Admin, Author at Furnace & AC Repair Saratoga Springs UT

5 Signs You Are Overdue for an Air Duct Cleaning

Let’s be honest — how long has it been since you’ve cleaned your air ducts? For most people, the answer is too long. If you don’t clean your air ducts every few years, you could experience problems with cooling and airflow!

Here are five telltale signs that you are due for a good air duct cleaning.

1. You Can See Dust or Mold in the Vents

If you can see dust on your vent covers — even if it’s a thin layer — it’s time to clean your air ducts.

Brushing away this dust with a duster simply won’t do the job. It’ll help aesthetically, but it won’t get to the core of the problem. If there’s dust on the outside of the vents, there’s likely much more on the inside.

The dust build-up doesn’t stop at the vents, either. If you have dust on the outside of your vent, that means dust is being blown around your home. You might notice more dust on your furniture, and faster build-up after your routine dusting.

If the problem gets bad enough, you might notice mold on the vents! This is considerably more difficult to clean, so it’s important to clean those ducts before mold settles in.

If you consistently see dust build-up on your vents, consider a deep clean. Call a professional. They’ll be able to safely and efficiently clean the deepest parts of your air ducts.

2. You Notice Inconsistent Airflow

Is one room in your house consistently stuffier than the others? Does the airflow feel off? This is a telltale sign of dirty air ducts.

Dust and dirt can clog up your air ducts if left uncleaned for too long. This leads to inconsistent airflow and stuffy rooms. The only way to fix it is by getting your air ducts cleaned.

Inconsistent airflow in rooms like the bathroom or kitchen, which can get consistently moist, can lead to mold production. That can lead to health issues for you and your family. If you notice mold in any rooms of your home, it may be the air ducts.

3. Your Home Is Newly Built/Renovated

You might think a new home has the cleanest air ducts possible, but that may not be the case.

Construction and renovation projects lead to a lot of airborne dust and debris. This includes drywall dust, dirt from the floors and walls, and paint chips. This debris will end up in the air ducts, leading to airflow issues straight from the get-go.

Ideally, the renovation/construction crew will cover up all the air ducts and vents while working. If they have, your ducts are much more likely to stay clean. But some crews will neglect to do this, leading to an unclean duct.

Some of the debris, like paint chips and dust, can even be harmful to your health. You definitely don’t want to be breathing it in! That makes it doubly important to get on the issue as soon as you move back in.

If you’ve moved into a new place, or your place was just renovated, contact a professional duct cleaning service.

4. Your Heating & Cooling Costs Are Rising

Have you noticed any changes in your heating and cooling bills recently? Unclean ducts could be the reason.

Usually, cooling and heating bills are fairly predictable. They may fluctuate slightly month to month, but they’ll almost always fall within the same range. If your bill has been climbing recently, you should look into getting your ducts cleaned.

When your ducts get dirty, dust and debris will stop the air from flowing as freely. That means your air conditioner and furnace have to work a lot harder to reach the temperature you’ve set them to. When your furnace and AC work harder they emit more energy, meaning a much higher monthly bill.

An increase in your bill could also mean a leaking duct. If your duct is leaking, more air than you want is going to escape. Again, this leads to a higher bill.

Contact a professional duct cleaning service to get to the bottom of this. Most likely, it’s a dirty duct. But if it is a leak, the professionals will know how to take care of it in a fast and efficient manner.

5. You’ve Recently Had a Pest Problem

If you’ve recently gotten over a pest problem, or are currently going through one, you should get your ducts cleaned asap.

Whether it’s cockroaches, mice, or bed bugs, any pest can lead to an air duct problem. Many pests like to hide in dark places, and your air ducts are one of the best options. This is especially true when it comes to the dreaded cockroach.

If you had a pest problem, your ducts will take in all the waste produced by these pests. Even worse, pests will climb in your ducts and die there, leaving behind a rotting corpse. This will lead to blocked air ducts.

To further the problem, exterminator chemicals can also get trapped in your air ducts. These chemicals are poisonous, so you don’t want to be breathing them in. Combine that with pest corpses and waste, and you definitely need to get your ducts cleaned.

Breathing in any combination of these materials can be hazardous to your health. It may cause allergic reactions such as rashes, sneezing, and coughing. If you notice any of these signs, and you recently had a pest issue, get your vents cleaned fast.

Hire the Best Air Duct Cleaning Service Around

If you notice any of the five problems listed above, it’s time to get an air duct cleaning.

Don’t brush the issue aside any longer — this is about more than an airflow issue. By refusing to take care of the problem, you could be harming the health of everyone in your home! Thankfully, you don’t have to go at it alone.

Breathe easy by hiring Larsen Heating and Air to clean your air ducts. You won’t find a more thorough and professional service in Utah.

Breathe Easy With Indoor Air Quality Testing

You can safeguard the health of your loved ones and yourself by testing the air quality in your Utah home.

Several factors can contribute to residential air pollution, including the chemicals that you bring indoors and your daily activities. Typically, people develop breathing problems in their home due to a combination of these things.

Also, outdoor contaminants may combine with indoor pollutants to create inadequate ventilation. Sometimes, these contaminants can worsen allergies, while others can irritate or injure the lungs of otherwise healthy people.

Read on to learn about indoor air quality testing and how to breathe easier in Utah.

Know the Signs of Indoor Air Pollution

Do you find that you can breathe better when you leave your home? Do you begin to have problems breathing when you enter your residence?

You may have answered yes to one or more of these questions. If so, you may have a problem with the air quality in your home.

There are several factors that can create problems with indoor air quality. For example, smoking indoors can contribute to poor air quality. Mold and mildew can also diminish the quality of the air in your home.

Do you know whether the humidity in your home is regularly above 50%? Humidity can also contribute to poor air quality. Water leaks in your kitchen, basement, bathroom or attic may contribute to excess humidity.

Fuel-burning appliances can also result in poor air quality. For example, is there sufficient venting for your gas stove, water heater or fireplace? It’s essential to have these appliances and features serviced regularly.

You may also have problems with air quality if your home has an attached garage. Here, vehicle exhaust fumes and gas stored in small engines and cans can contribute to poor air quality.

Common household chemicals can also contribute to poor air quality. For instance, if you use paint or solvents indoors or in the garage, these chemicals can reduce the air quality in your home.

Why Should I Do Indoor Air Quality Testing?

People spend a lot of time indoors. The quality of the air in your home can affect your health significantly. Sometimes, pollutants can prove especially harmful to children and aging adults, especially if they have existing health issues.

Pollutants that range from living organisms to chemicals can all contribute to health problems. For example, you may experience sore eyes, headaches or burning in your nose and throat if there’s a problem with the air in your home.

Other pollutants can worsen symptoms of allergies or respiratory conditions, such as asthma. In high concentrations, some chemicals – such as carbon monoxide – can lead to death.

Because of these threats, you must learn how to identify and eliminate air pollutants in your home. By knowing the quality of the air in your home, you can take steps to improve it.

How to Measure Indoor Air Quality

If you’ve been having problems breathing, you’re probably wondering how to measure air quality in your home.

Indoor air pollutants can prove substantially more harmful than outdoor pollutants. Accordingly, you should test for carbon monoxide and mold in the air inside your home.

You should also perform an air quality test for radon. You can test for these pollutants by purchasing an indoor air quality monitor.

Many people don’t think about how to measure air quality and most don’t know about indoor quality monitors. Nevertheless, an indoor air quality monitor is what you need to check your air continuously.

An indoor quality monitor is always on. It checks and reports on the air quality in your home.

Different devices perform different tests. However, most are relatively similar.

Nearly all indoor air quality monitors test for particulates, chemicals and humidity. Particulates include common contaminants such as pollen and dust.

Some also check for temperature, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and formaldehyde. Despite all these features, indoor air quality testers aren’t expensive.

You can find models starting at $50. A high-end indoor air tester may cost $200 or more.

Many indoor air quality testers have displays that show the state of the air in your home in real-time. Some can also send reports to your smartphone.

Thanks to the Internet of Things, you can also find an indoor air quality monitor to link to your smart home. The IoT can give your in-home air quality tester advanced capabilities. For example, you can program the device to adjust the temperature of your home as needed.

Regular Indoor Maintenance Can Keep You Safe

The most important thing that you can do to promote good air quality in your home is to maintain your HVAC system and appliances regularly. Regular maintenance improves the function of your major appliances. It will also save you money.

It costs a lot less to have regular maintenance performed than it does to call a repairman when something breaks. Also, regular maintenance will reduce the chances of developing problems such as mold.

You’ll find that the air quality in your home is improved when your HVAC system functions properly. Furthermore, you’ll find that your appliances last longer with regular maintenance.

Partnering for Air Safety

Many factors can contribute to poor air quality in your home. With regular maintenance and indoor air quality testing, you can improve the air quality in your home and enjoy substantial energy savings. Accordingly, you should start performing regular maintenance now.

Good health is important for you and your family. Larsen Heating and Air only employs licensed, insured and factory-trained HVAC experts.

Provo Furnace Repair and Furnace Inspection: How Often Should I Have My Furnace Inspected?

Did you know that heating and cooling in the home accounts for half of the energy used by Provo households?

That’s right!

As if that’s not enough, utility rates in Provo, UT have gone up by at least $12.59 a month since 2017. That’s over $150 more a year on top of the yearly average range of $1,680 to $2,400 before the increase. Depending on the city’s utility assessment this 2020, it may go up even more.

Put off necessary Provo furnace repair and inspections, and you can expect even higher bills.

More than that, your furnace may end up completely breaking down when you need it the most. A faulty or ill-maintained furnace may even give rise to fire and health hazards.

Wondering how exactly a malfunctioning home heating equipment can do all that? Keep reading, that’s exactly what you’ll learn in this post.

How to Tell That You Need Provo Furnace Repair

It’s best that you check the condition of your furnace before the heating season. This way, you can catch problems early on and have them fixed promptly. Here are the top signs that you need to schedule furnace repairs in Provo.

Mostly Yellow or Orange Flames

Is your Provo home one of the eight in 10 households in Utah that use natural gas for heating? If so, be sure to check the flame color of your furnace’s burner. Blue or almost completely blue flames (with a tiny yellow tip) indicate a healthy furnace.

Blue flames are a product of safe and efficient combustion. Generating blue flames also means that your furnace isn’t wasting gas.

If you are seeing yellow or orange flames, turn off the furnace and call a furnace service expert right away. Such colors usually indicate incomplete combustion. Not only is this a waste of gas; it’s also a safety hazard.

Inadequate Heating

A faulty thermostat can misread the temperature inside your home. As a result, it won’t properly communicate with your furnace, which may be the reason for the lack of heat.

Leaks in the ductwork are also a common culprit behind inadequate heating. In fact, a typical home loses between 20% to 30% of heated air blown through the ducts because of leaks and holes!

Before you call an HVAC repair specialist, try adjusting the thermostat first. If this doesn’t do the trick, it’s time to ring up a reliable Provo furnace repair technician.

No Heat At All

In combustion furnaces, no heat often signals a failed gas furnace ignitor or a dead pilot light. In electric heaters, this issue usually arises from broken thermostats and blown fuses. In either case, you should schedule furnace repairs in Provo ASAP.

When and How Often Should You Schedule Professional Provo Furnace Inspections?

At least once, and ideally, before Provo’s cool fall season sets in. If possible, schedule it in early September, when the temperature can already drop to as low as 51 degrees F in the city. Come October, the average temperature can already go down to 40 degrees F.

The earlier you get a furnace inspection, the sooner you’ll know if your heater needs repairs. Early inspections will also give you more time to get the repairs done before the very cold months roll in. You’d want those repairs done ASAP, or you risk letting the problems turn into bigger, pricier repairs.

You also get to avoid the “winter rush” in Provo by scheduling your furnace inspection early. Many of the city’s homeowners tend to have their furnaces checked and fixed in winter itself. If you do the same, you may have to wait for several days to find a free service slot.

How Routine Furnace Inspections Can Help Prevent Equipment Breakdowns

Even if you don’t need Provo Furnace Repair, a yearly inspection will reveal the condition of its parts. This will then give you an idea of how long they have before they ultimately fail. By knowing this, you can schedule their repairs or replacements on time.

This will then help prevent your furnace from suddenly breaking down in the dead of the winter.

A furnace inspection prior to the heating season will also ensure that the unit is safe to use. For instance, damaged burners can trigger deadly homes fires.

Keep in mind that faulty heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires in the US. In fact, defective heating devices resulted in 52,050 fires each year from 2012 to 2016.

Aside from fires, malfunctioning furnaces can also release toxic gases into your home. This usually occurs due to a damaged heat exchanger. Cracks in a heat exchanger can allow combustion gases, such as carbon monoxide, to leak into the air.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is highly flammable and toxic. What makes it even more deadly is that it’s invisible, odorless, and tasteless. In the US, CO poisoning claims at least 430 lives each year.

Provo also had a recent CO poisoning incident, which took place at a church in October 2019. 60 people had to get treatment after exposure to the deadly gas.

All these prove how vital furnace inspections are for equipment efficiency and safety. That’s why you should never skip it. Besides, you only need it at least once a year, but it will benefit you throughout Provo’s long heating season.

What Goes into Professional Furnace Inspections?

If you hire a reliable Provo HVAC company, your furnace inspection will be a key part of an overall tune-up. HVAC maintenance and tune-ups are necessary to keep your system running efficiently. Keep in mind that the more efficient your furnace is, the less energy it will use (be it electricity or gas).

So, what can you expect during this service? Below is an outline of some of the most important steps taken during a furnace inspection.

Visual Inspection

The licensed HVAC inspectors will make sure that the burners are clean and that the flue pipe is clear. They’ll check the heat exchanger for any signs of cracks and leaks. They’ll also inspect the furnace blower fan, blower amps, blower motor, and the ductwork.

Next, they’ll confirm that all connections (electrical, gas, and voltage) are secure. They’ll also check for any frayed wirings, especially in the ignition and thermostat.

Component Testing

The furnace inspector will also test the fan control and key switches, such as the main limit switch. All safety controls will also undergo testing for safety and proper functioning.

The inspector will measure the temperature before and after turning the thermostat on. This will help ensure that the thermostat is properly reading the indoor temperature.

Maintenance Tasks You Can Do As a Homeowner

There are some furnace maintenance tasks that you can do on your own, including the following.

Install a Fresh Filter

As with air conditioner filters, most furnaces also need a fresh one after every three months. However, replacing your filters every month or two will help keep indoor air quality at its best. You should also inspect the filter every 30 days to see if it’s starting to clog up.

Clean air filters can help cut back the energy use of your HVAC system by 15%. Whereas dirty filters can lead to poor airflow, which can then cause your furnace to overheat.

Remove Biological Build-Up on the Furnace Drain Pipe

First, gently wipe away algae or mold build-up on the outside of the furnace drain line. This drain line is usually made of PVC pipe, but it may also be a metal tube. High-efficiency condensing furnaces have PVC pipes, while conventional furnaces have metal tubes.

Next, follow the pipe or tube to get to the actual drain. This is where the condensation produced by your furnace ultimately ends up. The drain line dumps the water into this drain, which then directs it away from your home.

Clean the drain by removing larger debris that may be blocking the vents. Then, use a vacuum cleaner to remove debris from the inside of the drain.

Get Rid of Outdoor Unit Obstructions

Keep the outdoor unit of your heating equipment free from obstructions like vegetation. Overgrown grass and piles of leaves can restrict the flow of air into the unit. Mow the lawn and rake those leaves to keep the heater up and running whenever you need it.

Prompt Repairs and Full Inspections Can Extend the Life of Your Furnace

There you have it, your ultimate guide on Provo furnace repair and inspections. As you can see, they play vital roles in ensuring your furnace’s safe and efficient operation. That’s why it’s never a good idea to delay or skip either, as doing so will put you at risk of losing heat when you need it the most.

Ready to get your Provo furnace back in tip-top condition? Then please don’t hesitate to connect with us now! We’ll be happy to schedule your unit for a full inspection and tune-up ASAP.

Provo Air Conditioning Repair: How Long Do AC Units Last in Utah? (Plus 5 Bonus Maintenance Tips!)

Did you know that nowadays, US consumers need to shell out $3,750 to $7,200 for a new air conditioner?

That’s right!

With that kind of money on the line, you definitely want to make your AC last for as long as possible. The good news is, they do have a long lifespan, which you can further extend with proper maintenance. Plus, reliable HVAC contractors in Provo offer money-saving deals on servicing and tune-ups.

Getting prompt Provo air conditioning repair will also extend the life of your AC. Besides, the sooner you get those AC issues fixed, the sooner you can make your home cool and comfy once again.

Ready to learn all about how long you can expect your AC in Provo to last as well as how to make it last longer? Then be sure to keep reading!

Provo Air Conditioning Repair

How Long Do AC Units Last on Average?

In the US, central air conditioners usually last between 15 and 20 years on average. Window AC units, however, have a shorter average life span of up to 10 years.

Keep in mind that climate has a huge effect on a Provo air conditioner’s life span though. For instance, AC units in coastal areas usually live shorter due to exposure to saltwater. The same goes for systems used in areas around the country with humid environments.

Other Factors That Can Cut the Life of Your Air Conditioner Short

Aside from climate, here are other factors that can shorten the life of air conditioners in Provo.

The Who and When

The make, model, and manufacturing date of an air conditioner also have an impact on a unit’s service life. For instance, older models don’t last as long as the new ones, since they’re not as energy-efficient.

This lower efficiency means they use more energy to produce the desired level of cooling. As such, they have to run longer and harder to cool your home. This extended use puts more stress on their components, which is why they can break down sooner.

The SEER Rating

Many older AC models have a low seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). SEER is a measurement of the relative amount of energy that an AC needs to give a certain cooling output. The lower this is, the more energy the unit will consume.

So, a low SEER rating equates not only to a shorter life span but also to higher energy bills.

More than that, all states in the US also implement their own SEER standards. In Utah, air conditioners should meet the minimum SEER rating standard of 13. Unfortunately, many older AC units have low SEER ratings of between 5 and 6.

The Size of the Unit

Correct AC sizing is critical to making the most out of an AC’s exceptional SEER rating. A unit that’s too large won’t be able to remove adequate amounts of humidity. A unit that’s too small will be unable to deliver sufficient cooling.

In either case, the air conditioner’s performance will drop, and it’ll end up using more energy. Over time, it may overheat, which can then lead to premature part failure or even a complete breakdown.

Proper AC Maintenance: Key to Longer-Lasting Air Conditioners

You should have your AC serviced yearly, especially before the cooling season. This way, your air conditioner will be up to the task of cooling your home throughout the summer. Moreover, routine upkeep can help prevent early and pricey AC breakdowns.

There are a few things that you can — and should — do on your own though. Check out these five easy ways to keep your home air conditioner in great condition.

1. Keep It Clean with Fresh Filters

When you run your air conditioner, it first passes the air that it pulls in from the outside through the filter. It does so to protect its interior components from dust, debris, and gunk. Filth, after all, is restrictive, so dirty AC parts will have a hard time doing their part in cooling the air.

Since the filter catches and traps contaminants, it won’t take long before it gets filthy. The dirtier it gets, the less air the AC can pass through it. As a result, the unit will “work” harder as it tries to force more air into the system so you can keep enjoying cooled air.

This then places extra strain on the unit’s motor, which may lead to overheating. When the AC motor overheats, you may end up needing a replacement sooner than expected.

This is why experts advise replacing or washing AC filters at least every three months. However, it’s best that you check the condition of your AC filter at least every 30 days or so. Filters can get clogged up sooner with frequent and longer use, especially if you have pets at home.

In these cases, you should change or wash your AC filters more often. Doing so will not only improve your AC’s efficiency but also boost your home’s indoor air quality.

2. Keep the Evaporator Coil Clean and the Drip Pan Clear

The interior unit of your AC draws in warm, humid air and blows it through the evaporator coil. The coil then absorbs the heat from the air and cools it down. The coil passes the cooled air to the blower, which then circulates the air into your home.

The humid air turns into condensation when it hits the cold surface of the evaporator coil. The water droplets fall into the drip pan located right below the coil. The pan then directs the water into a drain tube connected to either a floor drain, sink, or directly outside.

Since there’s always moisture present, the coil is at risk of mold and algae build-up. These microorganisms can then clog the drain. If this happens and your AC has a drain float, the unit will stop cooling.

Worse, you’re looking at potential water damage to your home. Keep in mind that homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover this type of water damage.

You can easily avoid this by wiping away the algae or mold build-up on the evaporator coil. Remove excess water from the drain pan as well as larger pieces of dirt or debris. If you have a wet or dry vacuum, use that to unclog the drain that the coil connects to.

3. Clear Obstructions from the Outdoor AC Unit

If you can, check the outdoor AC unit at least every weekend to ensure that it’s not piled with leaves and debris. Don’t allow grass or other vegetation to grow within two feet from all the sides of the unit. These will help keep optimal airflow around the unit, which then helps keep your AC efficient.

4. Brush the Fins

Any airflow restriction affecting the fins of the outdoor AC unit can cause a drop in its efficiency. This includes dust or dirt build-up between the panels of the fin. Some sections of the fins may also have become bent or twisted.

As part of your air conditioning maintenance, gently brush the fins at least once a year. If there’s too much dirt on the fins, it’s best to leave the task to AC maintenance specialists. This way, you can avoid damaging the fins.

5. Invest in a Programmable Thermostat

Raising the thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees from its usual setting can save you up to 10% on your yearly cooling costs. This also reduces the strain you put on your AC since it’ll require less energy.

However, it’s easy to forget doing this task before you leave your home for school or work.

The good news is, you can get a programmable thermostat to automate this job. Just input the temperature settings and the times of the day you want these changes to take place. The programmable thermostat will then make these changes based on your desired settings.

Pay Attention to the Signs You Need Provo Air Conditioning Repair

If your AC has weak airflow, blows out warm air, or doesn’t produce any air at all, it may only be due to a dirty filter. If you’ve recently put in a fresh filter though, then it’s best to call in the AC repair pros.

Hot or warm air through the vents may also signal a leaking or low refrigerant level. You should get this fixed ASAP, especially if you have an older AC that still uses Freon (R-22). Since the start of this year, R-22 prices have shot up because of the EPA refrigerant phase-out.

Don’t delay scheduling your AC repair if you notice any of these signs. The longer you put off the repairs, the more damage your air conditioner may sustain.

Environmental Conditions in Provo That Affect AC Lifespan and Performance

Provo’s climate and environment has a huge impact on how long your air conditioner will last. Here are a few things you should know about the city’s environmental conditions.

Hot and Humid Climate

Provo has a humid continental climate (Cfa) under the Köppen classification. Meaning, it’s normal for the city to be hot and humid since it rains even in July, the city’s driest month. This is also the month wherein the city’s temperature rises to an average of 74.5 °F.

The warmer days, however, can start as early as May, wherein the average temperature can already go up to 57.7 °F in the city. It’s still usually humid during this month though, with an average rainfall of 43 mm.

This hot and humid climate drives consumers to use their AC systems more, and for longer periods of time. Moreover, air conditioning systems in the city get exposed to excess moisture in the air. All these contribute to the shortened life span of air conditioners in Provo.

Air Pollution

Provo also has had some of the worst short-term air pollution problems in the country. This is mainly due to the city’s location, which is along the Wasatch Front. For more than a decade, the metropolitan area has been battling air pollution violations.

A side effect of high levels of particulate matter in the air is the shortened life span of AC filters. These filters get clogged up sooner and with much more gunk.

As mentioned above, dirty AC filters can cause air conditioners to overheat. That’s why you should inspect yours at least once every month. Then, change or wash it as soon as you see a considerable amount of dirt on it. Again, if there is too much dirt on the unit you should contact Provo Air Conditioning Repair services.

Make Your AC Last Longer With Regular Tune-Ups and Prompt Repairs

There you have it, your complete guide to the average service life of air conditioners in Provo. Now that you know, then it’s best you follow our maintenance tips so you can extend your AC’s useful life. Make sure you also pay attention to the signs that tell you something’s wrong with your AC.

If your air conditioning system is acting up, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’ll make sure that you get the quality Provo air conditioning repair services you need on time!

The Complete Guide on Vital HVAC Maintenance Tips and Tricks for Your HVAC in Utah County

From November 2018 to November 2019, the price of electricity in Utah went up 0.36 cents per Kilowatt-hour. By November last year, Utah homeowners paid an average of 10.31 cents per kWh.

While this doesn’t seem like a big deal, it is, seeing as residential users in Utah consume about 742 kWh every month. If you do the math, you’ll see that this price spike means that Utahns pay $30 more a year for their electricity bill.

You could be paying even more if you leave your furnace or air conditioner ill-maintained.

That’s right. A dirty, inefficient HVAC in Utah County could be making your utility bills skyrocket. Especially during the county’s scorching hot days or freezing nights.

The good news is, proper maintenance can boost the energy efficiency of your HVAC system. Routine tune-ups carried out by an HVAC professional can also help extend the unit’s life.

Ready to learn all about HVAC maintenance in Utah County and what you can do about it? Keep reading then, as that’s what we’ll share with you in this post!

Why Your HVAC in Utah County Needs Routine Professional Maintenance

Consider this: Both your heater and air conditioner work hard for six months each. You may even be using your AC more these days, seeing as Utah’s average temperatures have gone up over the years. In fact, the state has had between 50 and 150 more cooling days from 1955 to 2015 compared to 1895 to 1954.

Either way, all that regular use reduces your HVAC unit’s efficiency and performance. Dust and debris will accumulate on both external and internal parts of the equipment. Without regular tune-ups, even the most modern and resilient system will get clogged.

This will then result in the heater and air conditioner having restricted airflow. The longer this goes on, the greater the stress placed on the HVAC unit, which can then lead to failure. Besides, this poor airflow will make you feel uncomfortable.

This alone should already make you realize how important expert HVAC maintenance is.

What Other Benefits Can You Expect from Routine HVAC Maintenance?

Here are some of the other top reasons you need regular HVAC inspections and maintenance.

Reduced Energy Bills

On average, heating and cooling account for 42% of a home’s typical yearly utility bill. That’s already a lot, but an inefficient system will ultimately cost you more. This is why routine HVAC maintenance can save you thousands of dollars.

Detect Failing Parts Early On

Over time, heat exchangers, heat pumps, external fans, and lines can freeze and crack. Air ducts will also start to leak and develop holes, which can lead to the loss of up to 30% of heated or cooled air. Gears can become loose, blowers can get dented, and fan motors can overheat.

Without routine HVAC maintenance, you likely won’t know that these issues already exist. You’ll only know once your heater or air conditioner stops running in the middle of peak demand.

Get Needed Repairs Done Before Peak Use

After an HVAC maintenance service, you’ll know right away if there’s any part that’s up for repairs. Your trustworthy contractor will let you know if a major part is on its last legs and needs a replacement. This then helps you save time and money in getting the needed HVAC repairs done before winter or summer.

How Often Should You Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance?

You should schedule HVAC maintenance at least twice a year. One is prior to the heating season, the other before the cooling season. The best times for these pre-season HVAC checkups and tune-ups are during spring and fall.

It’s best to get an early schedule since contractors are busiest during winter and summer. One reason is that a lot of people tend to put off maintenance until their systems start acting up. As such, many of them end up having HVAC problems during the actual heating and cooling seasons.

So, scheduling your heater and cooler maintenance early lets you skip the long queues. You can also save money since pre-season HVAC maintenance cost is usually lower. Best of all, you can worry less about the equipment breaking down when you need it the most.

What Should You Expect During Maintenance Day?

This isn’t a complete list, but it’s the least that you can expect during your HVAC maintenance schedule.

Thorough Cleaning of External and Internal Parts

The HVAC specialist will inspect and clean the evaporator and condenser coils. The contractor will also clean and adjust the system’s blower and fan components.

The HVAC specialist will also clean the ignition, flame sensor, and burners in the furnace. The contractor will also vacuum minor rust deposits on the heat exchanger.

Inspection of Electrical Connections and Switches

During the service, the HVAC pro will inspect all switches, valves, and wirings. They will tighten any loose connection as well as test voltages and current on motors.

Lubrication of Moving Parts

Lubrication of moving parts, such as blowers and fans, is key to preventing friction. Excessive friction not only causes a spike in energy use but also causes premature wear on parts.

Inspect Drain Lines

Molds and other fungi can accumulate and clog up drain lines. Left unchecked, this can lead to water overflowing out of the unit’s drip pans. This can result in water damage, which your homeowners’ insurance won’t cover.

Don’t worry, as your Utah County HVAC specialist will remove these clogs. You can even have your drain lines applied with special antimicrobial treatment.

Thermostat Check

The HVAC pro will first inspect and clean the internal parts of your thermostat. They will then test it to ensure that it gives proper readings.

If you don’t have a programmable thermostat yet, the contractor may recommend that you get one. Of the almost 120 million households in the US, only 25 million have such a money-saving device installed. This can help you save money by automatically adjusting the temperature when no one is at home.

Any HVAC Tips for DIY Maintenance?

Yes, one of the best DIY HVAC maintenance tips is to change or wash your filters at least once every one or two months. You should also keep an eye on your air vents, and if possible, vacuum it at least once a month. Aside from reducing the strain on your HVAC system, these also help boost your home’s air quality.

Pay attention to overgrown grass that may be blocking your outdoor HVAC unit too. Dead leaves and other debris may have also piled up near the outdoor unit. Get rid of these blockages to prevent airflow restriction.

Utah County’s Varied Climatic Conditions

Utah County makes up 2.45% of the entire State of Utah and is home to 20 cities and 2 towns. Climates differ across the county’s 2,142 square miles.

Some cities, like Orem and Provo, experience a hot and humid continental climate. Whereas Cedar City has a cold, semi-arid climate. Eagle Mountain City has an even more unique climate, ranging from USDA Hardiness Zones 4b to 6a.

Hottest and Driest Month

Although it has many climates, the hottest month throughout the county is the same — July. The temperature during this month has an average peak of 91.8 °F. This is warmer compared to other areas in the state.

July is also the driest month in Utah County.

Keep in mind, however, that Utah County has seen temperatures rise to over 100 degrees Over the years. For instance, back in June 2015, Provo recorded the highest temp for that month, which was 103 degrees. Spanish Fork also had a record-breaking high temp of 101 degrees.

Coldest Month

The coldest month in Utah County is January, with the lowest temperatures averaging 19.8°. While this is already below freezing, it’s still warmer than many other places in the state.

Utah County, however, gets 60% more snow than many other places in the US. On average, the county gets up to 46 inches of snow each year, compared to the US average of only 28 inches.

Wettest Month

Utah County, with a yearly average of 17 inches of rain, gets much less rain than many other places in the US. March sees the most rain, with at least 9 wet days. In total, the county experiences at least 87 days of rain each year, which is more than Utah’s other areas.

Make Your HVAC System Last Longer With Proper Maintenance

There you have it, your ultimate guide on maintaining your HVAC in Utah County. Also, keep in mind that the county’s varied climates can cut the life of your unit short. Heat and humidity can make your furnace and air conditioner more prone to corrosion.

All these environmental factors make routine tune-ups all the more important. Professional HVAC contractors can help protect your unit from early break downs.

Ready to boost your HVAC system’s efficiency, performance, and service life? Then please don’t hesitate to connect with us now to learn more about our Utah County HVAC services!

Salt Lake City Furnace Repair: Signs Your Old Furnace Is Burning Out

We’re Here to Help You Repair or Replace Your Furnace

In winter, folks in Utah typically experience 21-degree weather. However, it has been known to drop down to -69 degrees from time to time. Because winters in Utah can become bitterly, cold a working home furnace is essential.

Salt Lake City Furnace Repair is there for you when you need to repair or replace your home’s furnace. Our expert technicians can advise and assist you right away. Curious to find out more? Keep reading!

You May Need Salt Lake City Furnace Repair

Furnace issues can be particularly frustrating, as many homeowners may not realize that their furnace is faulty until after winter has begun! However, by igniting or turning on your heater before winter, and watching out for these signs, you can avoid last-minute repairs and replacements.

Strange Smells

Sure, your furnace probably doesn’t smell like a bed of roses, unless you’re using roses to fuel it. That’s because heaters naturally take on the scent of the fuel they burn. This is especially true of furnaces that have been inactive for many months and have only recently been reactivated.

However, if there is a persistent scent of gasoline, something burning, or just something you can’t quite place, it’s best to shut the furnace off and contact a repair service.

Pilot Light Color

The color of the furnace pilot light can tell you quite a lot about how the furnace is faring. Typically, this light is a bright, vivid blue. But if you notice that the light has turned yellow or red, you need to shut the furnace down immediately.

When the pilot light changes color, it usually means that your furnace isn’t processing the carbon-monoxide it creates. You and your household could be breathing in dangerous fumes, and it may be time to vacate and call the professionals.

In-Home Air Quality

While this one is a bit more difficult to track or notice, poor in-home air quality is a massive symptom of furnace failure or complications. If you own an air purifier, you may see a sudden increase in black, sooty dirt and dust.

When a furnace is restarted after a summer of slumber, it may kick out some dust and dirt initially. However, if you notice reduced air quality that lasts for more than a few days, you may want to check the furnace filter or have your home’s ductwork vacuumed and cleaned.

Start-Up Problems

A furnace that’s struggling to start-up is likely near the end of its life. You’ll need to call a repair service if it takes you several times to start the furnace, or if it continually shuts itself off.

Newer models sometimes have an auto-shutdown feature for safety reasons. If your heater or furnace is relatively new and it’s having ignition issues, it may actually be a safety issue. Be sure to check the pilot light to confirm these suspicions, or simply give Salt Lake City Furnace Repair a call.

Loud Noises

Most furnaces, no matter their age, make some kind of noise. But if your furnace is emitting loud, repetitive noises, there’s a problem. Broken or damaged furnaces might squeak, squeal, bang, or groan.

These noises could be the result of a broken belt or bouncing bits of metal. It’s not advisable to try and seek out the source of these noises without professional assistance. However, keeping track of the type of sounds and relaying that info to your technician is extremely helpful.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide poisoning kills about 430 people every year in the United States. Many new furnace models are equipped with hi-tech safety features and gadgets, but no furnace is completely safe. Each one has the potential to release high quantities of deadly carbon monoxide into your home.

If you do not currently have a carbon monoxide detector placed in your home or near your furnace, please buy and install one immediately. A fairly innocent exhaust issue can become a fatal tragedy if left unfound.

We’re determined to fix your furnace or replace it if necessary, but we also value preventative care and maintenance. One of the best ways that you can ensure that your furnace never causes health or safety issues is by investing in reliable detectors as soon as possible.

How Often Should You Have Your Furnace Maintained?

In-home care can occur as often as you’d like, but it’s wise to check the old furnace filter, exhaust, and your home’s seals at least twice a year. A professional service should come out to inspect the furnace at least once a year.

A furnace maintenance schedule isn’t rigorous. However, ignoring it entirely could put you, your family, and your home in grave danger. That’s why it’s so important to take care of issues as they arise and prevent them from reoccurring in the future.

An old gas furnace that has survived several repairs, for example, might be better off in a scrap pile than your home. A new gas furnace could easily — and quickly — take its place. A new heater can save energy costs and are generally more efficient and safer.

In addition to repairing furnaces, we also offer a furnace installation service. We can also assist you when buying a new furnace.

How Long Does a Furnace Last?

The average furnace lasts about fifteen years. Of course, they can last slightly longer when well-cared for. The opposite is true as well, and a poorly maintained furnace can burn out in only a handful of years.

The lifespan of any particular furnace also depends on the exact type, brand, and model of heater. Higher quality models are bound to last longer, but they are also more expensive.

However, considering how necessary a furnace is for cold weather, and how long it could potentially last, it’s often better to choose the higher-quality model. Of course, we do offer special offers and pricing for some services to help ease the financial burden.

How Can You Increase a Furnace’s Lifespan?

There are several simple things that you can do to increase the lifespan of your furnace. You don’t have to complete these tasks every week or even every month. As long as you attend to your furnace maintenance at least twice a year, you should be fine.

Clean or Replace Your Filter

Your furnace filter removes dust and particulates from your home’s air supply before heating that clean air and sending it back out in the house. If the filter is dirty or broken, then you’re just recycling and building dirt, which is unpleasant.

Also, filthy filters can cause your furnace to overwork itself, which may cause it to overheat. At the very least, you’ll find that your furnace isn’t working as efficiently as it should. At worst, you could be dealing with carbon monoxide poisoning.

Just like air conditioning vent filters, furnace filters vary in quality and efficiency. Some remove the majority of dirt and dust from the air, while others remove all contaminants — including airborne viruses.

The exact filter that’s right for you depends on the type and model of furnace you own, and your personal preferences.

Clean Household Vents

Another thing that you can do to lend your furnace a hand is to clean your household vent covers. These often become soiled with dirt and dust over time and should be cleaned monthly.

Also, be sure to remove any furniture or belongings that may be blocking a vent. Your furnace may be suffering from air pressure issues only because a bookcase is covering a vent.

Check Your Home for Air Leaks

Is your home adequately sealed against the cold winter winds? Quite a lot of heat can escape from your home if door seals or window seals are broken or cracked. Any cracks or holes in the walls or foundation can also make your home unnaturally drafty.

A home without proper insulation, or with plenty of sealing problems, can end up with an overheated, busted furnace. As the warm air drifts out of your home, the heater will work harder to compensate for this loss.

So before the cold settles in, be sure to check the corners and cracks of your home for damage.

Winter Conditions in the Salt Lake City Area

Utah is one of the driest states in the US, and annual precipitation is typically less than 20 inches. Consequently, there’s very little snowfall that Salt Lake City homeowners do not worry about.

The frigid cold during the winter months can cause pipes to freeze and furnaces to struggle. In the summer months, the extremes are just as evident, with temperatures occasionally rising to more than 100 degrees!

Request More Information

Keeping your furnace in tip-top shape is crucial to enjoying a comfortable winter in Salt Lake City. When temperatures drop sharply, and things begin to freeze, you’ll be glad that your furnace is merrily heating the house.

If you have additional questions about Salt Lake City Furnace Repair, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Our associates are more than happy to help answer any questions you may have!

Where to Find Air Conditioning Repair in Salt Lake City

With regular maintenance, your AC system can last as long as 15 years. Even with regular maintenance, there are times your system can break or even require minor repairs.

If this happens, you need to have a reliable air conditioning repair company to come in and take a look at your system. This is especially true if you’re based in Salt Lake City; where it gets really hot in the summer.

How do you find air conditioning repair in Salt Lake City?

Online Databases

There are many online databases that specialize in finding home repair and contract work, including in air conditioning.

These websites are the best place to start your search. They list different air conditioning repair services in Salt Lake City with essential information such as the company’s website, contact information, and reviews.

Try and find online databases with reviews by verified members. These members are previous clients of the company and are verified to be reliable and accurate.

Search Online for Air Conditioning Repair in Salt Lake City

If online databases aren’t helping, you can always do a Google search for air conditioning repair companies in your area. Different websites will appear and you can compare them.

When looking through an air conditioning company’s website, ensure they specialize in repair. If they have a service page, click their air conditioning repair service page and see what they offer.

When you contact an air conditioning repair company, it’s helpful to ask how often they perform air conditioning repairs and when their last repair job was.

You’ll also want to study their overall website. Do they list their licenses on their website?

Do they offer positive customer testimonials? Some air conditioning repair companies may even offer specials. It’s helpful to see if they offer any repair specials.

Find Reviews for Salt Lake City AC Companies

Do you care about customer testimonials more than anything? There are many review websites where past customers shared their experience with an air conditioning company.

Some websites specialize in reviews while other social media websites, such as Facebook, offer a review section.

It’s best you look at different review websites. You should also compare both positive and negative reviews — you can’t trust every review, so it’s best to read several to gain a better perception of a company.

It’s also recommended you find reviews for the exact service you want. For air conditioning repair, find reviews where the reviewer states they hired the company to repair their AC and explained their experience.

References and Referrals

Even in our digital world, seeking references and referrals are some of the most trustworthy ways to find reliable air conditioning repair.

Asking friends and family for recommendations ensures you’re receiving honest feedback and they had a positive experience.

Not sure who to ask? You can always go on social media and type a status, asking about the best air conditioning repair in Salt Lake City. You’ll likely find a good recommendation from your social media friends.

However, You shouldn’t hear one positive experience and immediately hire the repair company.

Ask your family and friends for more information. Questions include if the repair professionals appeared on time, if they worked in a timely manner, and if the AC repair company was communicative.

It’s also best you ask for details about their repair. A major AC repair is different than a regular maintenance task.

Licensing Websites

Air conditioning repair companies require different licenses. In Utah, there are various HVAC contracting licenses your company must hold. These include:

Refrigeration air conditioning
Heating, ventilation, and air condition
Warm air heating
Evaporative cooling
Refrigeration

You can access a website, such as the Utah Plumbing & Heating Contractors Association, to search for contractors by license.

It’s also helpful to ensure an air conditioning repair company holds additional licenses and insurance that protects you. This includes liability insurance in case of accidental damage or injury.

Your AC Brand

While it’s best to trust an air conditioning company that works with all air conditioning brands, it’s helpful to find a repair company that has experience with your AC brand.

You can find contractors with AC brand expertise in two ways. Search for air conditioning repair companies in Salt Lake City that promote your AC brand on their website.

If this doesn’t work, contact the AC manufacturer and see if they work with any air conditioning repair companies in your area.

This is essential if your AC system is brand new.

New AC systems feature modern design and offer other benefits such as energy efficiency. An air conditioning repair contractor should know how to work with these systems to ensure you continue experiencing the system’s benefits.

Your Insurance Company

Many home insurance policies don’t cover air conditioning repair. But it’s helpful to ask your insurance company for air conditioning repair recommendations. Many home insurance companies have a database of reliable repair companies.

Additional Questions to Ask

Once you find one or more air conditioning professionals, what should you ask? Here are some recommended questions.

Estimates and Payment Schedules

Depending on what you need to be repaired, you could be spending a lot of money. That’s why it’s important to ask for an estimate during the consultation.

Some air conditioning repair companies also offer a payment schedule if you can’t afford the costs upfront. In addition, some repair companies also offer complementary services, such as a free consultation and a free diagnostic.

Some companies also require different payments throughout the repair process. These include a deposit payment before the project’s start.

It’s helpful to know these different payments so you can plan for them. You should also ask if these payments are included in the overall estimate.

Details of the Repair

Before the repair begins, ask for as many details as you can. First, ask for the overall scope of the repair. This includes what they’re repairing and why these repairs are necessary.

It’s also helpful to ask for the general completion date and a repair schedule if the repair process is expected to last multiple days.

Do You Need Air Conditioning Repair in Salt Lake City?

If you’re looking for air conditioning repair in Salt Lake City , look no further than Larsen Heating and Air. Contact us today.

4 Significant Factors That Go Into Furnace Installation Cost

The first furnace was invented in 1885. These historical models burned coal to warm houses. They replaced wood-burning stoves and fireplaces as a more efficient heating method.

Since their invention, many improvements have been made. Unfortunately, even with so many improvements, furnaces do still break.

When a furnace breaks, it will often be necessary to replace the whole system. If yours has broken, you might wonder what factors play into furnace installation cost. Continue reading to find out everything you need to know.

What is a Furnace?

A furnace is one of the most popular home heating systems in the United States. It works by blowing air through ducts. These ducts deliver the heat throughout the home using air registers or grills.

A furnace can be powered in several different ways. The most common power methods include electricity, gas, and oil. If your home and furnace are older, it is likely powered by gas or oil.

4 Significant Factors of Furnace Installation Cost

Many factors contribute to furnace installation cost. The exact cost of projects can vary wildly, from a little more than $1,000 to $10,000 or more.

The four significant factors discussed below aren’t the only price considerations. They can, however, cause the price to shift greatly.

1. Type of Furnace

The type of furnace your house needs replaced factors into the total cost. The four types of furnaces you might have installed today are natural gas, oil, electric heat, and geothermal.

Some of the cheapest types of furnaces to replace are natural gas and oil. These both start at around $2,200. Natural gas burns cleaner than oil and the price of gas systems range higher than oil despite similar starting costs.

Electric heat furnaces are most common in new construction homes. Although electric furnaces only start at $1,800, they can range a lot higher than natural gas or oil systems. The starting $1,800 point is for a very small system that will only work for the smallest homes.

Geothermal systems are more advanced than their counterparts. For this reason, they are more expensive. Starting costs for these systems are about $3,000.

2. Heating System Size

The size of your heating system should correlate with your home size. The costs of a furnace for a one-bedroom home will be significantly different than the furnace installation cost for a four-bedroom.

If the heating system isn’t the right size, it isn’t going to work as efficiently as it should. If the system is too small, your furnace will need to work around the clock and still likely won’t reach the ideal temperature. This is both uncomfortable and costly.

If the heating system is too large, it will blast your home with too much heat initially and then shut off until the entire home is too cool. It will repeat this uncomfortable cycle and raise energy costs.

3. Labor

The cost of labor will vary between professional installation companies. These costs are based on many factors. The location of your home and the complexity of the project are key factors.

Don’t be surprised if you end up spending $75 or more an hour in furnace installation cost. The labor costs can end up being half the total project costs.

4. Removal Cost

If you need your furnace replaced, chances are high you also need your old furnace removed. The company you hire for installation will usually take care of this for you, but it has its own associated fees.

The costs of removal vary by state. You’ll have to consider the distance from your home to the dumpsite, ease of removal, and any environmental or dumping fees. The hourly labor costs will also be a factor.

How to Know When to Replace Your Furnace

Maybe you aren’t sure if you need to replace your furnace or fix it. Maybe nothing is wrong with the furnace but you’d like an updated model that is more efficient. Below are a few things to consider when deciding whether to replace your home furnace.

Age

The age of your furnace is a big factor in whether it’ll need to be replaced. Most manufacturer warranties on furnaces last about twelve years. If taken care of, most high-efficiency furnaces will last homeowners anywhere from fifteen to twenty years.

Condition

The condition of your furnace is the biggest factor in determining whether it needs replacement. If a small piece breaks, you can often have a professional fix the part instead of replacing the entire system.

If pieces are breaking routinely, it might make more sense to replace the furnace. Financially, replacing the furnace will make more sense over constantly having repairs done.

Also, keep in mind major repairs can sometimes be more expensive than replacement. If your major repair will end up costing more than a new furnace, you’ll likely want to simply replace it.

Yellow Flames

In a properly working gas or oil furnace, flames will be a bright blue. This signifies the appliance is receiving enough fuel to run.

Yellow flames could indicate a serious issue like a gas leak. It might also tell homeowners that the furnace has become inefficient due to age or general wear and tear.

You can see the flames of your furnace by peaking through the vents on the appliance itself. If you see yellow flames instead of blue, call a furnace installation and repair company.

High Energy Bills

If your energy bills are higher than they should be, it could indicate a furnace that isn’t working properly. You can have a repairman check the furnace for issues.

For More Information About Furnace Installation Cost

For more information on the factors that determine furnace installation cost, contact us today. One of our associates would be happy to assist you and answer all your questions.

10 Reasons Why You Should Consider a Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat

Turning your thermostat down 7°-10°F each day for eight hours saves you at least ten percent on cooling and heating. Energy efficiency in homes is the dream of every homeowner. Yet, operating a conventional thermostat can be such a daunting task.

Fortunately, technology has made home heating and cooling smooth. Smart thermostats are one of the latest inventions you can’t afford to ignore. The smart thermostats have sensors, advanced algorithms, and Wi-Fi, among other features.

With a smart thermostat, you will enjoy greater control and automation of temperatures in your home. Check out these ten benefits of installing a smart Wi-Fi thermostat in your home.

1. Energy Savings with Smart Thermostats

Energy-saving is probably one of the most sought-after benefits of a thermostat. The settings of a smart thermostat improve a home’s energy-saving ability significantly. You don’t have to be around your home to adjust the temperatures.

Cooling and heating account for a significant percentage of a home’s utility bills. A smart thermostat can detect the patterns of heating and cooling. Consequently, it can adopt automatic temperature settings that help in energy conservation.

Smart thermostats have programmable features that help to save energy. The benefits of programmable thermostats are almost similar to smart thermostats. However, smart thermostats don’t need scheduling, which is essential for programmable thermostats to save energy.

2. Remote Control of the Thermostat

If you have your mobile device, you’re in control of your smart thermostat. You won’t need to wake up in the middle of the night to switch on the HVAC system for the room to get warmer. You get to enjoy a warm room without getting your feet on the cold floor.

With a smart Wi-Fi thermostat, you don’t have to be at home to control the temperatures. You can operate the thermostat from anywhere. If you want to come to a cool house, you can make adjustments from your thermostat’s app.

The smart thermostat enables you to change the cooling schedules if you aren’t around for a few days. What’s more, you can get alerts on the changes in your home’s interior temperature. With the information, you’ll know how your HVAC is functioning.

3. Movement Sensors

A smart thermostat has movement sensors. This feature detects the movement around the house and schedules the system appropriately. The movement sensors note when a family is indoors, mostly evenings and mornings, and when you aren’t around.

When you are in the house, the temperature changes to accommodate the occupants. The temperature is likely to reduce when no one is in the house. These automatic changes ultimately help in saving energy costs.

Movement sensors have security impacts on a home. If you’re on vacation, temperature changes in your home might mean there’s an occupant. The app for a smart thermostat will give you timely alerts in case of temperature changes.

4. Reduction of Human Error

One-third of US households face challenges when paying energy bills. Keeping the right temperatures within your home throughout the year can be an expensive affair. The bills get more costly when you make errors here and there when scheduling your HVAC system.

Conventional thermostats require manual adjustment of temperature. Getting it right is not a guarantee. Errors when scheduling your thermostat can have significant impacts on energy usage in your home.

But with Wi-Fi smart thermostats, you don’t have to make any adjustments. The device can monitor your preferences and schedule to regulate the temperature in your home, whether you are around or away. If you happen to forget to switch off your AC, the smart thermostat will step in and save you unnecessary costs.

5. Easy Installation

Installing a smart Wi-Fi thermostat can be an easy DIY project. You’ll only need thermostat wiring to replace your current system. The manufacturer’s instructions are always straightforward.

Start by cutting the power leading to your thermostat to remove the old system. Connect the power wires to your smart thermostat and install the faceplate. When you follow the programming instructions, you’ll get it right.

However, contracting a professional HVAC contractor remains one of the best decisions. You will save time and avoid potential electrical hazards. Besides, licensed technicians have the competence to install a smart thermostat without any hitches.

Working with an HVAC technician guarantees you quality service. The technician can provide subsidized maintenance services in the future. While you’d want to save some bucks in such a project, get a local HVAC contractor for quality service provision.

6. Notifications

With life’s busy nature, homeowners can go a day without thinking about the status of their thermostats. As long as the temperatures in the house are accommodative, monitoring the HVAC system hardly makes it to the to-do-list. Installing a smart thermostat will save you unanticipated frustrations.

Smart thermostats have regular reminders in the form of notifications and alerts. You can get a text or email notifications regarding the status of your HVAC system. The notifications usually alert on temperature changes, system faults, or maintenance reminders.

According to a recent survey, almost 72.6 percent of internet users will be accessing the internet through their mobile devices by 2025. Manufacturers of smart thermostats understand this dynamic. The system is compatible with smartphones, making it easier for people to get notifications through their mobile devices.

7. Tracking Energy Usage

A smart thermostat can help you track your energy usage. The system provides regular energy reports on the amount of power you use. It further shows the changing energy use and projected fluctuations in cost.

You’ll get practical tips to improve energy saving. Some providers will even reward you if your energy efficiency is commendable. With such reports, you can predict your utility bills throughout the year.

The reports are accessible through an app or online. The convenience ensures that you’re up to date with your thermostat’s functioning.

8. Integration With Other Home Devices

The age of digital assistants is here with us! When you purchase a smart Wi-Fi thermostat, ensure that it can integrate with other devices in your home. The system should be able to exchange information and link it with other home appliances.

Most of the recent models can work well with upgraded systems. If your thermostat is compatible with devices such as purifiers and humidifiers, you can control them at a go. A smart thermostat can also be compatible with other smart home devices such as ‘Alexa’ or Apple HomeKit.

The compatibility enhances efficiency when running your home. It also saves on costs that would otherwise go towards controlling each device.

9. Affordable Versions

Currently, the market has a variety of smart thermostats with varying features and prices. Several manufacturers are using pricing for differentiation. As a resultant, you are likely to get a smart thermostat that’s within your budget.

On average, a smart thermostat costs between $200 and $300. Coupled with the thermostat installation cost, upgrading to a smart Wi-Fi device has been hard for a significant number of homeowners. But with the increasing number of smart thermostat models, these devices are becoming more affordable.

If you’re budget conscious, you can still get a smart thermostat at a reasonable price. However, carry out your due diligence to avoid purchasing a cheaper device with limited functionalities. You don’t want to save money when buying your device and then incur unimaginable energy bill each month.

10. Voice Control Features

A manual thermostat can be exhausting. If you’re tired of adjusting the temperature physically, the voice control capabilities of a smart thermostat will intrigue you. The smart device can use voice commands to make the necessary temperature changes.

However, some smart thermostat models require external an external voice activator such as Alexa by Amazon. You need to make a thorough comparison before settling for a thermostat. If you desire convenience, voice capability is a feature that will change the approach of heating and cooling in your home.

If you are not at home, you can make voice commands through a mobile app. A smart thermostat responds by acting immediately.

While these features are vital, proper maintenance of your system is a prerequisite. You might need regular air filter replacement or repair. If capabilities such as voice command aren’t working, confirm whether all the parts of your thermostat are in an optimal state.

Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat Can Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

If you’ve been using a manual thermostat, you are missing the fascinating benefits of a smart Wi-Fi thermostat. The smart device has significant impacts on energy efficiency. Besides saving some dollars, you will gain from a range of other features characterizing this advanced thermostat.

The market has several models of smart thermostats. You need to research widely before making this investment. The last thing you want is incurring costs trying to replace the system.

It would be best to contact your local HVAC technician to install the smart thermostat. A competent technician will guide you on how to use the device. While the smart thermostat seems friendlier to tech-savvy users, following the manual will enable you to operate it comfortably.

Are you in need of any HVAC services in Utah? Contact us today for a consultation and a quote.

A Breath of Fresh Air: 9 Tips for Improving Air Quality in Your Home

Did you know that more than 4 out of 10 people breathe in air that earned an F in State of the Air 2019? Improving air quality in all ways possible is vital for your health, especially if you have allergies.

In this article, you’ll learn top tips to improve air quality in your home. Read on to discover these 9 tips for higher-quality air.

1. Clean and Replace Your AC Filters

You want to make sure to clean your AC filters regularly. They help to improve indoor air quality in your home by removing pollen in the air.

Be sure to replace your air filters every three months or so to keep your air clear of allergens. If you have pets, you may need to replace or clean your filters more often to keep pet hair from circulating throughout the home.

2. Open Your Windows

It’s important to open your windows for about 15 minutes per day and let some fresh air in. This will flush any stale air that is around. Make sure your windows have insect screens to minimize pollen.

3. Make Your Home Non-Smoking

Keep any smoking outdoors since cigarette smoke pollutes the air. Whether you’re the smoker or receiving second-hand smoke, it can still cause health problems.

4. Indoor Air Quality Products

Air cleaners remove pet dander, dust, and pollen in your home. There are advanced filtration systems out there that make sure cleaner air is circulating through your entire home.

5. Add House Plants

Having house plants in your home can improve your indoor air quality. They remove toxins such as formaldehyde, ammonia, carbon dioxide, and benzene.

6. Get Rid of Dust Mites

Dust mites are too small to see with the naked eye and can cause plenty of indoor air pollution. You can get rid of them by making sure to wash your bedsheets weekly and lower your humidity level to below 50%. You can lower the humidity with either an air conditioner or a dehumidifier.

7. Consider Wood Flooring

While hard-surface or wood flooring can be expensive, they’re much easier to maintain and have no allergies. Carpets tend to trap allergens and are less sanitary since it’s hard to get deep when cleaning.

If you decide to keep your carpeting, make sure to vacuum them regularly.

8. Have a Radon-Free Home

Radon is a chemical you don’t want in your home since it can cause lung cancer. You won’t know if it’s in your home since it has no odor or color. You need to get a testing kit that can tell you radon levels in your home.

9. HVAC Maintenance

You want to make sure that your air conditioning unit is maintained well. Make sure that all parts are routinely cleaned. It can help maintain good air quality.

Improving Air Quality in Your Home

Improving air quality in your home is entirely possible by following these steps. Remember that breathing clean air is not only better for you but cuts down on allergens in the air.

Are you ready to get your own advanced filtration system installed? Contact us today and we can make sure you’re having cleaner air in your home.