Posts Tagged ‘Heating’

Tips for Efficient Heating in Boothwyn, PA

Monday, 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.

Furnace Blower Problems in Springfield PA

Monday, 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!

Springfield, PA Heating Guide: How Furnaces Work

Monday, 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

Monday, 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

Monday, 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.

Why Isn’t My Heating System Producing Heat? A Media, PA Heating Question

Monday, January 21st, 2013

When you line in the Media, PA area, you need a good heating system during the winter. We all love enjoying the winter evenings in a home that is nice and toasty. But one of the most common calls for heating repairs in Media, PA is for a heating system that isn’t producing any heat. There are a number of things that can cause this problem. At Cool It Heating and Air Conditioning, we’ve been providing comprehensive heating installation and heating repairs in Media, PA for over 50 years. We’ve repaired countless heating systems and wanted to share some of the most common reasons why your heating system might not be producing heat.

Why Your Heating System Isn’t Producing Any Heat in Media, PA

If your heating system isn’t producing any heat, then it’s obviously a very serious issue. Here are some of the common causes of no heat.

  • Pilot light/Igniter – If you have a furnace that has a pilot light, it can sometimes go out. But if it starts to happen a lot, you may have to call a heating contractor to clean it or replace it. The same is true if you have an electric igniter on your furnace.
  • Thermocouple – The thermocouple is a safety device that detects if the pilot light is lit. If it detects no heat from the pilot, it shuts off the flow of gas. If your thermocouple is malfunctioning, it could have mistakenly shut off the flow of gas which would mean no heat.
  • Thermostat – Another common problem is with the thermostat in your home. If its batteries are dead or if it is broken, it could be telling your heater that you don’t need any heat.
  • Clogged air filter – This is a common problem that we see in many homes. The air filter on your furnace or heat pump is there to keep dust from getting in. But if you don’t change it regularly, it can actually get so clogged that it keeps any air from getting into your home.

The Important of Regular Heating Maintenance in Media, PA

Many of the most common heating problems can be potentially avoided with regular heating maintenance. During regular maintenance visits, the Cool It heating technicians will be able to find small issues potentially before they turn into larger, more costly repairs. This may be able to keep your heating system working well for a very long time.

Contact Cool It today if you need heating repair in Media, PA or heating maintenance.

Repair or Replace? When a New Heating System is Best in Springfield, PA

Monday, January 14th, 2013

It is never easy for a homeowner to decide when it is best to simply replace their home heating system rather than continue to repair it. If you are struggling with this issue in Springfield, PA, feel free to contact one of the home heating experts on the Cool It team. We understand that it can be confusing and frustrating trying to decide what the right decision about your home heating system is. Working with a professional can help make that decision much easier. Work with a technician you can trust to decide if a new heating system is best for you.

One major factor that you must consider when deciding to repair or replace your heating system is the age of the system. You must keep in mind that just because a heater can be repaired does not mean that it is inherently worth repairing. A reason for this is efficiency.

Even just ten or fifteen years ago what was considered a very efficient heater may pale in comparison to the efficiency levels we have today. That means that even if your old heater can be repaired to its full former glory it may still be less efficient than a new replacement model. If you have the room in your budget you may want to consider replacing your old heater. The potential energy savings can help you offset the initial investment over time.

Also, how frequently are you experiencing issues with your existing heater? If you are consistently unhappy with its performance or find yourself frequently scheduling repair services, it may make more sense to spend the money on a replacement system than continuing to spend it on repairs and service.

Finally, you should decide if you are happy with the home heating system you have in general. If you bought an existing home you may have inherited a heating system. If it is time to repair or replace a system that would not have been your first choice, well, replace it with what would have been. Don’t be afraid to shake things up a little.

Feel free to contact Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning with any further questions that you may have about when to replace your heater in Springfield, PA. We are happy to help you make that decision. Do not rush into anything without consulting a professional.

Why Is My Heater Underperforming? A Media, PA Heating Repair Question

Monday, January 7th, 2013

An underperforming heater can be a serious problem when the temperatures really start to drop here in Media, PA. It can be especially frustrating for homeowners because there are so many different issues that may cause your heater to perform at subpar levels. It is important to remember that no problem with your home heating system should be considered too minor to call a professional about. Make the right choice for your heater and call Cool It to discover why your home heating system is not living up to the high standards that you deserve.

A common problem that we see with many forced air heating systems is damage or disrepair in the air duct system. This is a likely issue that may be affecting your heater’s performance due to the fact that there is really no way for a homeowner to discover this problem on their own. During professional maintenance service your ductwork will be inspected, but if you have been neglecting this necessary service there is no way to know if your air ducts are torn or otherwise damaged.

The neglect of proper home heating system maintenance itself is by far the root cause of most problems that may lead to a lackluster performance from your heater. When you operate your home heating system it is always going to suffer some wear and tear. If you do not have it tuned up before each heating season these minor issues can compound into serious problems. Remember that your heater does not necessarily have to completely break down in order for it to underperform. It may still run in its compromised condition but it will wind up costing you more money for a weaker performance as well as put your system at risk for further damage.

It is also possible that your heater is simply beginning to lose its efficiency and performance capabilities. Most heaters have pretty respectable, effective lifespans. No mechanical system will last forever though. Just because a system can be repaired does not necessarily mean that it should be. Discuss the condition of your heater with a professional to decide if it is finally time for a replacement.

If your heater is underperforming in Media, PA, contact Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning. We have the training, knowledge and experience necessary to help you make the right decisions about the repair or replacement of your heater. Let us help you make it through the winter comfortably.

Prospect Park, PA Furnace Guide: Furnace Safety

Monday, December 17th, 2012

With a professional installation, proper use and good service practices, your furnace can be a very safe, efficient way to heat your home. Failure to get your furnace the proper service needed for this high-quality operation or a failure to understand some basic furnace safety requirements can lead to serious safety concerns, though. At Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning, we want all our customers to feel safe and comfortable in their homes. For exceptional furnace services in the Prospect Park, PA area, contact the professionals at Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning. We have the training, skills and experience necessary to help you heat your home in the safest, most efficient way possible.

One of the best ways you can improve the safety of your furnace is to change its air filter regularly. While nearly all furnace maintenance and repair services must be performed by trained, qualified professionals, this is one way that you yourself can improve not only the safety of your furnace but its overall operation. Clean air filters are a great way to boost efficiency as well.

It is important to give your furnace plenty of room to operate as well. If you are anything like most homeowners, your basement can probably get pretty cluttered sometimes. Keep boxes and other items away from your furnace. Not only does failure to do so create a fire hazard, but it can actually disrupt air flow and reduce the performance of your heating system.

Of course the best possible way for you to increase the safety with which you operate your furnace is by scheduling regular, professional maintenance with the home heating experts at Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning. Contact us today to learn all about the benefits of our high-quality, thorough maintenance services. We are happy to help you make your Prospect Park, PA home a safer, more comfortable place to live.

Media, PA Boiler Tip: When to Call for Boiler Repairs

Monday, December 10th, 2012

At Cool It, we can provide you with all your Media, PA boiler repair needs. Before you call, it is important to know what to look for so that you know when it is time to call for a repair service. Here are some warning signs that tell you that your boiler may need a repair.

Not Producing Enough Heat

If your boiler no longer produces enough heat, keep these potential causes in mind. First, the water levels inside the tank could be off. When something happens to lower the hot water levels, it can cause reduced heat in the radiators and radiant floor heating system. This could be caused from sediment buildup, or you could have a broken pressure valve.

If the levels are off on your pressure gauge, call a repair technician ASAP. Pressure issues in boiler systems could be a safety concern. In addition, the technician may need to flush out sediment buildup in the boiler’s tank.

Water Leaking from the Tank

Water leaks could be another reason for a reduction in pressure. This would also cause improper temperatures in the system. Water leaks are fairly obvious, but call a technician if you notice any signs of a leak, such as rust or corrosion.

Slow Hot Water Recovery

If you use your boiler to heat the water in your home, slow hot water recovery could be a warning sign. If you feel the tank and the hot water is at the top and the cold is at the bottom, there’s a problem. It should be the opposite: hot water at the top and cold at the bottom. This could be a problem with the air pressure or a water level in the expansion tank.

If you suspect any boiler repair needs in your Media, PA area home, call the heating specialists at Cool It.