What to Know About the 2025 Refrigerant Mandate

Close up of an air conditioner refrigerant, relating to the 2025 refrigerant mandate coming

Our world is constantly evolving, and the HVAC industry is no exception. Significant changes are on the horizon, particularly with the 2025 refrigerant mandate. These new regulations regarding air conditioning refrigerants will impact many people locally and nationwide. Starting in 2025, the price of newer units is expected to increase by 20% or more.

At Hometown Heating, Air and Electric, we promise to keep you informed about the 2025 refrigerant mandate and its potential effects on your comfort and budget.

Understanding the 2025 Refrigerant Mandate

The Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is gradually reducing the production of R-410A refrigerant through 2036. This phase-down is part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM Act) of 2025, which requires the EPA to reduce the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in the United States. Starting on January 1, 2025, manufacturers must stop making new residential and commercial air conditioning (AC) and heat pump equipment that contains HFCs, and the sale of these products will be prohibited beginning January 1, 2026.

R-410A is a hydrofluorocarbon commonly used in air conditioning systems, heat pumps, and refrigeration units for residential and commercial applications. With the production of R-410A being phased out, the cost of maintaining existing systems that use this refrigerant is expected to rise significantly. Additionally, the introduction of eco-friendly refrigerants will drive up the prices of new HVAC systems and parts, potentially leading to a 20% or more increase in costs.

How the 2025 Refrigerant Mandate Affects You

The 2025 refrigerant mandate will significantly impact homeowners and businesses alike. As the supply of R-410A diminishes, prices for this refrigerant will rise, making it more expensive to service existing systems. Furthermore, the introduction of new, eco-friendly refrigerants will increase the cost of new equipment and services.

We recommend considering your options before these changes take effect. Upgrading your HVAC system before the price surge can save you money in the long run and ensure you are compliant with the new regulations.

Financing Options Available

At Hometown Heating, Air and Electric, we understand the financial aspect of upgrading your HVAC system can be daunting. That’s why we offer financing options for any jobs over $1,000. Our goal is to make these necessary upgrades as affordable and stress-free as possible for our customers. By providing flexible payment plans, we help you navigate the 2025 refrigerant mandate without breaking the bank.

Preparing for the Future

Our commitment to our customers goes beyond just providing HVAC services at Hometown Heating, Air & Electric. We believe in building lasting relationships and fostering a community in Cedarburg and beyond. With our customer-focused philosophy, we pride ourselves by upholding the highest standards of integrity and quality in all our work while treating every customer the way we would want to be treated.

Plus, you can make better decisions for your home and wallet when you know what’s going on. Early upgrades to your HVAC system means you can avoid the rush and expense as 2025 approaches.

Ultimately, the 2025 refrigerant mandate will lead to price increases and impact many homeowners and businesses. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can mitigate these effects and ensure your HVAC system remains reliable and cost-effective. Trust Hometown Heating, Air and Electric to guide you through these changes with our expert advice and financing options.

Don’t navigate these changes alone. For more detailed information and personalized advice, please contact Hometown Heating, Air & Electric today. We are here to help you every step of the way, ensuring your home remains comfortable despite the changing regulations.

The Importance of Regularly Changing Your AC Filter

close up of an AC air filter to demonstrate the importance of changing your AC filter regularly

Maintaining a comfortable and healthy home environment is essential, especially during the hot summer months. One crucial aspect of this is ensuring your air conditioning system is running efficiently. A key component that often gets overlooked is changing your AC filter regularly.

Understanding Why Changing Your AC Filter Regularly Matters

Discover how changing your AC filter regularly will positively impact your comfort, health, and wallet:

A close up of an AC filter to demonstrate the importance of why you should be changing your AC filter regularly

Why Changing Your AC Filter Regularly Is Necessary

Your AC filter plays a vital role in maintaining the efficiency of your air conditioning system. It works by trapping dust, dirt, and other airborne particles, preventing them from entering the system and circulating in your home. When the AC filter becomes clogged, it can’t perform its job effectively, leading to several issues.

  1. Improved Air Quality: One of the primary functions of an AC filter is to improve indoor air quality. When the filter is clean, it effectively removes dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens from the air. However, a dirty or clogged filter loses its efficiency, allowing these particles to recirculate throughout your home. This can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues, especially for those with preexisting conditions.
  2. Enhanced System Efficiency: A clean AC filter ensures your air conditioning system runs smoothly and efficiently. When the filter is clogged, the system has to work harder to pull air through, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. By changing your AC filter regularly, you can help your system run more efficiently, saving you money in the long run. Consider purchasing your next AC filter at Hometown Heating, Air & Electric.
  3. Prevention of System Breakdowns: Neglecting to change your AC filter can lead to more significant problems down the line. A clogged filter can cause the system to overheat, leading to potential breakdowns and costly repairs. Regularly replacing the AC filter helps to prevent these issues, extending the lifespan of your air conditioning unit and ensuring it operates reliably.

How Often You Should Change Your AC Filter

The frequency of changing your filter depends on several factors, including the type of filter, the number of people in your household, and whether you have pets. Here’s how often we’d recommend changing your AC filter, depending on your unique circumstances:

  • Standard Filters: Change every 30-60 days
  • High-Efficiency Filters: Change every 90 days
  • Homes with Pets or Allergies: Change every 20-45 days

Check your AC filter regularly and replace it when it appears dirty or clogged. Doing so ensures your air conditioning system continues to perform optimally.

Why Reusing AC Filters Isn’t Worth It

While it might be tempting to reuse an old AC filter to save money, this practice can lead to several issues. Reused filters are less effective at trapping particles, leading to poor air quality. They can also harbor mold and mildew, which are harmful to your health. Additionally, reused filters can become damaged over time, reducing their efficiency and potentially causing damage to your AC system.

How to Regularly Maintain Your AC Unit

At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we recommend scheduling regular maintenance for your air conditioning system. Our NATE-certified technicians can perform comprehensive tune-ups, including changing your filter, to ensure your system runs efficiently all summer long. We take pride in our meticulous work and strive to exceed your expectations.

Changing your AC filter regularly is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining your home’s comfort and air quality. It improves system efficiency, prevents costly breakdowns, and ensures you breathe cleaner air. Don’t underestimate the importance of this small maintenance task.

By prioritizing regular AC filter changes, you can enjoy a healthier, more comfortable home environment and avoid unnecessary expenses. For professional support and all your HVAC needs, contact Hometown Heating, Air & Electric today. We’re here to keep your home comfortable and your air conditioning system running smoothly.

Maintaining Your HVAC System: 3 Ways to Fall In Love With Comfort This Year

maintaining your hvac system can help you fall in love with comfort this year like the couple in the picture

February, the month of love, isn’t just about romantic dinners and flowers; it’s also the perfect time to show some love to the unsung heroes of home comfort – your local HVAC company. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’re not just experts in heating, air, and electric services; we’re passionate about you maintaining your HVAC system and keeping the heart of Cedarburg, Mequon, Grafton, and surrounding communities warm, cool, and bright.

Here are three ways Hometown Heating, Air & Electric strives to keep you comfortable all year round:

1. Warm Embraces: Heating Services that Melt Away the Chill

As the winter winds howl through Wisconsin, we know a cozy home is a happy home. We arm our dedicated team of certified HVAC technicians with the expertise to install, maintain, service, and repair heating systems and boilers. We’re not just in the business of maintaining your HVAC system in the winter; we’re in the business of keeping your family warm and comfortable. So, this winter, let our heating services wrap your home in a warm embrace that will make you fall in love with winter.

2. Cool Connections: Air Services to Sweep You Off Your Feet

When summer sizzles, we’ve got the cool solutions to sweep you off your feet. Our full-service HVAC company ensures your air conditioning systems are in optimal condition, making scorching summers a breeze. From installing to maintaining your HVAC system, we’ve got the expertise to keep your home cool and comfortable. Love the feeling of walking into a refreshingly cool home on a hot summer day? That’s the magic of our air services working their charm.

3. Electrifying Love: Sparks Fly with Electrical Services

In matters of the heart, and home, sparks should fly only in a figurative sense. Our electrical services are here to ensure your home stays well-lit, safe, and sound. Whether you need installations, repairs, or maintenance, our team is dedicated to illuminating your life. This year, let sparks fly in your heart, not from faulty wiring.

Maintaining Your HVAC System & Putting Customers First

At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we believe in treating every customer the way we would want to be treated. While our priority involves maintaining your HVAC system year round, our love language is effective communication, transparent pricing, and punctuality. We understand the area’s climate, and we’re committed to providing high-quality, in-home comfort for our friends and neighbors throughout southeastern Wisconsin.

Our process is meticulous, just like a perfectly planned date night. We learn about your home and needs, and then we complete the job quickly and correctly. No surprises, just the satisfaction of a job well done.

This season, experience the warmth, coolness, and brightness that only Hometown Heating, Air & Electric can provide. Contact us today and let us be your local HVAC heroes, making sure you fall in love with your home’s comfort all over again.

Differences Between Ductless And Central Air Conditioning Units

Air conditioning units are an essential appliance in many households. With increased global temperature extremes, you need a system that can keep you comfortable throughout the year. There are two main types of air conditioning units available: ductless and central air conditioning units. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

Central Air Conditioning Units

Central air conditioning units are designed to cool an entire house or building through a system of ducts that distribute cool air throughout the space. They are typically more expensive to install than ductless units, but they are more efficient at cooling large spaces.

How Central Air Conditioning Units Work

Central air conditioning units work by pulling in warm air from the house through a return vent. The warm air is then cooled by the unit’s refrigerant and blown back into the house through the ducts. The cooled air is distributed evenly throughout the space, providing a comfortable temperature throughout the entire building.

Ductless Air Conditioning Units

Ductless air conditioning units are ideal for cooling specific areas or rooms in a house. These units are much easier to install than central air conditioning units because they don’t require ductwork. Ductless units consist of an outdoor compressor and an indoor unit that is mounted on a wall or ceiling. They are also more energy-efficient than central air conditioning units because they don’t experience the energy loss that occurs in ductwork.

How Ductless Air Conditioning Units Work

Ductless air conditioning units work by pulling in warm air from the room through the indoor unit. The warm air is then cooled by the unit’s refrigerant and blown back into the room through the same unit. Ductless units are designed to cool specific areas or rooms and are ideal for homes with multiple floors or rooms that are infrequently used.

Major Differences Between Ductless and Central Air Conditioning Units

The two types of air conditioning units differ in terms of installation, flexibility, efficiency, and maintenance requirements.

Installation

One of the biggest differences between ductless and central AC units is the installation process. Central air conditioning requires ductwork to be installed throughout the building, which can be a time-consuming and expensive process. Ductless units, on the other hand, require only a small hole to be drilled in the wall for the refrigerant lines to pass through, making them much easier and less expensive to install.

Flexibility

Ductless air conditioning units are designed to cool specific areas or rooms in a building, while central air conditioning is designed to cool the entire building. This means that ductless units offer more flexibility in terms of zoning and temperature control. With a ductless unit, you can set different temperatures in different rooms, which can be more energy-efficient and cost-effective.

Efficiency

Ductless air conditioning units have an advantage over central AC units. This is because ductless air conditioning requires little ductwork, which reduces energy loss through leaks and poor insulation. In contrast, central air conditioning units usually incorporate a lengthy ductwork, which may reduce efficiency. However, the efficiency of central AC units can be improved through regular maintenance of the ductwork, such as cleaning and sealing any leaks.

Maintenance

Maintenance requirements for ductless and central AC units are also different. Central air conditioning requires regular maintenance of the ductwork to ensure that it’s clean and free from leaks. For ductless units, you will need to clean filters and coils to ensure that they’re working efficiently.

Which One to Choose?

The choice between ductless and central air conditioning units largely depends on your cooling needs and budget. If you need to cool an entire house or building, then a central air conditioning unit would be the best option. However, if you need to cool specific areas or rooms, then a ductless air conditioning unit would be the ideal choice.

Don’t let the extreme weather get you down! Hometown Heating, Air & Electric is a BBB-accredited A+ company that has the expertise and knowledge to keep your home or business warm and cozy all year long. We offer heating, cooling, and electrical services in Cedarburg, WI and the neighboring communities. Contact us today to learn about our energy-star products.

Ultimate Guide To Variable-Capacity Central AC Units

There are many options to choose from when you’re faced with installing a new air conditioning unit. Among them, you’ll need to decide the level of efficiency you want, which gets into the technology used in the unit. Higher-efficiency models use what’s known as variable-capacity technology. Use this guide to understand how standard ACs work, how variable-capacity systems work differently, and the differences you’ll experience when you install one in your home.

How Standard Air Conditioners Work

Standard air conditioners are known as single-stage units. This means that the entire unit is either on or off, with no settings for lower-capacity cooling. The result is that your system runs on high all the time, keeping the cooling cycle relatively short.

The step between the single-stage and variable-capacity system is a two-stage system. These provide a second option, offering a high and low setting for your system. However, many homes need a little more fine-tuning to get the right cooling capacity to keep the home ideally comfortable throughout the summer.

What Variable-Capacity Central ACs Do Differently

A variable-capacity AC has both a variable-capacity compressor and a variable-speed fan. With a variable-capacity system, your compressor may have as many as 700 distinct settings available to use. This allows the system to dial into the exact cooling capacity your home needs at any given time.

A variable-capacity air conditioner will generally run nearly continuously, providing a steady stream of air moving around your home. Even with it running steadily, it consumes less energy because the compressor isn’t consuming as much energy to keep your home cool.

More Consistent Home Comfort

A single-stage air conditioner drops the temperature, then waits for it to rise to start a new cooling cycle, whereby it drops the temperature again. The reason a variable capacity runs constantly is to keep your home at a constant temperature. By keeping a steady stream of cooler air moving around your home, the temperature stays more consistent all the time.

Better Cooling Efficiency

Cooling efficiency is rated using SEER, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio. This is a comparison of the total cooling output for the entire summer divided by the total energy used. The energy output drops when you reduce the cooling capacity at which the system runs. However, the energy consumption drops more than the cooling capacity. This is how high-efficiency systems get an efficiency rating of 25 SEER and higher.

Better Home Comfort

Your air conditioner does so much more than just reduce the temperature of your home. It removes airborne contaminants, condenses humidity from the air, and keeps air moving around your home. A single-stage air conditioner runs average cooling cycles of 10 to 15 minutes. That leaves a lot of time where it’s not moving air or removing humidity. By running more constantly but at a lower capacity, your system will remove more contaminants and humidity and keep the air continually moving around your home, creating a more comfortable environment.

Less Noisy Operation

One of the complaints about air conditioners is the amount of noise they create. With single-stage systems, a lot of this noise happens because the system is running on high all the time. When you reduce how fast a fan spins, you reduce some of its noise, and the same is true for the compressor. A variable-capacity system will run at some iteration of a lower capacity 80% of the time it runs, significantly reducing its noise.

Longer Service Life

The average single-stage air conditioner will have a service life of 10 to 15 years when it receives proper maintenance. Much of the wear on the system comes from running at full capacity all the time and frequently starting new cooling cycles, which is the most strenuous part of the cycle. A variable-capacity air conditioner runs as low as 40% of its maximum capacity and runs nearly constantly, which significantly reduces the wear on the system. Further, with a variable-capacity system, you’re already at the higher range of efficiency, which means the increasing standards will take longer to make your system’s efficiency obsolete.

Property owners around Cedarburg turn to Hometown Heating, Air & Electric when they need help keeping their homes comfortable and functioning well. Our experts provide heating and air conditioning installation, maintenance and repair together with indoor air quality solutions and a full range of residential electrical services. Call to schedule your consultation with one of our knowledgeable installation technicians to see if a variable-capacity central AC is right for your home.

7 Tips to Prepare Your Cooling System for Seasonal Changes

As spring turns to summer, prepping your cooling system will help keep your family comfortable during the hottest days. With a few thoughtful measures, you can easily prepare your air conditioning unit for peak efficiency when it’s time to turn up the thermostat and cool off indoors. From preventative maintenance checks to tweaking settings on your thermostat, there are plenty of steps you can take right now that will have great results in comfort and energy savings this summer. Here are seven tips to help you get your cooling system ready for summer.

1. Clean and Change Filters

When filters become clogged or dirty, it can affect air circulation and cause breakdowns or necessitate repairs. To prevent these inconvenient and expensive outcomes, set aside time to properly maintain your cooling system by cleaning any dust that’s built up on fans and coils as well as changing air filters. This small investment in regular maintenance can mean significant financial and comfort gains throughout the year. HVAC experts like those at Hometown Heating, Air & Electric can help you get your filters cleaned or replaced.

2. Check Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is an essential component of air conditioning systems, as it aids cooling by absorbing the required heat. Low refrigerant levels in your cooling system can reduce its efficiency and cause damage over time. Checking your system’s refrigerant levels will ensure that all components function correctly. Further, it can help to prevent potential damage or malfunctions in the long run. To ensure that your refrigerant levels are where they should be, get them checked by a professional technician before each season begins.

3. Inspect Electrical Connections

Ensure all the electrical connections on your cooling system are tight and secure, as loose connections can lead to overheating, which can cause severe damage to the unit. Keeping essential parts such as compressors, fans, and motors in good working order increases your unit’s efficiency and extends its serviceable life. Checking for loose or corroded cables and terminals will ensure that all necessary current is securely making it to each component. If any issues are identified, have HVAC technicians address them before turning on the unit.

4. Schedule HVAC Maintenance

Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance can reduce the chances of costly repairs and keep your cooling system running smoothly. Maintenance visits are a great way to ensure your AC unit is functioning correctly. It an also help you catch an issue before it causes any service disruption or escalates repair costs. In addition, routine maintenance allows for timely checkups that can identify energy-consuming issues, reducing energy bills from month to month. Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Instead, book a periodic maintenance checkup with  to ensure your cooling system weathers against the seasonal elements without any unnecessary stress.

5. Check Ductwork

Ductwork should also be inspected regularly for any obstructions, such as dust buildup or mold growth, that could impede airflow throughout your home when running an AC unit. Check for visible insulation damage, and then make sure there are no blockages that could reduce airflow efficiency. The cooled air can be lost instead of circulated throughout the house if your ducts aren’t properly sealed. Other problems that should be addressed include cracks, disconnected parts, and weak insulation. A professional technician can identify if there’s an issue with ductwork and advise solutions accordingly.

6. Inspect Insulation Around Outdoor Components

Inspecting insulation around outdoor components helps keep excess heat away from more sensitive parts like condenser coils, improving overall efficiency when running an AC unit during the warmer months. This includes ensuring adequate insulation between indoor walls and exterior components and checking seals on windows near outdoor units for gaps or drafts that could let unwanted heat into interior spaces.

7. Check the Condensate Drains and Coils

Condensate drains remove moisture that builds up in an air conditioner, while coils transfer heat between two mediums in a heating and cooling system. To prepare your cooling system for seasonal changes, regularly check the condensate drains and coils. This will help prevent clogs and ensure the system runs safely and efficiently. Condensate should be checked for dirt, blockages, and insect infestations. Coils should be vacuumed out of dust and debris buildup while testing electrical connections to see if they’re functioning correctly.

Rely on the Experts

Preparing your cooling system for seasonal changes is integral to maintaining its effectiveness and saving money on utility bills in the long run. By following these tips, you can ensure that your cooling system runs smoothly all year so that you don’t have any surprises come summertime.

Our team will happily schedule maintenance for your system in preparation for seasonal changes. We offer comprehensive heating, cooling, and electrical services in Cedarburg, WI and the neighboring communities, including Ozaukee, Waukesha, and Milwaukee counties. Some of the services we provide include installing, repairing, and maintaining heating systems, air conditioners, ductless mini-splits, ductwork, and thermostats. Contact Hometown Heating, Air & Electric today for exceptional HVAC and electrical solutions.