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Tips & Tricks For Your Heating & Cooling
If you have been using an old furnace, you might wonder if this is the right time to get a new one or not. If you look for certain signs, you will know for sure whether it is time to replace your old furnace or not. Once you have replaced it, you will be enjoying the comfort like never before. Check out the signs that you need a new furnace: Increased bills - If your energy bill has risen, it might be a sign that there is something wrong with the furnace. When there is an issue with the furnace, it has to work harder. Replacing it will save you a lot of money. Discomfort - If the finance is unable to keep up with the heating needs of your home, it might mean that it has reached the end of its life. By replacing the old unit, you will be able to keep your house comfortable during the winter season. Repairs - Have you been making a lot of repair appointments for your furnace? If yes, then it means that it is time to change it. By eliminating the money you spend on repairs, you will be able to save money in the long run. Sounds - There are some noises that can be fixed. It is normal to have your furnace clang or squeal as it ages. However, if the noise is getting louder and louder, you should think about replacing it. Flames - In the case of a gas furnace, you can check the flame to get an idea about what is happening with your furnace. If you are getting a yellow flame, instead of the normal blue one, it might mean that your furnace is producing excess carbon monoxide and needs to be replaced. Air flow - Check the hot air that is coming out of your vents. If it is not very strong, it might indicate an issue with the motor of your furnace. In some cases, the motor is repairable. However, depending on the age, replacing the unit might be a better option. Dust - If there is more dust in your home than before, it might mean that your furnace is not able to remove airborne particles properly. Cracks, rust, and corrosion - Take a look around your furnace and if you notice some cracks, rust, or corrosion, then you have to get it thoroughly checked for security reasons. This might mean that your furnace is growing old and you have to replace it immediately. Cycling - In case your furnace has been cycling on and off or it remains on constantly, it is a sign that your furnace is not able to work correctly anymore. Inoperable - Usually when your furnace is over 10 years old and stops working, have someone take a look at it. It might be an easy fix. However, if it's not, you will have to replace it. There are a lot of issues that can cause your furnace to fail. Some of these issues might be fixable while others are not. Even if they are fixable, you have to consider its costs and think if replacement will be a better option. With the above-mentioned signs, you will be able to make a smart decision.
Storms are more than just rain and wind. With it comes the power failures that might leave your air conditioning and other electronics out of order. If your HVAC system is damaged because of a storm, it can lead to long-term difficulties. By preparing the system for storms, you will be able to reduce the risk of damage while ensuring that the indoor air quality is maintained and your family members are comfortable. Here are a few tips on preparing your HVAC system to be secure from storm and save your pockets: 1. A surge protector A storm is usually accompanied with lightning which can be devastating for any electronic gadget including your HVAC system. You should contact your power company for your options. Since you don’t know what the strength of the lightning strikes will be, you must assume that any surge might knock out your circuits. However, if you install a surge protector, it will take the hit of the surge and protect your HVAC system. It is a way for you to protect your investment. 2. Turn it off Even though this is such a simple tip, not a lot of people think about this safety measure. You should turn off your HVAC system before the storm hits. It will prevent any harm or damage to your unit. Even though a surge protector definitely helps during a storm, it cannot protect your unit 100%. The surest way to do this is to switch it off and disconnect all your electronic devices and appliances to be even more secure. 3. Regular inspections Through regular HVAC inspections, you will be able to save yourself a lot of money and hassle. It can also help you prepare better for devastating storms. In case there is something wrong with your HVAC system, even a mild storm will make the situation worse. An inspection will catch the issue early and ensure that your unit is operating as effectively as possible. Regular inspections will help you know whether or not your system is capable of dealing with stormy weather. 4. Shields When the rain is swirling and the wind is blowing, it is normal for your machines and equipment to get thrown around. You have to safeguard any system that is not fixed to the ground. Make some space for umbrellas, tables, or chairs in your storage shed. Your AC unit can get damaged because of flying particles. There is not a lot you can do about things like tree branches that fly over your wall, but a barrier will protect your AC unit. 5. Backup generator Whenever there is a power failure, it can cause chaos in your day-to-day life, especially during extreme storms. You should have a backup generator in your house to reduce the impact of a power failure. There are several options for generators. You can either get a portable generator that gives enough power for important things in your home or you can get a permanent generator that can power your whole house. If you want to prepare your HVAC equipment for a storm, you should prepare your house with the essential living necessities that keeps you safe and secure. Remember that it is always better to be prepared, even if you think that storm won’t affect your HVAC equipment.