June 12, 2024

Is HVAC Work a Capital Repair?

As a homeowner or property manager, understanding the distinction between capital repairs and regular maintenance is crucial for budgeting and tax purposes. One common question that arises is whether HVAC work qualifies as a capital repair. At , we aim to clarify this concept and help you make informed decisions about your HVAC system and its maintenance. Understanding Capital Repairs Capital repairs, also known as capital expenditures, are substantial investments made to improve, restore, or enhance the value and functionality of a property. These repairs typically extend the useful life of an asset, increase its value, or adapt it to a new use. Capital repairs are usually distinguished from regular maintenance, which involves routine upkeep and minor fixes to keep the property in good working condition. Types of HVAC Work HVAC work can range from minor maintenance tasks to significant system overhauls. Here are some common types of HVAC work and whether they generally qualify as capital repairs: Regular Maintenance Routine maintenance tasks, such as changing air filters, cleaning ducts, and performing annual tune-ups, are considered regular maintenance. These tasks are essential for keeping your HVAC system running efficiently but do not extend its lifespan or significantly enhance its value....

View Article

Continue Reading

May 20, 2024

Are Heat Pumps the Same as Mini Splits?

When it comes to heating and cooling your home, there are numerous options available, and understanding the differences between these systems can be confusing. At , we often get asked, “Are heat pumps the same as mini splits?” While both systems are effective and efficient, they are not identical. Here’s a breakdown of what sets them apart and how they can benefit your home. What Is a Heat Pump? A heat pump is a versatile device that provides both heating and cooling by transferring heat between the inside and outside of your home. In the summer, it functions like an air conditioner, removing heat from your home. In the winter, it reverses the process, extracting heat from the outside air (even in cold temperatures) and bringing it indoors. Heat pumps are known for their energy efficiency and ability to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. What Is a Mini Split? A mini split, also known as a ductless mini split, is a type of heat pump that does not require ductwork to distribute air. It consists of an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor air-handling units, which are mounted on walls or ceilings. Each indoor unit is connected to...

View Article

Continue Reading

April 11, 2024

Are Boilers Dangerous?

Boilers are the unsung heroes of many homes and industries, quietly providing warmth and hot water without much fanfare. These essential appliances work tirelessly to keep us comfortable, but like any mechanical device, they require proper maintenance to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. Safety First: Maintaining Your Boiler Boilers are generally safe when maintained properly. Regular servicing by a qualified technician can help identify and address potential issues before they become serious problems. Here are some key maintenance tasks: 1. Annual Inspection: Have a professional inspect your boiler annually to check for leaks, corrosion, and other issues. 2. Clean the System: Regularly clean the boiler and its components to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris, which can affect efficiency and safety. 3. Monitor Pressure and Temperature: Keep an eye on the boiler’s pressure and temperature gauges to ensure they’re within safe limits. 4. Check for Leaks: Look for any signs of leaks, such as water pooling around the boiler or dripping from pipes. Potential Dangers of Neglecting Boiler Maintenance While boilers are generally safe, neglecting maintenance can lead to various dangers, including: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: A faulty boiler can produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can...

View Article

Continue Reading

March 14, 2024

Indoor vs. Outdoor Air Quality

When we think about air quality, we often picture smog-filled city streets or industrial areas. However, the quality of the air we breathe indoors can have a significant impact on our health and well-being. Understanding the differences between indoor and outdoor air quality is essential for creating a healthy living environment. Outdoor Air Quality Outdoor air quality refers to the cleanliness of the air in the environment outside of buildings and structures. It is influenced by various factors, including vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and natural sources such as pollen and dust. Pollutants like particulate matter, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide can pose serious health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions or compromised immune systems. Government agencies and environmental organizations often monitor outdoor air quality using air quality indexes (AQI) to provide information on pollutant levels and associated health risks. While outdoor air quality can vary depending on location and weather conditions, exposure to pollutants can be reduced by limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution hours and using air filtration systems indoors. Indoor Air Quality Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the cleanliness of the air inside buildings and structures, including homes, offices, schools, and other indoor environments. While...

View Article

Continue Reading

February 5, 2024

Common Reasons Why Your Furnace is Making Noise

Is your furnace suddenly making noises that have you concerned? Normal furnace operation features clicking or tapping sounds as it ignites and turns off. However, when your unit makes strange noises during the entire operation, it indicates an underlying problem. So, why is your furnace noisy? 1. Banging Sounds A banging sound is commonly a sign of an ignition problem. When the thermostat signals the furnace to start a new cycle, the gas valve opens up. The ignition system should ignite the gas immediately. Sometimes, this process fails due to a faulty ignition system. Some gas leaks into the combustion chamber. When the fuel is finally ignited, the gas in the chamber burns suddenly, creating a banging sound. Be sure to contact a furnace repair professional before this gets any worse. 2. Screeching or Squealing A loose blower fan can drag its blades against the furnace causing screeching or squealing sounds when the furnace operates. A worn-out or slipping blower belt also makes high-pitched noises during operation. 3. Whistling Sounds Whistling sounds are a result of the furnace forcing air through blocked components. This may apply to air filters, ductwork, or vents. When cleaning the internal components does not solve...

View Article

Continue Reading

January 5, 2024

Can Replacing Your AC Unit Save You Money?

At first, AC replacement might seem unnecessary, especially if your system hasn’t shut down permanently. However, in the long run, you will end up saving more money when you replace your old, malfunctioning air conditioner. Read on to discover why experts recommend replacing an old, faulty AC and how that can protect your finances. Fewer Repairs Like with most equipment, you can expect some repairs as your system ages. However, for an AC nearing the end of its life, the frequency increases. As a result, you will find that you’re spending a lot on system repairs. Although it might seem cheaper compared to a new AC installation, in the long run, you might find that you’ve spent more than half the cost for a new system. A new AC unit will require little to no repairs, saving you money in the long run. Lower Utility Bills An AC on its last legs will struggle to achieve your desired temperatures. As a result, it will have to be on for longer hours, which translates to more energy consumption and high energy bills. In contrast, a new AC is more energy efficient, allowing you to save on energy bills. According to the...

View Article

Continue Reading

December 13, 2023

4 Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Your Boiler

Boilers are one of the most essential and costly home appliances. They generate heating and hot water for your home quickly and efficiently, but they will need replacement at some point. Knowing how long a boiler typically lasts is essential to plan your expenses properly. We will be discussing the factors that affect the lifespan of your boiler. 1. Maintenance If you skip regular maintenance, such as annual service, your boiler may become less efficient, leading to frequent breakdowns and a shortened lifespan. Furthermore, keeping your boiler in optimal working condition throughout its lifespan is essential by scheduling professional maintenance services, such as cleaning the boiler and replacing worn-out parts. At , we offer heating repair, heating installation, heating maintenance, boilers and heat pump services in Granite City. 2. Quality of Water The water quality is another important determinant of how long the boiler can serve. High levels of minerals make the deposits form very fast, thus shortening the boiler’s life span. Water softener will help to prevent mineral deposits. However, the most appropriate approach should be a water quality check to confirm that your boiler is using the right water. 3. Installation Installing your boiler also plays a crucial...

View Article

Continue Reading

November 18, 2023

Is it Better to Repair a Furnace or Replace it?

Your furnace hasn’t been acting right lately, so it’s time to call for service. As you pick up the phone to dial, you may wonder, “Should I repair or replace this furnace?” To help you decide, consider the following factors. Frequency of Service Calls An occasional repair visit is no big deal, but frequent repair needs can really try your patience. If you’ve dialed our number so often that you have it memorized, it may be time for a new unit. You’ll get greater reliability with a furnace upgrade. Plus, your new model may come with a promising warranty. Cost of Repairs Some repairs are minor and don’t cost much to fix. Others come with a heftier price tag. That’s when you may start to think seriously about a new unit. Experts often suggest that you take the price of repairs into account when deciding whether to repair or replace your furnace. Opt for a replacement when the repair bill is going to be at least 50% of the price of a new model. Age of System Furnaces can last for many years, but they always wear out eventually. If yours has been around for a long time, then a...

View Article

Continue Reading

October 18, 2023

How often does a furnace need to be serviced?

Furnace maintenance is an important part of home care that homeowners must take seriously. Regular inspections and tune-ups can help prolong the lifespan of the furnace, improve efficiency, and provide a safer living environment. On the other hand, not taking the time to hire professionals to service your furnace can result in significant problems. Frequency of Servicing The common recommendation for furnace servicing is to have it inspected and tuned up once a year. Scheduling this annual checkup, usually before the onset of winter, is advisable as it prepares the heating system for the colder months ahead. Here are some other factors that can impact how often you need to schedule a furnace checkup. Age of the Furnace Older furnaces tend to need more frequent servicing compared to newer models. The parts will wear down as a furnace ages, and it may require more regular attention. Type of Fuel Used Different fuels burn at different rates and may leave varying amounts of residue. Furnaces using oil might need more frequent cleaning and inspection than those using natural gas or electricity. Usage Patterns A furnace that is heavily used during long and cold winters might need more frequent servicing. On the...

View Article

Continue Reading

September 14, 2023

Should a 25 Year Old Furnace Be Replaced?

Is the gas furnace in your home around 25 years old? If so, it is high time that you start considering a replacement. Most gas furnaces will need to be replaced after around 15 to 20 years, so if your current unit is older than this, then you’ve already gotten as much out of it as you can really expect. Even though installing a new furnace is a fairly substantial investment, an upgraded replacement can provide many benefits to your home. Improved Efficiency and Lower Fuel Costs One major benefit of replacing your old furnace is that your new unit is almost guaranteed to be more energy efficient. A 25-year-old furnace is likely only a low- or medium-efficiency unit with an AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) of only around 80%. Even if you installed a new furnace that was also rated at 80 AFUE, it is still certain to work better and use less energy. This is simply because the energy efficiency and effectiveness of all gas furnaces tend to decline as the appliance ages. If you were instead to opt for a high-efficiency condensing furnace with an AFUE in the mid to upper 90s, you could save a significant...

View Article

Continue Reading