#hvactips

Aug 25, 2020

Is Your Second Floor Too Hot?

Is your second floor too hot? If you live in a multi-story home, you may have come across this problem. Here are some common reasons why: Hot Air Heat rises - if your HVAC system is on the first floor or basement, it has to push out hot air as the cooler air enters, meaning it has to work harder to distribute cool air to the floor/s above. Some factors that determine how hard your system has to work are: The number of rooms in your home The age and condition of your system Ho

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Aug 12, 2020

The Dangers of Overcharging Refrigerant

Your HVAC system needs to be charged at a certain level that's required by the manufacturer; not too high or too low. Depending on the state of compression, refrigerants can be hot or cold, making it possible for your AC or heat pump to generate hot or cold air. Overcharged Signs Overcharging happens when too much refrigerant is added. When this happens, it's like giving your HVAC system elevated blood pressure. The excess refrigerant collects inside the compressor which lead

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Jul 28, 2020

Top AC Failure Problems

AC failure is a common problem, and there's multiple reasons to why they break down. A lot of the time it's due to the lack of knowledge on how to properly care for the unit. Here are the top reasons your air conditioner can fail: Refrigerant Problems If your AC isn't blowing cold air, the coolant or refrigerant could be leaking through the coils or malfunctioning. Hire a professional to replace the refrigerant, clean, and repair the leak if need be. Faulty Thermostat More ti

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Jun 16, 2020

How Cigarette Smoke Can Impact Your HVAC System

We all know the dangers of smoking and secondhand smoke. But did you know that thirdhand smoke can be harmful to your HVAC system? Here’s how: Like secondhand smoke, thirdhand smoke also contains toxic and cancer causing chemicals. It’s when the particles from cigarette smoke lingers. They can remain on surfaces for years and can be sucked into your HVAC system and spread throughout your home. Besides not smoking, the next best solution is to smoke outside, far away from door

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Jun 10, 2020

DIY Projects For Utility Savings

While DIY repairs to your HVAC system are NOT recommended, here are some other projects you can do around the house to save money on your utility bills. Replace Windows Switching from single-pane windows to EnergyStar double pane windows can come with a big price and takes a reasonable skill level to do yourself. However, according to the EPA, it can save you up to $500/year and up your home’s value. Reseal Windows & Doors If new windows and doors aren’t in your budget, resea

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May 20, 2020

A New AC Can Save You Money

A new air conditioner is an important investment for homeowners. However, sometimes it can be difficult to determine when it's the right time to upgrade. While a new unit can be expensive, it can actually save you money. Here's why: New = More Efficient Older AC units have a lower efficiency rating (SEER). The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit is. Today, the highest SEER rating is 25 while 15 years ago it was 18. So if you have an older unit, it may not be r

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May 13, 2020

How to Choose an HVAC Unit for House Flipping

If you flip homes, you know that buyers expect the heating and cooling system to be in good working order - the newer the better. Here is how to choose the right HVAC system for your flip. New heaters tend to jump out in home listings, especially here in Iowa. But, If the property's heating or cooling system is 10+ years, it won't go unnoticed and could potentially scare off a potential buyer. Repair or Replace? For newer systems, repairing is usually the most economic option

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Mar 31, 2020

Water Heater Pilot Light Problems

Hot water heaters stop working for a number of reasons, but the most common reason is because the pilot light won't stay on. Here's why: Pilot Lights A pilot light is a small gas flame that powers your gas burner. When that light goes out, your water heater doesn't work. "Nothing Happens When I Light It" With age, parts stop working and usually the pilot light is the first to go . If you constantly try to light the pilot light and nothing happens, here are some reasons why: T

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Mar 10, 2020

Candles and Indoor Air Quality

People love candles not only because they smell good, but because of the warmth and atmosphere they give off. However, candles can also contribute to poor indoor air quality. Here's how: How Can Candles Be Harmful? When you burn a candle, especially paraffin-based, they release a wide range of harmful carcinogenic toxins into the air and can cause the formation of soot. Soot can stain walls, ceilings, and fabrics. Not only can this be bad for your lungs, but for your ductwo

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Feb 18, 2020

Why Your Furnace is Blowing Cold Air

A furnace blowing cold air is not only a nuisance, but a danger to your home's pipes, electronic components, and home comfort. Here are the four main reasons why: Fuel The air in your furnace is heated by fuel. If there are compromises within the component, air will still blow, it just won't be hot. (Electricity is also considered part of the fuel source since it runs the entire system.) Possible issues within the fuel sources that will cause cold air to blow: Empty oil tan

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Feb 6, 2020

How Snow and Ice Affects Your Heat Pump

Outside care of your HVAC unit is as important as inside care, especially in the winter. All the ice and snow we get can have lasting affects well into the spring and summer. Here's how: Ice Build Up on Heat Pumps Not all ice and snow build-up on your HVAC unit is an emergency. Heat pumps operate via a refrigerant that absorbs temperature from the Earth's atmosphere. When the temperature is below freezing, the moisture freezes instantly. This can cause your heat pump to run

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Jan 16, 2020

How To Prepare Your HVAC for a Winter Storm

In Iowa, you're probably used to winter storms. But, did you know there are things you can do to prep your HVAC system that can also potentially cut your electricity usage and extend the life of your unit? Here are some tips to ensure your family will stay safe and warm. Furnace Maintenance The number one reason why furnaces break down is due to lack of maintenance. Furnace care is the easiest way to prep your home for a winter storm and should never be neglected. Have your

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Dec 12, 2019

How to Make your Furnace More Efficient

Being consistent with your maintenance is the number one way to make sure your HVAC system is running at peak performance, and avoid breakdowns. It should be done at least once a year and includes a through inspection, cleaning, and check for any signs of disrepair or adjustments. Here are extra heating efficiency tips: Change Your Air Filters You may think that your air filters are there to protect your indoor air quality, but it's actually intended to protect the HVAC syst

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Dec 5, 2019

4 Reasons Why Your Furnace is Leaking

If you see water under your furnace, don't panic! There's a good chance it can be repaired. First, you need to locate where the water is coming from. Make sure it's not standing water that has leaked from pipes or the foundation. Once you're sure it's coming from the furnace, it could be one of these four reasons: Clogged Floor Drain A simple clog in the drain around your furnace is nothing to worry about. Clear the floor drain of dirt and debris regularly to reduce backups

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Dec 3, 2019

Reducing Static Electricity in Your Home

As we walk around our home, we create an electron imbalance in the air. Cold, dry air along with the indoor moisture level can amplify this effect, which is why those annoying static electricity zaps we get are more common this time of year. Here's how you can control it: Solution There are products available to reduce static electricity in your home, like a humidifier or dehumidifier depending on where you live and the time of year. Your home should maintain a relative humid

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Oct 29, 2019

5 Ways to Cut Heating Costs

Winter will be here before you know it and you're probably aware of how expensive it can be to keep your home warm when its FREEZING outside. If you're looking to cut costs, there are a number of simple things you can do to save money: Adjust the Temperature Setting your thermostat as low as you can to still feel comfortable, about 68 degrees, will help cut costs more than you think. When you're not home, turn it down another 5-10 degrees. Investing in a programmable thermost

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Aug 22, 2019

Benefits of Clean Air Ducts

Air ducts circulate the air flow from your HVAC equipment throughout your home to ensure it's properly conditioned. Since we spend the majority of our day inside, it's important to make sure the air ducts are clean and free of debris. Here are some great benefits: Cleaner Living Environment Your system powers on and off throughout the day, where dust begins to settle. Once the system kicks back on, it blows that dust into your living environment. By clearing the dust out, yo

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Aug 13, 2019

New Home Checklist

Whether you're a first time home owner or not, having your future home properly inspected is crucial in creating a safe and comfortable environment for your family. We've created a checklist of typical home buyers tips to help guide you through the process. HVAC Inspection Just because the HVAC system works during the walk through doesn't mean it has much life left in it. The best thing to do is hire a HVAC technician to check the system to determine if it's in tip-top shap

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Jul 30, 2019

HVAC Tips for Pet Owners

Did you know that your pet has a direct effect on the quality of air you breathe in your home? Keep your system running smoothly all summer by following these helpful HVAC tips. Clean Pets = Clean Air Pollen and dirt can accumulate in your pet's fur overtime. These particles can potentially cause allergies and circulate throughout your home, reducing the air quality. So, brushing and bathing your cats and dogs can significantly cut down the amount of hair in your home, especi

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Jul 23, 2019

5 Reasons Why Your AC Might Be Struggling

If you’re feeling hot or sticky indoors, don’t waste energy by cranking up your AC. There are a number of reasons why you might be having problems keeping your home cool. Discover 5 reasons why your AC might be struggling. Improper Installation If your AC wasn’t installed by professionals or isn’t up-to-date, you might run into a few issues, such as an improperly sized unit. Too small of a system can’t adequately cool your home and too big of a system will frequently shut of

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Ankeny
(515) 965-7272

License #51239

© 2014-2023 72 Degrees Comfort Company. All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy | Website Design by RPS Creative Group.

Ankeny (515) 965-7272

License #51239

© 2014-2023 72 Degrees Comfort Company. All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy | Website Design by RPS Creative Group.

Ankeny
(515) 965-7272