type of furnace you want in your house. However, there are certain factors that you should consider. These include heating capacity and AFUE rating. In terms of the rating, the ideal rating should be above 80%.

How Can I Lessen My Home Heating Costs?

One of the best ways you can reduce the bill is by making sure that system maintenance is done frequently. If the system is well maintained, it will be more energy-efficient, resulting in decreased fuel consumption. It also helps to set the thermostat to temperature levels that are on the milder side.

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How Is Furnace Size Or Capacity Determined?

In order to know the right furnace size for your home, there are a number of factors you need to take into account. These include regional climate, entire floor space, insulation, the height of the ceiling, and orientation. A skilled contractor can assist you by conducting a Manual J Load Calculation which will give you the exact figure.

How Durable Is A New Furnace?

Again, there are many variations of furnaces on the market nowadays. Therefore, there is also a variation when it comes to durability. If you get the correct unit for your home and if you ensure that it is well maintained, you can get more than twenty years of use.

What Is An AFUE Rating Of A Furnace?

AFUE basically stands for the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency ratio. It calculates the system’s heat production compared to fuel consumption. A good rating should be 80% or more; an excellent rating being above 90%. The user manual will guide you on how to find the rating. However, it is normally on the faceplate.

 

Conclusion

Most people rely on their furnaces to give comfort and warmth during those long cold months. You can even go for more than twenty years with the same unit. However, as a homeowner, you also have a part to play if you want the unit to last that long. It is your responsibility to make sure that regular furnace maintenance is done. Make sure that you replace the air filters frequently and contact an expert for annual servicing.

Call Skylands Energy Service For All Of Your Heating Needs

Skylands Energy Service offers exceptional heating and cooling services in the area. Our technicians are certified and they are available to repair, tune-up, replace, or install your heating systems. They have the requisite know-how and experience to assist you.

Do you need your heating unit to be repaired or replaced? Then you have come to the right place. Skylands Energy Service offers the cheapest furnace replacement and repair costs in the area. We can find the best furnace for your home based on your particular budget. Also, we always take into account important factors such as indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and comfort. Give us a call today to make an appointment and get an in-home estimate totally free.

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Items To Include In Your Fall Checklist For Home Maintenance

Fall offers a sweet respite between the hot temperatures of summer and the cold temperatures of winter, bringing with it lovely foliage, carved pumpkins, and football games that are downright action-packed.

This season, however, also comes with messy, leaf-strewn yards, temperatures that are increasingly cold, and a variety of other concerns.

Homeowners who are diligent in their efforts to get ready for fall will be well-prepared for the much harsher, much colder, and far more challenging months of winter. Drafting your own fall checklist for home maintenance will make your efforts far less time-consuming while ensuring an optimum outcome.

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The Homeowner’s Checklist For Fall Maintenance

This article discusses a variety of ways to get your home cold season-ready as fall comes rolling in.

1. Set Up An Appointment To Have A Heater Tune-Up Performed

Throughout fall and all the way through winter, the temperatures will steadily fall. At one time or another, you’re going to have to turn your home heating system on for warmth. As such, you should take steps to make sure that your heater is up to the job.

Your home heating system should receive a yearly heating system tune-up from a qualified HVAC technician. These professionals are able to thoroughly inspect HVAC systems and all of their components, complete basic repairs, and provide routine cleaning, system lubrication, and other maintenance support. Tuning up your heater will improve the quality of air within your home, promote a more reliable and efficient level of operation, and prevent problems. Get in touch with Skylands Energy Service right now to set up your heater tune-up.

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2. Make An Appointment For Heating Oil Delivery

When your home requires heating oil, you should always schedule your fuel oil delivery services in the fall. This will ensure that your household is prepared for the tough winter climate. Paying for this essential resource before the peak season actually arrives will give you the additional benefit of lower prices. Call Skylands Energy Service to get detailed information on our current range of heating oil delivery services, our payment plans, and our fuel oil delivery options.

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3. Eliminate Any Cracks Or Gaps Near Your Doors And Windows To Boost Overall Energy Efficiency

Your heater will be working hard for no good reason if heated air is constantly able to escape through any cracks or gaps at your windows or your doors. These things will actually make your heater work longer and harder while using more fuel, just to create a comfortable indoor temperature. This makes it wise to check doors and windows for any possible leakage. Seal up gaps and cracks with materials like caulk, window film, foam tape, or weatherstripping. If you hang insulated curtains, this will also improve energy efficiency. You also want to verify that all insulation in your home has the appropriate R-value and that there is an adequate amount of insulation overall.

5. Check Carbon Monoxide And Smoke Detector Batteries

A malfunctioning heater might emit smoke or start leaking small amounts of carbon monoxide. These developments are dangerous and must be identified and resolved immediately if serious consequences are to be avoided. The smoke usually means that there is a fire, and fire can damage the entire house. Carbon monoxide has no odor or color, but it can be fatal. Given that you’ll be putting your heater back into commission soon, check the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to make sure that these critical alert systems are actually working.

6. Promote Winter Safety At All Driveways, Paths, Walkways, And Stairs

Winter is coming fast. Before the cold season actually arrives, make sure that the exterior of your home is safe. Do this by checking all property features that are exposed to the elements. As an example, your driveway, stairs, railings, and walkways should be readied for cold, icy weather so that injuries and the accidents that cause them can be avoided. Broken or damaged features should be tended to as these repairs will only become more challenging when the snow starts to fall. Make sure that you have sturdy, reliable railings in place. Check to verify that the driveway and other paved areas are smooth, hazard-free, and easy to shovel.

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6. Shrubbery And Trees Must Be Cared For

Trees have a very beautiful aesthetic in autumn. Certain changes in their characteristics, particularly the bright colors of their leaves can be visually arresting. Some of these changes, however, may be indicators of how well this foliage is currently doing. For instance, if leaves start changing much earlier than they normally do or if you start noticing an abundance of dead branches, then your trees or shrubs could be battling the disease. Consulting with an arborist is a great way to get help on all your tree maintenance.

7. Rake Up All Dry, Dead Leaves

At the very start of fall, just as the leaves begin to change color and drift to the ground, you may be excited and happy to see this lovely display. You might even be tempted to let this debris build up while you tackle other home maintenance and chores. Even though piles of leaves can look romantic in early autumn, they’ll appear far less so once they’re covered in snow. This is something that can even inhibit growth in the spring. Try to rake up dead leaves as quickly as you can.

8. The Gutters And Downspouts Need To Be Cleaned

Some dead leaves, twigs, and branches will fall to the ground, but others will wind up in your gutters and on your roof. These build-ups can block water that would otherwise drain off your roof. Dead, rotting, organic materials can also be very attractive to pests. Make sure to clean out all of your gutters and downspouts as often as needed, and according to how close your home is to trees. If your rooftop is too hard to reach, think about hiring a professional gutter cleaner instead.

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9. Take Care Of All Needed Repairs At The Building Exterior

While you’re cleaning your gutters, check for damage or evidence of damage at the roof. Also, take a minute to check for damages or other problems at the building foundation. Because of the constant environmental stress that the exterior of your home is subjected to, problems tend to develop much more quickly here than they do on the inside of the building. If issues are identified, get them taken care of before winter comes rolling in.

10. Drain Hoses And Faucets At The Building Exterior Should Be Cut Off

One last but very important item on your fall maintenance checklist should be to turn off all store hoses and any faucets that are at the building exterior. This will prevent your pipes from freezing up when the temperatures drop. You don’t want there to be any water flow coming to fixtures that expose as this liquid will freeze, expand, and may cause serious harm to the plumbing system. Drain all water out before the outside temperatures reach their lowest point. You can also use spigot covers to protect your outdoor faucets from temperature extremes.

 

Call Skylands Energy Service For Superior Home Comfort Services

You can always connect with Skylands Energy Service when seeking reliable, affordable services for home comfort. Our expansive suite of quality HVAC services includes furnace installations, tune-ups, and repairs. The technicians on our team are highly qualified, experienced, and trained and they can help you enjoy a better-performing and far more efficient HVAC system overall.

Fuel oil delivery is another service that we specialize in. We offer affordable prices on heating oil with rapid and reliable delivery. Check out our large number of payment plans and delivery options. With these, you can customize your delivery to suit your needs. Set up an appointment by call Skylands Energy Service.

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Top 5 Reasons To Have An Annual Furnace Tune-Up

Having an annual furnace tune-up is one of the absolute best steps you can take to prolong the heater lifespan. Without a furnace that functions, you won’t be able to maintain sufficient comfort levels and safety within your living space. This is true, especially during the chilliest months of the year. However, besides prolonging the life of this crucial investment, a yearly furnace tune-up can provide an incredibly impressive and vast range of advantages.

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Main Reasons To Schedule An Annual Furnace Tune-Up Each Year

These are the top five reasons you should schedule a furnace tune-up today.

Why Should I Tune Up My Furnace?

Whether your house needs a gas furnace tune-up or an oil furnace tune-up, getting this service taken care of is guaranteed to increase the overall safety and efficiency of your system.

When you prepare to turn on the heater, you can rest easy knowing that it will provide flawless performance without causing issues to your health and safety.

In addition, this annual service is probably required for any warranty on the furnace that you currently have. A warranty is an assurance offered by the manufacturer of the equipment. It guarantees that the HVAC replacement and repair costs are covered when problems arise related to faulty parts or inadequate workmanship.

When you diligently maintain your furnace and have annual tune-ups and inspections performed, it makes it much easier to attribute faults to the manufacturer. This situation is especially valid when your system or its parts malfunction before the furnace’s expected lifespan has ended. Thus, by maintaining your heating system, you can ensure that your warranty is still valid. Likewise, you can ensure that the manufacturer doesn’t void it.

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Preventative Maintenance For Your Furnace

A professional HVAC contractor will take several steps when tuning up your furnace.

Firstly, your HVAC provider will do a comprehensive inspection of your furnace. They do this to find out more about its condition and how each part of the equipment operates. When the inspection is finished, your technician can trade out any worn or damaged parts. The technician will change the filters. They perform other steps both to minimize wear that is ongoing and make sure the overall efficiency is at optimum levels.

Your furniture maintenance service can be recorded so that you can provide the product manufacturer with this documentation. This is important in case you ever need to put forward a warranty request.

When you schedule a tune-up for your furnace, the number of times you will need to have the servicing done will mainly be determined by how much your system is used. Plus, you will need to consider the maintenance and care requirements that are stated in your warranty agreement.

Typically, most heating units require a furnace tune-up every year. The best time to schedule a tune-up is early in the fall, right before you rely on it to keep you warm in the frigid winter months.

 

What Benefits Do I Get Out Of A Furnace Tune-Up?

Similar to most homeowners, you might be shocked by the costs and what seems like a never-ending list of projects for home maintenance that you’re responsible for. While it might seem like another arduous task to cover the costs of furnace tune-ups, the amount that you spend in this respect can save you a great deal of money as time goes on.

When thinking about the average prices to replace AC and furnace systems, you will discover that the relatively low costs for getting this system maintained and tuned up properly are definitely worth your time. Have a look at these five advantages of getting your furnace tuned up just once every year:

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1. Reduced Utility Bills

After a tune-up, your home heating costs will decrease significantly. These services are performed to ensure that the heating system in your home continues to operate as efficiently as it did when you first installed it. In the cold winter months, your household will stay warm using far less energy. The best part is, in addition to reduced utility bills, you will also have the advantage of a far lower carbon footprint.

2. Improved Indoor Air Quality

One little-known advantage of getting the furnace in your home tuned up is much higher indoor air quality. During a furnace tune-up, the technician will change the filter. Dust, dirt, and other debris will be flushed from the interior components. Because of this, the air discharging from the registers will be clean and free of contaminants. This is particularly helpful for anybody in your household who suffers from allergies, asthma, COPD, or any other progressive or chronic respiratory issue.

3. Avoid Having To Replace Your Heating System Early

To get optimal value out of the heating equipment in your home, you want to ensure that it runs for the full length of time that is expected of it. The best way to do this is to get regular maintenance, inspections, and service performed. Your HVAC contractor can detect and rectify small problems before these issues start getting bigger and beyond your control. In addition, this will clean out built-up debris and dirt that puts pressure on the system to work harder.

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4. Stay Informed About Your Furnace’s Condition

Furnace tune-ups allow homeowners to stay up to date about any new incidents and what their furnace’s overall condition is. This is especially important if you know very little about the age and history of your home heating system. Your service provider can offer you an estimate of the remaining lifespan of your furnace. Therefore, you can start to plan and prepare well in advance for any expensive projects involving furnace replacement.

5. Maintain Safety For Residents Of The Home

Beyond just saving you money, regular maintenance and inspections can also prevent deaths. After all, a furnace produces heat by burning fuel, and inevitably exhaust is produced. If there are leaks in the exhaust lines, carbon monoxide can seep into your home. Ensuring that every component is working correctly is the key to preventing issues that could potentially be life-threatening.

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What Does A Furnace Tune-Up Include?

A furnace tune-up starts with a total clean and check of your furnace. The best HVAC pros work by sticking to an extensive checklist for furnace tune-ups that is specific to the model and make of the heater that needs service.

After all, the HVAC technician checks and cleans all of the components thoroughly, they will trade out damaged and worn parts. Doing so ensures safety and efficiency. In addition, the technician will lubricate the system to make sure it performs optimally.

By making a record of the entire process of servicing the furnace, HVAC contractors offer undeniable proof of unflagging maintenance. This record can be provided whenever concerns about the warranty arise. Furthermore, this documentation also allows homeowners the opportunity to prepare financially for necessary furnace replacements in cases when the heaters have already reached or are soon to be at the end of their lifespans.

 

Call Skylands Energy Service for Any Heating Requirements You May Have

Skylands Energy Service offers dependable and economical services for HVAC systems. Our HVAC technicians are certified and they will assist you whenever you need to repair or service your heating system. We offer you our guarantee that our HVAC services will improve your indoor air quality and levels of comfort. In addition, our services will increase the energy efficiency of your system so that your home heating costs are lower. Call Skylands Energy Service now to schedule an appointment.

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Ductless Mini-Split Sizing Guide

Are you thinking of switching to a ductless mini-split system? Make sure that the unit is the correct size. Ductless mini-split systems are high-efficiency HVAC systems since inverter technology is built into their design. With this technology, mini-splits can generate a specific level of heating or cooling to match your preferred temperature settings. However, even if a mini-split system and a ductless heat pump have inverter technology, it may still not suit your needs if it is sized incorrectly. In this article, we share a ductless mini-split sizing guide to help you out.

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What Is Ductless Mini-Split Sizing And Why is It Important?

If you are planning on getting a new HVAC system installed in your home, you and your contractor will have to discuss the proper size. This is to ensure that the system is neither too small nor too big. The same principle holds true with ductless mini-split systems.

A mini-split system that is too small will not be effective in regulating the temperature indoors. If the unit is oversized, on the other hand, it will not be as efficient as it should be and will likely wear out more quickly.

When a mini-split system or a ductless heat pump is correctly sized, you are assured of constant comfort and excellent energy savings. The correct-sized system will be capable of effectively cooling or heating your home. A good way to ensure efficiency and comfort is to install a ductless heat pump system that carries a BTU rating that will match the cooling/heating needs of your home.

What Is A BTU?

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. It is a unit for measuring thermal energy. BTU is an expression of the amount of heat required to increase the temperature of 1 lb. of water by 1° Fahrenheit.

Generally, larger rooms require a higher BTU rating for your mini-split system. Ductless heat pumps typically come with BTU ratings of about 6,000 to as much as 56,000. When looking for a mini-split and determining your BTU requirements, remember that the heating capacity of these systems should be higher than their cooling capacity.

You should also keep in mind the size of the system. Make sure that the ductless heat pump system is not too big or too small for the space you want to cool or heat. If you choose the wrong size for the unit, you will likely experience discomfort. The overall functionality of the system could also be affected.

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What If The Ductless Heat Pump Is Too Small?

If your mini-split system is smaller than the requirement, it will be inefficient, causing temperature deficiencies in your home. You will also notice that your home is not cool or warm enough. Of course, the unit will still work but it will fail to keep indoor space conditioned effectively. As a result, the unit will just consume energy without giving you the full comfort you expect. Due to the small sizing of the HVAC unit, you will experience hot and/or cold spots in certain areas of your home since the unit is not big enough to supply conditioned air to those locations sufficiently.

If the ductless mini-split system is too small, it will also have to work harder to make up for the inadequacy of its heating or cooling capability. As a result, the unit will wear out prematurely. This makes it more prone to early breakdowns. Since it will be working doubly hard, you could also expect higher utility bills.

What If The Ductless Heat Pump Is Too Big?

On the other end of the scale, there’s the bigger mini-split. Some homeowners think that by getting a unit that is bigger than the correct size, they will enjoy better cooling or heating. This, unfortunately, is not true. Since the price is directly proportional to the size and capacity of the unit, you will also pay more for it. Also, since the capacity is bigger, forget about any savings you will have in terms of energy cost.

Another issue with a mini-split system that is oversized is short cycling. This is an issue wherein the unit turns on and turns off repeatedly within short periods. The problem is that it leads to premature wear and tear. When this happens, the system will malfunction and fail.

Mini-splits also work as dehumidifiers. However, if the unit short-cycles frequently, it will not be as effective in removing humidity. As a result, humidity levels in your home will be higher than usual.

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Properly Sizing Your Ductless HVAC Systems

There are factors that should be considered when you choose a mini-split system. These factors include:

• The size of your home, room, or space
• Single-zone or multi-zone application
• The size of the outdoor compressor compared to the size of the indoor unit(s)

Room sizes in a home may vary. Some rooms may be bigger than others, for example. Should this be the case in your home, make sure the BTU rating of every air handler matches the heating and cooling needs of your home. If your outdoor compressor is different in size from your indoor units, it should not matter as long as it is complementary to the indoor air handlers.

If you have the knowledge and some experience, you could probably try to compute for the size of the mini-split system for your home. However, to get accurate figures, make sure to work with a professional. An expert HVAC technician often conducts certain steps to calculate the correct size of a mini-split or ductless heat pump. These steps include:

1. Determine the size of the rooms per square foot. This is done by measuring the length and the width of the interior space and multiplying these numbers. Let’s say the room is 30 feet in length and 40 feet in width. If you multiply 30 by 40, you have a room that is 1,200 sq. ft. in area.
2. Determine the approximate BTU rating. To find the figure, the technician multiplies the room area by 25. Given the example above, we take 1,200 sq. ft. multiplied by 25 and we have the ideal BTU of 30,000.

The method of calculating BTU demonstrated above is best for rectangular rooms. It could also work for circular- and triangular-shaped rooms. If you have an uneven-shaped room, a professional will still be able to calculate the required BTU by determining the area of the room. With this figure, your HVAC technician can then advise you about the exact sizing requirement of your home.

Here is a list of approximate BTU sizing for your mini-split system:

Ductless Mini-Split Sizing Chart

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HVAC Load Calculation: Factors To Consider

Other than room size, there are other factors that will affect BTU capacity. Environmental conditions, along with certain external factors can also affect your BTU requirement and ultimately, the size of the mini-split system you need. Some of these factors include:

Climate

Climate can affect indoor temperatures. If you live in areas that experience high or low temperatures, your mini-split system may have to be sized differently. Let’s say your area experiences in excess of 90° Fahrenheit during the hottest months. In this case, the mini-split system you need should be capable of increasing the BTU rating by a minimum of 30% to make it effective.

Age And Insulation

The year your home was built is another key factor to consider before buying. Newer homes, for example, often have better insulation compared to older structures. This is largely due to building codes that have been revised over the years. If you have an older home, it is likely it does not have good insulation and will require more power to heat or cool. As such, you will need a mini-split system that has a BTU rating that is increased by a minimum of 30% to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. If your home is new and has good insulation, you likely will require a unit with lower BTU.

Ceiling Height

The height of your ceilings will affect the size of the rooms. High ceilings, for example, make the area of your room bigger. In most homes, the average ceiling height is around 8 feet. For homes with higher ceilings of, say, 10 to 15 feet, you will need to increase BTU capacity by a minimum of 20% to ensure sufficient performance.

 

Other Factors To Consider

There are factors found in your home that must also be considered so you can choose the correct BTU load. These are:

• Doors And Windows: It matters whether or not your doors and windows are properly insulated because this will affect the BTU load. If you have more windows and doors, or if there are cracks and gaps in the joints of the doors and windows, know that this will cause air leaks and will affect the performance of your mini-split system.
• Direct Sunlight: Rooms that receive direct sunlight are generally warmer than other rooms. Consider how many rooms receive direct sunlight and for how many hours so you can determine the correct capacity of your mini-split system.
• Kitchen: If you want a mini-split unit in your kitchen or in a room close to it, you will likely need a bigger-sized unit. Kitchens are generally open spaces that produce heat from stoves and ovens, which means they will require more power from your mini-split system.
• Number Of Occupants: Human bodies generate heat, so the more people there are in your house, the more cooling or heating capacity you will require.
• Lightbulbs: Lighting fixtures will generate heat when turned on, with some types heating up space more than others. If your house has a lot of heat-producing lightbulbs, factor this into your capacity/sizing calculation.
• Floor Type: Any carpeting on the floor is a type of insulation. If you just have hardwood, tile, or stone floors, your mini-split or ductless heat pump will have to work more to produce heat.

 

Conclusion

The load calculation is the process of determining the correct size of a ductless mini-split system for use in living space. The correct calculation of this figure will ensure that your home and all the spaces in it will receive constant and comfortable warm or cold air.

There are resources on the Internet that allow you to calculate load. However, these do not often include other important factors. If you want more precise calculations, better consult a professional HVAC technician. A qualified expert in the field can ensure that you get the correct figures and the perfect product for your needs.

Call Skylands Energy Service To Learn More About Ductless HVAC Systems

A ductless system will provide you with low energy costs, increased home comfort, healthy indoor air quality, and safety. If you are ready to switch to a ductless system or have more questions, call Skylands Energy Service right away. Our NATE-certified technicians will discuss your needs and requirements to help you find the best ductless HVAC system setup for your home. We offer a range of heating and cooling services, including installations, repairs, replacements maintenance, and more. We also provide free in-home estimates. Call Skylands Energy Service today.

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