Skylands Energy Announces Scholarship Recipient

Skylands Energy Service, an HVAC company and petroleum distributor located in Raritan, NJ, is pleased to announce that Bret Schuler is the recipient of the 2018 Skylands Energy Scholarship. He will receive a $10,000 scholarship to study Environmental Engineering at Drew University.

Skylands Energy is a trusted and local HVAC company. Our NATE certified professionals can help you determine any issues you have with your heating and cooling system. We will offer you the best possible solutions so you can choose one that best suits your needs and budget. Our highly-skilled HVAC technicians provide quality services at honest prices. We deliver friendly, fast, and reliable services to all of our customers. We offer complimentary estimates. Call us today.

Recipient

Skylands Energy Service is honored to announce Mr. Bret Schuler as the 2018 Skylands Energy Scholarship recipient. Mr. Schuler, a resident of Hunterdon County, NJ, graduated from Vorhees High School in June 2018. He will be studying Environmental Engineering at Drew University this coming fall. As the winner of this scholarship, Mr. Schuler will receive $2,500 per year during his four years of undergraduate study.

The Skylands Energy Service Scholarship

The Skylands Energy Service Scholarship aims to encourage students whose goals are to be professionals in different fields such as HVAC, Environmental Science, Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, and/or Electrical Engineering. We expect the scholarship recipient to value excellence and integrity by showing commitment to our neighbors, communities, and the environment.

The 2018 scholarship candidates submitted a two-minute video along with their application. This video was required to showcase the topic: The Impact of Energy Efficient Heating and Air Conditioning Systems on the Environment. Mr. Schuler filmed and produced his video with the help of his High School Advanced TV Production teacher, Mr. Jeremy Brandt. Mr. Schuler had nothing but praise for his mentor who taught him the skills he needed to make the informative video he submitted with his application. All of the applicants’ videos, including Mr. Schuler’s, can be seen on Skylands Energy’s YouTube channel. Below, you will see the video that Bret submitted:

 
On his reaction on the scholarship, Mr. Schuler said that he was shocked when he first found out that he would be receiving $2500 per year for his undergraduate studies. His mother was so ecstatic that she turned cherry red as she jumped in the air happily. Mr. Schuler plans to use the scholarship money to buy a Mac Book, and other school supplies.

Bret expressed, “I am very appreciative and thankful that Skylands Energy awarded me their scholarship and the opportunity to better my experience at Drew University. I want to personally thank Ed Miller for giving students like me opportunities to better their educational experience.”

Ed Miller, president of Skylands Energy Service, stated that this was the first year that the company offered a scholarship in this capability. They were impressed by the top quality applications they received.

Mr. Miller further said, “I know that our scholarship committee had a challenging task put in front of them to choose a winner. Ultimately, Schuler stood out to everyone on the committee. We wish him well in his college career at Drew University.”

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What Skylands Energy Can Do For You

Skylands Energy is one of the fastest growing petroleum distributor and HVAC companies in Raritan, NJ. We provide professional and affordable services for both residential and commercial properties. Some of our specialties include top-quality heating and cooling repairs, tune-ups, installations, and more. We also offer unbeatable fuel deliveries throughout central New Jersey. Schedule a free consultation and estimate with us today. Call us now!

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Why A Bigger AC Is Not Always The Best Option

Installing a new air conditioner is an intricate process. You have to remember that every home is unique. Therefore, an AC that works for your neighbor doesn’t necessarily mean that the same AC will work for you. Your house requires specific heating and cooling. This way, your home remains cool and comfortable during the summer, and warm and cozy during the winter.

Always hire a licensed and trusted HVAC specialist to assist you with the air conditioner installation process. Skylands Energy offers superior heating and cooling services at honest prices. Our experienced and highly-skilled technicians understand all makes and models of cooling systems. They can assess your needs and provide you with the best options available. This way, you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Contact us today. We offer complimentary consultations.

Schedule An Appointment: (908) 707-1776

Air Conditioning Installation Edison NJ: Why A Bigger AC Is Not Always The Best Option

Part of the AC installation process is determining the right-sized cooling system for your home. In this article, we will explore why this is an essential aspect of the AC installation in your home.

Air Conditioning Size

Air conditioning size doesn’t have anything to do with its weight. Instead, A/C size refers to the system’s tonnage. Tonnage, or ton, is the amount of cooling your AC is capable of delivering.

Because “cold” is not a form of energy, your AC does not generate cold air. Instead, it absorbs the heat from inside your home and releases it outdoors. Your A/C system’s cooling power is determined by the amount of heat that your system removes from the indoor air per hour.

The heat removal process is measured as British Thermal Units. BTUs is the amount of heat which can change the temperature of a pound of water by one degree. Thus, one ton of cooling power equals the removal of 12,000 BTUs from your home per hour. Every additional ton equals to another 12,000 BTUs. Therefore, a four-ton AC can remove 48,000 BTUs per hour.

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A/C That Is Too Big

Many homeowners’ mindset is rooted in the notion that bigger is always better. Unfortunately, this is not always the case when it comes to buying an air conditioning unit. An AC that is too large will possibly short cycle, or turn off and on repeatedly within a short period.

Air conditioners use the most energy when it starts up. Therefore, a unit that turns on frequently will drive up your electric bills. Short cycling also tends to wear out your system quicker than a unit that is appropriately sized. When this happens, your air conditioner is likely to experience frequent malfunctions. Your cooling system also has a higher chance of a system breakdown because of these internal problems.

One of the primary functions of an AC is to dehumidify your home. An oversized AC that has short cooling cycles cannot correctly remove humidity. Your home will end up feeling cool but sticky and humid when you have a short cycling unit.

AC That Is Too Small

On the other hand, buying an A/C that is too small will lead to inadequate cooling issues. Some rooms in your home will feel warmer than others. For instance, your first floor may feel nice and cold but the bedrooms on your second floor will feel warm. Because the desired temperature is not met throughout your house, your unit works harder and longer to make up for it. Your AC will age and wear out much faster. This circumstance leads to the increased chances of an air conditioner break down. The prolonged use of your AC also leads to high energy utility bills.

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Finding The Right Size

A professional HVAC contractor will inspect your home to determine the correct AC size needed. During the home visit, the technician will take measurements of your house’s total floor space. This measurement will be used in the Manual J Load Calculation. They will assess the number of windows, the direction that your house faces, and other factors to find the right unit size.

The Manual J is a precise method used to determine your home’s heating and cooling load. The general rule of thumb many contractors use is that every 400 square feet require one ton of cooling power. However, other factors such as the number of rooms or home insulation can affect this rule. It is, therefore, best to have a professional visit your home. They can use the Manual J to assess the proper AC unit size that your home requires.

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Conclusion

For trusted and reliable HVAC services, including AC installation, do not hesitate to contact Skylands Energy. Our NATE certified technicians have extensive experience and knowledge on all HVAC makes and models. Rest assured that we can repair, maintain, replace, and install any type of air conditioner or heater in your home. We guarantee that all our work is professional and highly affordable.

Skylands Energy has what it takes to install your HVAC system correctly. Call us today and schedule a free, in-home estimate. We will be happy to answer all your heating and cooling concerns.

Call Now: (908) 707-1776

Some of the areas we service include Edison, Fords, New Brunswick, Somerset, South Plainfield, and these zip codes: 08817, 08863, 08901, 08873, 07080 as well as all surrounding areas in Middlesex County, New Jersey.

Contact us today or give us a call at (908) 707-1776 if you have any questions.

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What You Need To Know About Your AC’s Refrigerant

Many people wonder how their air conditioning system cools down their house. Homeowners should always have a general idea of how the equipment in their home works, including their AC unit.

Refrigerant has many uses. This chemical substance is used widely in the HVAC industry, primarily for air conditioners. This mixture is responsible for the cooling cycle of your system. This chemical is so particular that a technician needs to use refrigerant-handling equipment that is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency to handle it.

When you are looking for licensed and experienced technicians who understand the ins and outs of your heating and cooling equipment, call Skylands Energy. We offer fast and reliable services that can get your system performing optimally. We know what it takes to get your system to increase your comfort levels while decreasing your home heating or cooling costs. Some of our services include tune-ups, furnace and AC repairs, HVAC installations, and more.

You can count on our team of NATE certified technicians to provide you with excellent services at honest prices, including our air conditioner repair costs. Our technicians will be happy to assist you with all your heating and cooling needs. Call us today for a free estimate.

Schedule An Appointment: (908) 707-1776

Air Conditioner Repair: What Your Refrigerant Does During The Cooling Cycle

Refrigerant plays a significant role in an A/C’s refrigeration cycle. This article will discuss this role. We aim to provide you with a deeper understanding of how an air conditioner cools your house down.

What A Refrigerant Does

As discussed above, refrigerant is vital for your air conditioner’s cooling cycle. It is a low-pressure gas that is stored inside the indoor copper coils of your system. Copper is the ideal when concerning heat transfer.

When the cooling cycle begins, the refrigerant and the copper coil absorb the heat from the air inside of your home. As the refrigerant’s temperature increases, it causes the coolant (which is in the form of gas) to turn into a liquid. The fans of your system then move the liquid refrigerant to the outside coils where the heat is released. As the heat is released outdoors, the coolant cools down and turns into gas once again. The cold air is pushed back inside, and the cycle repeats. A refrigerant is, therefore, vital for your home to feel cool and comfortable during the summer.

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When To Replace Your Refrigerant

Ideally, your AC does not lose any coolant during the refrigeration cycle. Therefore, it is not necessary to replace your refrigerant. The refrigerant charge should stay the same throughout your air conditioner’s lifespan. Unfortunately, refrigerant leaks can happen.

Holes and tears in the refrigerant line can cause leaks. When a leak happens, it causes the refrigerant to lose its charge. Situations like this require a professional HVAC technician immediately. An expert has the knowledge and tools to repair the leak correctly. Furthermore, regular maintenance helps prevent a situation like a refrigerant leak from occurring in the first place.

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Types Of Refrigerants

There have been various types, or blends of refrigerants, that have been used. Below are the three of the most recent ones:

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

CFCs is a blend that is made up of chlorine, fluorine, and carbon atoms. Types of CFCs include R-11, R-12, and R-15. Unfortunately, the Montreal Protocol banned the use of CFCs during the 90s. The reason is due to its harmful impact on the environment.

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)

HCFCs is a blend that is made up of hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine, and carbon atoms. Types of HCFCs include R-22, R-123, and R-124. Unfortunately, its use also destroys the ozone layer and contributes to global warming. Because of this, HCFC has been banned for use as well. Using HCFCs by 2020 is illegal. Many older AC units still use R-22.

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)

HFCs is a blend that is made up of hydrogen, fluorine, and carbon atoms. Types of HFCs include R-134A, R-410A, and R-507A. Because the chlorine atom was removed from to form HFCs, consequently, the ozone-depleting properties of HFCs were also removed.

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Importance Of Refrigerant

The use of refrigerant impacts our everyday lives. We use it in our air conditioners, refrigerators, and freezers.

Can you imagine going without refrigeration? The summers would be unbearable. With refrigerant, we can keep our food fresh for longer. Our cold refrigerators and freezers slow down the microorganism that causes our food to spoil.

 

Conclusion

If you are air conditioner troubleshooting and you notice that your system is leaking (a possible refrigerant leak), call a professional right away. They have the training, knowledge, and skills to fix your air conditioner. A technician will repair your AC to prevent the leak continuing, and then charge your system with the correct amount of refrigerant.

When you are looking for “air conditioner repair near me,” call Skylands Energy. We hire the best technicians in the area who understand what it takes to get your heating and cooling system working properly. We specialize in heating and cooling tune-ups, furnace and AC repairs, HVAC installations, and other home comfort needs. At Skylands Energy, we provide excellent and affordable services. After all, it is how we have earned our good name. Call us now. We offer free estimates.

Call Now: (908) 707-1776

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How A New Air Conditioner Can Save You Money In The Long Run

One of the best ways to save money on your home cooling costs is to buy a new air conditioner when yours is old and outdated. If you are experiencing frequent malfunctions, then you also need constant AC repairs. These repairs come at a cost. Although they might not seem high at first, the accumulated charge for repairs will undoubtedly put a dent in your budget.

Not only that, if you are also receiving high energy bills at the end of each month, then this is another sign for you to consider. These are the signs that indicate the need to purchase a new AC. Buying a new A/C will cost you initially. However, it will soon pay for itself with the amount of savings you will make at the end of each month.

To decide which cooling system is best for your home, contact the professional HVAC technicians at Skylands Energy. Our NATE certified experts will help you determine the cooling specifications of your home. They will offer you the best options so that you can choose one that best fits your needs and budget.

Our experienced and skilled HVAC contractors provide superior services. We guarantee that our work is fast, reliable, and affordable. Best of all, our technicians are professional and friendly. Give us a call today. We will be happy to answer all your heating and cooling queries and concerns. We offer free, in-home consultations.

Schedule An Appointment: (908) 707-1776

Air Conditioner Installation Edison NJ: How A New Unit Saves Money

Holding on to your old A/C unit might be doing you more harm than good. Spending money on repairs and high utility bills certainly add up. Below is a list of reasons why it is time to purchase a new AC and replace your old one.

Energy Efficiency

SEER rating stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. It is calculated by the cooling output divided by the total electric input in a cooling season. An air conditioner that has a high SEER rating means that it is more energy efficient. Fifteen years ago, the standard SEER rating was just 8; whereas the highest SEER rating was only 18. Nowadays, the standard rating is 13. The most efficient AC has a SEER rating of 21 or higher.

Therefore, if your AC is fifteen years old, then it is hardly as efficient as modern models. It means that you are using more energy and paying more money on your energy costs than necessary. For instance, your old AC has a SEER rating of 9, and you replace it with a newer A/C with a SEER rating of 13. You will save $450 a year in energy bills. Also, it is important to note that as air conditioners age, they become less efficient. For this reason, even if your AC has a SEER rating of 9, it is probably performing less efficiently than its original SEER rating.

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Fewer Repairs

Aside from saving on energy utility bills, purchasing a new AC also keeps you from the accumulated costs that come with frequent repairs. Even with routine maintenance, older units still require more care than new ones.

Old ACs are more prone to wear and tear. Not only that, but they are more likely to malfunction in the middle of the summer when you need it the most. An emergency repair costs more than preventative maintenance. Although a tune-up is performed regularly, an old AC is still more susceptible to malfunctions because of its age. By purchasing a new AC, you are assured that your system will run smoothly and more efficiently than your old one.

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Better Indoor Air Quality

A new air conditioner provides excellent air quality for your home. The components of modern ACs are better equipped at trapping contaminants. These contaminants cause harm to you and your family. For example, you might suffer respiratory illnesses or skin irritations. These contaminants can also damage your electronic equipment since debris shortens the lifespan of your electronics.

Overall, a new AC can prevent you from losing money on health care costs and days missed from work. It can also help to preserve the lifespan of other electronic equipment in your home.

Technologically-Advanced Thermostat

Modern ACs are compatible with technologically-advanced thermostats. Aside from having a savvier design and setup, this type of thermostat provides better temperature control and enables you to use less energy. Therefore, they are great devices to reduce your energy costs.

A technologically-advanced thermostat has pre-programmed settings. These settings will help you control the temperature in your home. This way, your AC will raise the temperature while you are away and lower it when you get home. It helps your cooling system to perform more energy-efficiently. In turn, your home is more cost-effective.

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Improved Humidity Control

Before the cooling process begins, your A/C dehumidifies your home. Unfortunately, this function tends to malfunction as your system ages. Your home ends up feeling damp and humid. Without this dehumidifying function, your home will eventually attract condensation. The worst part is that this dampness leads to the growth of mold and bacteria. Mold can damage your walls and ceilings. Mold and bacteria can also cause severe illnesses to you and your family. A central air conditioner installation prevents all these problems from happening.

Rebates And Incentives

The government recognizes the many benefits that new ACs bring. They also want more households to be more energy-efficient. Therefore, the government offers different rebates and incentives when you purchase a new energy efficient cooling system. The more energy-efficient homes that there are, the less strain that is placed on the power plants during the cooling season.

Rebates and incentives differ from every geographical location. Contact your trusted HVAC technician to know which incentive is in place in your locality.

Conclusion

Skylands Energy provides professional and affordable HVAC services for both residential and commercial properties. We specialize in high-quality furnace repairs, heating, and cooling tune-ups, and other home comfort needs. Our prices are unbeatable for all of our heating and cooling services, including our central air conditioning prices and our ac installation cost. We can use our central air installation cost calculator to find the best model that is the most energy efficient and enhances your level of comfort. Also, many homeowners need to replace their outdated heating system and cooling system at the same time. If this is your case, then we can offer you the best average cost of furnace and air conditioner replacement. Want energy efficient zoned comfort? Maybe a ductless air conditioner is the best route for you. Call today to schedule a free consultation.

Contact the NATE certified technicians at Skylands Energy to find out more about the services we offer. You can schedule a free consultation, where we can take all the time that you need to answer all your HVAC concerns. Our technicians are friendly and courteous. Call us today.

Call Now: (908) 707-1776

Some of the areas we service include Edison, Fords, New Brunswick, Somerset, South Plainfield and these zip codes: 08817, 08863, 08901, 08873, 07080 as well as all surrounding areas in Middlesex County, New Jersey.

Contact us today or give us a call at (908) 707-1776 if you have any questions.

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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!

The post Why HVAC Air Filter Replacements Are So Critical appeared first on Skylands Energy.

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