Can a New HVAC Unit Increase My Home’s Value?

If you’re planning on moving in the next few years, it’s essential do what you can to increase your Cedarburg home’s value to ensure you have as much equity as possible when you sell it. This will allow you to have more money to put toward a new home. One important upgrade that some potential sellers consider is replacing their HVAC system. Since this represents a significant investment, it’s important to determine whether or not this purchase will give you a good bang for your buck. To help you make an informed upgrade decision, check out this insider’s guide from the pros at [company_name].

Not a Visual Upgrade

It’s important to remember that, for the most part, upgrading your HVAC system is not a visual upgrade. Adding a new air conditioner or furnace won’t have the dramatic initial effect that new floors or an updated bathroom can have. At the same time, visual upgrades aren’t the only upgrades that can add value or that help close purchase deals. Since a new HVAC system is difficult to notice at first glance, you must be sure to get the word out about it so that you can make the most of your investment. [company_name] recommends keeping all of the paperwork you receive after your new system is installed so that you can verify the age of your HVAC system for the real estate agent and any potential buyers.

Stage of Life

If you’re on the fence about upgrading your HVAC system, it’s important to consider your current system’s stage of life. For a system on its last legs, up elevating the entire system is an easy choice. After all, you don’t want the system to fail at some point during the buying process, leaving you with an unexpected expenditure and a lost sale. Even if your system still has some life left in it, you can expect a great return if you decide to upgrade your system. Since the new homeowners will likely keep the current system as long as possible, having a new HVAC system that you can include in the listing will help your home stand apart from the other listings. Let [company_name] assess your system for a professional opinion on the state of your current HVAC system.

Get Ahead of the Game

As the market slowly shifts back to a buyer’s market, words like “concessions” start to come into play. Buyers understand how expensive a new HVAC system can be, and this is money they don’t want to have to spend. If you find yourself at the negotiating table, a buyer may ask that you do at least a partial replacement of your HVAC system. But why give yourself a weak position when it’s time to negotiate the price? Rather than waiting to upgrade your HVAC system, get ahead of the game and let a company like [company_name] give you a great deal on a new system so that you can impress any potential buyers.

Don’t Overspend

HVAC systems come in a wide variety of types and price points. While it would be generous to leave the next homeowners with a top-of-the-line geothermal system, you may noonlyealize mureturn on this major investment unifou’re selling a high-end home. Instead, choose to invest in equipment known for its quality without costing a fortune, including equipment made by Lennox or Carrier. This will allow you to advertise new equipment in the listing and leave you with money to make other attention-grabbing improvements to your home.

Your HVAC Replacement Specialists

At [company_name], we work hard to ensure that all of our customers are comfortable in their homes for the entire time they own them. That’s why we provide air quality products and heating, cooling and thermostat installation, maintenance and repair services. We also perform a variety of electrical work, including repairing flickering lights and replacing worn-out wires. Since our founding, we’ve been committed to putting our customers first and making sure everything we do is done with integrity. That’s why we’re rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau and have received an Angie’s List Super Service Award. That’s also why so many customers leave us five-star reviews. To learn more about increasing your home’s value with a new HVAC system, contact us at [company_name] today.

Should You Cover Your HVAC System in the Winter?

If you own a home, it’s vital that you take steps to protect it along with all of the equipment and appliances that help maintain a livable environment. There are pros and cons to covering your HVAC unit during the colder months, so it’s ultimately up to you whether you decide to cover it or not. Here’s all you need to know.

Will Covering Your HVAC Unit Make a Difference?

HVAC professionals have been debating this topic for years. In some ways, it makes sense to cover your unit when it’s not in use because it will be protected from the harsh winter weather. However, many experts feel that doing so is unnecessary and a waste of time. Today, most units have been manufactured to withstand wind, ice, and snow.

At What Point Should Your HVAC Unit Be Covered?

HVAC units are built with efficiency and durability in mind, but some models may not be fully weatherproof. Although winter weather can wreak havoc on your home, it may be more important to try to protect your unit in the fall rather than the winter. Your unit may be built to withstand rain and snow, but it is not built to protect itself from leaves and other debris that fall from trees in the fall. When these things land in your HVAC unit, they can create more moisture and cause your unit to corrode. In addition, this debris can block the unit’s moisture drainage system and lead to significant damage. Unfortunately, depending on where you live, it may not be practical for you to cover your unit. Fall temperatures can often vary significantly, and there may be days when you still need to turn your air conditioning or heating system on.

Where to Find an HVAC Unit Cover

There are a number of different HVAC unit covers available on the market. Any home improvement store likely carries a wide variety of them. You can even order them online if you’re not finding what you want in the store. Just make sure you’re buying one that was manufactured to fit your unit. Your particular unit may even come with a cover specifically designed to fit it, as many manufacturers are starting to include them with the product. You should avoid trying to cover your unit with anything other than a manufactured cover designed to protect it.

Is Covering Your Unit Necessary?

Some people debate that covering your HVAC unit during the winter is not really necessary. Although it seems like a good idea to protect the unit when it isn’t in use, here are a few reasons you may choose not to cover it.

Your Unit Won’t Be Protected From Everything

A cover’s purpose is to keep out dirt, debris, and moisture, but since new units are designed to withstand a variety of weather conditions, covers may not provide much help. In addition, it isn’t possible to keep all moisture and dirt out of your unit, so going through the extra effort to cover it may be a waste of time.

Rodents May Seek Shelter

You might think a cover on your unit will keep out rodents and other pests, but that may not be the case. Rodents seek shelter during the winter months, which your cover can provide them. Because they can sneak into very small spaces, you may find that they’ve made a home in your unit and caused damage to it when you take off the cover in the spring.

Covers May Lead to Extra Moisture

HVAC units can withstand some moisture. In fact, it’s bound to sneak in at some point, so covering your unit may not be very beneficial. A cover could even cause the moisture already inside the unit to become trapped, which can lead to mold.

As you can see, there is a lot to consider when deciding whether to put a cover on your HVAC unit during the winter months. While this could be a beneficial practice for an older unit, newer units may not see the same benefit since they’re designed to withstand the elements. No matter what you do, your outdoor HVAC unit will require maintenance at some point. Make sure you consult with a professional from [company_name] if you have questions about your unit.

We offer heating, cooling, and electrical services to Cedarburg, WI residents. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

Learn More About What Your Boiler Is Used For

There are many moving parts in your home that make it function the way you’re used to. If your home has a boiler, you may not realize that it is an important part of your hot water system. We realize that it may be confusing to learn about what this appliance is and what it does. So, you can learn right here what your boiler is and exactly what it is used for in your home.

What Is a Boiler?

If you look in your basement or utility closet, you may see a tall metal cylinder with a control panel. This is your boiler. Some boilers have a rectangular shape. A boiler is an appliance that moves water in and out as needed and heats it to temperatures that allow boiling or steaming.

The boiler may have multiple purposes in your home, but all of them have to do with its ability to store and heat water. Many homes also turn to a boiler system to effectively heat the space in the cold winter months, unlike a water heater that is only used for warming water around the house.

What Is a Boiler Used For?

A boiler can combine the functions of a furnace and a hot water heater. The boiler holds the water until you need it, boils it, and pushes it out of localized faucets. Your boiler can heat the water for the faucets around your home or make steam used in your home’s heating system. The steam can transfer the heat you need inexpensively and efficiently wherever you need it. A boiler may also be used for a floor heating system.

What Parts Make a Boiler Work?

Your boiler might use coal, electricity, oil, or gas. Most boilers will have a boiler unit as well as a tank to store hot water that looks very similar to a hot water heater. The boiler directs the hot water to the hot water tank and the building heat delivery system.

The primary parts for coal, oil, and gas boilers include a fuel supply, combustion system, feedwater system, and ventilation. The fuel starts the combustion system and begins heating the water. The feedwater system will pump and store the necessary water for the boiler. Finally, the ventilation system ensures all of the exhaust fumes are safely removed from the space so that you can breathe easier.

An electric boiler does not have a combustion system or a ventilation system. The water passed through a heating element. Electric boilers are extremely safe. They may be a good option if you want to reduce the need for fossil fuels.

Whichever system you have, all these parts must work together for your boiler to produce heat and hot water efficiently and prevent wasted water or fuel.

How Do Boilers Heat a Home?

Various kinds of boilers deliver heat to your home in different ways. These different boilers work relatively the same for the most part; the primary difference is in the way they deliver heat.

All boilers heat a home via hot water or steam, called hydronic heat. Many boilers use radiators to heat the building. The system might use cast-iron, baseboard, or panel radiators. They can also use an in-floor radiant system or fan coil units.

We Are Here to Help With Your Boiler Needs

At [company_name], we pride ourselves on providing top-tier heating and cooling services in Cedarburg, WI and surrounding areas. Cedarburg is known for harsh winter weather. Our team of HVAC professionals makes it a point to give you the best HVAC services we can offer, so you can enjoy complete comfort in your home no matter the season.

We offer a comprehensive list of heating and cooling services, including mini-split systems. We also install indoor air quality systems, ductwork, and thermostats. Additionally, you can come to us for electrical needs and metal fabrication.

Whether you need a repair, installation, or maintenance of your boiler or HVAC system, we’re here for you. All of our services are completed by our team of customer-focused HVAC experts. [company_name] is dedicated to serving the people of Milwaukee County and beyond with smiles and excellent customer service so you can have complete confidence in your home boiler or HVAC system.

For more information or to speak with a professional, contact [company_name] today!

Common Electrical Services Handled By Electricians

Electrical work is a vital part of maintaining any home or business. From wiring and lighting to repairs and installation, electricians handle a wide range of tasks.

While some basic electrical tasks, like changing a lightbulb or resetting a circuit breaker, can be completed by non-professionals, it’s always best to leave more complex electrical work to the experts. Licensed electricians have the training and experience needed to safely and correctly complete a wide range of electrical work tasks.

Here is an overview of some of the most common electrical services handled by electricians.

Wiring and Lighting

One of the most common tasks electricians handle is wiring and lighting. From installing new outlets to running new wires for lights or other electrical devices, electricians can take care of all your wiring needs. They can also help with lighting projects, such as installing new light fixtures or repairing existing ones.

These tasks may seem simple, but they can be dangerous if not done correctly. That’s why it’s important to hire a licensed electrician for all your wiring and lighting projects.

Repairs

Another common service electricians provide is repairs. If you have an electrical problem, such as a flickering light or a blown fuse, an electrician can diagnose and fix the issue.

Electricians can also repair damaged wiring and other electrical components. This is intricate work, so it’s vital to hire a professional who has the experience and training needed to safely make repairs.

Energy Efficiency Improvements

If you’ve noticed that your utility bills have been rising with no apparent cause, an electrician can help. They can assess your home’s electrical system and make recommendations for energy-efficient upgrades, such as installing LED lighting or adding insulation to your home’s attic.

Making these types of improvements can help reduce your energy consumption and lower your monthly bills. And since electricians are trained to work with electrical systems, they can safely and correctly install the upgrades you choose.

Installation Projects

In addition to repairs, electricians also handle installations. If you need new outlets, switches, or light fixtures installed, an electrician can take care of the job.

Some electricians specialize in specific types of installations, such as solar panels or home theater systems. If you have a complex installation project, be sure to hire an electrician who has experience with the specific type of work you need.

Upgrades

If your home or business needs electrical upgrades, an electrician can handle that, too. Upgrades may be needed if you’re adding new appliances or electrical devices, or if you’re increasing the amount of power you need.

For example, if you’re adding air conditioning to your home, you’ll need an electrician to upgrade your electrical system to accommodate the increased power usage. Upgrades may also be needed if you’re installing new types of lighting, such as LED lights.

Preventative Maintenance

In addition to handling repairs, installations, and upgrades, electricians can also perform preventative maintenance. This type of work helps to keep your electrical system in good condition and can prevent problems from developing.

Preventative maintenance may include tasks such as cleaning corrosion off of wires or tightening loose connections. Electricians can also inspect your electrical system and make recommendations for improvements or repairs.

Emergency Services

Electricians also provide emergency services. If you have an electrical problem that needs to be fixed right away, an electrician can come to your rescue.

Emergency services may include tasks such as fixing a power outage or repairing a broken fuse. If you have an electrical emergency, be sure to call a licensed electrician right away.

Conclusion

Whether you need wiring and lighting work, repairs, installation, upgrades, or preventative maintenance, a licensed electrician can handle the job. Electricians are trained and experienced in all aspects of electrical work, so you can trust them to safely and correctly complete your project.

If you have an electrical problem or need electrical work done, be sure to call a licensed electrician at [company_name]. When you turn to our team, we’ll be ready to assess your situation and make recommendations for the best course of action.

We’ve provided top-quality heating, cooling, and electrical services to homeowners and business owners in the Cedarburg, Wisconsin area for many years, and we’re ready to help you, too. Whether you need a simple repair or a complex installation, we’re here for you. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.

What Does SEER Rating Mean?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures both how well an air conditioner cools a designated amount of space and also the amount of energy it takes to do this. A closely related idea is the EER, or Energy Efficiency Ratio, which is like a snapshot of an appliance’s energy efficiency at a given point in time.

By contrast, the SEER rating takes into account the appliance’s performance over the length of a season. The SEER rating is calculated by multiplying an air conditioner’s cooling output over the course of the cooling season by the energy, measured in Watt-hours, that the air conditioner uses. Cooling output, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), is calculated using a constant indoor temperature number and a range of outdoor temperature numbers starting at 60 degrees Fahrenheit up to more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. For the purposes of this calculation, 50% relative humidity is assumed.

The U.S. Department of Energy set the standard in January 2006 that every residential air conditioner sold in the U.S. must have a SEER of at least 13. Traditional air conditioners will typically have a SEER rating of between 13 and 21. Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems may have a much higher SEER rating, up to 42. Mini-split systems are often so efficient because you can choose which areas of your home get conditioned air, preventing your system from heating/cooling rooms that aren’t being used.

The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the air conditioner will be. Keep in mind that in colder regions, having an air conditioner with a high SEER rating may be less important to you than it would be in a warmer climate.

If you choose an Energy Star-certified air conditioner, then you know that your appliance will have a SEER of a least 14. The Energy Star designation isn’t given to any appliances with a SEER of less than 14.

The Department of Energy says in its publications that replacing an appliance with a SEER of 9 with a new appliance with a SEER of 14 saves the homeowner about 35% on energy costs. So, for example, a homeowner who spends $100 a month on air conditioning with an air conditioner with a SEER of 9 would save $35 by switching to one with a SEER of 14.

Incentives for replacing older, less energy-efficient air conditioners with newer, more efficient ones may be available. Check with your tax professional to learn about available tax credits. Your local utility companies may offer additional incentives or rebates. In some cases, manufacturers’ rebates may be available as well.

How Can You Improve the Energy Efficiency in Your House?

Your home’s energy efficiency can vary based on factors that include your geographic location, your home’s size, and the rating of the insulation used in your walls and ceilings. A number of steps can help you increase the energy efficiency of your home’s air conditioning system:

  • Check for crushed or bent fins or coils in outdoor air conditioners.
  • Check for disconnected ducts.
  • Clean or replace filters once a month.
  • Close drapes and blinds during summer daylight hours.
  • Close fireplace dampers when they’re not in use.
  • During summer, set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re not home.
  • During winter, set thermostats to no more than 68 degrees Fahrenheit during waking hours.
  • Get preventative checkups at least once a year.
  • Keep plants and debris away from outdoor air conditioners.
  • Let sunlight in during winter daylight hours.
  • Read the air conditioner owner’s manual.
  • Regularly have your ductwork cleaned.
  • Seal any leaks in your ductwork.

Poorly insulated and/or poorly sealed rooms decrease your home’s energy efficiency. To make your home more efficient, inspect for any leaks and cracks where air could be leaking in or out, and have these sealed.

Contact [company_name] in Cedarburg, WI

When you need heating, cooling, and electrical services in the Cedarburg, WI area, contact the professionals at [company_name]. Our team has years of experience installing and repairing air conditioners and heat pumps, cleaning air ducts, and installing ductless mini-split heating and cooling systems. We also work with improving indoor air quality and installing thermostats. If these are services that you need to help your home become more comfortable, get in touch with us today for a quote.

HVAC and Indoor Air Quality

Many people believe that their HVAC system only delivers warm air in the winter and cool air in the summer and provides some ventilation. But the fact is your HVAC system has a great impact on the quality of air in your home all throughout the year. Our HVAC professionals at [company_name] know that a well-maintained system can improve your home’s air quality, while a badly maintained one can worsen it.

Good HVAC, Good Air

Among the things a well-maintained HVAC system does for your indoor air quality are:

  • Remove pollutants and odors
  • Discourage pests
  • Keep humidity low
  • Keep home well ventilated

Our customers are often surprised to learn that the air inside their home can be many times more polluted than the air outdoors. But your HVAC system filters the outside air as it comes in, and that filter traps pollutants such as pollen, dust, mold spores, viruses and bacteria. The cleaner air that results lowers the risks of you or members of your household suffering from allergies, asthma or other respiratory problems.

One of the best things your air conditioning does is lower the humidity in your home, as cold air does not hold moisture as well as warm air. High humidity can make you comfortable even if the temperature is not very high. It can also encourage the growth of pathogenic mold and mildew. On the other hand, the cold air of winter is extremely dry, and the warmed air of a heating unit carries enough humidity to keep the household comfortable.

One problem with new homes is that they are well sealed to help them be more energy efficient. But a drawback of this is the interruption of a healthy airflow. Stale air holds on to pollutants and uncomfortable levels of humidity. Fortunately, the ventilation part of HVAC is the simplest to employ. Ceiling fans, the fans found in HVAC units and open doors and windows help the flow of fresh air throughout your home.

Bad HVAC, Bad Air

An HVAC system that is in disrepair not only fails to deliver cooling, heating and ventilation adequately but can actually be dangerous to your health. Simply, all of the problems that are prevented by a functioning HVAC system are present in one that is either badly maintained or that has been badly installed or designed. This means it allows bad smells and pollutants, including bacteria, mold and dust into the indoor air and blows warm or cool air at such speeds that you’re always uncomfortable. A bad HVAC system also does not regulate humidity, which leads to discomfort and can promote the growth of mold.

Leaking ductwork not only reduces the efficiency of your HVAC, but many critters, including possums, mice and rats find them the perfect places to build a nest. The ductwork blows their droppings and other waste into your indoor air. Worse, it’s not uncommon for animals to die in your ductwork, and the smell of that lingers even if your HVAC system is working.

But pollutants and procreating or dead animals aren’t even the worst things that can happen with leaky ductwork. Backdrafting can happen when gas from your boiler, furnace or hot water heater re-enters your home instead of being vented to the outside. This can cause carbon monoxide, an odorless, tasteless, colorless and deadly gas to infiltrate your rooms.

Bad smells from the ductwork are one sign of poor air quality caused by your HVAC. Other signs may be more subtle. The inside of your home may still be uncomfortably humid even with the AC on. One room may be much cooler or warmer than the other even though you don’t have a zoned system. The system may be blowing air at too high a speed, which also causes discomfort.

Call Us to Learn More

Working HVAC systems are a must in Cedarburg, WI. They not only keep homes cool in the summers but protect you against our brutal winters. Because these systems have to work as hard as they do, they are subject to problems that make them less efficient. When they are less efficient, they can cause the quality of our customer’s indoor air to deteriorate, sometimes to the point where health is affected.

Don’t hesitate to call our HVAC professionals at [company_name] to troubleshoot your system and make sure it and your indoor air quality are always in top condition.

When Should You Change Your HVAC Air Filter?

As air travels through your HVAC system, it’s forced through an air filter. This filter works to remove impurities from the air like pet dander and dust. To ensure that your air filter is consistently improving the quality of the air inside of your home, it’s important that it gets changed on a regular basis.

How to Tell That Your Air Filter Needs Changing

The best way to determine that it’s time to change your air filter is to take a look at its state. As a general rule of thumb, you should be able to hold a new filter up to a light and see through it. When your air filter has reached the end of its lifespan, it will be packed full of dust and other debris. When you hold the filter up to a light, you’ll no longer be able to see through it.

How Often Should You Visibly Inspect Your Air Filter?

If you’ve done any research online to see how often your HVAC air filter needs to be replaced, it’s likely that you’ve run across the recommendation of replacing it every three months. While this is a good general time frame for most households, it’s not a hard-and-fast rule. The specific conditions of your home, how often you run your HVAC system, and many other factors can affect how long your air filter will last. It’s typically recommended that you pull your air filter out once a month and check to see if it needs to be replaced.

Factors That Affect Filter Lifespan

The air filter inside of your HVAC system is a necessary component to ensure that the quality of your indoor air remains adequate. As soon as the filter starts to reach the end of its lifespan, it won’t be able to effectively filter out many of the harmful allergens that show up inside your indoor air. Households where family members have respiratory illnesses, asthma, allergies, and young children, should have their HVAC filters changed on a more consistent basis.

If you have multiple pets inside of your home, they’re constantly creating pet dander. This can make your air filter work much harder and greatly shorten its lifespan. Some other common factors that can influence the amount of time that the average filter will last in your HVAC system include smoking inside the home, how often you run your HVAC system, your typical household cleaning habits, and so much more.

How to Replace Your HVAC Air Filter

Changing out your HVAC air filter is something that you’re going to want to learn how to effectively do since it needs to be replaced on a consistent basis. Before you change out your filter, it’s a good idea to turn off your entire HVAC system. Next, you’ll want to access the filter housing. This may be located near the air handler or one of the wall vents, depending on the specific type of HVAC system that you have inside of your home. It’s a good idea to consult an HVAC professional or the instruction manual for your specific HVAC system to determine where the filter housing is.

Once you locate the filter housing, you’ll want to open it up and remove the old air filter. Go ahead and hold it up to a light source and see if it needs to be replaced. If so, you’ll want to have another filter on hand that is the exact same model number as the one that’s inside of your system. Make sure that you read the instructions that come with the new air filter to ensure that it’s being installed correctly. Many HVAC systems will have arrows that will help you to determine the appropriate direction to install the air filter so that it’s not installed backwards.

What Filter Replacement Should You Use?

When you go to purchase a new air filter for your HVAC system, you’ll need to have the existing filter’s model number so that you can purchase the same one. There are various different types of filters that you can purchase, including pleated, fiberglass, HEPA, and even reusable ones. Each of these different filters comes at its own price point and filtering capability.

It’s crucial to note that every HVAC air filter will have a MERV rating. MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value and is ranked on a scale from 1 to 16. The higher the MERV rank, the more efficient the air filter will be at trapping dust and other airborne particles. If you’re concerned about increasing the effectiveness of your HVAC air filter, you want to select one that has a higher MERV rating than your existing air filter.

Premier HVAC Services

[company_name] offers premier HVAC services for the entire Cedarburg, WI, region. We can also assist with all of your electrical, duct cleaning, ductwork, metal fabrication, indoor air quality, and thermostat needs. Simply contact our office today to schedule your next service appointment.

How Long Can My Air Conditioner Run Continuously?

The humid Wisconsin summers mean that your air conditioner often has to work overtime to keep your home cool. As a result, we often get questions from customers asking if it’s okay for their air conditioning to run constantly. The answer is yes, it is fine if you leave your air conditioning constantly switched on. However, the condenser unit shouldn’t run constantly as this will quickly cause the motor to burn out. Moreover, if the condenser unit is running continuously, this indicates that your AC system isn’t working properly and needs to be repaired. To understand why, let’s take a look at cooling cycles to see how long the condenser unit should run under normal conditions.

Understanding Cooling Cycles

The condenser unit is the part of the air conditioning system that sits outside the home, and it serves two primary purposes. The first is to supply cold refrigerant liquid to the evaporator coil inside the indoor air handler unit, and the second is to release heat outside the home and compress the refrigerant back into a liquid.

As hot air passes over the evaporator coil, the refrigerant absorbs much of the heat from the air. This causes the refrigerant to heat up and turn from a liquid to a gas. The hot refrigerant then travels back out to the condenser where it flows through another series of coils to allow the heat to be released into the air outside. Finally, the condenser forces the cooled refrigerant through a compressor, which turns the refrigerant back into a liquid.

Your thermostat signals the condenser to turn on and start this cycle when the house gets warmer than the temperature the thermostat is set to. Once the condenser unit is on, it should run for approximately 15 to 20 minutes before switching off again. Typically, the condenser will perform two full cycles every hour or possibly three cycles in hotter or more humid conditions.

If the condenser runs more frequently than this, it usually indicates that the system is short-cycling. This essentially means that the condenser unit is shutting off before completing a full cycle. When this happens, the unit will typically attempt to start a new cycle immediately, which means the system will run almost constantly. Short cycling leads to increased energy use as well as greater wear and tear on the condenser. If not taken care of, the problem will usually cause the condenser to burn out and need to be replaced.

Common Causes of Short-Cycling

Numerous issues can cause a condenser to short-cycle. One of the most common causes is a clogged air filter, and this issue can be overcome simply by replacing the air filter. To prevent this, all you need to do is make sure to replace your filter at least once every one to three months.

Short-cycling can also occur if the condenser is either oversized or undersized. If the unit is too small, it will need to run almost constantly since it isn’t powerful enough to properly cool the home. If the unit is too big, the thermostat will typically signal it to turn off before completing a full cycle. In both cases, the problem will lead to higher energy bills and decreased home comfort. In these situations, your only real option is to replace the unit with one that is the appropriate size for your home.

Short cycling can also indicate that there is a leak in one of the refrigerant lines. If the system doesn’t have enough refrigerant, it won’t be able to properly absorb heat from inside the home and thus will need to run almost constantly. This issue can also cause either the evaporator coil in the air handler or the condenser coil in the condenser unit to freeze up. If you attempt to run your air conditioning while it is frozen, it will quickly cause the condenser motor to overheat and burn out. To prevent this, it is important that you not turn the AC on until you have a technician repair the leak and add more refrigerant into the system.

Professional AC Repairs and Maintenance

If your condenser is short-cycling or you’re experiencing any other issues with your air conditioning system, the experts at Hometown Heating & Air are here to help. We are available 24/7 for emergency repairs, and our NATE-certified technicians can repair and maintain all AC makes and models. We also specialize in air conditioner installation and replacements as well as a full range of heating and electrical services. With two locations in Cedarburg and Brookfield, we serve customers throughout the greater Milwaukee area. For more information or to schedule service, give the team at Hometown Heating & Air a call today.

Will a Smart Thermostat Really Save Me Money?

If you’re like most homeowners, you’re always looking for ways to help cut down on energy bills when the summertime rolls around. One of the best ways to do this is to install a smart thermostat. These are not only super convenient to operate, but they can drastically reduce your energy bills.

It Learns Your Behaviors

Probably the most convenient feature of a smart thermostat is that after you program in your initial settings, it gets to learn your behavior. Over time, as it observes your behavior, it will be able to determine what temperature you prefer at various times of the day. Then, your smart thermostat can automatically adjust your settings to have your home at the perfect temperature whenever you get home and even calibrate it to make adjustments for specific humidity levels.

When your smart thermostat knows your behaviors, it can recommend the most energy-efficient settings without you having to lift a finger to try to program those settings yourself. You’ll be surprised at how much you can reduce your energy bills by simply changing your settings to more energy-efficient options.

Convenient Remote Interfaces

Another major benefit the smart thermostats bring to the table is convenient remote interfaces. Most smart thermostats will have an area on the interface that allows you to estimate the cost of the energy that you’re currently using. It will even allow you to make manual adjustments to your settings to see how they affect the cost of your energy bill. This can allow you to ultimately set the ideal temperatures for your home to meet what you want your energy budget to be.

Eco-Mode

All smart thermostats come with an eco-mode setting. This comes on whenever you’re away from your home and prevents your thermostat from running unless your indoor temperature reaches dangerously high or low levels. This is convenient as it will help to prevent emergencies like frozen water pipes whenever you’re away from home without you having to turn your entire HVAC system off. Many smart thermostats even automatically switch to eco-mode whenever it senses that there is no one in your home. It typically does this via tracking on your smartphone.

It Factors in Local Weather

One truly amazing attribute of smart thermostats is that they will actually take your local weather into account when it comes to optimizing your heating and cooling schedules. Using defined weather algorithms, smart thermostats can help to optimize energy usage and minimize humidity levels to ensure that your home feels comfortable for your family.

Remote Sensor Options

Fairly newer features that are coming out with many new smart thermostats are additional sensors. The sensors are designed to detect the temperature as well as motion. They’re to be installed in various rooms throughout your home to help your thermostat receive more precise information.

When it comes to temperature, your thermostat can learn what the general temperature is around your home as compared to just what the temperature is where the thermostat is positioned. This can be especially helpful in homes where thermostats aren’t optimally placed. The thermostat sensors also help to detect motion which is utilized to turn your HVAC system on and off depending on whether or not someone’s home.

User Simplicity

A very important way that smart thermostats can help you save money on your energy bills is their user-friendliness. Many programmable thermostats can offer an abundance of energy savings similar to that of smart thermostats. However, they require you to actually sit down and update your settings. Most homeowners simply don’t sit down and do so.

Smart thermostats take all the hard work out of programming your heating and cooling systems. With a couple of swipes of your smartphone, you can easily choose to program your smart thermostat to be the most energy efficient for your home. It’s super easy to make adjustments to help save energy usage from your smartphone as compared to having to go back to your thermostat every single time. Since smart thermostats are more convenient to use, homeowners actually implement smart choices to save energy, like lowering the temperature in the wintertime when they’re not at home.

Expert HVAC Services

Hometown Heating, Air & Electric provides expert HVAC services for the entire Cedarburg, WI area. We’re also available for all of your indoor air quality and electrical service needs. Contact our office today to schedule your next service appointment.

Is It Smart to Save Money Buying a Used Furnace?

If you’re considering replacing your current furnace, you may have wondered if it’s OK to buy a used furnace to save some money. There’s a lot to weigh when comparing the option of buying a new furnace versus purchasing a used unit. You’ll need to consider things like price tags and different levels of efficiency. Buying used means you could end up with an energy hog or a highly efficient energy-saving machine; below are factors you can consider.

1. Check Its History

The first thing you need to do is investigate the furnace’s history. Make sure that it wasn’t recalled due to any safety issues in the past. Check its age and model number to make sure that there were no recalls or known problems with the unit. You can also ask the seller if they know any of its history and check with the manufacturer for more information.

2. Look for Signs of Water Damage

Water can cause serious damage to an older furnace and even lead to dangerous mold growth inside the unit. If the furnace is located in the basement — or another area that doesn’t get much air circulation — moisture and mold can be especially problematic. These conditions can cause corrosion, which can eventually lead to a leak or breakdown of the unit over time.

3. Examine the Heat Exchanger and Condensing Coils

The first thing to look for is a cracked heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is what keeps the exhaust fumes separate from the air that your family breathes. That’s why if there is a crack in the heat exchanger, it could possibly leak carbon monoxide into your home. If you suspect that has happened, you should not buy the furnace.

You also want to check the condensing coils. The condensing coils are very susceptible to damage from salt or other corrosives, which could be found in soils with high mineral content. You want to make sure they are not damaged or corroded when buying a used furnace.

4. Check for Wear, Tear, and Dirt on the Blower Motor

This is the most important part of a furnace. Check for signs of rust or corrosion on the blower fan. Rust is often a sign that water has entered the unit at some point in its life. This could mean it isn’t airtight and will allow moisture into the ducts when in use.

If you don’t see any rust, check for dirt on the fan or motor itself. If it’s dirty, this could indicate that it has been used heavily. You may need to remove insulation from the back of the furnace to get a good look at it.

Just how do you check for wear, tear, and dirt on the blower motor? You should be able to access this part of your furnace by opening up an access panel on its backside. If you can’t see it right away, try removing insulation from around it first — this may give you a better view of what’s going on inside your unit.

5. Consider the Age of a Used Furnace

If you are looking at purchasing a used furnace, then you will want to know the age of the furnace before making any final decisions. It is important to know the age of the furnace so that you will know how much life is left in it. You also need to consider how often or little the previous owner used it so that way you will be able to tell how much life is left in it as well.

A furnace can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years, depending on its brand and model. If the previous owner didn’t take good care of it, that could shorten the life span significantly. It could even cause safety issues if there are cracks or leaks in the system that could allow carbon monoxide gas into your home. This is why it’s so important to have an HVAC technician evaluate any used furnace before you buy it.

5. Check the Energy Efficiency

Furnaces are rated using the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). A higher AFUE means that more heat from the combustion process is transferred into your ductwork, which means less heat escapes through the flue. The higher the AFUE rating is, the more efficient your furnace will be.

When shopping for a used furnace, ask to see information on its AFUE rating. If you’re buying from an individual homeowner, they may not have this information available. In this case, ask how old their current furnace is and what year it was installed. From there, you can check average AFUE ratings by decade on the website of the company that made the furnace to get an idea of what their current system may be rated at.

At Hometown Heating & Air in Cedarburg, we can come out and assess your furnace and let you know if you need a new one. We also perform AC services as well as indoor air quality tests. Call today to set up service.