The Benefits of Humidity Control in Your Home, Portersville CA
Did you know that uncontrolled moisture inside your home can cause major damage to the building's overall structure?
When left alone, it can encourage mold growth and also lead to health problems for you and the people in your home. Clearly, humidity control is important, but you also stand to gain a few more benefits when you decide to prioritize it in your Portersville, CA home.
Read on to learn about four of the best humidity control benefits.
Protect Electronics
Of course, you know that water and electronics don't mix, and humidity is no exception to that rule. It can leave your electronics susceptible to condensation, meaning the eventual corrosion of the internal components.
This is really only a worry in extreme conditions, but it's still something to think about if you have expensive technology. Regulating the humidity inside your home can prevent this from happening at all. Then you don't have to worry about any of the electronics in your home falling victim to moisture damage, and you'll know your indoor air quality is at its best.
Keep Things in Tune
It can also help your instruments stay in tune. As temperatures rise and fall in your home, those wooden instruments begin to shrink and expand, leading them to fall out of tune over time. Whether you're a musician or you rarely play, it can relieve a huge burden to know that your instruments are protected no matter what.
Maintain Your Wine
It might seem small, but your wine can fall victim to the changing environments that humidity brings about. You might not know it, but the same thing that happens to wood can happen with the cork that seals your bottle. As that cork shrinks, excess oxygen can find its way inside and end up spoiling the entire thing.
The wine itself is bottled with the perfect amount of wine and oxygen, and upsetting that balance comes at a cost.
Prevent Mold
Lastly, humidity control also brings about moisture control. There's nothing mold loves more than the dark, humid corners of your bathroom or attic. Without the proper ventilation, you're almost inviting it into your home.
When left unattended, mold can cause symptoms like a stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing, wheezing, or even a skin rash. People with asthma are even more susceptible to symptoms. That's why controlling humidity is essential for the health of everyone in your home.
When you take care of the humidity in your space, you and the ones you live with are left a lot safer and healthier.
Don't Ignore Humidity Control
Humidity control is essential for your home's overall wellbeing. Not only does it prevent harmful mold growth, but it also keeps the items in your home safe from the potential damage that comes with excess moisture.
If you need help, though, you can always turn to professionals. Contact us today to get started.
Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips for Your Home in Hanford, CA
When it comes to beating the summer heat, 75% of Californians rely on air conditioning. We rely on our AC to stay cool and comfortable, but neglecting to care for our equipment can result in the unit breaking down. Since no one wants to deal with a sweltering house in summer, performing regular air conditioning maintenance is vital.
If you're not sure where to start or how often to maintain your system, start with these tips.
Replace the Air Filters
This is one of the easiest tasks but one of the most important air conditioning maintenance tips we can give you. After all, the air filter captures dust, pollen, pet hair, and other airborne contaminants to keep your indoor air cleaner.
Dust mites inside the home can cause allergies, resulting in symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes. Sensitive individuals and those with asthma can experience more severe reactions, such as difficulty breathing.
Regularly cleaning or replacing the air filter helps trap dust and other contaminants that cause allergies.
Additionally, clogged air filters make your system work harder as it struggles to cycle air. Not only is this inefficient, but it can cause your system to break down faster.
In general, you should replace your air filter every 90 days. If you have allergies or you want your system to run better, many pros recommend replacing the filter every 45 days. The type of filter you have may affect this timeline as some can be left for longer.
Remove Debris and Clean the Exterior
Your air conditioner needs a clear space to run at peak efficiency. Go outside and clear away any plants, bushes, or weeds in the area around your condenser/compressor that might impede the airflow.
Turn off your AC and remove the fan cage. Clean out any debris with your hands or a wet/dry vacuum.
Use a shop vac to remove the dirt on the outside of your unit. You can also use a garden hose on a gentle setting to remove stuck-on dirt.
If the fins are very dirty, you may need a special fin cleaning spray.
If you're not comfortable cleaning your unit, schedule a tune-up and cleaning service to do it for you.
Schedule Air Conditioning Maintenance
Heating and cooling equipment is very sensitive and has a lot of delicate parts. If you don't know what you're doing, you can cause damage to your system. Certain issues should be left to the professionals.
If you notice issues such as weak airflow, loud noises, or leaks, or you're having difficulty troubleshooting a problematic AC system, you need to call for air conditioning repair.
The sooner you call an air conditioning service, the less likely you are to have to deal with a bigger issue down the road.
Keep Your Home Comfortable
Taking a few extra steps each month or so to keep your system running efficiently goes a long way. Use these air conditioning maintenance tips to make the process easier.
Do you live in Hanford, CA, and need air conditioning repair or maintenance? If so, give Comfort Now HVAC a call or contact us today so we can help keep your home comfortable!
How to Stay Cool in the Visalia, CA Summer: Your Guide to Air Conditioning
Visalia, CA is no stranger to hot summer days. As temperatures begin to rise, looking for tips on how to stay cool in the summer becomes part of everyday life for people living in the area.
Luckily, the best air conditioning and proper cooling techniques are lifesavers when the weather outside is brutal. Let's take a look at a few tips to help you stay cool in the summer and keep things running smoothly inside your home.
Use Your Air Conditioner
You may feel like you have the best air conditioner out there, but if you don't stay on top of things where your unit is concerned, you may experience a few issues. There's more to an AC unit than simply turning it on. At times you may need air conditioner service, especially in the summer.
Before the heat gets too bad outside, reach out to a professional air conditioning maintenance team. They can stop by your home to perform diagnostics and checks on your system. When they finish, you'll have the best air conditioner on the block when it comes to staying cool throughout the summer.
Cover the Windows
While the views in Visalia, CA may be beautiful, proper window coverings can be useful tools to help you stay cool. Curtains and shades will help keep the sunlight and heat outdoors where it belongs. They can also be helpful tools for reducing the workload of your air conditioner.
Your curtains and shades should match the design of your home and offer UV protection. Window coverings also help in colder months. You'll add a bit of style to your home while helping make things more energy efficient inside.
Dress Cooler
We don't mean buy a new wardrobe. Dressing cooler means avoiding wearing thick materials when inside your home. Breathable fabrics become our best friends when the summer heat begins to rage.
Shorts, t-shirts, and flowing blouses are all the rage during the summer. For work, wait until you're near the office to throw on your suit jacket. Thinking about the way you dress in the heat will help keep you more comfortable at home and out in public.
Think About Your Bedding
Summer nights in Visalia, CA can be hot, too hot. One way to fight the heatwave inside your home is to change up your bedding.
If you have thick duvets or comforters on your bed, summertime is the perfect time to pack those away. You can simply use a sheet or find a covering that is lighter. This will help you sleep better at night and reduce sweating.
How to Stay Cool in the Summer and Much More
If you want to learn how to stay cool in the summer, these tips will help. Instead of fighting the heat, you'll be able to embrace it and have a summer of comfort and fun.
For help maintaining your air conditioning in Visalia, CA the team at Comfort Now Air Conditioning & Heating is here to help! Contact us today to schedule your visit. We'll make sure your unit is in tip-top shape and ready to face the heat!
How to Choose the Best HVAC Company to Service Your Home
There are now over 380,000 HVAC maintenance and repair specialists across the US. If you need help with your HVAC system, it's important to find the right contractor. Someone who lacks experience might void your warranty. Here are a few tips that can help you find the best HVAC service in Visalia, CA. With these tips, you can feel confident a knowledgeable contractor is on the job.
Start your search for an HVAC company with these tips today.
Gather Referrals
First, talk to neighbors, friends, and family members who live in Visalia, CA. Ask if they can recommend an HVAC repair team. If they've hired an HVAC company in the last year, ask about their experience.
For example, did the HVAC contractor arrive on time? Was the contractor knowledgeable and professional? Determine if they were able to fix the problem in a timely manner, too.
Gathering referrals can help you find an HVAC repair team you can trust. You can also determine which companies in town to avoid.
If you're unable to find an HVAC service through referrals, start your search online instead.
Read Reviews
If you're starting your search online, make sure to read online reviews for each HVAC contractor on your list. Check the company's Better Business Bureau and Google Business listings for customer reviews.
Try to find a company that has a strong professional reputation. You can find peace of mind choosing a company others already trust.
If you see the same complaints repeat, however, you're likely to experience the same problems, too.
Look for Experience
Though there are over 380,000 HVAC companies in the US, some teams have more experience than others. Determine how long the HVAC contractor has worked in the industry. Consider if they have experience with your type of unit, too.
An experienced team will have an easier time diagnosing the problem and fixing your HVAC system.
Consider Your Needs
Before choosing an HVAC company, consider your specific concerns.
For example, perhaps your unit has started leaking or making strange sounds. Perhaps you're interested in preventative services.
Americans spend $2,000 on energy every year. Perhaps you want to improve the unit's energy efficiency to cut costs instead.
Make sure the company you choose offers services that align with your needs.
Check Their Paperwork
Make sure the company you're considering is licensed, bonded, and insured.
Confirm that they have both worker's compensation and general liability insurance, too.
Compare Prices
Request a quote from at least three different HVAC companies you interview. Requesting more than one estimate can help you determine the average cost for local services. Ask if they offer financing options, too.
Determine if the company offers a warranty for their services, too.
Start Searching: Find the Best HVAC Service in Visalia, CA Today
Finding the best HVAC service in Visalia, CA is easier than you might think. Use these tips to find a company you can trust. With their help, you can improve your unit's energy efficiency without stress.
Need help with your unit right away? We specialize in the repair or replacement of HVAC comfort systems.
Contact our team of experienced contractors today to get started.
Air Conditioning Service: Six Ways to Prepare for the Warmer Months
During the summer months, temperatures in California can reach up to 86°F. So staying cool during summer can be a real challenge!
Fortunately, almost 100 million American homes are fitted with AC systems to keep you cool and comfortable in the summer. However, if your system is going to keep running smoothly you need to maintain it properly.
Not sure how to prepare your AC system for summer? Then you're in the right place. Read on to find out six top tips from an experienced home air conditioning service!
1. Check How Old Your Air Conditioning Unit Is
All HVAC systems have a shelf life so it's worth checking how long yours has been around. If your system is less than 5 years old then it should be in good working order. Systems that are older than 10 or 15 years, may need AC repairs or replacing.
You should be able to find out the age of your system from its manual or by looking at the machine itself. If you can't see this then a heating and air conditioning service may be able to help you out.
2. Turn Off the Power
If your system is less than 5 years old, you can give it a clean yourself. Before you do this, make sure that the power is off by disconnecting your system at the service panel.
You should never clean your AC system while the power is still on, as you could get electrocuted.
3. Clean Your Air Filters
Once the power is off, start by cleaning or replacing the air filters. If you have fixed air filters, you can clean them using your vacuum cleaner. Otherwise, replace them at least twice a year.
4. Clean the Coils
To remove clean the coils of your AC unit, you will need to unscrew the side and remove this. Then you can lift the coils from the top of your AC unit.
You can clean these using the soft brush of your vacuum cleaner but you should be very careful when doing this. Bending one of the delicate coils could cause serious issues for your AC system.
5. Check Your Thermostat
Your AC system's thermostat is responsible for regulating its temperature so you need this to be working properly. Check that your thermostat's switches are positioned on 'on' and 'cool'.
If your thermostat isn't working properly, try replacing the batteries. If this doesn't work then you should call a professional for help from a service in Visalia.
6. Test Out the Unit
Once you have cleaned and checked your unit you can put it back together and test it out. It's a good idea to do this before the warm weather hits. That way, if you need an air conditioning repair you can get this done before you really need to use your AC unit.
Get Help From an Air Conditioning Service Today
Air conditioning maintenance will help keep your unit running for as long as possible and help you catch repairs quickly. Make sure you do this in plenty of time so that your unit is up and running in time for summer.
Are you worried about a serious issue with your AC system? Then get in touch with an emergency air conditioning service near Hanford today.
5 Telltale Signs Your Home Needs an Air Conditioner Repair
Three-quarters of homes in the United States use an air conditioner. We rely on our air conditioners to keep our homes comfortable, but what happens when something goes wrong?
If you notice any of the below signs, you might need air conditioner repair. The sooner you act, the sooner you can make your home cool and comfortable again! Read on to discover what you need to do.
1. Unusual Sounds
Unusual and loud sounds are never a good sign, especially when it comes to your air conditioner. Banging, screeching, and grinding noises are usually a warning that something might be loose, like a belt or broken part. It can also indicate an obstructed fan, a faulty compressor, or debris clogging the system.
Whatever the issue is, calling for air conditioner maintenance can solve the issue.
2. Weak Air Flow
If you place your hand over a vent and you barely feel any air at all, this indicates a weak airflow. Normally, you should be able to feel the air from your vents from around 8-12 inches away.
A weak airflow can point to a clogged filter. In this case, a simple replacement or cleaning will help.
The air might also feel warm rather than cool. The issue might be with the compressor or a lack of refrigerant.
3. Leaks or Pools of Water
Leaks and puddles of water around your unit could be caused by several issues, such as:
- Low refrigerant levels
- Frozen coils
- Clogged drain line
- A dirty filter
- Damaged drain pan
AC units will create some moisture, but they're supposed to take that moisture and remove it, so you're not dealing with mold. After all, mold grows in places with too much moisture. Mold may cause certain health problems, such as wheezing and shortness of breath.
Don't wait if you notice this issue; call for maintenance as soon as you see it.
4. Strange Smells
If your home smells musty, much like a damp basement, your air conditioner may be to blame. Musty smells can indicate mold growing in or around your AC or in your ducts.
It might also smell like something is burning. This smell can point to faulty electrical wiring or insulation.
Call for air conditioner repair immediately if you notice these odd and unpleasant odors.
5. Uneven Cooling
When you walk around your home, you may notice some rooms are colder than others. If you can't find a good reason for this, these temperature fluctuations often mean your system can't cool your house evenly.
The issue could be debris in the vents somewhere or a system that isn't large enough to effectively keep your home cool. An HVAC repairman can take a look at your air conditioning unit and find the problem.
Are You in Need of Air Conditioner Repair?
These are some of the most common signs you need air conditioner repair. If you noticed any of the above red flags, don't panic. Call or contact Comfort Now HVAC to schedule a repair or service.
If you're in the Visalia or Hanford, CA area, we'll handle all your heating and cooling needs, from air conditioner replacement to HVAC check-ups and more.
This Is How to Get Rid of Allergens in Your House
In the United States, 6 or more allergens are in about 50 percent of homes. Even if a household does not have nearly as many allergens, people in the home can still experience allergy symptoms.
These allergens not only cause irritating symptoms that may be difficult to stop, but they affect the indoor air quality of your home.
You may be wondering how to get rid of allergens in your home. Read on to learn about the different things you can do.
Vacuum And Dust
While these are things you already do to clean up messes, doing these as often as you can prevent the number of allergens that can be in your home.
Around 20 million Americans have a dust mite allergy. Unfortunately, these pesky mites are wherever there is a build-up of dust. Keeping up with dusting your home can limit the number of dust mites.
When you enter your home, you track in many different things from outside. Having pets can make your floor more prone to allergens because they are outside more than you and tend to shed. Vacuuming frequently with a HEPA filter can limit any allergens brought in as well.
Avoid Certain Houseplants
Having houseplants can be a nice touch in your home, but they also can cause you and your family members to experience allergies.
If you are allergic to pollen, there are certain plants you should avoid. Male palms, orchids, and spider plants are some of the plants to avoid keeping in your home.
Invest In An Air Purifier
Regardless of what allergens are the culprits of your annoying allergy symptoms, investing in an air purifier can help with cleaning the air in your home.
Sometimes vacuuming and such may not be enough, and a purifier can give extra help.
If you are not sure what kind of air purifier you should purchase, look at the Clean Air Delivery Rate. The higher the CADR is, the better it will work.
Check And Clean Air Filters
Air filters play a huge role in the overall quality of air in your home.
If these filters are not in the best shape, filtering air will not be done as efficiently as it should. These filters can be found in your home HVAC system.
You can hire a professional to check on filters to see if they need to be cleaned or even replaced. If it turns out that you need a replacement in your filters, a professional can help you with choosing the best types of air filters that will work for your home.
How To Get Rid Of Allergens: Professional Help
Now that you know how to get rid of allergens on your own, you may be wondering when you should hire a professional and how this can be beneficial.
Comfort Now is dedicated to offering exceptional services helping with any HVAC issues or installations. Our technicians have experience with a variety of issues, including helping with indoor air quality. We can help you get the clean and allergen-free air that you are looking for.
We offer services to the Visalia and Hanford areas in California. Contact us today if you are interested in hiring us to help improve your indoor air quality or if you have any questions.
Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Heat Pump This Winter in Porterville, CA
Heat pumps can heat and cool your home efficiently, and this makes them a perfect system to rely on during winter. Heat pumps work differently during winter seasons as compared to how they work during summer seasons. Here are some ways on how to get the most out of your heat pump’s efficiency rating this winter in Porterville, CA.
1. Set the Thermostat Properly
A programmable thermostat is one of the best tools that help increase your heat pumps effectiveness and efficiency. Ensure you set your thermostat to the temperatures you desire and don't set it at higher temperatures as a way of making it reach your desired temperature faster. Actually, when you set your thermostat at an extreme temperature, it strains the system and, in turn, lowers its efficiency.
2. Change Your Air Filters
Air filters not only help in improving your indoor air quality, but they also help in increasing the efficiency of your heat pump. When your air filters get clogged, it affects the airflow in the system, and this causes strain to the heat pump, lowering its efficiency. For you to get the best out of your heat pump, it would be best if you change your air filters at the onset of the winter season.
3. Seal Your Home
When sizing your heat pump, the professionals normally take measurements of your home and the rooms that need heating. When your system heats the whole neighborhood, the system will have to work extra hard to heat your home, and in turn, it will have low efficiency and effectiveness. Sealing your home will make the air with heat remain indoors, and it won't be a strain on the system to warm your home.
Heat pumps are highly effective, efficient, and reliable. For you to get the best out of your heat pump, you need to have a professional conduct regular maintenance. For heat pump installation, repair, maintenance and upgrading services in Porterville, CA, contact us at ZONE Air & Heating Inc.
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How to End Expensive Utility Bills
Are you worried about rising energy costs? You are not alone if so and many people are looking to make energy savings right now. There are a number of ways to make energy savings each month that will help you to end expensive utility bills and have more money left over each month. Not only this, but many of these will help you to reduce your environmental impact too.
So, what are the best ways to end expensive utility bills?
Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a smart way to reduce your environmental impact while still getting the most out of your heating system. These thermostats, also known as smart thermostats, are programmable and can be controlled by your smartphone. This allows you to optimize usage and ensure that you are only using the heating when you really need it.
Window Coverings
While windows are important for letting in the fresh air and natural light, you will also find that they can bring in the temperature from outside and vice versa. This means that in the winter months, cold air can permeate through the glass while in summer you could lose cool air from your system which is replaced by warm air from outside.
Solar window coverings are a smart solution that will help you to maintain the desired temperature inside and avoid having to overwork your HVAC system.
Seal Ducts
Similarly, many homes struggle to maintain temperature due to the duct system and leaks. The EPA estimates that the duct system can lose up to 30% of cooled air due to leaks, so you will want to seal leaks to keep your home at the right temperature. You should also use caulking and weatherstripping to tighten seals around the doors and windows.
AC Maintenance
Homeowners will need to rely on their AC system throughout the year, but issues can arise that could stop it from working efficiently. This is why you need to schedule regular maintenance with air conditioning and heating experts in the Visalia, CA and Hanford, CA areas. They will be able to perform regular maintenance, including a filter change, throughout the year and be available if there are any repairs that need doing.
Regular maintenance will keep your system running efficiently and should help to keep your utility bills down.
Wash Clothes On a Cold Setting
Hot water usage is a major reason why so many households have high energy bills each month. One of the best ways to reduce hot water consumption is to wash your clothes on a cold setting and to air dry them. It is proven that washing on cold works effectively and could also prolong the life of your clothes. This will help you to lower your energy bill and reduce your environmental impact.
Make Energy Savings With These Tips
These are a few of the best ways to make energy savings each month. It is easy to panic when you hear about rising energy costs, but there are always ways that you can reduce your utility bills while also doing your part to save the planet.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you to save money and keep your AC running smoothly.
Fall Furnace Maintenance Provides These 5 Benefits and More In Lindsay, CA
With winter right around the corner in Lindsay, CA, it’s time to start thinking about turning on your furnace, despite the warm daytime temperatures. Before you start using your furnace, you should think about scheduling a fall furnace maintenance appointment. Below are five benefits that HVAC maintenance provides.
Extends Furnace Lifespan
Did you know that, with routine maintenance, your furnace can operate efficiently for up to 20 years? Annual maintenance may save you thousands of dollars by extending the lifespan of the furnace; without regular attention, you might need to replace your furnace around the 10-year mark, if not sooner.
Fewer Needs for Repairs
Not only does annual maintenance keep your furnace running for a long time, but your furnace won’t need as many repairs. With regular maintenance comes regular inspection, where our certified HVAC technicians can catch minor problems before they become big issues. Minor issues can snowball into bigger problems, so by fixing them early, you prevent the possibility of your furnace breaking down when you need it most.
Improves Indoor Air Quality
Regular HVAC maintenance also improves the indoor air quality of your home. Your HVAC technician will inspect your air filter and your system to ensure your system is clean and working properly, all of which contribute to better air quality.
Keeps Warranty Valid
With a good-quality furnace, you can typically get a warranty that lasts 10 years. However, if you have to send in your furnace due to a manufacturer’s issue, they will ask for proof that you’ve had an HVAC professional routinely take care of the unit.
Reduces Energy Bills
When you have your furnace maintained regularly, it'll run more efficiently. This is because the technician measures the airflow and inspects and adjusts connections and parts. When your furnace runs more efficiently, it reduces energy usage and therefore reduces your energy bills.
Don’t let your furnace steal your peace of mind or comfort this winter. We are here to take care of all your HVAC needs. Contact ZONE Air & Heating Inc. today to learn more about our maintenance plans that keep your HVAC system running efficiently.
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