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Reasons to Schedule Spring HVAC Maintenance

Prepare for Summer with an Air Conditioning Tune-Up

Spring is here, meaning there is a laundry list of things to do to prepare for summer. Among the tasks that people like to achieve during spring cleaning are home-related maintenance tasks. In plenty of cases, the home maintenance items on the to-do list are easily done by DIYers. Professionals should sometimes be called in to take care of the technical stuff. 

Springtime is the perfect time to schedule air conditioning maintenance. Along with knocking out an item on the checklist, AC maintenance offers a bevy of benefits for every homeowner. Here are a few reasons to schedule air conditioning maintenance in the spring. 

AC Maintenance Saves Energy by Increasing Energy Efficiency

saveSpringtime to-do lists are all about getting ready for summer. Homeowners are free to do whatever they want during the summer by knocking out pesky, periodic tasks around the home. This makes springtime an investment in the future. AC maintenance is vital for homeowners wanting to make additional investments in the future. 

AC tune-ups and maintenance will cost a little money upfront in some cases. Often local contractors will have programs that allow homeowners to pay for maintenance throughout the year with a membership. At any rate, the maintenance cost is always recouped in the end. AC maintenance aims to reduce cooling bills over the summer by increasing energy efficiency. By allowing a professional to clean and tune up the air conditioner, homeowners can look forward to big savings as the summer heats up. 

Save Money with Lower Repair Bills

hvacAnother way that air conditioning maintenance can save homeowners money is by reducing repair bills. Air conditioners work hard during the summer, and the heater works all winter to keep the home comfortable. This can rack up the mileage on heating and cooling equipment leading to problems that could increase the likelihood of repairs. 

Emergency repairs are always more expensive than regular services like an AC tune-up. If homeowners want to hedge their bets over the summer, AC maintenance is the way. With a simple visit from an AC professional, air conditioners get inspected, lubricated, and cleaned so that big problems don’t happen when homeowners need the AC the most. 

Increased Longevity 

Air conditioning equipment is expensive to purchase and install. Most homeowners only have to do this task once or twice in any given home. Doesn’t it make sense to maximize the longevity of this equipment in an attempt to save money on unnecessary AC installation? 

The best way to maximize the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment is to schedule maintenance twice per year. The fall visit tunes up the heater for wintertime, while the spring visit prepares the air conditioner for the hard work it will do during the summer. By allowing heating and cooling equipment to work a little easier, homeowners can extend the life of their equipment by years, saving thousands of dollars over the system’s lifespan. 

About A New Image Heating & Cooling

A New Image Heating & Cooling is a local AC maintenance and repair service. Their membership offers benefits to homeowners like AC tune-ups and discounted service. Join today or call for upfront pricing on AC service in Warrensville Heights, OH. 

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Get Tax Credits and Rebates with the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022

How the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 Allows Homeowners to Upgrade Appliances 

The newly passed Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 allows many homeowners to purchase new, energy-efficient appliances. In addition to lowering the cost of certain prescriptions, this initiative gives homeowners resources to buy heat pumps, solar panels, and other upgrades. 

Here, one can learn about the benefits of this legislature and what it could mean for their home’s integrity. 

Wait––What Is the Inflation Reduction Act?

reduction act

Consumer Reports notes that the Inflation Reduction Act is a landmark law aiming to alleviate rising prices’ pressure. Per the White House, the law: 

  • Allows small businesses to offer health insurance to their employers 
  • Awards tax credits to small businesses that switch to solar panels 
  • Pays off some of the country’s debts to fight everyday inflation 
  • Caps how much seniors have to pay for prescriptions at $2,000 a year 
  • Invests money into homes and businesses 
  • Incentives for small businesses to manufacture items in the U.S. 

When it comes to homeowners, however, this law allows them to buy new appliances at discounted rates. For instance, many of EnergyStar’s appliances qualify for tax credits and rebates under the new law. This means that getting a new stove or heat pump could be just a shopping trip away for homeowners in some income brackets. They could also get a $2,000 rebate on heaters and up to $600 for ACs. 

Who Qualifies for Tax Credits and Benefits Under This Law? 

This federal law is aimed at lower-income and middle-income households. Yet, higher-income households may also qualify for tax credits and rebates. The qualifications for benefits under the Inflation Reduction Act include the following: 

  • Households earning up to 80 percent of the median household income can get “100 percent the cost of a new appliance or $840, whichever costs less” 
  • Households earning 80 to 150 percent of the median household income can get 50 percent off the cost of certain in-home appliances

Households making more than 150 percent of the median household income do not qualify for new appliances under the Inflation Reduction Act. Yet, they may qualify for discounted prescriptions and other benefits.

What Are the Benefits of Upgrading the Home’s Appliances? 

benefits

Upgrading the home’s appliances come with many benefits. Some include: 

  • Fewer repairs. Nobody wants to have an HVAC repair service on speed dial. They want the peace of mind that their appliances work as expected. 
  • Saving money. Not only does the Inflation Reduction Act make installing certain appliances more affordable, but with energy-efficient appliances, one can spend less on utility bills. Come tax season, the tax credits and rebates that come with these appliances can also make a difference. 
  • Better results. With time, some appliances don’t work as well as they once did. For instance, per the U.S. Department of Energy, a central air conditioning system generally lasts 15 years. Once it passes that one, the home may struggle to maintain a consistent temperature. 

About a New Image Heating & Cooling 

Looking for reliable service? Look no further than a New Image of Heating & Cooling. These professionals offer around-the-clock help to those living in Warrensville Heights, Ohio. They focus on appliance installation, indoor air quality, and more. Call today for HVAC service!

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Beat the Cold, Dry Winter Air With a Whole-Home Humidifier!

Three Ways Homeowners Can Benefit from a Humidifier This Winter

Winter is in full swing, and for many folks, it’s time to stock up on lotion, tissues, and peppermint tea to combat the dry skin, runny noses, and aggravated sinuses that the colder weather brings. But instead of treating the symptoms, it may be better to go after the underlying cause of all that discomfort – that’s where humidifiers come in. 

Winter air can be harsh, cold, and dry, sapping moisture from wherever it can – including skin, respiratory systems, and even houseplants. But by adding a little water vapor to the home’s indoor air with the help of a humidifier, homeowners can keep that precious moisture where it belongs. This article will discuss a few of the negative effects of low humidity levels and how humidifiers can help prevent them!

Better Respiratory Health

benefitsThe air tends to be so dry in winter because colder air can’t hold as much water vapor as warm air. And when that dry air is breathed in, it dries out the mucous membranes in the nose, throat, and sinuses. These membranes are responsible for capturing bacteria and other particles before they can enter the lower respiratory system (namely, the lungs) – but when they’re dry and chapped, they can’t do their job effectively. This is partly why the common cold, flu, and other respiratory illnesses are so prevalent in the colder months.

But dry air doesn’t just make it harder for the body to defend against harmful particles; it also irritates in the form of nosebleeds, coughing, sore throat, and congestion. Low humidity can also exacerbate asthma, allergies, bronchitis, COPD, and other breathing issues.

By raising the home’s humidity levels with the help of a humidifier, homeowners can get some relief from the issues – at least when they’re at home. The membranes in their respiratory systems will have adequate moisture to trap harmful particles and keep the respiratory passageways from drying out, resulting in a healthier, more comfortable winter!

Improved Skincare

Just as dry, cold air saps moisture from the respiratory system, so does it draw moisture out of the skin. Most people have experienced dry hands and chapped lips during the winter, but this issue can be extremely uncomfortable or even painful for some. Particularly dry skin can start to crack and bleed, exposing the skin to the risk of bacterial infection. Even existing conditions like eczema and acne can become amplified in low humidity. 

Of course, hydrating and applying moisturizer regularly can help the situation. Still, this kind of skincare regimen isn’t always practical – and for many, it can feel like an uphill battle. But with more moisture in the home’s air, homeowners will lose less water through the skin and enjoy the winter months without being plagued by dry, itchy skin!

Healthier Indoor Plants

plantsMaintaining a healthy humidity level in the home isn’t just important for the health of the people living there but also for the health of the indoor plants. Plants rely on moisture, oxygen, and light to produce food for growth (photosynthesis). But they don’t just derive moisture from the soil they’re planted in – they also extract it from the air. But if the air is too dry, the opposite will occur; the air will extract water from the plant’s leaves, just as it does from the skin. 

With so little moisture in the air, the plant will begin to wilt and die. Of course, homeowners can try to water it more, but mold or fungus can take hold if the soil is constantly soggy. It can be a delicate balance to strike, but keeping the home at a reasonable humidity level makes it much easier! Fortunately, most houseplants thrive at around the same relative humidity as humans need for ideal health – typically around 40-60%. If homeowners are unsure of their home’s current humidity level but are experiencing the symptoms of dry air, they would do well to ask their local HVAC specialist about installing a humidifier!

About A New Image Heating & Cooling

A New Image Heating & Cooling has proudly served Warrensville Heights and the Greater Cleveland area since 1990. They offer same-day service, a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and a money-saving membership plan. Their punctual and trustworthy technicians are licensed, insured, and available for emergencies 24/7, so homeowners know they’re in great hands when they call A New Image for indoor air quality services and humidifier installation in Warrensville Heights, OH!

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HVAC Habits That Homeowners Need To Break in 2023

Avoid These Heating and Cooling Mistakes in the New Year

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are the heart of home comfort. Without consistent temperatures, it is difficult to be consistently comfortable at home. It is usually only noticed when something goes wrong. Unfortunately, this makes it easy for the average homeowner to forget about it until something goes wrong. Sometimes people even get into habits that can be detrimental to the function of their HVAC system. This article will discuss a few of the common mistakes that people make with HVAC systems.

Bad Habit #1: Ignoring Dirty Air Filters 

filterAir filters are important not only to the proper working of the HVAC system but also to the indoor air quality in the home. Homeowners must replace air filters every three months for the best efficiency. Changing the air filter is a simple task that can be done as part of a professional maintenance check-up or as a cleaning routine for the household. The only issue with a homeowner changing the filter is the possibility of getting the wrong one. The reasons for regularly replacing the filter outweigh the cons of taking a short time to perform the task. The benefits of clean air filters are listed below.

  • More efficient airflow
  • Keeps the inner workings of the unit clean and dust free.
  • Less drag on the air intake
  • Better indoor air quality
  • Keeps energy spending low

Bad Habit #2: Blocking Air Vents

ventsAir vents and air ducts are the conduits through which the temperature-controlled air gets from the HVAC unit to the house. The problem is that sometimes vents end up in inconvenient places, or some guests prefer a room to be hotter or colder than it would normally be. Thus, people sometimes completely close their vents or block them somehow. This is bad for the system because it can cause uneven pressure in the air ducts that may cause damage to the ducts or to the overall working of the system itself. Keep the air flowing through all the vents, and do not block any off entirely.

Bad Habit #3: Neglecting HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is easy to take care of, but it is just as easy to forget with the home’s HVAC system. It is much harder to ignore the light that goes on when there is a problem with a car engine, but just like a vehicle, heating and cooling systems need regular maintenance to function properly. AC maintenance and heating maintenance can be a breeze when a homeowner takes the time to schedule the check with an HVAC professional. The advantages of such maintenance are discussed below.

  • Efficiency: When an HVAC unit receives proper professional maintenance, it will function most efficiently and use the least amount of energy to function.
  • Extended Life: The unit will last longer if it is correctly maintained.
  • Money Saving: A well-maintained system breaks down less often and therefore costs less to run. If the unit lasts longer, that saves the homeowners from having to replace it.
  • Peace of Mind: There is less worry when homeowners know their HVAC system is properly working. 

About A New Image Heating & Cooling

BBB-accredited company A New Image Heating & Cooling serves Warrensville Heights, OH and the Greater Cleveland Area. If a homeowner is looking for 24/7 availability and upfront pricing, they are the company to call. Get expert HVAC service now!

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Heat Your Home More Efficiently This Winter!

Heat Pumps Make It Easier (and Cheaper) To Heat the Home

Nothing beats coming home to a nice, warm house and cozying up with the family on a cold winter’s day. And to ensure the house stays comfortably toasty all winter, it’s essential to have a reliable home heating system – as nice as a roaring fire may be, it probably won’t cut it for most homes.

Many homes use furnaces or boilers that run on natural gas, oil, or electricity. While these are all effective options for heating a home, there’s another type of heating system to consider: heat pumps. This article will discuss the different kinds of heat pumps on the market, how they work, and how they can improve energy efficiency and save homeowners money on their heating bills!

What Are Heat Pumps – And How Do They Work?

heat pumpUnlike furnaces or heaters, which produce heat using a fuel source, heat pumps draw heat from one environment and move it to another. This is done using two units – one inside the home and one outside. The outdoor unit captures heat energy from the surrounding environment using chemical refrigerant pumped to the indoor unit, releasing the captured heat into the home via metal condenser coils.

This is the same technology that air conditioners use to keep homes cool – only in reverse. Most heat pumps can switch between heating and cooling, so homeowners don’t have to rely on multiple HVAC systems between seasons.

There are a few different types of heat pumps available for residential use. The most common are air-source heat pumps, which derive heat energy from the outdoor air (even on frigid days!). Geothermal heat pumps, on the other hand, can pull heat from water or the earth itself. Water source heat pumps capture heat energy from a body of water such as a lake or reservoir. Since most people don’t have access to such a water source, these are far less common. Ground source heat pumps, which extract thermal energy from deep underground, are becoming more and more common in residential settings.

Ductless Heat Pumps

Another type of heat pump that’s grown in popularity is the ductless mini-split heat pump. Whereas central heat pump systems distribute heated air through the home’s air ducts from one large indoor unit, mini-split systems involve multiple smaller units installed throughout the home, which pump warm air directly into a given room.

Ductless heat systems tend to be significantly more energy efficient than central heating systems, mainly because homeowners can heat individual rooms rather than using energy to heat the entire house. This greater zone control is one of the key benefits for many homeowners since everyone in the home can enjoy a comfortable temperature without fighting over the thermostat. Mini-split heat pumps are much simpler to install in homes without existing ductwork. This also makes them ideal for house extensions, added rooms, or insulated garages.

Greater Energy Efficiency = Lower Billssaving

No matter which variation homeowners choose, the greatest benefit of heat pump systems is their energy efficiency. Thanks to transferring heat rather than generating it outright, heat pumps can be as much as three times more efficient than traditional electric heating systems. And since they are also effective at cooling the home in the warmer months, heat pumps eliminate the need for a separate furnace and AC.

And since HVAC systems are the single biggest source of energy consumption in a typical home, upgrading to a high-efficiency heat pump can save homeowners loads of money on their utility bills. Some types, such as ductless and geothermal heating systems, often come with a higher upfront cost but can save homeowners more in the long run, making them a worthwhile investment. 

Of course, every home is different, so homeowners would consult their local HVAC company to determine which type of heat pump will best suit their needs!

About A New Image Heating & Cooling

A New Image Heating & Cooling has proudly served Warrensville Heights and the Greater Cleveland Metro area since 1990. Their licensed, insured, and pet-friendly technicians always show up on time and provide personalized recommendations, up-front pricing, and 5-star customer service. A New Image offers same-day and 24/7 emergency service, so homeowners can get fast, expert service when they need it most – so call them anytime for heat pump installation in Warrensville Heights, OH!

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Don’t Let a Malfunctioning Boiler Ruin the Holidays

Boiler Services for the Winter

Preventative maintenance helps heaters run throughout the entire winter. Without annual boiler repair and heating services, a boiler may not be able to provide enough steam to warm radiators in the home. A professional inspection includes examining the safety valves, checking ventilation, and testing flame detection devices. When each component is working correctly, households save money and energy. 

What Are the Boiler Basics?

Homeowners are usually aware of their heating system but may need help understanding the importance of a boiler. Boilers are essential because they provide steam that can be distributed throughout the piping system. This allows baseboard radiators and heating coils to warm a house efficiently.

The difference between a furnace and a boiler heating system comes down to mechanics. While a furnace uses warm air, a boiler uses steam from hot water. Both techniques will warm an entire house, but boilers are considered much more energy efficient. Although the initial price can be expensive, boilers save money in the long run.

Boilers can heat water from electricity, oil, or natural gas. From there, a small pump can heat cast iron radiators or baseboard radiators from the steam. Since a fan or blower is unnecessary, boilers are much quieter than furnaces. 

Common Issues With Boilersproblems

Boilers tend to leak without proper maintenance. Excess water surrounding the piping or boiler tank indicates that the pressure valve is too high. A professional will inspect the seal and individual components to see if all valves are working correctly. If one cannot make repairs due to the age of the boiler leaking water, replacements may need to be ordered.

One should fix a heating system immediately if the boiler is making a banging noise. This phenomenon is known as “kettling” because it sounds similar to a tea kettle. Typically this is due to a build-up of minerals from constant water usage. Professionals check for clogs inside the heat exchanger to reduce extreme heat.  

Inconsistent heating occurs when the boiler valves begin to malfunction. This could be due to a faulty airlock or diaphragm. This differs from the kind of component a homeowner can easily replace without experience and proper equipment. A qualified professional is best for handling boiler services.

boiler

How To Save Money With Boiler Maintenance

Trained technicians can help homeowners save money by providing quality inspections. Homeowners without the right tools and education will likely miss problem areas in the supply lines or circulator pump. Since boiler replacement is usually more expensive than boiler repair, one should examine the boiler annually to keep up with necessary maintenance.

There are a few household tips that can keep boilers running for longer. Turning the boiler off during summertime will reduce energy bills while the heating system takes a break. During the wintertime, it’s advised that homeowners leave the boiler on while vacationing. This will also prevent pipes from freezing. 

A New Image Heating & Cooling

New Image Heating & Cooling has been operating with trained and certified technicians for over two decades. Call New Image Heating & Cooling to ask about their boiler services in Warrensville Heights, OH.  

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Don’t Wait Until the Heater Gives Up the Ghost

Shivers Should Come from Scary Movies, Not Chilly Houses

Unusual sounds, cold spots in the house, and unexplained power surges may be considered signs of the paranormal, but there is no reason to call the Ghostbusters. The same issues can be caused by an HVAC unit that is on its way out or a broken heater. What signs should homeowners watch for in the case of a heater on the verge of breakdown?

Cold Spots in the House

Suppose the home is just not heating up. In that case, there can be several reasons behind the chill in the air, all easily explained without the otherworldly presence of supernatural entities. Some of the things that a homeowner should consider are in the following list:

  • Insulation: If a home is not properly insulated, if windows are old and tend to be drafty, this can result in a less efficient heating system. If the heat easily escapes, there is no way a heating unit can hope to keep up with that heat loss.
  • Power Surge: A power surge can cause the HVAC system to throw a breaker or lose heating power. It may take either resetting the breaker or the system to correct the problem, but it is an easy fix.
  • Thermostat Setting: Checking the thermostat setting may be the best first step. A homeowner should make sure it hasn’t been turned down for some reason before calling a professional about possible repairs.
  • Heater Needing Repair: If the heater isn’t heating, many things could malfunction within the unit itself. One could involve the heating element, the internal thermometer, the thermostat, etc. A homeowner should never try to diagnose the problem themselves but should hire qualified professionals. 

 

Things that Go Bump (or Buzz or Clang) in the Night (or Day)

soundsIt is common in horror movies to have unusual sounds coming from dark corners of the proverbial haunted house, but heaters that need maintenance or repair often make lots of noises on their own. Some of these noises can be startling and off-putting. Don’t just chalk it up to the normal noise of an old heater. Different sounds can indicate problems with the heater or furnace apparatus. Some professional HVAC technicians may even be able to identify the problem from the sounds. If a home’s heater is making any of the following noises, it would be a good idea to call a pro about maintenance and repair:
  • Banging
  • Hissing
  • Screeching
  • Whining
  • Rattling
  • Humming or vibrations

Repair is probably needed if these sounds are new and are happening more frequently.

High Energy Bills That Are Unexplained

billThe only unexplained phenomenon that comes within the jurisdiction of an HVAC contractor is that of an inexplicably high energy bill. A skyrocketing bill may not simply result from higher fuel costs; it can indicate something closer to home. A heater that is functioning at less than its best or is older can lose efficiency. This means it may be working harder (using more energy) to warm the same amount of space with the same exterior temperatures. If a home gets a really high energy bill that an equal increase in usage cannot explain, then it is time to schedule a visit from an HVAC pro.

About A New Image Heating & Cooling

The citizens of Warrensville Heights, OH and the surrounding areas are looking for reliable HVAC solutions at reasonable prices. In that case, they need look no further than A New Image Heating & Cooling. They offer 24/7 emergency repair and have an A+ rating from the BBB. Call them today for same-day heating service on most projects.

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Benefits of Installing a Dehumidifier

How Humidity Impacts Indoor Air Quality 

The amount of humidity in houses can impact breathing, mold growth, and more. In this blog post, HVAC experts explain how a dehumidifier can control humidity. The ideal home humidity can vary depending on the needs of the homeowners, but this number generally lies in between 30%-50% humidity. Anything higher than that can cause adverse effects on the respiratory system. 

Too much humidity in the house can turn the home into a place where mold and bacteria can thrive. Airborne contaminants, particularly mold, are extremely harmful when inhaled into the respiratory system. Dehumidifiers keep indoor air quality safe and healthy by removing the moisture that allows mold to grow and thrive. Allergies and asthma can also become inflamed due to high levels of humidity in the air. 

How Do Dehumidifiers Work?

humidifierA dehumidifier is a device used to reduce the air’s moisture and create the ideal home humidity. Dehumidifiers work very similarly to air conditioning in that they suck indoor air into an intake before passing it over coils that remove the moisture through evaporation. The moisture is then dripped into a pan to be disposed of. 

The most common home humidifier uses refrigerant like air conditioners do. Most air conditioning systems also remove a lot of the humidity from the air, but it may not be enough to keep the home comfortable and prevent mold growth. 

Signs a Home Needs a Dehumidifier 

signsHomeowners should be aware of when there is too much humidity. When the home is extremely humid, it can cause condensation to form on the windows. A foggy layer of condensation covering windows clearly indicates that there is too much humidity inside. 

Increased allergic reactions and asthma symptoms can also indicate that high humidity inside of the home is causing respiratory problems for the homeowners. The humid interior of a home can create the perfect environment for mold to grow and thrive. Homeowners may be able to visually see the mold or begin to experience the symptoms of mold poisoning, such as headaches and fatigue.

Homeowners may also be able to smell the mold growing. A musty smell inside the home can be caused by the growth of mold particles and airborne bacteria. Installing a home dehumidifier can quickly resolve these issues by sucking the moisture out of the air. Many people like to install dehumidifiers in their basements to keep the area cool, dry, and mold-free.

Pros of Installing a Dehumidifier

  • Improve air quality
  • Prevent mold growth
  • Prevent bacteria growth
  • Lower utility costs
  • Protect the home from rot
  • Protect the home’s foundation 
  • Improve comfort and quality of life 

Most people find that overly humid environments are uncomfortable to be in. It can make it difficult to breathe and fall asleep. Homeowners may also experience a sticky feeling on their skin as a result of the condensation from the humidity. Installing a dehumidifier can improve the quality of life by creating a more comfortable home interior. 

One of the main benefits of dehumidifiers is that they protect the respiratory system from inflammation. Too much humidity can cause lung mucus, leading to many health ailments. One can reduce asthma and allergy symptoms by installing a dehumidifier. It also helps to protect the respiratory system from the effects of mold. 

Dehumidifiers also help to protect the home itself. Humidity and moisture can lead to wood rotting and mold growth. Mold can cause serious damage to a home’s structure and safety. Installing a dehumidifier in the basement can help protect the home’s foundation from weakening due to the effects of moisture, mold growth, and rot. 

About A New Image Heating & Cooling

New Image Heating & Cooling prides itself on being the most reliable local HVAC company for Warrensville Heights, OH, and the surrounding areas! Homeowners can trust the expertise of the professional HVAC technicians at New Image Heating & Cooling with all of their HVAC repair, installation, and maintenance needs. Call them today to schedule an appointment for dehumidifier installation in Warrensville Heights, OH! 

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Air Duct Cleaning Basics

Back-to-School Basics of Air Duct Cleaning

As students gear up once again to head back to school, there’s no better time for homeowners to get an education of their own. Luckily, learning the basics of air duct cleaning doesn’t take long — and the benefits are outsized. Since air ducts are out of sight and out of mind, most homeowners don’t think much about them. But they move a lot of air around the house, which means they also help move indoor air contaminants like dust, dander, pollen, and other allergens. This is why clean ducts are essential to maintaining healthy indoor air quality. Read on to find out more about duct cleaning.

dirty duct signs

When to Clean Air Ducts

Unfortunately, most people don’t have their ducts cleaned as often as they should. For best results, every three to four years is best. But there are also some signs to look out for that indicate overly dirty air ducts. These signs include strange smells coming from the ducts, weak airflow, visibly dusty air, and even odd noises when the ducts are in use.

Ducts can collect dust and other allergens from several sources. They can develop holes in them, animals can chew through them and call them home, and dust gets into them from the house itself. When the ducts are dirty, it can cause weak airflow. This‌ can cause the air conditioning bill to skyrocket. So homeowners who notice an abnormally high power bill should keep this in mind. It’s also a good idea for those moving into a new home to have the ducts inspected and cleaned if they’re dirty.

Why Clean Air Ducts Are Importantair duct cleaning benefits

The main benefit of clean air ducts is cleaner indoor air through reduced allergens. Indoor air quality is generally very poor — sometimes as much as five times worse than outdoor air quality. And while changing the air filter on time is one way to keep the air inside cleaner, it’s also important to have ducts cleaned for optimum effect. When so many allergens are stirred up from dirty ducts, those living in the home with breathing or allergy problems suffer the most.

Regular duct cleaning can help those with sensitive respiratory tracts or severe allergies to breathe easier. It’s a major pillar of maintaining healthy indoor air. But there’s often another benefit as well: energy savings. Dirty ducts can contribute to inefficient operation of the HVAC system. Keeping them cleaned can help lower the energy bill!

How to Keep Ducts Clean

While there’s no better way to clean ducts than with a professional HVAC company, homeowners don’t need to schedule cleaning every year. There are simple ways to help keep ducts clean between professional duct cleaning. The best way to do this is to change the air filter regularly. How often will depend on the type of filter, how much the system is used, and if the homeowner has pets? One should change most disposable air conditioner filters at least once every three months. Those who use their air conditioner more may want to change the filter every two and a half months. And those with one or more pets may want to up that to once every two months. Pets, after all, contribute a lot of dust and dander to the air. It’s also a good idea for homeowners to verify that they’re using the best filter recommended for their HVAC system by asking their friendly neighborhood HVAC technician!

About A New Image Heating & Cooling

A New Image Heating & Cooling has been serving Warrensville Heights, OH, for three decades! They are A+ Rated by the BBB and known for their fast, efficient, and courteous service. Their technicians arrive on time and always provide upfront pricing, so there are no surprises. Plus, they provide a satisfaction guarantee for customers’ peace of mind. Contact them today for duct cleaning in Warrensville Heights, OH.

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Summer Air Conditioning Tips

Save Money On Cooling Costs This Summer

Summertime is beloved by many Ohio residents for its warm temperatures, time off of school, and potential vacations. High temperatures this summer are breaking national records already, and the cost of air conditioning may reflect this. 

Homeowners struggling with the rising cost of living can find some relief from cooling costs this summer with these three summer air conditioning tips from HVAC professionals. 

Paying for air conditioning during the summer is one of the biggest utility expenses for homeowners. Rising temperatures also mean rising utility bills for homeowners. Here are some tricks for homeowners to save money on their electricity bill this summer and reduce their home’s carbon footprint. 

Keep Thermostat at 78 Degrees

78 is the magic number for setting the thermostat in the summertime. The thermostat controls the overall function of the HVAC system, and adjusting its settings can help homeowners cut costs. 78 degrees Fahrenheit is the ideal temperature setting to save money on cooling during summer. 

78 degrees is a comfortable temperature for most people, but for those who like it a little cooler, using fans can help. The general rule for calculating cooling costs is that each degree above 72 degrees equates to around 3% savings on air conditioning costs. 

Programmable Thermostat Installationthermostat

An easy and effective way for homeowners to instantly improve the efficiency of their air conditioning system is to invest in a new thermostat. New programmable and smart thermostats are designed to prevent wasting energy while cooling the home. 

One of the ways that HVAC experts recommend that homeowners reduce their cooling costs is by adjusting the temperature when away from the home or asleep. During the night, homeowners should take advantage of the natural drop in temperature to give their AC a break. While on summer vacation, homeowners should be sure to turn off or adjust the AC. 

Programmable thermostats make it easy for homeowners to schedule these adjustments ahead of time. Smart thermostats learn the home’s climate and make adjustments automatically for the most efficient performance.    

filterReplace the Air Filter

It is important for home HVAC systems for the air filter to be cleaned and replaced regularly. Most homes need the air filter changed around every three months. Homeowners who smoke indoors or have pets who shed may want to change their air filter even more often. 

The HVAC system works hard during the summer months to cool the home. The air filter is a mesh screen placed over the AC’s air intake to prevent particles of dust and other debris from getting into the system. Replacing the air filter on time ensures that there are no blockages in airflow that could make the AC work harder than it needs to. 

Without a clean air filter, dust, dander, and hair particles can build up inside the air conditioner. Not changing the air filter on time can lead to higher utility bills and eventually a total system breakdown.

About A New Image Heating & Cooling 

A New Image Heating & Cooling is dedicated to bringing its community affordable, high-quality HVAC services. Homeowners in Warrensville Heights, OH can trust this local heating & cooling company to always be professional, friendly, and on time. Give them a call today to schedule an appointment for air conditioner maintenance with an experienced local technician!

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