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.

Heating Emergency: How to Survive the Cold When Your Furnace Quits

couple bundling up in a heating emergency

As the frigid winds sweep through Wisconsin, the last thing you want is for your heating system to call it quits. A sudden loss of heat can be not only uncomfortable but also potentially dangerous, especially in the heart of winter. So, what do you do when your furnace decides to take an unscheduled vacation? Here’s a guide to help you navigate a heating emergency situation in the Badger State:

1. Check the Basics

Before panicking, ensure the basics are covered. Sometimes, the issue might be a simple fix.

  • Verify your thermostat is set correctly, the circuit breakers are not tripped, and the furnace switch is in the “on” position.
  • If all of those items are in the proper position, locate the emergency shut-off switch, typically located on the furnace itself. Ensure it’s turned on. If the switch is off, flipping it back on might resolve the problem.
  • Finally, for those who have older furnaces with a pilot light, check if it’s still burning. If it’s out, relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the pilot light won’t stay lit, it might indicate a deeper issue that requires professional attention.


2. Contact the Professionals

In Wisconsin where winter can be harsh, it’s crucial to have a reliable heating professional on speed dial. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’re here to help you in a heating emergency. Keep our contact information close by, so if an emergency situation happens, you’re ready and can contact us right away. It’s worth having this information handy for unexpected situations.

How to Contact Hometown Heating, Air & Electric:


3. Utilize Temporary Heating Solutions

In an emergency, you need warmth, and fast. If your situation is dire, you may have to wait a short time for help to come your way. Consider these temporary heating solutions while you wait:

  • Blankets: While waiting for professional assistance, layer up in warm clothing and use blankets.
  • Fireplace: If you have a fireplace, now is the time to use it as it’s a quick way to bring heat into your home.
  • Oven: Bake something in your oven, and when finished, turn off your oven, but keep the door open to let in heat.
  • Space Heaters: If you have electric space heaters, use them to provide temporary warmth.
  • Sunshine: If it’s daytime and the sun is shining, open your blinds and curtains to let the sun in.
  • Towels: Seal drafts with weather stripping or towels to keep as much warmth inside as possible.

While these solutions can be helpful in a heating emergency, remember to follow safety guidelines and use these options only as temporary solutions.


4. Employ Preventative Maintenance to Avoid Another Heating Emergency

Once the emergency is resolved, schedule preventive maintenance for your heating system. Regular inspections and tune-ups can catch potential issues before they become emergencies. Maintaining your furnace won’t just help during emergencies — it will also help keep your bills down and extend the lifespan of your heating equipment.


Remember, when facing a heating emergency in Wisconsin, acting promptly and seeking professional help is key. Stay warm and safe during the winter months, and don’t let a heating hiccup put a freeze on your comfort.

If you have any questions or want to schedule a furnace tune-up, please contact us. Don’t just survive the cold — but beat it with Hometown Heating, Air & Electric.

Heat Smart, Spend Smart: 10 Ways To Save On Heating This Winter

woman sitting by the fire trying to save on heating this winter

Winter has a magical way of transforming our beautiful state into a snowy wonderland, but it can also turn your heating bill into a frosty nightmare. Fear not! Hometown Heating, Air & Electric is here to sprinkle some warmth and wisdom on how to keep your heating costs low without sacrificing comfort. So, let’s dive into the cozy world of energy efficiency and discover the secrets to save on your heating bill that won’t break the bank.

10 Ways to Save on Heating This Winter

Find out the secrets to a toasty home this winter:

1. Snuggle Up Your Home

No, we’re not suggesting you invest in an army of fluffy pets (although that sounds pretty tempting). Instead, make your home a snuggle sanctuary by sealing any drafts. Grab a tube of caulk and weatherstripping to plug gaps around windows and doors, preventing precious heat from escaping and cold drafts from sneaking in.

2. Embrace Your Smart Thermostat as a Warm Friend

Upgrade to a smart thermostat and let technology do the heavy lifting. These nifty devices learn your heating patterns and adjust the temperature accordingly. Program your thermostat to lower the heat when you’re away and crank it up before you return, ensuring comfort without wasting energy. Even lowering your thermostat by just a degree or two can make a world of difference in cost savings.

3. Let the Sun Shine In

Mother Nature provides a free and fabulous heating source – the sun! During the day, open curtains and blinds to let sunlight naturally warm your home. As the sun sets, close them to trap the heat and keep the winter chill at bay. While these ideas might seem obvious, it’s often the little things that can help you save on heating.

4. Bring Your Blankets into Your Living Spaces

Your blankets aren’t just for beds, so embrace the cozy vibes with blankets and bring them into your living spaces! Layer up with warm throws on couches and beds to create a snug atmosphere. When the temperature drops, reach for a blanket before adjusting the thermostat.

5. Mind Your Vents and Radiators

Don’t let furniture play hide-and-seek with your vents or radiators. Arrange your space so that heat can circulate freely. Move furniture away from these sources to ensure an unobstructed flow of warmth, making your heating system’s job a breeze.

6. Seize the Power of Layers to Save on Heating

While we understand that wearing layers are the key to staying warm, your home follows the same principle. Instead of cranking up the heat, throw on your favorite sweater or hoodie to stay warm and stylish inside.

7. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up

Just like your car needs regular maintenance, so does your furnace. Schedule a tune-up with Hometown Heating, Air & Electric to ensure your heating system is running at peak efficiency. A well-maintained furnace not only keeps your bills down but also extends the lifespan of your heating equipment.

8. Become a Draft Detective

Put on your detective hat and hunt down drafts. Check for gaps around windows, doors, and even electrical outlets. Sealing these openings is a simple yet effective way to prevent cold air from sneaking in.

9. Don’t Get Warm Alone

Engage the whole family in the quest for a lower heating bill. Encourage everyone to wear warm clothes indoors, close doors to unoccupied rooms, and remind them to turn down the thermostat when heading out. Teamwork makes the (warmth) dream work!

10. Cozy Cooking Counts

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and cooking can generate heat. On colder days, consider baking or cooking heartier meals to help warm up your space. Bonus: you get delicious food as a reward!


Remember, keeping your home warm doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. With these creative and cost-effective tips, you’ll be sipping cocoa in a cozy home without worrying about your heating bill. Stay warm and wallet-wise this winter, courtesy of Hometown Heating, Air & Electric!

If you have any questions about any of these tips or want to schedule a furnace tune-up, please contact us. Let’s stay warm this winter.

Understanding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and the Vital Role of HVAC Maintenance

a Hometown Heating, Air & Electric HVAC van, representing how homeowners can protect their homes against carbon monoxide poisoning by regularly maintaining their HVAC system

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a silent menace that can infiltrate your home without warning, posing a grave threat to your family’s safety. Understanding the risks of CO poisoning is essential to prevent this potential hazard. HVAC maintenance plays a pivotal role in keeping your home CO-free, and we’re here to shed light on the importance of this critical aspect.

This post will define carbon monoxide poisoning, delve into the risks associated with it, and explain how HVAC maintenance can mitigate this potentially lethal threat.

How to Guard Your Home Against the Silent Threat of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Read on to learn how you can protect against your home from CO poisoning:

1. Understanding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be produced in your home when fuels like natural gas, oil, wood, or propane are not burned completely. Common household appliances can become sources of CO when they are inadequately maintained or malfunction. Some examples of these appliances include the following:

  • Furnaces
  • Water heaters
  • Fireplaces
  • Gas stoves

The gas can escape into your living space, silently putting your family’s safety at risk.

2. Considering the Risks

The insidious nature of CO poisoning lies in its initial flu-like symptoms. Understanding what these symptoms may look like can be helpful in identifying a carbon monoxide leak. Some of the primary symptoms may include:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Confusion
  • Shortness of breath

Prolonged exposure to elevated CO levels can lead to severe health complications, and in extreme cases, it can be fatal. Tragically, the invisible nature of this gas often means that its presence goes undetected until it’s too late.

3. Preventing CO Poisoning

One of the most effective ways to safeguard your home and family from the dangers of CO poisoning is through regular HVAC maintenance. Our certified technicians can inspect and service your heating systems, ensuring they operate safely and efficiently. This includes checking for leaks, ensuring proper ventilation, and addressing any issues that could potentially release CO into your living space.

Additionally, installing carbon monoxide detectors is a crucial preventive measure. These devices emit an alarm when they detect elevated CO levels, serving as an early warning system for your safety.

To protect your loved ones from this silent threat, it’s imperative to schedule routine HVAC maintenance. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’re dedicated to keeping your heating systems in top condition and ensuring your home remains a safe, CO-free environment. Take proactive measures to protect your home and health, and don’t wait until disaster strikes.

If you have any questions about carbon monoxide poisoning and how to prevent it, please contact us. We’re ready to help!

8 Steps To Take When Your HVAC System Freezes Up

When the temperature outside drops and winter turns everything into a tundra, the last thing you want is for your HVAC system to stop working. Unfortunately, this is an all-too-common problem that many homeowners face during the winter. When your HVAC system freezes up, you must act quickly to prevent further damage.

1. Turn Off Your System

Discovering that your HVAC system has frozen up can be quite a frustrating experience. However, the first thing you should do in such a situation is not panic, but turn off your system. This is because leaving your frozen system running could cause further damage to your unit and make it more expensive to repair in the long run.

Turning off your HVAC system will also prevent the equipment from producing more moisture, which contributes to freezing. Therefore, if your HVAC system has frozen up, take a deep breath, stay calm, and turn off your system to help preserve the health of your equipment.

2. Check For Airflow Restrictions

The next step is to check for airflow restrictions. This can include anything from dirt and debris on your vents and filters, clogged drains or even a closed damper. These obstructions can cause the air handler coil to freeze as they block the airflow that keeps the internal components of your HVAC system cool. Ensure all your vents and filters are clean and nothing is blocking the airflow.

3. Check For Leaks

Another important step is to check for leaks. If there is a leak in your ductwork or air handler, the cold air from outside can reach your HVAC system’s internal components and cause them to freeze up. Check for any signs of leaking in your ductwork, and ensure all the seals are intact. If you find any leaks, it is best to get them repaired immediately.

4. Check Your Refrigerant Levels

You should also check your refrigerant levels. Not enough refrigerant in your HVAC system can cause the entire system to freeze, as the frozen air handler coil prevents proper cooling of the internal components. Ensure your system’s refrigerant levels are within the recommended range for optimal performance and efficiency.

5. Check Your Thermostat Settings

Check your thermostat settings. If your thermostat is set too low, it can cause your HVAC system to freeze up, as the colder temperature will make the internal components work harder than usual to maintain the desired temperature. Make sure that your thermostat is set to a temperature that is comfortable and conducive to optimal performance.

6. Clear Away Any Ice

If your HVAC system is covered in ice, it’s important to clear it away. Use warm water to melt the ice slowly and carefully, as using hot water or a sharp tool can damage the system. Dry off the unit once the ice is melted and remove any excess water.

7. Clean Your Condenser Coil

Another step you can take if your HVAC system has frozen up is to clean your condenser coil. A dirty or clogged condenser coil can prevent the air handler from cooling properly, freezing internal components. Ensure that your outdoor condenser coil is clean and debris-free to help keep your system running at optimal performance.

8. Call A Professional

A freeze-up in your HVAC system can be a frustrating and potentially costly problem. Taking these steps can help remedy the issue and prevent further damage from occurring. However, prevention is key, and regular maintenance and temperature control can help prevent a freeze-up from occurring in the first place. If you experience a freeze-up, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed HVAC professional to diagnose and repair the problem properly.

Reach out to Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, a trusted heating and air conditioning company based in Cedarburg, WI. We have the knowledge and tools to diagnose and repair issues quickly and efficiently, giving you peace of mind and a warm, comfortable home again. We will also recommend preventative measures that can help you avoid a frozen system in the future.

At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we offer heating and cooling repairs, installation new of new equipment, routine maintenance, indoor air quality assessments and solutions, ductless mini-splits, boilers, smart thermostats, gas furnaces, solar-ready systems, garage heaters, and electrical services for Cedarburg and the surrounding areas. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Why Is My HVAC System Leaking Water?

While it’s normal for a healthy, well-maintained AC to create a bit of condensation on hot summer days, seeing a puddle or excessive dripping are both causes for alarm. When water pools around the unit, it can damage the device and threaten your home’s foundation and landscaping. For those reasons, it’s crucial to begin troubleshooting a leaky air conditioner right away. Here at Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’ve seen countless leaky cooling units over the years. Sometimes the issue is a matter of simple maintenance, but other cases require specialized repair work. The following are some of the most common causes of HVAC system leaks.

Dirty Air Filter

Your cooling system contains an air filter that needs to be regularly freshened up to allow for good, healthy airflow. Dirty air filters can lead to inadequate ventilation, which can cause the unit’s evaporator coils to freeze. As the coils thaw, water from melted ice will accumulate in the drip pan and sometimes overflow. Try replacing the air filter to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists, a technician from Hometown Heating, Air & Electric can inspect the system for damage.

Dirty Evaporator Coil

Dirty evaporator coils can also cause AC water drainage issues. When evaporator coils are clean, water can drip naturally down into the drip pan or condensate line. However, dirty coils can redirect the water flow, causing it to splash down to the concrete slab below. For that reason, this issue is usually characterized by a series of small drips around the unit as opposed to a large puddle. Evaporator coil cleaning is typically included in a standard AC tune-up.

Blocked Condensate Drain

Located near the bottom of your AC is a tube called the condensate drain. When everything is functioning normally, gravity carries water runoff down into a flat drip pan and then into the condensate drain. The drain leads to a pipe that allows for water to travel safely away from the cooling unit. However, if the drain gets clogged, the water has nowhere to go and will instead overflow the drip pan. Mineral deposits, dirt, or other lawn debris usually cause clogged condensate drains. Unclogging a drain is an involved process and requires specific equipment, so it’s best to leave this job in the hands of an experienced technician.

Low Refrigerant Level

Cooling systems rely on a liquid called refrigerant in order to produce cold air. Low refrigerant can cause the evaporator coil to freeze and water to pool in the drip pan. The only time an AC needs extra refrigerant is if the refrigerant line is cracked. Refrigerant leaks require immediate attention and professional repairs.

Disconnected Drain Line

The drain line is a pipe that allows water to safely move from the drip pan to the condensate drain. Although not very common, it’s possible for the drain line to disconnect from the drip pan. When this connection is interrupted, water may instead accumulate in the drip pan or even leak out onto the ground near the drain. Unlike many HVAC components which are hidden inside the unit itself, the drain line is easily visible on the back of the unit. You can take a peek behind the unit to see if the drain line is disconnected or damaged. An HVAC technician can handle re-installing or replacing the drain line.

Damaged Drip Pan

AC drip pans go through quite a bit of wear and tear each season. Although these components are designed to be sturdy and rugged, years of water condensation can take their toll. If your AC is over a decade old, it’s possible the drip pan is no longer in peak condition. Over time, it’s common for drip pans to crack, corrode, or develop holes. A damaged pan can develop leaks and allow water to drip or pool around the unit.

Repairs for Leaky HVAC Systems

If your HVAC system is experiencing a leak, it’s best to have the situation assessed by a professional as quickly as possible. Excessive moisture can damage your HVAC’s internal components and lead to pricier, more involved repairs down the line. The team at Hometown Heating, Air & Electric will get to the bottom of the situation and provide professional, long-lasting solutions. We’re the Cedarburg area’s experts when it comes to HVAC repair, replacement, and maintenance.

Tired of dealing with a leaky HVAC? Contact us today to schedule a service appointment!

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!

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.