HVAC

Saving money on your energy bills doesn’t have to be complicated. There are a lot of simple things you can do to reduce your energy use, save money on your bills, and help the environment.

Here are tips to get you started and help you on your way to low energy bills.

Get an Energy Audit

The first thing to do is get an energy audit. An energy audit will tell you where your biggest energy-loss culprits are and what you can do to fix them. You can do it yourself, but it’s easier with a professional.

A good energy auditor will look at the whole house and recommend ways to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. They’ll also recommend specific repairs, such as sealing leaks in your ductwork or installing new insulation in your attic.

Even better, energy auditors may also be able to help you get rebates for installing certain types of equipment and appliances that use less energy.

You’ll come away with a list of recommendations to help you reduce your energy consumption. Of course, it might involve investing money to implement the suggestions. But many home improvements pay for themselves within two years by generating low energy bills.

Make Sure Your Home is Insulated

Insulation prevents heat from escaping through the walls of your house during winter and keeps heat inside during summer. This means less power is needed for heating or cooling and less money spent on bills.

In addition, insulation keeps your home comfortable year-round. You can lower your thermostat by a few degrees during the summer or winter, saving you even more money on energy bills!

Moreover, insulating your home also helps reduce noise pollution and lower moisture levels preventing mold growth.

Insulate Your Water Heater

The secret to low energy bills is to insulate your water heater. It’s a simple, no-cost way to reduce the heat lost through your hot water pipes, which means less work for your furnace or air conditioner.

Covering your water heater can help keep it warm in the winter and cool in the summer. You can buy a cover at home improvement stores or online. In addition, some manufacturers sell custom insulated covers that fit snugly around the tank.

Use Appliances During Off-Peak Hours

One simple way to save money on your electric bill is to use appliances during off-peak hours. This means that instead of running the dishwasher or washing machine and other major appliances like the dryer, you should wait until 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., when most people are not as active, and demand for electricity is lower.

Change Your Air Filter

The air filter in your HVAC system is one of the most essential parts of the unit, and it can also be one of the easiest to forget about.

But when you don’t change your filters regularly, you’re essentially letting dust and dirt build up inside your system. This can cause problems with efficiency, which means you’ll be paying more for your electricity bill than you need to.

The best way to keep your filters clean is to schedule regular HVAC maintenance.

Lower the Settings on Your Thermostat

Lowering the temperature by just a few degrees can make a big difference in your energy bill. And chances are you won’t even feel the difference.

In addition, you can save money by using a programmable thermostat that reduces heat or air conditioning when you leave your home or office. You can also set it to turn off when no one is there.

Landscape for Shade

Shade trees and dense scrub can save you money on your energy bills by reducing your air conditioner usage in the summer as the trees block out some of the heat. They also insulate your home by adding a layer of protection between your home and the cold weather conditions. And the best thing is, they also add curb appeal to your home.

Replace Your Showerhead

Replacing your old showerhead with a low-flow model can help you save money on water and energy costs by reducing both water consumption and energy use from heating that water.

Use LED Light Bulbs

LED lighting is an energy-efficient alternative to traditional incandescent bulbs and CFLs. In addition, LED light bulbs are designed to last a long time, and they don’t contain mercury like some other types of bulbs.

Make Sure to Get HVAC Maintenance and Tune-Ups

A HVAC tune-up is one of the best ways to make sure your energy bill stays low. Regular maintenance extends the life of your equipment by keeping it free from dirt, dust, lint, and other contaminants that build up over time. This reduces wear on moving parts and makes it easier for the unit to run properly. The harder the unit has to work, the more energy is used.

An HVAC system working at peak efficiency means lower utility bills for you.

Need HVAC maintenance? Get affordable HVAC care with the professionals at Sierra.

Space heaters are one of the easiest and most convenient ways to keep warm during the cool winter months. When used correctly, they can work well to heat a small area. But, like any electronic device, space heaters have a few potential hazards. Follow these easy tips to use a space heater safely.

Keep the Space Heater on the Floor

When using a portable space heater, it’s essential to keep it on the floor. Never put it on a table or countertop — that’s how fires start. Also, be conscious of what material your space heater is on. Carpets, rugs, and other flammable materials should be avoided. The best place to put your space heater is on a smooth tiled floor or a heatproof mat.

To use a space heater safely, never put it on top of furniture or appliances because it could fall and cause a serious injury or fire. When you place a space heater on top of tables or dressers, you risk burning yourself or damaging your belongings.

Move Flammable Objects Away

Space heaters are generally not intended as the primary heating source in any room or area of a home or building. Instead, they’re designed to supplement central heating systems in small rooms or spaces where additional heat is desired.

Never place anything on top of your heater — even if it’s turned off — because it could overheat and start a fire if accidentally turned back on while items are on top of it.

And keep all flammable objects away from your space heater, including curtains and drapes. Ideally, anything should be at least 3 feet away from your space heater. Even if the space heater is turned off, make sure nothing is around it until it’s completely cooled.

Never Leave the Space Heater Unattended

Never leave your space heater unattended. If you go to sleep or leave the house for any length of time, turn off the space heater and unplug it.

Because space heaters are so easy to use and provide such quick results, many people leave them on after they’ve left the room, even for a bathroom break. However, leaving your space heater unattended can be dangerous.

Always unplug your space heater before leaving the room or going to bed at night. The fact is that a space heater should never be left unsupervised. If the space heater overheats while you are out, the damage can be astronomical.

Avoid Using Power strips or Extension Cords

Extension cords should never be used with space heaters because they are not meant for such high-wattage devices.

Extension cords and power strips aren’t designed for use with high-wattage appliances like space heaters. This means that when you plug your space heater into an extension cord or power strip, it can overheat, causing a fire or even melting the insulation on the wire. In addition, this could potentially cause an electrical shock when touched by someone nearby.

Keep Kids and Pets Away

Curious children and hot space heaters are a bad combination. Children can burn themselves from touching the hot surfaces or knock over the space heater by getting tangled in the cord.

If you must use a space heater in an area where there are young children, install safety guards around the front of the unit. Ensure that no part of the guard is missing or damaged so fingers cannot get caught inside. The same goes for curious pets. They could get burned by touching the heated surface or accidentally knock it over.

Never Put it Near Liquids

Water and space heaters don’t mix. It’s a common misconception that you can use a space heater in the bathroom or near water, it can cause an electric shock or start a fire.

This is because water conducts electricity, when it comes into contact with an electrical source, it can cause sparks or fire.

If you notice that your space heater is getting wet, immediately turn off the power and remove the plug from the wall. Also, never use your space heater in the bathroom or near sinks.

Contact the experts at Sierra for your home heating needs this winter.

It’s not easy to track all the heating maintenance your home needs when life gets busy — from sealing up those tiny holes to maintaining the right thermostat settings. And these may seem like minor things to worry about, but in the long run they be very costly.

So how can you keep your home warm without wasting energy? Check out these five common HVAC mistakes that drive up your heating bill, and the simple tweaks you can make to avoid them.

Not Changing Your Air Filter

Air filters are a crucial part of your heating and cooling system. They’re designed to keep dust and other particles out of the air you breathe and keep your HVAC system clean.

The thing is that they also collect dirt, pollen, and pet dander. Over time, they get clogged with these contaminants, which means they can’t do their job as well anymore.

An HVAC mistake is not changing your air filter regularly. Dust and debris build up inside the unit and reduce its ability to effectively cool or heat your home. This can also cause premature wear on parts of the system, which will increase your energy bills.

Moreover, a dirty air filter can lead to pollutants entering your home. You don’t want to breathe in dust and dirt, so changing your filter is vital for better health.

Your Thermostat is in the Wrong Place

When thinking about home energy efficiency, the thermostat is one of the most important components in your home.

The location of your thermostat affects its performance because it can impact how often it records temperature changes. If your thermostat is located on an outside wall, for example, there may be times when it doesn’t accurately display what’s going on inside your home. This could lead to higher bills for no reason at all!

The best place for your thermostat is in the middle of your home or in a room you frequent the most. And avoid placing it upstairs. Heat rises, so you won’t get an accurate reading.

Most of all, keep your thermostat away from direct sunlight or windows and doors. The drafts and temperature fluctuations make it difficult for your thermostat to give an accurate reading.

Forgetting HVAC Tune-Ups

One way to help keep your heating costs down is by having a tune-up on your furnace.

An HVAC tune-up is a thorough cleaning and inspection of your heating system. A service technician will look at several things that could be causing your system to run inefficiently — such as dirty coils, air filters, and more. They may also identify problems with airflow in the ductwork that are hard to spot but can cause higher energy costs over time.

The benefits of getting your furnace tuned up include:

• Increased efficiency – A properly tuned-up furnace burns fuel more efficiently, which reduces emissions and helps keep down utility bills.
• Reduced wear – The furnace’s internal parts are kept clean during the process, reducing wear on moving parts and extending their life span.

Closing Registers and Vents

Closing the vents and registers in your home is not advised when it’s cold outside. Closing them off can actually hurt energy efficiency, restrict airflow and make your furnace work harder.

There are a couple of reasons people do this. First, they think it saves energy when keeping their homes warm. Secondly, they’re worried about dust or allergens being released from ducts.

The truth is that closing your vents and registers can make your home less efficient and lead to mold growth in the ducts.

Here’s why. Closing off vents and registers can cause poor airflow in your home, which makes it harder for the furnace or air conditioner to heat or cool your home properly. This leads to higher energy bills and longer heating times, costing you more money if ignored.

It also increases wear on your furnace — resulting in more repairs down the road.

Frequently Adjusting the Thermostat

As the winter months approach, turning up the heat to keep warm is tempting. But what you may not know is that increasing your thermostat setting doesn’t actually make your house any more comfortable.

If you want to save energy, there are two ways to do it — reduce how much energy your home uses or improve how efficiently it uses that energy. You can do this by sealing leaks in your home, so air doesn’t escape or by buying energy-efficient appliances like refrigerators and furnaces.

But there’s also a third option: adjusting the temperature on your heating system itself, so it doesn’t have to work as hard.

Turning down your thermostat is handy since lowering the temperature, even by one degree, can cut energy costs.

Make sure your HVAC is in good working order and save on energy bills by booking a HVAC tune-up with the experts at Sierra.

As the weather’s getting colder, you may be trying to figure out what to do with your plants. Bringing them inside your home for winter is the best way to keep them healthy and strong.

The cold can wreak havoc on some plants and cause them to die before spring arrives. Here are some reasons you should consider moving your outdoor plants inside as temperatures continue to dip.

The Best Time to Bring Plants Inside

The best time to bring a plant inside is when it gets below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature drops below that mark, your plant may freeze and die. Some plants may stop blooming or growing altogether if it gets too cold outside. The longer you wait to bring in your plants, the greater their risk of damage from cold weather conditions.

That’s why it’s essential to know how tolerant to cold your plants are before deciding whether or not they need to come inside for the winter. For example, citrus trees can tolerate temperatures down to about 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

However, most other plants need a minimum temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13°C) in order to survive over the winter months.

Plant Placement

It’s tempting to plop your new plant wherever there’s an open spot on the bookshelf or table, but that’s not always the best option.

Plants need sunlight, some require at least six hours a day in order to thrive. Therefore, you need to be strategic with where you put your plants and how much sun they get.

If they’re under a lamp or other artificial light source, ensure it’s not too hot or bright, or else it could do more damage than good. And if there’s no natural light coming through nearby windows, consider investing in some grow lights or fluorescent bulbs that mimic natural sunlight as closely as possible.

Most of all, don’t leave your plants where they can be knocked over by children or pets. Sudden movement can stress a plant, and you don’t want soil all over your floor!

Debug and Clean Plants

When it comes to pests, many different types can affect your indoor plants: aphids, caterpillars, mealybugs, and scale insects are just a few examples. However, they all have one thing in common — they want to feed on your plant’s leaves, stems, or roots.

The best way to deal with a pest infestation is to nip it in the bud as soon as possible. You can remove any infested leaves or stems and dispose of them in the trash. If you think that more insects might be hiding in the plant, you should also use an insecticidal soap spray or neem oil spray on the plant itself.

If you’d rather not use insecticide, a simple soap and water solution will also do the trick. Apple cider vinegar is another natural way to handle your infestation problem. Mix 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water in a spray bottle and apply directly to insects or around the base of your plant. This will kill them instantly and won’t harm your plant. But don’t overdo it.

Reduce Watering

When you bring outdoor plants inside for the winter, you need to cut back on watering. Watering plants that are acclimated to outdoor conditions can lead to root rot and other health issues because the soil becomes too moist.

You also need to water plants less frequently indoors because there is less evaporation from the soil surface.

If your plants are in pots, water regularly but not too much. If they are sitting in saucers, then make sure that these do not dry out completely and keep an eye on them, so they don’t get overwatered.

It’s a delicate balance, but by watching how your plants respond to water and feeling the moisture in the soil, you’ll soon be able to judge correctly.

Make Sure There’s Light and Humidity

All plants need sunlight to grow and survive. However, this doesn’t mean they all require direct sunlight all day. Some plants thrive in indirect sunlight, while others prefer the darkness of a shaded area.

If your houseplant is getting too much sunlight it’s burning up leaves, move it away from the window. Or rotate it, so the sun doesn’t hit leaves directly for long periods of time.

Plants that need moderate light can grow fine in an office or bedroom with fluorescent lamps or regular incandescent bulbs. However, if you have larger plants, investing in some grow lights, or other fixtures that emit higher energy levels may be necessary.

Indoor plants need proper humidity to thrive because they can’t get enough water through their roots if there isn’t enough moisture in the air around them. If they don’t get enough water, they will begin losing leaves and eventually die if left untreated.

Many plants need a relative humidity of between 40%-60% to thrive. Therefore, keeping your heating at a comfortable level can also help your plants.

Keep your home’s temperature and humidity comfortable this winter by booking a furnace tune-up with Sierra.

Why Does My Furnace Fail to Blow Hot Air?

It can be frustrating and upsetting when your furnace isn’t blowing hot air. But before you panic or decide that your furnace needs replacing, here are a few simple checks. Some furnace maintenance will have your home warm and cozy again for the winter.

Broken Thermostat

A thermostat is a great place to start your checks if you suspect any problems with your heating system.

Fan is Set to On

A fan that’s on all the time eventually starts blowing cool air. That’s because the room has reached the desired temperature, but the fan still needs to be on. So it switched to cool air to prevent overheating the room. Switching your fan to auto resolves this issue.

The Thermostat Keeps Being Changed

Wondering why your room is cool despite setting the thermostat to a warmer temperature? Check with family members and see if anyone has changed the settings.

Battery is Low

If your thermostat has a battery, it will need to be replaced periodically. You can usually buy the battery at your local hardware store, then install it yourself. But if you aren’t sure, contact an HVAC professional for furnace maintenance.

Air Filter is Clogged or Dirty

The most common reason for a furnace to blow cold air is because of a dirty or clogged air filter. The air filter should be cleaned monthly, but if it gets too dirty, it can restrict airflow and cause the system to overheat and blow cold air.

High Limit Switch Failed

The high limit switch is an important safety feature that shuts off the furnace when it reaches a specific temperature.

If the high limit switch on your furnace is broken, you’ll need to replace it before turning it back on. Replacing the high limit switch involves removing the old one and installing a new one. If unsure how to do this, contact a professional for furnace maintenance.

Clog in the Condensate Drain Line

A clogged condensate drain line is a common reason a furnace stops working correctly. The condensate pump pulls water from the bottom of your furnace through a drain line and back into the sump pan. If the condensate line becomes blocked, it can cause your furnace to overheat or stop working altogether.

Issues with the Fuel Source

Furnaces can burn out or stop working for many reasons, from a change in the weather to a power failure, but one of the most common is running out of fuel. So check your oil tank, gas supply, and fuses before calling a technician. If in doubt about gas, oil, or electricity, call an expert. Don’t put yourself or your family in danger.

Broken and Leaking Ducts

Leaky ducts can cause a decrease in efficiency and make your home less comfortable. They can also lead to mold growth and other health issues. If you notice cold air blowing through the vents when there’s no longer a need to cool or heat the room, this might mean there’s a leaky duct somewhere in your system.

Pilot Light Isn’t On

If your pilot light isn’t working, you may need furnace maintenance.

If you have a forced-air furnace and the pilot light is not working, it’s important to address this as soon as possible. The pilot light is what lights up the gas inside the burner chamber. It’s what makes your furnace work properly and keeps your home warm.

Burner Issues

The most common cause of a blocked burner is the build-up of dirt and grease. The burner plate is usually made of cast iron, and the burner’s heat causes the grease to carbonize and build up. This will eventually block the holes in the plate and stop further airflow. Regular furnace tune-ups will help avoid this issue.

Flame Sensor Issues

The flame sensor is an electrical device that measures the flame’s temperature to determine if the furnace has enough heat to burn properly. If there is not enough heat, it may shut off to prevent damage to other parts of your system. If this happens too often, you may need to replace it with a new one.

Always Call a Professional for Furnace Maintenance

Furnaces are complex machines with multiple parts that can break down over time. If you’re not an expert on how furnaces work or what could potentially go wrong with them, then it’s just too risky for you to try fixing them yourself.

Professional furnace maintenance technicians can fix most issues quickly. Even though furnaces are complicated machines, most problems are relatively easy for professionals to fix. Their experience means they know exactly what needs to be done to get your home warm again in no time.

Don’t suffer from the shivers this winter. Book a furnace tune-up with the HVAC experts at Sierra and keep your home warm and toasty.

Signs You Need a Furnace Tune-Up

If your furnace is no longer heating your home, or you notice that it isn’t working as it should be, it may be time for a tune-up. A tune-up involves having your furnace serviced to ensure optimal efficiency. In addition, having clean air ducts minimizes the chances that airborne pollutants will pass through them and enter your home.

The best bit about tune-ups? A fully functioning and efficient furnace can help you save money on your energy bills. A win-win situation for you and your furnace.

How Often Should I Book a Furnace Tune-up?

A furnace tune-up is a necessary service that should be done at least once a year to ensure your furnace is operating at its peak efficiency.

When you have a tune-up, your technician will inspect all of the components in your system and make any necessary repairs. During this process, they will also check for any signs of wear or damage that can cause problems down the road.

If you have an older furnace (or one that hasn’t been maintained regularly), it’s essential to have it checked before the winter season begins. You don’t want to end up shivering through the coldest months of the year.

Why is a Furnace Tune-Up Important?

A furnace tune-up is a maintenance visit that ensures your heating system operates at peak efficiency. The purpose of a furnace tune-up is to detect and fix any problems with your heating system before they lead to more serious issues.

There are several benefits to booking regular furnace tune-ups –

• Your system will operate as efficiently as possible due to a thorough inspection of filters, thermostat settings, and other equipment.
• Checking for any signs of damage or wear means there’ll be no hazardous leaks and clogs
• Energy bills are kept low. The more efficient your furnace system is, the less energy it will use.

Signs you Need a Furnace Tune-Up

Not sure if you need an urgent tune-up? If you see any of these signs, it’s time to schedule furnace maintenance.

Energy Bills Costs Have Risen

If your energy bills are higher than last year, it could be because your furnace isn’t working as efficiently as it once did. A professional tune-up should help reduce those costs by ensuring that all parts of your furnace run at optimal levels.

A Weird Smell

Noticing an unpleasant odor coming from your furnace when it kicks on? There may be something wrong with either the blower wheel or the burner assembly inside it. This could mean that parts need to be replaced or cleaned out properly before they cause further damage to other components. A build-up of dust is also a fire risk.

Heat is Patchy (Or There’s no Heat at All)

Your furnace should provide even heat throughout your home. If you notice that some areas of your house are warmer, it could mean an issue with the blower motor or the airflow system. This can be remedied by a furnace tune-up and cleaning out any debris accumulating in vents and ducts.

If you’re noticing cold spots throughout your home, there may be an air leak in your ductwork or insulation – both of which can be fixed by a professional HVAC technician.

Fiddling with the Thermostat Doesn’t Change Anything

If the temperature on your thermostat is significantly different from what you actually feel inside the house, there could be a problem. It could be an issue with the thermostat or the wiring connecting the thermostat to your furnace.

A dirty or damaged thermostat may send inaccurate signals to the furnace, resulting in uneven heating throughout the house. It’s best to have an expert come out and look at it to determine what’s wrong.

Pilot Light is Yellow or Orange

If you have a gas furnace, check to see if it has an inner pilot light. The pilot light burns continuously to ignite the burners whenever you turn on the thermostat. If this is the case, open your furnace and inspect the flame.

If it’s blue, then no worries – everything is normal. But if the flame is yellow or orange, then there may be something wrong with your furnace, and you should call for service immediately.

Furnace is Old

As time goes by, your furnace will age and require more frequent tune-ups. As with any machine, the longer it runs, the more likely it will need some type of repair or maintenance.

Older furnaces are less efficient than newer models, which means they use more energy and money. A tune-up can help increase your furnace’s lifespan by ensuring it’s operating properly. And that can mean significant savings on your utility bills over time.

Keep your furnace in excellent condition and save money on your energy bills by booking a furnace tune-up with the Sierra professionals.

Between summer and fall, when it’s warm in the day but chilly at night, it’s time to start switching between AC and heater systems. However, alternating between the two systems can be confusing.

Our guidelines will help keep you cool and warm without causing damage to your HVAC system.

It’s Ok to Switch Between AC and Heater Systems

When the seasons change, homes can get uncomfortable. That’s why it’s a good idea to use the air conditioner during the day and the heater at night. After all, nobody wants to sweat or shiver when trying to relax at home. Your home should be a place where you can always be comfortable.

Switching between the two systems is fine if you carry out the switch correctly. However, if you fail to follow the guidelines, you could end up with a broken HVAC system or higher energy bills.

Make Sure the System has Completed its Current Cycle

Always wait until the current cycle has finished before switching from AC to heating and vice versa.

This is because the system needs time to adjust. For example, if you change from heating to cooling, the system may need to run longer than usual as it tries to cool your home down.

If you change from cooling to heating, the system may not be able to heat up your home effectively because it’s still trying to get rid of any remaining warm air. It puts pressure on the system and causes unnecessary wear and tear.

It’s best to keep your thermostat on AUTO and wait for the cycle to finish. Then, leave the system for five minutes before switching to either air-conditioning or heating. Taking care with the switch prevents high electricity bills and wear and tear on the system.

Why Short-Cycling is bad for Your HVAC

Short-cycling is when your air conditioner turns on and off too often. The constant on and off motion can cause significant damage to your system.

Short-cycling can cause wear and tear on components such as compressors and fans. This means they may need replacing sooner or need more HVAC maintenance than they would if they weren’t cycled so frequently.

In general, keeping the amount of switching from air-conditioning to heating at a minimum is the best way to avoid short-cycling. If you find your system starting to cut out or short-cycle, book an HVAC maintenance call with one of our system professionals.

What to do if Your compressor Locks Up

If your HVAC compressor is locked up, it’s a sign of a larger problem.

Your air conditioner’s compressor is what pumps refrigerant through your air conditioning system. The refrigerant absorbs heat from your home and transfers it outside. The compressor also lubricates the moving parts inside the system, so they don’t seize up and stop working.

When you turn on your air conditioner, the compressor starts up and begins pumping refrigerant through all of the lines in your house. However, if there’s something wrong with your compressor, it will lock up, which means that it won’t move at all and can’t pump any more refrigerant through your system.

If you find yourself with a locked compressor, the best thing to do is speak to an HVAC expert. The professionals know best when it comes to repairs and replacements.

Why HVAC Maintenance is Essential for a Healthy Heating and Cooling System

The HVAC system in your home should be checked regularly for any issues. Regular maintenance will help you get the most from your HVAC system, which means it will cost less to run and last longer.

Here are some reasons why HVAC maintenance is essential:

1. You can save money on energy bills.
2. It improves the efficiency of your HVAC system.
3. It prolongs the life of your HVAC equipment.
4. It increases the safety of your home.
5. You can avoid the risk of encountering significant problems with the unit.

Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance ensures that your system is operating at peak efficiency and keeps your family safe from harmful pollutants in the air you breathe daily. HVAC maintenance is a critical part of keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient.

Book your HVAC maintenance today.

Make the Transition Between Summer and Fall Easier with a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats help homeowners save money on heating and cooling bills by using sensors that adjust temperatures based on weather patterns, humidity levels, and occupancy rates. They also allow users to remotely control their HVAC systems via smartphone apps or web browsers worldwide.

A smart thermostat will prevent the constant switching from air-conditioning to heating by providing a more consistent temperature throughout the house. Perfect throughout all seasons.

Interested in finding out more? Contact the HVAC professionals at Sierra for more information about managing your home temperature and HVAC system through all seasons.

Furnaces are one of the biggest investments you’ll make for your home. Ideally, your furnace will last 15 or 20 years, especially if you keep up with regular maintenance and repairs.

No matter what, your furnace will start to show its age eventually. Wear and tear from a decade or more of service causes furnaces to lose some efficiency and suffer some minor issues. If you have constant repairs or your furnace can’t keep up, you may be wondering if it’s time to upgrade to a new system.

Here’s all you need to know about replacing your furnace.

What Type of Furnace Should I Get?

Furnaces come in natural gas, oil, and electric versions. Natural gas furnaces are the most common and offer energy efficiency and clean burning. They operate by igniting a pilot light, which then lights the gas in the system to fuel the burners. The result is heated air that comes into your home.

Electric furnaces are also common. They operate like gas furnaces and rely on the same internal components, though they don’t have a pilot light. Instead, they use a blower to bring cool air in and push warm air out.

Finally, there’s the oil furnace. These furnaces aren’t common, but you will find them in older homes or extremely cold climates. They may be used because the home lacks the ductwork for natural gas or electric heating.

Can I Install a New Furnace on My Own?

Installing a furnace may seem simple – especially with a YouTube video, but this is not a DIY project. The average homeowner is not equipped to replace their own furnace. If it’s not done properly, it could lead to dangerous complications. Always leave furnace installation to the pros.

How Do I Know It’s Time to Replace a Furnace?

Here are some signs you should replace your furnace:

• Your home is cold: If some parts of your home aren’t as warm as they should be, despite your thermostat on high and the furnace running, you could be dealing with an aging system. It no longer has the efficiency to keep up with your home’s heating demands.
• You have constant repairs: If you’re dealing with regular repairs for your furnace, and not just the occasional, minor repair, consider if you’d save by replacing it. The upfront cost will be more, but if your repairs are totaling half the cost of the new furnace, just cut your losses and upgrade.
• Your furnace is older: As mentioned, furnaces last 15 or 20 years with regular maintenance. Less if you don’t take care of it. If your furnace is nearing this milestone, you should start thinking about replacing it.
• Skyrocketing energy bills: older furnaces struggle with efficiency. You may notice a spike in your energy bills without an obvious source, such as adding rooms or a particularly cold winter.

When is the Best Time of Year to Replace a Furnace?

You can replace your furnace at any time of year. The best time is the spring and fall, however, when the HVAC technicians aren’t busy with emergency calls and repairs. You can install a new furnace in winter, but you may not want to deal with cold temps while you wait.

How Big Will My New Furnace Be?

Furnaces come in different sizes and choosing the right one has a big effect on your efficiency and comfort. Work with an HVAC professional to determine the ideal size for your new furnace according to your home’s needs. The HVAC professional will perform a heating load calculation test in your home, which shows how well the air circulates and the quality of the air. Then, they can recommend the most efficient furnace for your needs.

Remember, any changes you’ve made to your home will affect the furnace you need, such as adding rooms, replacing insulation, or replacing windows and doors.

How Much Does a New Furnace Cost?

Furnace costs can vary by size and efficiency, especially if you need supporting installation like ductwork or ventilation. Some homes may need more than one furnace, which will increase the costs.

Should I Replace My Furnace and AC at the Same Time?

There’s no rule that you have to replace the furnace and air conditioner at the same time, but it’s a good idea. Your air conditioner is probably getting old as well and pairing an older cooling system with a newer heating system puts strain on the components. Consider replacing both at the same time or within a short period of time, such as a year.

How Long Does It Take to Install a New Furnace?

Most furnace installations can be completed in one day. If you’re getting a new type of furnace or adding ventilation and ductwork, this may add a few days to the installation timeline.

Will my New Furnace be Energy Efficient?

Energy efficient furnaces may cost more upfront, but they can pay off in lower energy bills over their lifespan. Furnace efficiency is measured by the annual fuel utilization efficiency, or AFUE. A high-efficiency furnace will have an AFUE of 90 or greater.

Need your furnace repaired or replaced? Contact the pros at Sierra Air Inc. to schedule your appointment!

Replacing your HVAC filter is an important part of HVAC maintenance to keep your system running as efficiently and safely as possible. Plus, regular maintenance extends the life of your system to protect your investment.

One of the tasks with HVAC maintenance is changing your air filter, which you can do on your own easily. Choosing an air filter can be overwhelming, but it’s best not to guess. You just need to do a little work to get your filter size and eliminate the stress and hassle. You can change it yourself or hire a pro to do it for you.

Why Does the Air Filter Size Matter?

Getting the right air filter is important for the health and function of your HVAC system. If your air filter is too big, you can’t cut it to fit into your HVAC system. This creates gaps that let contaminants into your home and allows air to escape, defeating the purpose of having a filter at all.

Likewise, an air filter that’s too small for the slot will leave air gaps that bring contaminants in and let air out. This will also negatively impact your air quality and energy efficiency. Neither one of these options is a good choice for your health or your home, so make sure you get the right air filter size.

Look at Your Existing Air Filter

Checking your old filter is the easiest and fastest way to determine the size for your new air filter. Most filters have a size on the side with the length, width, and depth measured in inches.

For example, your air filter may read 16x20x1, which means that it’s 16 inches in length, 25 inches in width, and one inch in depth. With this size, you can find the right air filter replacement and know it will fit. Filter sizes are pretty standard, so you shouldn’t find odd or unusual size options.

Measure It Yourself

If your air filter doesn’t have measurements or they’re worn off, you can measure the filter itself. All you need is a measuring tape to measure the length, width, and depth, paying attention to orientation.

The air filter dimensions listed are usually a little larger than the air filter itself. If the filter size is 16 inches by 20 inches by one inch, the actual measurements will probably be something like 15.75 inches by 19.75 inches by .75 inches. You just have to round up to the nearest inch to find the size. Air filters won’t have incremental sizes like this in most cases.

Measure Air Register or Air Filter Slot

If you have a missing air filter or otherwise can’t measure it, you can measure the slot it goes into to get the size. This will help you know the right size for your new air filter.

The air filter slot is the size of the actual filter measurements, not the size you’ll find listed on the new air filter package. You may have odd measurements like 15.5, 29.75, or 0.75 inches. Make sure you round up to find the filter size.

Where Is the Air Filter Located?

Your HVAC system will usually have an air filter that’s located on the return air intake of the furnace. Find the spot where the return duct comes into the furnace, and there should be a plate covering the air filter slot.

Some HVAC systems don’t have air filters located in the air handling unit. Instead, the air filter will be near the return vent inside your home. Changing the filter is a simple process in this case, as long as you can access the vent to change it. If you’re not comfortable, contact an HVAC professional.

Know Your Air Filter’s MERV Rating

Along with the size, you will need to determine the appropriate MERV rating for the air filter before you can replace it. The MERV rating determines how effective the air filter is at removing particles from the air, and the higher the rating, the better it is at this job.

This doesn’t mean that you should choose the highest possible MERV rating. These filters are more effective at removing contaminants from the air before they get into your home, but they’re thicker. This means your HVAC system will need to work that much harder to push air out and through your home, increasing its energy usage – and your energy bills.

Most homes will do well with a MERV rating of 5 to 8 for the filter. This range offers good filtration for healthy people and removes pollen, dust, and mold effectively. The system will still run efficiently as long as you replace the filters at the right time frames.

If you have allergies, asthma, or respiratory conditions, then you may want a higher MERV rating of 10 or 12. These ratings trap more allergens, such as mold and pollen, as small as one micron.

Do you need to change your HVAC air filter or other HVAC repairs or replacement? Contact Sierra Plumbing to schedule an appointment!

4 Reasons Your Thermostat is Failing

There could be many reasons your thermostats isn’t working correctly, but some of the most common include:

• Dirt, dust, or other debris inside the thermostat
• Location of thermostat
• Age of thermostat
• Incorrect settings

Debris Affecting Your Thermostat

Dirt and dust inside your thermostats can affect its calibration with your heating system. A dirty thermostat may be unable to appropriately read the temperature in the room or could become disconnected from your heating system entirely. To clean your thermostat, dust the inside components with a soft tip paintbrush or compressed air.

(Smart thermostats won’t be affected by dust internally but may require external dusting for aesthetics.)

Thermostat in a Bad Location

Did you know the location of your thermostat can affect how your HVAC system performs? Thermostats installed on outer walls may read temperature incorrectly as they can be affected by factors such as direct sun and drafts from windows or doors. Placing your thermostat in a centralized location will help it register temperature and adjust to your set specifications accurately.

Aging Thermostat

Like all technology, eventually, a new invention comes around to outdate the one you have at home. Older thermostats are more likely to have problems regulating temperature and humidity as they slowly become outdated. If you live in an older home and are having problems with your thermostat, an upgrade may be in order!

Thermostat is Set Incorrectly

Sometimes, heater problems can be caused by user error. If your HVAC system isn’t turning on at all, check to be sure it’s set to “heat,” not “cool.”

8 Ways to Check a Faulty Thermostat

If you’ve resolved any of the above issues with your thermostat, you’ll need to check and make sure that it has fully solved the problem. Follow these tips to troubleshoot your heater:

Adjust the Temperature

Set your thermostat five degrees higher than you’d normally set. If the thermostat kicks on after a few minutes, you’re in the clear and can reset your thermostat back to its normal settings.

Check the Temperature Display

Sometimes, the thermostat may seem to be working, but in reality, it may be slightly off. Check to see if your thermostat is reading the temperature correctly by following these steps:

• Place a paper towel behind your thermostat to prevent the temperature of the wall from affecting the reading.
• Place a small handheld thermometer near the thermostat and compare the reading.
• Any reading that is off by more than one degree may involve recalibration.

If none of the above tips resolve the problem, it may be time to replace the thermostat altogether.

Thermostat Troubleshooting Checklist

There are many ways that your thermostat and HVAC system can be misaligned. Go through this list to diagnose the issue:

• Is the fuse blown or circuit tripped?
• Does the battery still work?
• Have you dusted your thermostat recently?
• Are there any loose, corroded, or fraying wires? (This may require help from a professional.)
• Does the indoor temperature match the thermostat display?
• Is the thermostat set correctly?

Thermostats are integral to your heating and cooling system’s success. If you suspect something is amiss with your system, the thermostat is the easiest place to start.

If none of these tips seem to work, contact Sierra Air Inc for all your heating and cooling needs! Our team can assist with repairs, replacements, and troubleshooting. Contact us online or by phone at (775) 800-5500 today.