There’s nothing worse than making an emergency call to a plumber during a busy week or in the middle of the night. That burst pipe or sewer backup can’t wait, but with regular care and maintenance, you could prevent it from happening in the first place.

Find out how to care for your plumbing – no skills required – and prevent major repairs from disrupting your life.

Take Care of Your Drains

Shower and sink drains take a lot of abuse, particularly in the kitchen. If you’re allowing food and cooking grease to go down your drain, you have a problem waiting to happen.

Grease is liquid when you’re cooking, but it turns back into a solid once it cooled. So, you flush liquid down your drain where it rests in the P-trap, hardening and gathering food and other debris with it. Over time, this will cause a slow drain, if not a full-blown clog, or end up in your sewer causing a backup.

 

After cooking, dispose of the excess grease by putting it a container and letting it harden. Then, toss it out in the trash or save it for other cooking uses. You may want to install drain traps in your kitchen and bathroom sinks and shower to prevent unwanted items from going down.

Be Careful with What You Flush

The toilet is designed for liquid and solid waste and toilet paper. That’s it. A lot of flushable products aren’t quite flushable, include wet wipes and feminine hygiene products. When these products are flushed regularly, your toilet can become severely clogged.

 

If you happen to drop something in the toilet, you can try to dislodge it with a plunger. Don’t try to flush it down! If it ends up deep in the pipe, call a plumber. It’s also a good practice to speak to your entire family to make sure everyone is clear on what can and cannot go down the toilet.

Don’t Let That Leak Go On

If you have a slow drip in your sink or shower, don’t let it go. You’re not only wasting gallons of water each day – giving you higher water bills – but you could end up with a burst pipe and water damage.

You can try to fix a leaky faucet on your own by cleaning the internal washer and rings, but this takes a little bit of know-how. If you’re not comfortable, call in a professional to correct that leak, see what caused it, and ensure that you don’t have bigger problems lurking deep in your system.

Opt for Natural Drain Cleaners

For most homeowners, a slow drain or clog is a job for liquid drain cleaners. Unfortunately, that’s one of the worst things you can do for your pipes. The chemicals in these cleaners are highly corrosive, damaging your pipes over time.

Instead of liquid drain cleaner, rely on natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar to keep your pipes clean. This solution can clean our pipes and prevent clogs from forming, so you’re less likely to deal with a clog.

Be Careful with Your Garbage Disposal

If you treat your garbage disposal like a black hole, you’ll end up with problems. While soft food is fine, your garbage disposal is not designed to mulch fibrous vegetables, bones, or animal fat.

 

If you flush foods like this down your garbage disposal, it can gum up the blades and lead to clogs.

Be mindful of what you flush down the garbage disposal and always run cold water. This helps to carry the food waste down into the blades and pipes to prevent buildup. Avoid using hot water, which will melt grease and cause it to stick to the blades. If you want to keep your disposal clean, you can use baking soda and vinegar to rinse it regularly.

Don’t Take on Big Repairs on Your Own

Some plumbing problems are fine to take on at home, but if you don’t have plumbing knowledge, you could make your problems much worse. Plumbers have the training, experience, and tools to fix your plumbing problems effectively.

Unless you also have plumbing skills, it’s best to leave the work to the professionals. If you try to do it yourself, you could exacerbate the problem. Or worse, it could be dangerous.

Don’t Ignore the Small Stuff

Your plumbing is a big part of your home and day-to-day life. You probably don’t think about it until something happens and you’re scrambling to find a plumber at the last minute, however.

If you pay attention to small changes, such as a drip, a weird noise, or a sudden drop in water pressure, you could anticipate problems before they become more serious.

Schedule Routine Maintenance

Routine maintenance for your plumbing system is the best way to prevent future problems. Rather than worrying about your plumbing yourself, you can have a professional inspect your entire system to identify small repairs or issues before they become a major problem.

Want to take care of your plumbing? Schedule your maintenance or repairs from Sierra!

Struggling to beat the heat? When the height of summer brings a heatwave, staying cool can be a challenge. Whether you’re having a hard time sleeping in the heat, you’re working from home, or you have family members that need it cooler, there are a lot of ways you can bring the temperature down.

Here are some tips to manage a summer heat wave and help your air conditioner with the workload.

 

Don’t Turn the Air Conditioner Thermostat Low

Though it may seem counterintuitive, turning your air conditioner’s thermostat down won’t do help you keep your home any cooler. Your air conditioner can only manage to cool your home to about 20 or 25 degrees less than outdoors, so it’s best to keep it at a reasonable temperature to avoid overworking it.

Use Your Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans don’t cool your room, but they can help to circulate the conditioned air that comes from your air conditioner. They’ll also help you stay comfortable by drying the perspiration on your skin and dropping your body temperature.

 

Circulate Cooled Air

You can cool down the space in your home to help out your air conditioner by filling bowls with ice water. Put them in front of a fan and it can blow the ice-cold air around the room. If you have a bigger space, fill up a few bowls and use them with fans to remove some of the heat.

Cool Yourself Down with a Frozen Water Bottle

Even if the room is hot, you can keep yourself cooler while you’re working or sleeping by using a hot water bottle. Fill your hot water bottle with water and freeze it, then place on your bed or chair to help yourself stay cool.

Block Out the Sun

We didn’t always have air conditioners to keep us cool. Until they were invented about a century ago, people had to cool their homes using less-advanced methods, such as closing the curtains and shades on the sunny side of the house. You’d be surprised how much heat the sun can bring when it’s filtering in through the blinds.

Create a Smaller Space to Cool

If you have rooms you aren’t using, such as extra bedrooms or bathrooms, close the vents and the doors to keep the conditioned air from reaching them. It’s waste to cool these spaces, and having a smaller space to cool can help your air conditioner remove the heat and humidity more easily – and with less effort.

Don’t Use Your Oven

If possible, don’t use your oven to cook during a heat wave. This will add a lot of heat to your home, so cook food on the grill, get takeout, or make meals you don’t have to cook like sandwiches. If you have to cook, use the microwave or pressure cooker, which produces less heat.

Freeze Your Sheets

Heat waves can make it hard to sleep comfortably. Put your sheets in the freezer before bed to get them nice and cool before you plan to sleep. While this won’t last eight hours, it’ll help to cool the room and your bed to let you sleep better.

 

Hang a Wet Sheet

Another option for your sheets is to wet them and hang them in front of your fans or open windows. Like the ice water, hanging a wet sheet circulates cool air and brings the temperature down in the room.

Create a Breeze in Your Bedroom

A few hours before bed, crack a window to let a breeze in. Fans can help the air circulate better and removes some of the stagnant air as well. If it’s still hot, leave the fans on while you sleep.

Don’t Turn on All the Lights

Light bulbs generate some heat. But during a heat wave when you have all the lights on, that extra heat can really make a difference. Try to leave the lights off during the day and only turn a few on once the sun goes down.

Avoid Using Your Washing Machine or Dishwasher

It’s best to avoid using appliances as much as possible when it’s hot in your house. The biggest culprits for extra heat and humidity are your washing machine and dishwasher, so try to avoid using them if possible. Otherwise, use them late in the evening or in the early morning when it’s a little cooler.

Get Air Conditioner Maintenance

Your air conditioner plays a key role in your comfort all summer long. If it’s stressed out, aging, or overworked, it can’t do that job as efficiently. It’s important to schedule a tune up before the season starts to take care of any problems with your air conditioner and prepare it for a long, hot summer. If it’s getting up there in age, you may want to consider upgrading to a newer and more efficient model.

If you need an air conditioning tune up or repair, contact the pros at Sierra Air to schedule an appointment!

We’re starting to really feel the summer heat in Reno. This means a lot of homeowners are turning on the AC for the first time in a season.

Is your system looking a little old or not working as well as it used to? It might be time to consider an AC installation. There are a few things to keep in mind when making such a big purchase.

Not only will you have to think about getting a new unit, but you’ll also need to think about who you want to install the system in the first place.

The Fastest Way to a New AC Installation

When it comes to AC installation, it’s all about the quotes. You want to pick a reputable company that has a local reputation in terms of getting things done. In addition, you should be picking up more than one quote.

You’ll need to meet with a few representatives in order to find the best solution for your family. Don’t limit yourself by only getting one quote.

Once you pick the system, it will only take a day or two to install the unit and test it. Be sure that you’re watching the proposed timelines. A reputable company will also make sure everything is permitted and up to code.

Important Considerations

For those considering a new AC installation, there are a few things to keep in mind.

• The size of your home matters. One of the biggest reasons why people don’t get the true heating and cooling unit they want is because the system is not designed for the size of their house.
• Don’t skip energy efficiency. Now, more than ever, people are asking about energy-efficient units. They have a positive impact on your energy costs as well as the environment that we all share.
• Check the SEER reading. SEER measures an AC unit’s efficiency.
• Go for power. Power is measured in by BTUs, which stands for British Thermal Units. It determines how hot (or cold) the HVAC can get in general.

A new HVAC system is a critical investment in your home that has the potential to pay off greatly in the future.

Dodge These Costly Curveballs

It’s no secret that a brand new HVAC system is a considerable investment in your home.

That said, there are a few costly curveballs that can really add major expense to this project. Some factors to keep in mind are:

• Insulation. Insulation is a great support system for an HVAC system. It’s a natural way to keep your home comfortable without overspending on utility bills. However, insulation can break down over time. You may need new insulation to get the most out of your HVAC system.
• Supporting equipment, like the ductwork, may need to be upgraded/replaced in order to support the new HVAC system.
• Routine maintenance also has its own costs to figure in, especially to avoid more serious repairs down the road.

Any company that values its reputation will make sure that its estimate is as accurate as possible, but it can’t plan for every single outcome.

Hunt for the Right System Quickly

Most of the time, homeowners feel like they need to take extra time to build an action plan before they have the new HVAC system that they need.

Is your system looking a little old or not working as well as it used to? It might be time to consider an AC installation. There are a few things to keep in mind when making such a big purchase. Contact the professionals at Sierra Air for more information about a new AC installation.

 

A variety of plumbing problems can cause your water quality to decrease. Getting your pipes replaced is one of the best things that you can do to improve your water quality and increase the lifespan of your plumbing system.

What’s The Worst That Can Happen If Your Pipes Are Old?

There can be a lot of potential issues and expensive repairs due to old water pipes. Here are some of the common challenges homeowners face.

Leaks

Old pipes can easily spring a leak in your water pipe system. Leaks occur when the pipes have been broken down over a long duration. This can cause dirt and minerals to enter your water supply.

 

Usually, when there’s a leak due to old pipes, other areas of your water pipes might have the same problem. Replacing everything at once will save you from seeing further problems.

Corrosion

The deterioration of the inside walls of your water pipes by water and minerals results in corrosion. This can cause a host of issues, such as leaks, ruptures, pressure buildup, mineral clogs, and the accumulation of rust in your pipes. Because this condition is irreversible, your pipes will need to be replaced.

Emergency Repairs

Old or corroded pipes are more likely to have leaks and large cracks. This condition could result in an emergency repair from a licensed plumber. Unfortunately, plumbing emergencies can be extremely expensive. But some issues can be avoided. Having your pipes replaced will avoid damage and home repairs and help save you money on a hefty emergency bill.

Dirty, Foul-Tasting Water

Corrosion or leaks can be caused by old pipes. This can cause your water to become dirty and taste or smell terrible. If you’re noticing rust and dirt particles floating in your water, you likely have corrosion or a leak in your water pipes. This will allow earthen minerals to enter your water supply and eventually your drinking glass.

How New Pipes Improve Your Water Quality

Your water quality can be improved instantly when replacing the pipes. Below are three benefits of replacing your water pipes.

 

Cleaner Water

Old and corroded pipes can cause your water supply to become dirty. Once your water pipe replacement is completed you will notice that your water doesn’t have dirt in it and tastes and smells much better. This will assure you that your water is clean, which will put your mind at ease.

Free From Corrosion

As you know corrosion can cause dirty water and an increased chance for leaks in your water pipes. When your pipes are replaced you will not see rust in your drinking water, and your pipes will be less prone to leaks. This will also help make your water safe for consumption as dangerous materials that can cause illness are no longer present in your drinking water.

All Pipes Are Made From The Same Materials

When your water pipes are all made from the same materials, they last longer. When a water pipe system is made up of more than one material, the materials can interact negatively and accelerate the breakdown process, shortening the lifespan of your system.

When a licensed plumber performs a pipe replacement, they will use all one material for the whole system to increase its longevity.

Other Reasons to Replace Your Plumbing System Piping

Here are a few other benefits to keep in mind.

Decreased Risk Of Weak Or Busted Pipes

New, strong water pipes are much better for your home than old, weak pipes. Strong water pipes will help decrease the likelihood of a pipe bursting. In turn, this will help avoid problems for many years to come and save you money on emergency repairs.

Increased Property Values

If you’re planning to sell your home, making updates can increase your listing price. A full plumbing system replacement can significantly increase the property’s value. New water pipes will last much longer, and there will be fewer chances of plumbing issues in the future, making it more appealing to prospective buyers.

Should You Replace Water Pipes Yourself?

Some plumbing repairs, such as replacing a shower head or faucet, can easily be done on your own. But a more complex project like a system-wide pipe replacement is more complicated and should be completed by a licensed professional.

A certified plumber has all of the equipment, skills, and knowledge to complete the job without causing more issues. Having a professional do the job can also ensure the safety of your home and you.

Call Sierra and Improve Your Water Quality

If you’re ready to enjoy better quality water in your home, a member of the Sierra team can help get you started with a pipe replacement. Give us a call today to speak with one of our professionals and receive a free quote.

Having an unexpected AC problem in the middle of the summer can be a difficult thing to deal with. Although this can be a huge inconvenience there may be a way to fix this on your own. Here are a few suggestions to try if your AC is having problems.

Common AC Problems And Possible Solutions To Fix Them

Some minor AC problems can be fixed on your own at home. Other more complex repairs will need an HVAC professional to complete the job.

Blowing Hot Air

If you just got home from being out in the heat all day an AC that blows hot air can be frustrating. But there may be a quick repair that you can do yourself to solve the problem.

Replace dead or low batteries in your thermostat and make sure that the thermostat settings are correct. If it isn’t set properly, reset it. If the problem continues then double-check your circuit breaker and make sure it hasn’t tripped. You can restart it by turning it on and then off.

Unpleasant Smells and Strange Sounds

If a strange smell starts when you turn on your AC but goes away quickly it is usually caused because your air conditioning system has not been run in some time. Before you turn it on make sure that it has been cleaned. If you are smelling a burning or gas smell contact a professional as soon as you can.

Hearing weird sounds coming from your AC unit usually indicate a bigger issue such as electrical problems. Getting an inspection done by an HVAC professional is highly recommended.

Leak Around the System

As your AC system is cooling down your home or space it is also removing moisture from the air. Leaks on the outside or inside of your AC unit indicate that maintenance should take place. However, one common cause of a leaky AC is a clogged drain.

 

Inspect your AC unit to ensure the components are in working order. Make sure that the condensate drain line is free from clogs or blockages and that the condensate pump is removing water as it should be.

Unit Isn’t Turning On

If your AC system refuses to turn on the best thing to try is to follow the same steps as above for when an AC is blowing hot air.

Frozen Coil

For your air conditioner to function properly, warm air has to be able to reach the coil. Occasionally there will be a build up of dirt and debris that causes your coil to not receive that air and freeze.

First, ensure that your AC unit has been disconnected. This will allow the coil to defrost. While it is thawing, inspect the inside of your unit. If there are any signs of debris and dirt buildup, clean all areas.

Unit Cycles On and Off

You can cause damage to your AC’s compressor and fan if you turn your AC on and off many times over a short period of time. This is because it stresses the unit and makes the components work harder every time the AC is turned on.

 

Since acid can build up which can be dangerous, this problem is best handled by an HVAC professional that can give your unit a tune-up in the process.

Weak Airflow

If you’re feeling hot and cold drafts throughout your home, you most likely have weak airflow. Weak airflow can be caused by a variety of reasons including, dirty air filters, the vents being blocked by furniture and appliances, low refrigerant, and leaking ducts.

Check your thermostat and if it appears to be faulty, recalibrate it. If you’re still noticing airflow problems, then ensure that your air filters are changed or cleaned and that no vents are being blocked.

Replacement vs. Repair: What to Consider

If your air conditioning system is having problems, you may be considering a replacement. Keep in mind these few things when deciding if a repair or replacement is best for you.

 

Unit Has Reached its Lifespan

As with all appliances, air conditioners have a max service life. Newer, modern models usually last 15-20 years while older models will last about 10-12 years. If you believe your AC system is past its service life, it may be time to get a replacement.

Monthly Cost of Energy Bills

If your AC unit is having trouble performing it can cause your energy bill to skyrocket. This is because it’s taking up more energy and needs to work harder to produce results. Contacting an HVAC professional will help you decide if a replacement or repair is necessary.

Cost of Repair vs. Replacing Your AC System

The cost of a replacement vs repair may be your biggest question. The average cost for a replacement AC unit is $2,500-$15,000 while the cost for repairs is much lower. They range from $100-$900 depending on if your unit is a central or mini-split system.

The team at Sierra Air is here to help you diagnose that unexpected AC problem. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

 

 

If you just began your search for new water, there are a couple of different types to consider for your decision. This will be an investment in your home for many years. Here we will share with you how water heaters are different and the benefits and pain points of each.

The Differences Between A Tankless And A Traditional Water Heater

Tankless and traditional water heaters have key differences in features and functionality. Understanding how each type works will let you choose which is best for your home and receive the best water temperature.

The Basics

Traditional water heaters come equipped with a water tank that stores water. This tank will preheat 30-50 gallons of water. Once that hot water runs out, it will begin refilling and preheating 30-50 more gallons of water.

Tankless water heaters don’t have a tank and don’t store water. Instead of this method, they will use gas or electricity to heat up the water as needed. This only heats the water that is being used and is on an “on-demand” system.

And as with anything, there are pros and cons to each type of water heater.

Tankless Water Heaters: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Higher Energy Efficiency. When compared to traditional water heaters, these types of heaters are 24%-34% more energy-efficient as long as up to 41 gallons of water is used per day.
• Lower Energy Bills.Because tankless heaters only heat up the amount of water you are using, they are more energy efficient. If you live in an area where energy costs more, you may be able to save on your energy bill with a tankless heater.
• Saves Space.Since these don’t have large, bulky tanks they can fit into smaller places. This makes a great option if you are trying to maximize space in your home.
• On-Demand Hot Water. Since only the water you’re using is heated, your water will continue to run hot until you are finished with your task.

 

Cons

• Electricity Dependent. These units require electricity to heat the water, even if the unit is a gas-powered unit. So if a power outage occurs you won’t be able to have hot water. If you live in an area that experiences a lot of outages this may not be the best option for you.
• Unit Cost & Upfront Cost. Upfront cost of tankless heaters is more than traditional water heaters. This is because the unit costs more and the installation is a little more complex. Although the upfront cost is higher, since these units are more energy efficient and have a longer lifespan, they should pay for themselves in a few short years.
• Less Efficient at Multiple Appliances.Because only a limited amount of hot water is heated at a time, if you’re running more than one water appliance such as your dishwasher or washing machine at the same time your hot will go in and out. This may be avoided if less water is used or an additional water heater is installed.

Traditional Water Heaters: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Installation Cost.Due to homes already having the appropriate plumbing necessary for the installation of these water heaters, the cost is nearly half that of a tankless water heater.
• Easy Replacement.Because these water heaters are more common, it’s easier for plumbers to replace and maintain them.
• Increased Hot Water Flow. Since these water heaters come with a large water storage tank, they will have hot water ready for when you need it. It also remains hot when flowing to multiple appliances at the same time.

Cons

• Take Up A Lot of Space.These heaters must be in a covered area and are very bulky due to the storage tank so they take up a lot of space. This may not be ideal if your home is smaller.
• Uses More Energy. Because the water heater is always reheating water to the pre-set thermostat setting, it will still be using energy even if you’re not actively using the hot water.
• Relatively Short Lifespan. The service life of traditional water heaters is much shorter than a tankless heater. They tend to last 10-15 years on average.

Even though there are pros and cons to each type of water heater, it really depends on your needs for your home. Keep in mind these points when you’re deciding between a traditional and tankless water heater.

The Sierra team is here to help you make the choice of which water heater will be best for your home. Give us a call today for a consultation!

 

 

Have you ever spent a day cleaning, only to find that your house is dusty a few days later? Dusting is a thankless job, and what’s worse, it seems like it needs to be done constantly.

You can’t eliminate dusting from your to-do list completely, but you can get your HVAC system to help you cut back on the dust and keep your home cleaner. Here’s how.

After being cooped up over a long winter, most of us are thrilled to open windows and get some fresh air flowing in our homes. Unfortunately, that also means letting in dust and allergens that can have you sneezing and congested, instead of enjoying the new season.

Cleaning only helps so much, so if you want to keep your home squeaky clean, find out how you can get your HVAC system to reduce your home dust.

What Causes Home Dust?

No matter how often you clean, you will notice that dust still comes around and ends up on your floor, tables, furniture, and everywhere else. You can dust, but it’ll still come back.

Where does dust come from? It’s an accumulation of dead skin cells, pet dander, dirt, pollen, and other airborne particles, so you’ll always produce dust just by living in your home. If you have allergies or respiratory conditions, however, these particles will irritate them.

If you use your HVAC system to help, you can cut back on the regular dusting and enjoy a cleaner home.

How to Reduce Home Dust

Your HVAC system can take on some of the work of keeping your home dust-free. Here’s what you can do:

Replace Your Air Filters

Your HVAC filter is designed to filter the air and keep it free from dust and dirt particles. It catches some of these particles coming in, keeping them from ending up on your floors and surfaces.

Still, over time, your filter will accumulate dust on its own. If you don’t replace it regularly, you’ll just put all that dust back into the air. When you’re replacing your filter, you may want to consider getting a better quality filter.

All air filters are classified by MERV ratings. Filters with a MERV rating below 4 are enough for the average home, but if you have allergies, respiratory conditions, or pets, you may need a higher rating.

Higher isn’t always better, however. MERV ratings go up over 13 and clear virtually everything from the air, but they’re typically used in specialized settings like hospitals or pharmacies. It’s best to get an air filter between 4 and 13 to keep your home cleaner.

Use the HVAC Fan While Cleaning

Air filters are good at removing the dust and dirt that’s in your home’s air, but that doesn’t help you remove it from your surfaces.

When you clean, you’re sending dust and dirt flying into the air while you wipe down surfaces and sweep your floors. This can all go into the air filter, rather than falling back down to undo your work.

Inspect Your Air Ducts

Aside from the dust you can see, there’s plenty that’s inside your air ducts. Left alone, this dust will build up and add wear and tear to your HVAC system, not to mention that it all gets sent back into your home when your system is running.

You should have your ducts cleaned regularly to keep up with this dust. As part of regular HVAC maintenance, air duct cleaning ensures that you don’t have a buildup of dust and dirt that harms your HVAC system’s efficiency.

Clean Air Vent Registers

As your HVAC system runs, dust comes into the ducts or gets blown back into your home, but a lot of it gets stuck in the vent registers. The nooks and crannies are the perfect place for dust to end up. Fortunately, you can minimize this buildup by wiping down your air vents every week or two.

 

 

Install an Electric Air Cleaner

If you want to ensure that a minimal amount of dust goes into your home, invest in an electric air cleaner. This component attaches to your HVAC system to filter out microscopic particles from the air using electrostatic energy. The dust and dirt are drawn in, including microscopic pollutants like viruses, mold, and bacteria.

If you have allergies or other respiratory conditions, an electric air cleaner is a good choice to keep your home as clean as possible.

If you want to take an extra step to reduce dust in your home, you can invest in an electric air cleaner. This is a component that can be added to your HVAC system that filters out microscopic particles from the air.

Book a Routine HVAC Inspection and Tune Up

Your HVAC system is a major part of keeping your home comfortable in cold or hot weather. It’s also complex and has many components that can be damaged, especially after a long season. Routine HVAC maintenance is important for keeping your system running its best and promoting healthy indoor air quality.

Looking to improve your indoor air quality? Contact us at Sierra Air!

An HVAC system is a big home investment, but it’s not always easy to pay for. Fortunately, you have options to make those costs more manageable, including HVAC financing.

Is HVAC financing right for you? Find out more about different ways to finance the cost of an HVAC system.

What Are HVAC Loans?

HVAC loans are a lot like other loans, such as an auto loan. Instead of paying the high upfront cost, you can take out a loan to break up the price into monthly installments that are more manageable.

Loans are helpful for big purchases like an HVAC system, but your ability to get a loan depends on your credit score and history. The higher your score is, the better your rate will be – and the less you’ll pay over the life of the loan.

Check out your options for HVAC financing:

HVAC Company Financing

One of the best options for HVAC loans is the HVAC company itself. Many companies offer financing options, including Sierra Air. You can get the HVAC system that’s ideal for your home, even if your budget is tight, with a competitive loan rate.

Depending on your credit score, you can get a customized payment plan with monthly installments that you can afford. Even if you were looking to pay for your HVAC system at once, it’s definitely worth seeing what financing options are available.

Bank Financing

Bank loans are a common option for many people looking to make a big purchase. If you have a mortgage or car loan with that bank, it could be easier to get a loan for your HVAC system.

Banks aren’t without their disadvantages, however, including:

• High interest rates
• A stringent application process
• Long wait times for approval

Credit Union Financing

Credit unions are similar to banks, but there are many advantages to working with a credit union. Loans through credit unions typically have more competitive rates, which saves you money over the cost of your loan. The approval process is not as challenging, since the credit union considers your entire credit history, not just a credit score.

This may not be an option for everyone, though. You must already be a member of a credit union to get a loan. If you’re not, it will take time to check out local credit unions and go through the application process to become a member.

Government FHA Title 1 Loans

A Federal Housing Association (FHA) loan is an option if you don’t want to put up your car or home as collateral. These loans are fixed rate and used for home improvements and repair. You can apply for up to $7,500. If this is a good option for you, learn more at the FHA website.

What About Credit Cards?

Credit cards are a favorite of many people to handle unexpected expenses, financial emergencies, or other large purchases. Similar to a loan, you can pay for a large purchase with a credit card and pay it off in monthly installments.

One of the challenges with credit cards is that it comes with a high cost in interest. If you’re not careful, you can end up paying a lot more for your purchase with interest factored in.

If you want to use your credit card for an HVAC purchase, rely on cards that have lower interest rates. Look for promotional offers or deals with zero Annual Percentage Rate (APR), which gives you time to pay off your purchase without added interest. Just make sure to read the fine print to understand when you will pay interest, and how much, to be sure you can manage the payments.

Key Points to Consider When Taking Out a Loan

It’s important to compare offers when it comes to loans and financing. Here are some points to consider:

APR

The APR is the percentage that you will pay yearly over the term of your loan. This percentage is included in your contract, so make sure to read it thoroughly before committing.

Monthly Repayments

As you compare loan options, think about your budget and your monthly payment amounts. Make sure they’re affordable with your other bills, otherwise, you could end up with no money left over after your bills are paid.

Discounts

Getting the best interest rates for financing takes some time and effort. It’s best to shop around to see what offers you have and compare them, rather than agreeing to the first loan option you have.

Some local utility companies offer rebates for energy-efficient upgrades, so that’s worth looking into. Look for local deals at the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency. You should also check for tax credits or rebates under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

Lender Fees

Lenders charge different fees and additional charges that can add up, so make sure you’re considering all of this information before you take a loan.

The Benefits of HVAC Financing

If you buy an HVAC system through an HVAC company like Sierra Air, you can get some of the most competitive financing options for your new system. This is a big investment, but it will practically pay for itself in energy savings and longevity.

Sierra Air offers a range of financing plans to help you get the best HVAC system for your home. Speak to our advisors to get a personalized payment plan based on your budget.

Ready to shop for HVAC systems? Contact us at Sierra Air to see what we have to offer.

The thought of pollution often triggers smog in cities, exhaust from vehicles, or black smoke coming from industrial buildings. But did you know that your indoor air can actually be much worse than the pollution outside?

Find out more about your indoor air quality, why it matters, and what you can do to keep it as clean as possible.

Why Does It Matter?

We often think of the outdoor air as being much dirtier than indoor air, but that’s not always the case. Outdoor pollution can be significant, but there’s evidence that the air within our homes and workplaces is more seriously polluted than the outdoors – and may come with bigger consequences.

According to the EPA, indoor air pollutants can cause a wide range of issues, ranging from respiratory irritation to serious health conditions like cancer or heart disease.

When your indoor air is clean, you’re not tasking your body with filtering out dust, pet dander, mold, and other contaminants, some of which you breathe in. You’re also less likely to suffer from severe allergies or complications with respiratory issues like COPD or asthma.

What Could Be in Your Air?

Wondering what’s lurking in your indoor air? Let’s find out.

Pet Dander

Pet dander consists of microscopic flecks of skin shed by cats, dogs, birds, rodents, and other animals with fur or feathers. When people have pet allergies, they’re usually a result of the pet dander, but they may also be triggered by saliva, urine, and sweat.

If you have any of these pets, you likely have pet dander in your indoor air that can end up in your household dust.

Dust

Dust is composed of dead skin cells, pet dander, bits of insects, and other particles. Dust mites are tiny insects that feed on dust.

Dust mites often live in mattresses, bedding, and upholstered furniture, but they can be found throughout your home. Dust mite allergens are among the most common indoor allergies and can trigger asthma and other breathing issues.

Mold

Mold can grow both indoors and outdoors, but it can enter your home via doorways, windows, vents, or clothing. For people who are sensitive to mold, it can cause throat irritation, coughing, wheezing, stuffiness, or eye irritation.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be dangerous in high concentrations. A common combustion pollutant, carbon monoxide comes from unvented kerosene and gas space heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces, and gas stoves.

At high concentrations, carbon monoxide can be fatal, but at lower levels, it may cause symptoms like headaches, weakness, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.

Lead

Lead was common in homes for millennia. Even as recently as the 1970s, lead was still used for household pipes, pots and pans, and paint, leading people to become sick. The US passed laws to reduce the use of lead during this period, but it’s still present in homes built before 1978.

When lead becomes airborne, it can enter your body when you breathe it in or swallow the particles. At high levels, lead can affect all systems of the body, causing convulsions, coma, or death. Even small exposure levels can have a negative effect on the brain, blood cells, kidneys, and central nervous system.

Radon

Radon is an odorless, invisible, radioactive gas that’s naturally released from rocks, soil, and water. Itcan enter homes through small cracks or holes, or it may build up in the air. The health risks associated with radon come from breathing in radioactive particles that can be trapped in the lungs, leading to tissue damage and lung cancer.

Volatile Organic Compounds

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are vapors or gasses with carbon that are volatile by nature. Many indoor products release VOCs, such as paints, stored fuels, wood preservatives, building materials, office equipment, disinfectants, furnishings, and indoor cleaning products.

VOCs are the most common contaminant in office and industrial settings. Short-term exposure can cause respiratory problems, allergic skin reactions, nausea, dizziness, and headaches, but long-term exposure can lead to nervous system damage, liver damage, and kidney damage.

How to Measure Indoor Air Quality

There are many ways to measure and test your indoor air quality, including:

Specialty Monitors

Specialty indoor air quality monitors provide high-quality professional testing to find out what pollutants you have in your home. These monitors can be pricey, but they test for multiple pollutants to ensure you have accurate, comprehensive results.

Finding the right size air conditioner for your home is crucial to stay comfortable without breaking the bank. Oversized AC units can waste energy and deliver subpar cooling results, while undersized ones struggle to meet performance demands.

To ensure maximum comfort and efficiency, take the time to find an AC that fits your home’s unique needs.

Understanding BTU Outputs

When looking for an air conditioner, you will likely come across BTU outputs, or the measure of energy an AC unit uses to cool a room. While many may think that the highest BTU output will provide the most efficient cooling, this is not always true.

What is BTU?

BTU, also known as British Thermal Unit, is a unit of energy commonly used in the United States and other countries to measure the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

 

Why Are They Used?

Air conditioners use BTUs to indicate the efficiency of their cooling capacity. This capacity signifies the amount of heat an air conditioner can eliminate from a given space in a specific period.

How to Check Your AC’s BTU

Your AC’s BTU rating should be on the same label where you’ll find your manufacturing date and model number. If you’re unsure which label to look for, consult your owner’s manual. Alternatively, you can search for the model number online and find the BTU output with a simple search.

Does One Size Fit All?

Not all ACs are the same. The size of an air conditioner needed for a particular space will depend on several factors, such as the size of the space, the number of people occupying the space, the amount of insulation in the building, the local climate, and the amount of direct sunlight the area gets.

Types of Central Air Conditioners

If you’re in the market for a new air conditioning unit, there are many different types to consider. Below, you’ll find a list of the most commonly used central air conditioning systems.

• Split Systems – This is the most common type of central air conditioner, where an outdoor unit contains the condenser and compressor, and an indoor unit contains the evaporator.
• Packaged Systems – This type of central air conditioner is used when there is limited space for a split system. In a packaged system, all components are housed in one unit, usually installed on the roof or a concrete slab outside the home.
• Ductless Mini-Split Systems – These AC units are similar to split systems but do not require ductwork. Instead, individual units are installed in each room that needs cooling and connected to an outdoor unit. Each unit can be controlled separately and is ideal for homes that do not have ductwork or for those who want more control over individual room temperatures.
• Heat Pumps – Heat pumps use the same principles as air conditioners but can also run in reverse to provide heating. They are an efficient way to heat and cool a space and use less energy than traditional AC units.

Understanding Energy Efficiency Ratings

The most common rating system for AC units is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). This rating measures the cooling efficiency of the AC unit over a season. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the unit is.

For instance, an AC unit with a SEER rating of 13 will consume more energy than a unit with a SEER rating of 21. Although the more efficient unit may cost a bit more initially, it will save you money over time due to its lower energy consumption.

Purchase Considerations

When choosing an air conditioning system, several factors must be considered to select the most suitable option.

Price Range

One of the first things most people consider when buying an AC unit is the price range. Depending on your budget, you can choose from various options, including window units, portable units, or central air conditioning systems. Portable units usually cost the least, while central air conditioning systems are more expensive.

Financing

If you don’t have the funds to pay upfront for a new AC unit, financing is an option to consider. Many companies offer financing programs that allow you to pay for the unit over a set period of time.

Tax Credits

Some eco-friendly AC units that meet certain energy efficiency requirements may qualify for federal tax credits. This can be significant savings for homeowners, but it’s important to check with your local government before making a purchase to ensure it qualifies for the credit.

Rebates

Rebates are another option worth considering, especially if you live in a region with high energy costs. Many utility companies offer rebates for purchasing an energy-efficient AC unit or upgrading your home to improve energy efficiency. These rebates can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the unit and the region.

Looking for a way to keep cool this summer without breaking the bank? With a better understanding of energy-efficient ratings and the different options available, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect air conditioning system for your home for less.

Call Sierra today for help with any of your air conditioning needs or questions.