Getting the Most from Your Air Conditioning in Springfield, PA

April 1st, 2013

During the hottest days of the year your air conditioner becomes one of the most important components of your home. When you purchase a high-quality system and schedule professional air conditioning installation, repair and maintenance services, you can expect a great performance. Even so, increasing energy efficiency during the air conditioning season is a goal many of us share. Here are some tips to help you get the most from your air conditioning system. Call the Springfield, PA air conditioning professionals at Cool It for more information.

Even the best air conditioning systems will not operate as efficiently and reliably as possible if they are not serviced by qualified professionals. Scheduling your air conditioning installation, repair and maintenance services with a professional company you can count on makes all the difference. Routine maintenance is not only the best way to prevent problems with your air conditioning system but also the best way to keep it operating at peak performance levels. When every component of your air conditioning system is working as intended, it is easier for the system as a whole to cool your home.

Using your thermostat properly is another simple, yet very effective, way to get the most from your air conditioning in Springfield, PA. If you have a programmable thermostat, make sure you fully understand the programmability options. Creating cooling programs that are based around your personal lifestyle and schedule is a great way to get more from your AC.

One important factor in getting the most from your air conditioning system that many homeowners overlook is simply giving it a rest every now and then. When the sun goes down and the temperature drops a little, shut off the AC and open up the windows. This will help ventilate your home as well as reducing your air conditioning costs.

For more information about how you can get the most from your air conditioning in Springfield, PA, call the professional air conditioning technicians at Cool It. We have the years of training and experience necessary to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to learn more.

Tips for Efficient Heating in Boothwyn, PA

March 25th, 2013

The efficiency of your heating system measures the energy input against the heating output. The higher the efficiency, the more heating you get for your money. It sounds simple enough. But because your heating system includes so many different parts and mechanisms, it can be difficult to achieve at times. Homeowners everywhere are looking for ways to boost the efficiency of their heating because it improves their home comfort, reduces energy bills, and extends the life of their heating systems. For heating in Boothwyn, PA, call Cool It Heating and Air Conditioning today!

Here are some tips for efficient heating:

  • Clean and replace your air filter. This is one of the most cost-effective and simple ways to boost your energy efficiency. When air filters become dirty or clogged then begin to block heated air from reaching your ductwork. Not only does this reduce the volume of available hot air, but it also can cause some of your heating system’s components to overheat.
  • Enroll in a maintenance program. A comprehensive annual or biannual precision tune-up, inspection, and cleaning will give you a finely calibrated and efficient heating for the years to come. A nominal investment now could save you major frustration and repairs later.
  • Install a programmable thermostat. What if you could program exactly what temperature you wanted your home to be at 5 pm on Wednesdays? A programmable thermostat is not only a convenient way to automate your climate control; it can also save you money by producing gradual shifts in temperature.
  • Upgrade. If your heater is getting older, or requires frequent repairs, then it may be time to upgrade to a more efficient unit. Many of today’s furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, and ductless mini split systems have excellent efficiency ratings. Along with a comprehensive duct cleaning, you could make significant reductions in your monthly energy bill. If your ducts are in disrepair, consider switching to a ductless mini split for near-silent operation and high quality heating and cooling throughout the year.

If you’re considered about the energy efficiency of your current heater, talk to your local heating professional. For customers in the Boothwyn, PA area, call Cool It Heating & Cooling for your heating needs.

What’s Involved in Springfield, PA Geothermal Maintenance

March 18th, 2013

While geothermal systems are known for their effective operation and comparatively little need for maintenance, they need care like any other mechanical aspect of your home. As one of the major investments into the operation and comfort of your home, your geothermal components will work more effectively and efficiently when maintained by a professional. Because it runs all year round, routine cleaning and inspection is a great way to ensure the longevity of your heating and cooling system. Call Cool It Heating and Air Conditioning today for comprehensive geothermal maintenance in Springfield, PA.

Let’s take a look at what’s involved:

  • Outdoor unit. Like an ordinary heat pump, your geothermal requires an outdoor unit, housed in weatherized casing, containing a compressor and condenser. Inspecting and cleaning all of the mechanical components, including fans and coils, is a necessary part of maintaining its operation. Dust and debris can have adversely affect the energy efficiency of your geothermal system, and it can even damage components.
  • Indoor unit. The indoor unit, typically located in the basement, contains the evaporator and air handler components of the geothermal system. Any moving parts may require lubrication, so they are freely moving, and coils and filters should be regularly cleaned to prevent condensation buildup and airflow obstructions.
  • Circulation. Your geothermal unit requires the efficient circulation of a water-antifreeze mixture through high-density polyethylene piping. Making sure that these pipes have enough refrigerant to adequately absorb and dissipate heat is an important part of geothermal maintenance.
  • Ductwork. Like conventional heating and cooling systems, your geothermal heat pump uses an air handler to distribute heated or cooled air throughout your home by extensive ductwork. Making sure that such ductwork is clean and free of pollutants is important not only for air quality reasons, but also for energy-efficiency. Even small amounts of dust and debris in your ducts can impede airflow and cause energy loss.

Make sure that your geothermal system is well supported by professional maintenance. It will improve the effectiveness and efficiency of your system, as well as ensure that your indoor air quality is high. For comprehensive geothermal services  in Springfield, PA, call Cool It Heating and Air Conditioning today! 

Types of Heat Pump Repairs in Media, PA

March 11th, 2013

Heat pumps are often praised for their versatility and adaptability to changing temperatures. They are not only highly efficient, but they also run year round to provide home comfort during moderate temperatures. However, like all mechanical systems, then may eventually develop problems and require professional repair. If you notice that your heat pump is no longer transferring heat as it once did, call the experts at Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning in Media, PA.

Let’s take a look at some common problems with heat pumps that require repair:

  • Heat pump doesn’t run. This is likely a problem with the thermostat or electrical wiring of the heat pump. Your thermostat creates a set point that your heat pump works to maintain. If the thermostat is not communicating or inaccurately communicating this set point to the heat pump, it can’t sense the temperature. It also runs on electricity, and therefore requires a working electrical circuit. Whether due to faulty wiring or a blown fuse, have a pro come take a look at it.
  • Frozen heat pump. Your heat pump uses a refrigerant to transfer heat indoors and outdoors. If your system is blocked, then it can cause that cool air to freeze the condenser. This is often a dirty or clogged air filter.
  • Inadequate heating or cooling. While the air from your heat pump is neither as hot as a furnace nor as cool as an air conditioner, it should still provide comfort. If you notice that your heat pump is no longer as effective as it once was, then it may be time to check the filter, to clean the outdoor coils, or to inspect the blower.
  • Short cycling. If your heat pump begins turning on and off too frequently, then it may be at risk of overheating. The culprit may be a clogged filter or faulty blower motor. It could even be the thermostat, which may be sensing the indoor air temperature incorrectly.

These are just a few of the problems you can encounter with your heat pump. Whatever type of heat pump repair you need in Media, PA, call on the experts at Cool It Heating and Cooling!

Furnace Blower Problems in Springfield PA

March 4th, 2013

The integrity and effectiveness of your heating system is important throughout the year—especially in Pennsylvania. Your furnace’s fan, also called the blower, is what actually pushes the hot air through your home. If you’re having furnace blower problems in your Springfield, PA home, then it’s time to call Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning. We provide quality furnace repair in Springfield, PA. Here are a few of the most common furnace blower repairs that we see.

  • Blower shuts on and off. Depending on what type of furnace you have, the problem could be electrical, or it could be due to overheating. It may be as simple as hitting your reset button, or it could mean that your blower motor is shot. 
  • Inadequate hot air. While this problem is not restricted to the blower component, it can often be traced to a blower that is not properly circulating the hot air from the heat exchanger to the ductwork. 
  • Loud noise. Over time, the fan blades may get bent and need replacement. Also, debris and dust can build up in the blower and cause issues in the blower operation. This can cause general wear and tear in the system. It can also lead to dried-out bearings, which require lubrication. Squeaking or squealing noises are often caused by this.
  • Motor works but the fan doesn’t. If your motor sounds like it’s on, but the fan isn’t working, you probably need a belt replacement. The belt connects the motor to the fan, but they can frequently break or be worn down by constant use.

The key to furnace repair is prevention. Only by hiring a certified furnace installation expert can you make sure that your furnace continues to work effectively and efficiently  Moreover, be sure to follow up with your local furnace technician after installation to enroll in a preventive maintenance program. These annual or bi-annual service plans are a great way to prevent costly repairs in the future. When you need a pro, call Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning!

Media, PA Geothermal Guide: Components of a Geothermal System

February 25th, 2013

Geothermal heating and cooling systems are really growing in popularity. They are able to both heat your home by utilizing the moderate temperature of the ground just below the earth’s surface. One of the perks of the system is its versatility, being used in the hot and cold months. Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning provides excellent geothermal installation and repair services. If you’re interested in hearing more about geothermal energy and how it can benefit your Media, PA home, call us today.

Geothermal heating and cooling systems utilize a heat pump to transfer heat from beneath your property into your home. In the summer months the process is reversed to cool your home. This operation requires a geothermal loop system. A geothermal specialist will install pipes underground, which contain refrigerant or water. The system circulates this mixture throughout the coils underground, absorbing heat in the winter, and dispersing it in the summer. This system is connected to a cycle including an evaporator, condenser, and heat exchanger. As with a heat pump or air conditioner, the system compresses or expands the refrigerant mixture, depending upon the temperature requirements. A fan blows air across the coils containing the hot or cold refrigerant, and then the air is moved into the house. This allows your geothermal system to keep your home comfortable more efficiently all year long.

The installation process will take into consideration the topography on which your house sits, as well as the composition of the ground beneath your house. Depending on your location, these coils can be placed vertically or in a relatively shallow horizontal bed. It is a green technology and does not rely on a fossil fuel. Geothermal systems tend to use from 25% to 60% less electricity than conventional systems, require no fuel supply, such as natural gas or oil, are durable and quiet. They are an ecologically-sound solution for homeowners interested in fossil fuel alternatives. To find out if geothermal is right for your Media, PA home, contact a geothermal expert at Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning today.

Springfield, PA Heating Tip: How Duct Cleaning Can Help Your Heating System

February 18th, 2013

Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning offers duct cleaning services in Springfield, PA that can provide a variety of benefits to your heating system. In addition to proper airflow, ductwork that is free of debris and indoor air pollutants can improve indoor air quality. Call us if you have more questions. Meanwhile, we’ve put together a short post including some tips and ways duct cleaning can help your heating system.

When your ducts are clean, there’s better airflow, which not only improves efficiency, but it also reduces excess stress put on your heating system when there’s not enough airflow. Another advantage to duct cleaning is that it ensures that there are no other issues when the technician inspects the ductwork. Our technicians look for signs of damage or other problems due to poor design or installation.

While this process takes several hours if it is done right, it is worth it when you consider the benefits it can provide. Our technicians are equipped and trained to provide comprehensive duct cleaning services, and you can be sure that we do a thorough job by using special brushes and equipment designed to get the job done right with minimal disruption to your home. We protect your furnishings and floors as well.

Don’t be fooled by a contractor who offers a faster cleaning time or significantly cheaper services. These should be red flags since there are a lot of duct cleaning scams out there. Our technicians are NATE-certified and provide services according to national and local heating, cooling, and indoor air quality standards.

Cool It is here for you no matter what heating or air conditioning needs you may have. For comprehensive duct cleaning services in Springfield, PA, call the heating and indoor air quality experts at Cool It any time.

Springfield, PA Heating Guide: How Furnaces Work

February 11th, 2013

Furnaces are one of the most popular heating systems in the country because they provide fairly inexpensive and efficient heating. But like everything else, furnaces eventually wear out. One of the best ways to recognize problems with your furnace is to know how they work. At Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning, we provide heating repairs throughout the Springfield, PA area. If you’re having problems with your furnace it’s always best to call your local heating contractor.

The Burner

The burner is a collection of flames that are fed by a gas line or a line from your oil tank on your property. The burner in your furnace can sometimes get dirty or clogged which can cause problems.

The Heat Exchanger

After the gas flows into the burner and ignites, it heats up your heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is a collection of metal coils and it is also responsible for exhausting the dangerous combustion gases that result from burning gas.

The Blower

As the heat exchanger heats up, your blower pushes air over the heat exchanger to heat up the air. The blower also pushes the air through your home’s air ducts.

The Ductwork

Your ducts are large tubes in your home that carry the air from your furnace into each of your rooms. If there are contaminants in your ductwork they can get picked up and carried throughout your home. Your ducts can start to collect dust, pet dander or mold which can then get passed around your home.

The Air Filter

The air filter for your furnace is normally located near the return air duct. This air filter is there to keep dirt and dust from getting into the moving parts of your furnace. If your air filter isn’t changed regularly it can cause huge problems for your furnace. It can cause overheating, short cycling and more issues.

When you need furnace repairs in Springfield, PA, call Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning. We have years of experience working with all different types and brands of furnaces.

Media, PA Furnace Tip: How to Recognize that You Need Furnace Repair

February 4th, 2013

In a perfect world your heater would work the way you want it to, which is to say affordably and without any issues. Unfortunately, no mechanical system has yet reached that level of reliability. With a professional installation and high-quality routine maintenance your furnace should work dependably for years to come. Not even the most meticulous maintenance from the experts at Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning can completely prevent problems with your furnace, though. Luckily there are a number of recognizable signs that you can recognize indicating the need for furnace repair in your Media, PA home.

One major indicator that you are in need of professional furnace repair service is the inability of your furnace to heat your home as effectively as it usually does. If your furnace’s performance seems to be suffering, contact a professional heating technician right away. There are a great number of possible causes for this issue. Your thermostat may be faulty, your air ducts may be damaged or the blower in your furnace may be dying. Whatever the cause, waiting it out will only make matters worse. Do not let minor issues become major problems. Schedule furnace repair service as soon as you suspect the need.

Have you noticed that your heating bills have spiked recently? Well, if your home heating habits have not changed then your heating costs should be pretty consistent. Contact Cool It today if you think that you are paying too much for too little heating performance. We are always happy to help you get the most out of your heating system. A sudden drop in the efficiency with which your heater operates is never a good sign. Paying attention to details like this can help you save a lot of money, not only in heating costs but in the potential cost of repairs as well.

Even top-of-the-line furnaces from the industry’s leading manufacturers are subject to damages. This is unavoidable. The extent of those damages is largely influenced by your reaction to the situation, though. As soon as you suspect any issues with your furnace in Media, PA it is important that you call a professional heating service provider immediately. Let Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning handle your furnace repair service before the problem progresses.

Springfield, PA Heating Tip: Why Install an Amana Furnace

January 28th, 2013

Is it time to finally replace that old furnace in your Springfield, PA area home? Many homeowners are choosing Amana furnaces for replacing their old system because of their reliability and efficiency. Other benefits of installing an Amana furnace include an excellent warranty program. Call us for details about Amana furnace features and manufacturer warranties.

If you are comparing models, be sure that you understand what the AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) number means and how to determine which model is more cost-effective for your needs. Some models feature an AFUE rating of up to 96%, which means that 96% of the fuel is used for actual heat. Look for the Energy Star label to ensure that the model you choose has a high AFUE rating. We can always help you by going over the different models that we install and explaining the features and efficiency ratings.

Models with variable speed fans are usually more energy efficient than furnaces with single speed fans. Some of the models feature stainless steel heat exchangers for lasting performance, and you can also find furnaces that feature air cleaners and humidifiers to help with indoor air quality in the winter. To prevent safety concerns or breakdowns, you may want to consider a model that includes a self-diagnostic control board. There are many benefits to installing an Amana furnace, from energy savings to durability.

Call the Springfield, PA heating specialists at Cool It Heating and Air Conditioning to learn more about why many homeowners are choosing Amana for new furnace installations and upgrades.