Winterize Your Home: A Homeowner’s Guide to Cold Weather Protection

a home covered in snow in Wisconsin, demonstrating the need to winterize your home

As temperatures drop and winter returns to Wisconsin this season, taking steps to winterize your home becomes crucial for protecting your property and family. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’ve seen how proper winter preparation can prevent costly repairs and ensure your comfort throughout the cold season.

In this blog post you’ll find a comprehensive guide to keeping your home warm and safe all winter long.

How To Stay Warm & Winterize Your Home This Season

Here are five easy steps to protect your home from the cold this season:

Start with Professional Furnace Maintenance

The foundation of efforts to winterize your home starts with your heating system. As Cedarburg’s top heating contractor, we recommend scheduling professional maintenance before winter hits full force. Our NATE-certified technicians thoroughly inspect your system, clean vital components, and identify potential issues before they become major problems. This simple step can save you from emergency repairs during the coldest days.

Smart Thermostat Strategies

Program your thermostat to lower temperatures when you’re sleeping or away from home. This not only reduces energy bills but also prevents unnecessary strain on your heating system. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat that learns your schedule and adjusts automatically for optimal efficiency.

Optimize Your Home’s Airflow

Check all air vents throughout your home to ensure they’re open and unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains. Clean or replace air filters monthly during heavy-use winter months. These steps are essential when you winterize your home as they help maintain proper airflow and reduce your furnace’s workload.

Safety First: Fire and Carbon Monoxide Prevention

Install carbon monoxide detectors on every floor and test them monthly alongside smoke alarms. Keep flammable materials away from heating equipment and ensure proper ventilation around your furnace. Schedule professional cleaning of your chimney if you have a fireplace.

Take Additional Home Protection Measures

Want to go the extra mile in protecting your home this winter season? Here are a few additional home protection measures you can take:

  • Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing
  • Seal windows and doors to eliminate drafts
  • Check attic insulation levels
  • Clear gutters to prevent ice dams
  • Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air downward

Remember, when you winterize your home, you’re not just ensuring comfort—you’re protecting your investment and ensuring your family’s safety during Wisconsin’s challenging winter months.

For professional assistance with your winter preparation, contact us today for a thorough inspection and maintenance service.

5 Signs You Need a Furnace Replacement

A Hometown Heating, Air & Electric technician performing a furnace replacement in a resident's home

When winter temperatures plummet in Wisconsin, the last thing you want to face is an unexpected furnace replacement. However, knowing when to schedule a replacement can help you avoid emergency situations during those frigid nights when temperatures drop into the teens and twenties.

In this blog post, let’s explore five signs that mean it’s time to replace your furnace.

Warning Signs That Point to Furnace Replacement

Your heating system may be showing several indicators that you should replace your furnace in the near future. Here are the key signs to watch for:

  1. Rising Energy Costs: If you notice your heating bills climbing despite similar usage patterns, your furnace may be losing efficiency. Replacing your furnace with a newer, high-efficiency model could lead to significant monthly savings.
  2. Frequent Repairs: When repair costs start adding up, investing in furnace replacement often makes more financial sense. Multiple service calls within a short period typically indicate your system is approaching the end of its lifespan.
  3. Age of Your System: Most furnaces last between 15-20 years with proper maintenance. If your unit is approaching or has exceeded this age range, it’s wise to consider replacement before a complete breakdown occurs.
  4. Uneven Heating: Are some rooms colder than others? A furnace struggling to distribute heat evenly throughout your home often indicates declining performance and the need for replacement.
  5. Strange Sounds or Smells: Don’t ignore serious warning signs, such as banging noises, unusual odors, or a discolored pilot light. These symptoms often point to significant internal issues that may warrant furnace replacement.

Benefits of Professional Furnace Replacement

At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’ve helped countless homeowners upgrade their heating systems. Having a professional replace your furnace can offer several advantages, including the following:

  • Enhanced energy efficiency leading to lower utility bills
  • More consistent heating throughout your home
  • Quieter operation
  • Improved reliability and fewer repair needs
  • Better warranty coverage
  • Advanced features for optimal comfort

Trust Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, Your Local Heating Experts

As an EPA-certified and BBB-accredited company with an A+ rating, Hometown Heating, Air & Electric brings expertise and professionalism to every furnace installation, repair, and maintenance project. Our NATE-certified technicians are trained to install all major brands and models, ensuring you get the perfect system for your home’s needs.

Don’t wait until your furnace fails during the next cold snap. If you’re noticing any signs that indicate you need a furnace replacement, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We proudly serve southeastern Wisconsin with reliable, professional heating services backed by hundreds of 5-star Google reviews.

Replace Your Boiler Before Cold Weather Strikes

a Hometown Heating, Air & Electric employee explaining why you should replace your boiler to a client

As the leaves begin to change and temperatures drop, it’s time to think about your home’s heating system. If you have an older one, it may be time to replace your boiler before the cold arrives. Replacing it can save you from discomfort and high energy bills.

In this blog post, let’s explore why you should consider a boiler replacement before winter arrives.

Why Replace Your Boiler Now?

  1. Avoid Mid-Winter Breakdowns: Nothing’s worse than a failing boiler during a cold snap. By replacing your boiler now, you’ll avoid potential breakdowns when you need heat most.
  2. Improve Energy Efficiency: Newer boilers are more efficient. Replacing your old unit can lead to significant energy savings throughout the cold season.
  3. Ensure Consistent Comfort: A new boiler provides reliable, consistent heat. Don’t let an aging system leave you in the cold.
  4. Take Advantage of Off-Season Pricing: Many HVAC companies offer better deals before the winter rush. View our boiler page to find a special savings discount off any service call.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Boiler

  1. Age: If your boiler is over 15 years old, it’s time to consider a replacement.
  2. Frequent Repairs: Constant fixes can add up. A new boiler might be more cost-effective.
  3. Rising Energy Bills: An inefficient boiler works harder, increasing your utility costs.
  4. Uneven Heating: Cold spots in your home? Your boiler might be struggling.

Benefits of a New Boiler Installation

Modern boilers offer numerous advantages, including the following:

  • Higher efficiency ratings
  • Better temperature control
  • Quieter operation
  • Smaller footprint
  • Improved safety features

Types of Boilers We Service

At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we offer repair, installation, or maintenance services for multiple types of boilers, including the following:

  1. Gas Boilers: Efficient and widely used
  2. Oil Boilers: Great for areas without natural gas lines
  3. Electric Boilers: Safe and eco-friendly
  4. Coal Boilers: Less common but still used in some areas

Each type has its pros and cons. Our experts can help service whichever type of boiler you have in your home.

Don’t let the cold catch you off guard. Replace your boiler before winter hits to ensure a warm, comfortable home all season long. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’re here to ensure your boiler is working all winter long.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our boiler and HVAC system repair, installation, and maintenance services. Don’t wait until you’re left in the cold – act now for a cozy, efficient winter!

Your Essential Winter Home Maintenance Checklist: Prepare for Wisconsin’s Chill

A general checklist, representing a winter home maintenance checklist

As the leaves start to fall and the air gets crisp, it’s time for Wisconsin homeowners to tackle their winter home maintenance checklist. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we know how crucial it is to prepare your home for the winter months ahead. 

Follow our comprehensive winter home maintenance checklist to ensure your home stays warm, safe, and energy-efficient all year long.

Items on Your Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

Check these five items off your maintenance checklist as you prepare for the upcoming season:

1. Schedule HVAC Maintenance

The cornerstone of your winter home maintenance checklist should be a thorough HVAC inspection. Our NATE-certified technicians can:

  • Clean and inspect your system for optimal performance
  • Identify and fix potential issues before they become costly repairs
  • Ensure your heating system runs efficiently, saving you money on energy bills

Don’t wait until the first snowfall – schedule your next furnace tune-up today!

2. Check and Clean Vents

Proper airflow is essential for an efficient heating system. As part of your winter home maintenance:

  • Vacuum vent covers to remove dust and debris
  • Keep all vents open and unobstructed
  • Ensure at least 2 inches of clearance around each vent

3. Replace Air Filters

Clean air filters are crucial for both air quality and system efficiency:

  • Check filters monthly during winter
  • Replace 1-inch filters every 90 days, or more frequently if needed
  • Consider upgrading to high-efficiency filters for better air quality

4. Inspect for Small Issues

Catching minor problems early can prevent major headaches later. Your winter home maintenance checklist should include watching for:

  • Unusual noises from your heating system
  • Inconsistent heating throughout your home
  • Longer than normal heating cycles

If you notice any of these signs, contact us for a professional inspection.

5. Prepare for Power Outages

Wisconsin winters often bring storms that can knock out power. Be prepared by:

  • Investing in a backup generator
  • Planning generator placement to avoid carbon monoxide risks
  • Stocking up on appropriate extension cords and connectors

When you require electrical services, we’re the team to trust. To learn more or to schedule a preventative electrical maintenance inspection, visit our Electric page on our website.

By following this winter home maintenance checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever the Wisconsin winter throws your way. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’re committed to keeping your home comfortable and efficient all year round.

Contact us today to schedule your next furnace tune-up and face the cold months with confidence!

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.