When is it Time to Replace Your Heating System?

If your heating system doesn't have the same kick it used to, you might be thinking about replacing it entirely. However, depending on how old your system is, you may feel like you need to squeeze every last bit of use from your current system before you upgrade. Did you know that this idea could cost you a lot more money?

Here are a few signs that it's okay to install a new heating system, and that doing so might actually save you money on your energy bills in the long run.

• Your heat pump is over 10 years old.
• Your furnace is over 15 years old.
• Your energy bills are rising.
• Your heating system needs to be repaired on a regular basis.
• The heating system is not heating certain rooms, or is heating them too much.
• You don't have a programmable thermostat.
• Your home becomes too dry during the winter months.
• Your heating system is too loud.

Do any of these sound like your current system -- especially the first two? If so, a brand new heating system installation is a worthwhile investment.

Saving Energy While Heating Your Home

So you've recently had a heating system installed or a furnace repair and your home is warming up. Unfortunately, your energy bills are shooting through the roof. What's causing this? More than likely, it's warm air escaping your home through cracks in your doors or windows. By following some of the tips given in this video, you'll be able to keep your home warmer while using less energy which, ultimately, helps you spend less money.

Tax Credits for Energy-efficient HVAC Systems

Did you know you can save money by choosing to have an energy-efficient HVAC system installed in your home? The government provides a 10% tax credit on on a systems cost up to $500, or will credit a certain amount back between $50 and $300.

What kinds of systems are covered? Advanced main air circulating fans; air source heat pumps; central air conditioning; gas, propane, or oil hot water boilers; and natural gas, propane, or oil furnaces. To learn more about what types of systems meet the government requirement for energy efficiency, you can call us at 717-938-3796 or visit our website.

Effective Home Heating and Cooling Tips

Not heating and cooling systems are created equal. They vary in all aspects, from competence and setup difficulty to lifespan, competence and price. If you don’t know much about heating and cooling your home, you’ll want to align with a heating and cooling company that does.

Central heating and cooling systems are amazing, but can be pretty pricey to size and install. Heating and cooling equipment can be puzzling, with the wide range of selections and variables to think about. So, when picking out an effective home heating and cooling system, consider the following:

• Your surroundings. If you are remodeling a portion of your home, it’s not difficult to replace the HVAC units, although this might not be the most cost-effective solution.
• Your finances. This is often what people consider the most. If money is a big consideration, then choose the system that will heat and cool the best, but is still within your budget.
• Your contractor. Look for a professional HVAC contractor who is knowledgeable with the system you want installed. This person should have a wide range of expertise with all different kinds of systems.

Comfort Zone offers home heating repairs in Harrisburg. Contact them today by visiting www.ComfortZonePA.com. 

The Benefits of Comfort Zone’s HVAC Preventative Maintenance Agreement

It’s important that you keep your HVAC system up to date to avoid future heating and cooling emergencies. Comfort Zone of Central Pennsylvania has a staff fully trained to make sure your system is up to date with our preventative maintenance agreement.

The benefits of this program include:

• Fewer Repairs
• Improved heating and cooling capacity
• Lower Utility Bills
• Extended Equipment Life
• 15% Discount on Repairs
• And More!

With winter coming, now is the time to take advantage of our heating inspection through this program, and this process consists of:

• Change/Clean Air Filters
• Clean Burners
• Gas Valve and Pressures
• Thermostat and Safety Controls
• And More!

Learn more about this program by visiting www.ComfortZonePA.com. 

Air Conditioning Service

Need air conditioning service? Here are some things to look at before calling an air conditioning repair company:

• Check to see if the thermostat is working. If not, you may want to change the batteries.
• Regularly change the filters to ensure the ac works at best efficiency.
• If it stopped working after a recent thunderstorm, give it 15 minutes before trying to turn it on.

Harrisburg air conditioning service company Comfort Zone can help you with all your air conditioning needs. Contact us today by visiting www.ComfortZonePA.com. 

HVAC FAQ

Here are some of the more commonly asked questions the Comfort Zone staff gets asked about our HVAC services:

What size HVAC system do I need?

It depends on the construction of your home. A one ton air conditioning unit can cool up to 800 square feet. You should have an HVAC contractor determine your home’s heating and cooling needs.

How can I increase efficiency and life?

It comes to regular maintenance, especially frequent filter cleaning and replacement. Make sure the blower is in the “on” position so air constantly moves through the home and allows better filtration. Also make sure windows that have extreme sunlight shining through have shades, drapes or shutters installed.

How often should my filters be replaced?

At least once a month to ensure optimum efficiency and filtration. Washable ones should be cleaned monthly.

What temperature should my thermostat be set at?
It depends on time of year. In summer, 78-80 degrees is the average, while 70-72 degrees in the winter is the most common.

Are systems with higher capacities better?

Not usually. A larger system with more capacity delivers less comfort and costs more to operate.

Camp Hill HVAC contractor Comfort Zone can help you with all your HVAC needs. Contact us today by visiting www.ComfortZonePA.com.  

Harrisburg Air Conditioning Tips

Save money on your Harrisburg air conditioning with the following tips:

Less is more

If you’re buying a window unit, remember more is not always better. Make your purchase based on the size of the room and other factors that may affect the room temperature. It will cost you more to cool if you use an a/c unit that’s too big for the room, as the unit will work harder.

SEER numbers

If shopping for a central air conditioning system, check to see if the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) number is 13 or better, as less efficient systems will cost more to run. Find an energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 11 or more for window units. High efficiency units cost more, but will pay for themselves with the reduced electric costs.

Think of replacing

If your current unit has a SEER number of 8 or less, you might want to think about replacing your air conditioner. Older units costs more to run, and since cooling systems are the second biggest energy guzzler, it might be worthwhile to invest in a new, more energy efficient air conditioner.

Control the temp

You can install a programmable thermostat, and vary the temperature according to when you’re home. If relaxing around the house, set the temp to 78 degrees, and if you’re gone for more than a few hours, set the a/c at 85.

Plant in the shade

You condenser should be located in a shady spot, and it should have room to dispose of the heated air removed. It should not be crowded with shrubs or anything else, but plant shade trees and shrubs around the house to reduce the heat of the sun, which reduces costs by up to 30%.

Need assistance with your Harrisburg air conditioner? Get in touch with Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling by visiting www.ComfortZonePA.com. 

Tips from Comfort Zone to Improve Your Air Conditioner’s Efficiency

Summer’s coming, and with energy prices higher than normal, you’ll want to make sure your air conditioner is running as efficient as possible. So, before it starts heating up in Harrisburg, remember the following tips:

1. Ensure the unit starts, operates and shuts down as it should normally.
2. When you’re not home, turn the air conditioner down. Consider installing a timer that turns off the unit when you leave and turns it back on before you get home.
3. Make sure all the moving parts are well oiled. Any unlubricated parts can cause friction, increasing energy usage.
4. Monthly changing the air filters makes the unit less efficient, thus reducing its lifespan.
5. Cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils can cause the system to run less and more efficient. A dirty coil causes the unit to operate longer, thereby increasing your electrical bill.

If you’re worried about the efficiency of your cooling unit, give Comfort Zone a call. We’d be happy to take a look at your HVAC system and tell you what can be done to lower your energy bills. Get a free air conditioning estimate by visiting www.ComfortZonePA.com.

Three Tips from Comfort Zone to Keep Your Air Conditioner Working

The one thing you don’t need to deal with on a scorching summer’s night is a problematic air conditioner. Your air conditioner has to be functional for you to be able to have a relaxed summer. Comfort Zone, the heating and cooling experts of Harrisburg PA, have the following tips to ensure you don’t need air conditioner repair this coming season:

1. Maintain your outdoor unit
   An unclean unit can become a nonworking unit. Avoid challenges by removing from your unit cottonwood and grass clippings. When dirty, the central air unit can overheat and shut off, which will reduce its life and prevent proper cooling.
2. Install clean filters
   The filter that helps keep your warm in the winter is the same as the one that will keep you cool in the summer. A dirty filter can result in higher costs, and affect cooling capabilities, which will mean more discomfort in the summertime.
3. Leave the air conditioner on at night
   Many clients ask if they should turn off their AC at night. The night air, despite being cooler, still contains humidity. If you turn off your cooling unit, all the humidity will sit there, and the air conditioner will have to work much harder to remove it. Save the appliance the effort by letting it run at night.

Enjoy the weather in comfort by contacting Comfort Zone for all your heating and cooling needs. Have a happy and safe summer!  

Your Money - Household Ways To Save Thousands

As the average home owner or renter, you have a full time job at home. You just don't realize it. And because you don't keep up on the maintenance, as you should, you're only making yourself and your loved ones suffer as victims. That may sound extreme, but the average home owner usually let's the simplest maintenance slip by unnoticed. You may say, "I'll get to it tomorrow.", but it's always tomorrow. I'm talking about basic monthly maintenance on the little things. When was the last time you cleaned your refrigerator coils? Did you cut those bushes back away from the house yet? What about the two most important and simplest tasks such as draining the sludge from your water heater and changing out your air filter in your air conditioner system? Why haven't done those tasks? They only take about 10 - 15 minutes. You might as well be throwing your wallet down on the sidewalk for someone else to pickup.

What!? That's right. By not changing your air filter once per month, your air conditioner needs to work harder. Your filter is dirty so the air conditioner needs to suck the inside air through all that dirt just so it can blow a lot of that dirt and allergens back in through your air registers. Think of the old vacuums that used bags. Would you take that old vacuum bag out in the house just to have that plume of dust and dirt fly up in your face? Your allergies don't react well to this. How much money do you spend on antihistamines and other allergy medications? This contributes to your allergies acting up even when you are inside your house.

By not following a regular filter change schedule, your air conditioner gets tired and worn out faster. This means that after years of abuse, instead of lasting 12 - 15 years, you'll be calling a service technician several years sooner. You wouldn't think that a little dirt and dust can do that, but a little adds up quickly. That's not a big concern though is it? The average hourly labor charge for a service technician in any trade will run you about $70 and up. In fact, count on at least $60 just for the technician to turn that key in his ignition and say, "Good afternoon." The cost not only can, but will be at least several hundred dollars. I'm not trying to scare you, but the truth is the truth.

What about your water heater? What sludge? Every water source pumps very small particulates of minerals and dirt into your house and goes through your water heater, even if you are on city water. Over time, these particulates can corrode the anode rod inside your water heater (which is a good thing). This "sacrificial rod" is what degrades over time instead of your water heater, and it settles as rusty sediment and dirt at the bottom of your water heater. You need to flush out this sludge from your water heater at least once per year. If you are on a well, then I would recommend flushing your water heater out at least 3 times per year and install a sediment filter on the main pipe that flows into your water heater. You will need to periodically replace the sacrificial anode rod as well; more frequently if you are on a well system, or you will find yourself replacing the water heater itself.

If you fail to perform basic preventive maintenance around the house, you won't be buying just a filter or anode rod for a few dollars. You'll be new equipment years before you need to do so. If you are unsure of how to do the maintenance, schedule a service call from a qualified technician, and observe them as they do the job properly. You will be better prepared to do it yourself the next time, and you can get your questions answered by someone who brings their experience into your home.

For more information and guidance about saving money in home repairs for water heaters, air conditioning, heat pumps, etc, visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Your Water Heater Heats Your Water and Burns Your Money Up

With energy costs constantly on the rise and the housing market in a huge slump it is surprising to find home builders not taking steps to enhance a new home's features when it doesn't cost any extra. Basic upgrades which don't really carry an "upgrade" price tag would only facilitate a quicker sale. This would relieve some financial stress on builders from trying to carry the cost of an unsold home. Instead, homeowners are having to refit the home with new appliances in order to achieve a more efficient and economical cost of living. Perhaps the wisest and most efficient upgrade a homeowner can make is changing out their current traditional water heater for an on-demand tankless water heater.

Traditional water heaters store large quantities of hot water. For the average home the typical water heater stores 40 to 60 gallons. In order for the water to remain hot these types of water heaters need to continuously cycle on and off to maintain the preset temperature of the hot water. Even when there isn't any hot water being drawn at the faucets the water heater is still wasting the homeowners money by trying to maintain the water temperature at a consistent high level.

On-demand tankless water heaters only expend energy when the hot water faucet is opened. This type of water heater quickly and almost instantly heats the water to the preset temperature and can provide an unending supply of hot water. This means no longer would the homeowner run out of hot water for a shower while the washing machine is running or the whole family needs to take a shower one person after another.

Most on-demand tankless water heaters for the entire home utilize gas instead of electricity. There are electric tankless water heaters available, however they are designed for lower demand water usage such as at the kitchen sink. This is the limitation of electrically powered water heaters.

Depending upon the homeowners needs, one or a combination of both will pay for themselves in short order. The do-it-yourself handyman should be aware, regarding attempting to replace a water heater with a new tankless water heater, that in most locales a permit and inspection may be required for safety. Gas can be very hazardous to deal with and unless the homeowner is a professional this upgrade should not be done by a novice or amateur. A professional will be able to steer the homeowner in the right direction.

Learn more about water heaters and receive a free estimate from Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Overlooked Preventative Maintenance That Will Save Time, Money, and Frustration

Now that spring is here, it's time to clean out the garage, fertilize the lawn, and do all of the other hundreds of chores that have gone forgotten this past winter. Three things that are commonly overlooked are the simplest tasks to get done ... and one of them doesn't even get done by the homeowner themselves.


Water heaters and boilers need to have the build up of sediment flushed out periodically, especially if the home is on a well system for its water supply. Nothing will shorten the life of water heaters faster than sediment build up. It's fairly simple. A simple garden hose is what is needed to hook up to the drain valve to flush the build up away.

The HVAC system isn't quite as simple for the everyday homeowner. The home's air conditioner and heating system should be inspected once per year, especially after a harsh winter in the Northeast. Specialized tools are required to service and test the system. If the home has central air, then the coolant level needs to be checked and possibly recharged.

This is inexpensive preventative maintenance that will save a lot of cost and discomfort in the heat of the summer. Nothing is worse than having to wait for a service technician in the summer when everyone else didn't get their HVAC system tuned up either.

A cursory visual inspection of the water pipes in the basement is a must. Any moisture around the joints should be inspected more closely. Any piping that passes through an exterior wall should be paid close attention to for expansion and contraction. Breaks in the pipe can be a common occurrence at these points.

It's amazing how often the above tasks are overlooked which only take a few minutes and the main focus is always put on the tasks that require the most time, such as window washing, dusting, and the floors. It's always gratifying if the house is presentable and clean, but if the temperature inside is unbearable or the house is flooded, who would want to spend time inside?

For more information on heating and cooling maintenance, visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA.

Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Save Money With Solar Power

Alternative forms of energy are now the mainstream concerns of almost every public utility and private individual. As the cost of oil, coal, and electricity continue to climb rapidly overnight, more and more people are exploring other avenues of saving money through alternate forms of energy. Perhaps the most economical energy source is solar panels in the long term.

Initially, solar panels are a sizable investment, but solar power should not be looked upon as an expense. The sun is a perpetual and limitless source of energy that can actually make money for the homeowner while they inhabit the home or when selling the property. Depending on the type of solar collectors used, a household can not only produce electricity without the electric company, families can also produce hot water through solar heaters.

There are immediate benefits to be had when solar panels are used for a building's electricity needs. An immediate decrease in payments to the local electric company will be realized and in some cases the electric company can purchase surplus electricity that a families solar panels produce. The latter is the best case scenario.

Solar heaters are a useful method of heating water and air temperature for families or public venues such as schools, government buildings, or office complexes. The solar heaters collect and focus heat absorbed by the sun's rays into pipes, bricks, metal, or rocks. This heat is then moved to wherever it is required. Fans or pumps are used in active solar heaters or passive solar heaters can be used which do not rely on any pumps or fans. Active solar heaters can be powered by energy collected by solar panels thereby reducing the expense of relying on the local electric and utility companies. Local service professionals that specialize in heating and cooling may have the expertise and experience to provide guidance when deciding on solar heaters.

These methods of producing heat and electricity will have varying degrees of effectiveness depending on the region of the country that they are utilized. In southern climates from Los Angeles across the U.S. to Georgia, solar power can be the most useful. This is partly due to the fact that these southern regions receive more direct sunlight for a longer duration throughout the day and seasons. Even though northern climates that receive snow do not experience as long an exposure to sunlight, they can also receive benefits from solar panels. There are many different types of solar panels on the market and some are more effective than others. Local service providers that specialize in solar panels will be able to tell you which types yield the best results for the region they serve.

The most common placement of solar panels is on the roofs of houses and sheds. This placement has two large benefits. The first benefit is that by raising the panels further from the ground surface, a maximum of sunlight can be absorbed and converted into electricity. The second benefit is that the solar panels will greatly reduce the need to run the air conditioner. The solar panels or solar heater absorbs much of the heat that otherwise would be absorbed by the house or building thereby allowing the interior to stay cooler.

There are many federal and state programs that give tax breaks or credit for the installation of alternative energy sources. These incentives vary widely from state to state. Many utility companies have this information and some service companies can help steer an individual in the right direction to take advantage of these savings.

For more information and guidance about energy efficient heating and cooling, visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Knock $50 Off of Your Electric Bill

In the face of rising electric rates and upcoming warmer weather, monthly electric bills can put a real damper on your spring and summer budget. Over the winter months when dust and pollen are at a minimum, cleaning your air conditioner filters can be an overlooked task. During spring time when you open your windows and air out the house, dirt, dust, pollen, and insects get into your duct work and travel to your air filter where they get trapped. Consequently, on top of several winter months of accumulation, the partially obstructed air flow through your system easily becomes completely clogged.

Now comes the warmer weather. Up to sixty percent of your summertime electric bill can be attributed to cooling your house. However, if your air filters are clogged, the machinery may run continuously, straining to lower the inside temperature. Not only does it cause undue wear and tear on your equipment, but the constant running can increase your monthly bill by up to forty percent! Give your checkbook a break and clean (or replace) the filters. You may easily save up to $50 or more each month as a result. Every bit of savings helps.

If you haven't done so recently, you may want to consider having your entire air conditioning unit serviced to replace worn parts, check refrigerant levels, and improve efficiency. Preventive maintenance costs a lot less than repairs, and you can realize significant additional savings by keeping your unit in optimal shape. Your air conditioner should keep you cool without causing you to break a sweat when the bill arrives.

Learn more about heating and cooling, and other HVAC or water heater-related items by visiting Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Tom Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

"No Sweat" With Heating and Cooling Costs On The Rise

Most of your electric bill is likely to be blowing in the wind, literally. Depending on the climate you live in, up to 80% of your bill may be to pay for heating and cooling costs, and often times the expenses are higher than they should be due to inefficiencies. Especially true of houses built in the 1990's and earlier, leaky windows, door jambs, vents, and ducting can result in your thermostat trying to heat or cool the outdoors.

In several states, electricity prices were capped years ago. Now, in states like Pennsylvania, the cost cap on electricity is being lifted, and people are experiencing doubling or even tripling of monthly bills. Now is the time to reevaluate the weatherization of your home. If you have a heat pump, the rated efficiency of your system makes a big difference in your monthly bill. Older units with a low energy efficiency rating, for example a 10 SEER unit, may be costing more than they're worth. Replacing them with a 13 SEER unit might drop your electric bill by a hundreds or thousands of dollars on an annual basis.

Taking the time to caulk windows, insulate hot water pipes, blanket water heaters, and inspect & seal air conditioning duct work keeps the comfortable air in, and the uncomfortable air out.. If you live in a house with multiple heating and cooling zones, it becomes even more important to monitor your home's efficiency. I live in a reasonably large house with three separate zones, for example, and one of the three heat pumps went on the fritz a few weeks ago. When the outside unit (the compressor side of the system) was replaced, the cost was about $1500. I replaced a 10 SEER unit with a 13 SEER unit, but the inside unit (the air handler & coil) was still functioning okay, so I did not replace it. The end result is a system that functions at something less than 13 SEER (efficiency) but something better than 10 SEER. The result: my electric bill dropped $212 during the coldest month of the year. My $1500 investment will pay for itself in under 8 months.

Working with tangible numbers, it became painfully evident to me that my own bills have been higher than they should have been for years, prompting me to go on a weatherization crusade throughout the house. How is your electric bill these days? Realizing the savings, isn't it time to spend less money on inefficiency, or on heating and cooling the outside? Set your Congress-approved economic stimulus check aside and make it work for you by reducing your cost of living.

Here are some examples on how to keep more of what you earn by spending a little bit now. A new water heater blanket costs about $40. If it saves you just $5 per month, it pays for itself in eight months and continues to save $60 per year thereafter. New weather seals on doors and windows can cost $25 to purchase, but may save $15 per month by improving the air-tight characteristics of your home, for a $180 per year savings. Simply cleaning out your oven or drier vents and ensuring that the vent flaps close properly can save $10 or more per month. Replacing brittle, leaky duct work tape between adjoining sections in your attic, basement, or crawl space can cost $20 but save hundreds of dollars per year by reducing leakage. Insulating or lagging hot water pipes can keep your water hotter and costs lower, too.

Most of the little fixes discussed above are cheap to do. The problem is, they take time. If you schedule the morning to get the jobs done on a Saturday or Sunday, a few dedicated hours of work can make for a better cash flow for your household. If you qualify for low-income incentives, your particular state may even sponsor a program to do the work for you at no cost. Look up the keyword "weatherization" on your favorite search engine to learn more.

Learn more about heating and cooling and how to save money by visiting Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Suffering From Bad Air Quality, or Are You Just "Sick of Work"?

There's nothing worse than getting a cold or some other ailment, except when you get sick in the heat of spring and summer. Now you can add on allergies. You're already uncomfortable, but now you'll need to bundle up while the rest of your family turns down the thermostat to keep cool. Did you get sick from work or do you have a sore throat from poor air quality in your house? Well, you're a little sick because of work, but mostly sick from the poor air quality in your home. While you don't have much control about going to work and the germs and pollen you can pick up there, you can control the air quality in your house.

There are many ways to efficiently and inexpensively, in the long term, achieve good air quality and comfort within the confines of your home. The region where you live will determine what equipment will benefit you the most. The two or three pieces of equipment that will yield the best results are an electrostatic filter and an air conditioner. Air conditioners act as a whole-house dehumidifier or if you reside in an arid region then a humidifier would be better instead.

Very few homeowners have a dehumidifiers or humidifiers installed, yet most of us would benefit from their use. Dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air allowing the homeowner a much more comfortable atmosphere. Drier air feels cooler, so you don't need to keep the thermostat set quite as low, thus reducing your electric bill. Humidifiers, on the other hand, add moisture to an uncomfortably dry environment. Whether the home is in the arid deserts of Nevada, high altitude places like Denver, or the sticky delta region of Louisiana, the right unit will maintain a comfortable level of humidity for all.

An inexpensive electrostatic filter can be used in almost every single air conditioning system in use today. These filters are often good for a lifetime of use with minimal maintenance. The benefits of using an electrostatic filter are numerous. These filters trap airborne particulate matter, such as bacteria, pollen, dust, and so on because of the attraction to the electro-statically charged filter material. This translates to easier breathing and less irritants that cause us all to become ill. The only maintenance needed to ensure healthy breathing is periodically remove the filter, cleaning it with a mild detergent, hosing it off thoroughly, and allowing it to dry. Afterward reinstall the filter and breathe easier. Be especially sure that the entire filter unit is dry before you reinstall it, since the filter unit generates thousands of volts to charge and attract particles that pass through it. Installing a wet filter can be hazardous or deadly.

For the office, although you may have little control over your work environment, you can find inexpensive but effective portable air purifiers. Desktop and tabletop models are available if you are fortunate enough to have your own private office. If you work within a network of cubicles, a personal air purifier worn around your neck may be the better solution to keep the air clean in your "personal space." You'll feel better and be more productive if you can breathe better.

For more information and guidance about air conditioning and air quality visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Ignoring Your Water Heater and Furnace Can Cost You

Whether it's a plumber, carpenter, or HVAC technician, it can be extremely difficult to find a reliable and conscientious service company.  It's even a greater concern when something crucial such as your furnace or heat pump goes down in the winter time and you are at the mercy of whomever shows up.  Word of mouth is still the best form of advertising.  Ask friends and neighbors which companies are good and the first words heard will be, "Well, don't use ..."  By process of elimination the unreliable companies will be weeded out and the ones left standing are a good source from which to start.

Now the focus can turn to the two major systems that homeowners depend upon day in and day out with little thought to them, water heaters and furnaces or heat pumps.  Everyday people turn the handle to the hot water or flick the on switch for the heat and it just works.  Like magic hot water and hot air comes pouring from some unseen source of goodness until it breaks.  Then worry and frustration set in.  The key is to be proactive in your search for a responsible company before you are up against the wall.  If the homeowner already possesses the knowledge and skill to maintain this equipment this is a moot point, however for the large majority of homeowners, servicing these expensive pieces of equipment themselves is not an option.

As much use as compressors and furnaces get throughout the year, it is a wonder that they don't break more often.  Having the home's furnace or HVAC components inspected once per year will always pay off in the end.  Most of the time any potential problems can be determined and prevented by a simple and inexpensive service call.  Every HVAC technician will recommend that furnace and return filters be changed regularly.  Some will even be able to set up an automatic service call schedule so the customer doesn't need to trouble themselves.  Duct work should be checked and cleaned as well.  Duct cleaning is also a regular service that is highly under utilized and dirty duct work contributes to poor air quality in the home.  The average homeowner can change the air filters, but duct cleaning requires specialized equipment that is expensive and therefore more advantageous to let a professional handle the task.

Water heaters are probably the more frequently serviced or damaged appliance in the home. Water heaters are either powered by electric or gas.  Either one can be service by a plumber or HVAC technician.  The hardness of the water will dictate how often the water heater should be flushed out and anode rods replaced.  Only a physical inspection of these components can determine the next course of action.  If a homeowner is unfamiliar with these units, a service call to a professional is best.  The large majority of technician will be more than happy to answer all of the questions and even show the homeowner things that they can do in order to minimize future service calls.

Again the key to a worry free home is to maintain each component within in order to minimize expense and down time later.  It is this rule that most individuals don't heed that causes undue stress and unrealistic expectations of the "hero" technician.  A little time taken now will save a lot of time later and their time is your money.  Save it now.

For more information and guidance about energy efficiency and lower maintenance costs in your home or to request a free estimate, visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

HVAC Inspections

Make Sure the Heat and Air Conditioning Works When the Weather Turns Ugly

While winter is in full swing throughout the northern states, most major cities, such as Harrisburg, PA or smaller cities like York, PA, are able to effectively deal with the freezing temperatures due to larger maintenance budgets. Those families and the common man without "deep pockets" will most assuredly find it a greater challenge to make ends meet. One aspect of home and equipment maintenance which can not be overlooked is the HVAC system.

Whether the home is outfitted with baseboard heating, radiant heat or the traditional furnace, the equipment should be inspected annually. Hopefully the HVAC system was inspected before the bitter cold of winter arrived on the scene. The reason for this inspection is to help ensure that the heating will be working properly to maintain a moderate comfort level.

Nothing is worse than being stuck in a snowed in house when the furnace or other heat source fails. Interior temperatures can plummet. The two demographics which are at the greatest risk of sustaining serious injury or negative effects from the bitter cold are the elderly and the very young. Every year there are multiple reports of some elderly man or woman who has expired due to hypothermia or freezing. Those individuals with pre-existing health conditions are even more susceptible.

Different sources will cite a large varying of statistics regarding deaths attributed to cold temperatures. The New York Times, in a ten year old article, reported that there are more than 700 deaths every year due to cold weather temperatures. Other reports state that number as being in the thousands.

The point of this writing is not to instill fear, but merely to point out that in many of these cases exposure to the cold can be detrimental. It is also quite possible and realistic for a home owner to prevent this condition in the first place. Most, if not all heating and air conditioning service companies, provide maintenance contracts and residential inspection services with just this in mind.

The problem is most home owners do not anticipate any heating failure. When a furnace or heat pump does break down the home owner will usually expect that a HVAC service company will be able to come out and simply and quickly repair the equipment. The problem is that every part that may be faulty can not possibly be stocked by a heating and air conditioning company. There are simply too many components and models of furnaces and other heating equipment to accommodate. Some parts may need to be ordered. In this case the home owner will need to wait. In the meantime the individual will need to have a backup emergency plan or suffer the consequences.

To learn more about HVAC Inspections or to receive a free estimate, visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Gas Vs Electric...

Efficient Natural Gas is More Popular Than Electric Due to Costs and Comfort

Choosing which type of furnace and appliances would best suit a home can be a time consuming and confusing task. In order to choose whether a gas or an electric furnace should be selected, several questions should be answered. First and foremost is the question of whether natural gas is available. If it is not, the alternative of propane may be worth checking.

In most areas, there is no issue with acquiring natural gas. Natural gas furnaces are typically the most affordable choice, however in some regions, cost of gas has been on the rise. By checking with local natural gas distributors for average prices, a cost of use estimate based on family size and anticipated consumption would reveal important information to the decision process.

Even though gas furnaces and appliances are equipped with exhaust stacks or pipes which dispel harmful fumes such as carbon monoxide, natural gas (or propane) still has some aspect of an odor. Another consideration is maintenance. Gas furnaces should be professionally inspected on a yearly basis. An inspection for cracks, tiny holes, or leaks will ensure that carbon monoxide or gas leakage will not be an issue for the family or home.

Electric heating and appliances have pros and cons as well. A major benefit regarding electric is the reduced risk of carbon monoxide. Because there are no flames as with gas, electric is cleaner and typically safer. Costs, however, can be an issue in comparison. Rising electricity bills are prompting many homeowners to consider the switch from electric back to gas.

Square footage of the home, efficiency ratings, and warranty are all considerations when selecting a furnace. The government standard set in 1992 established a minimum efficiency rating for gas furnaces to be 78%. This means that a minimum of 78% of the gas is converted into heat. Many models of gas furnaces are currently running at 96% and higher. Energy star ratings for some makes and models have even been rated near 98%.

After the decision of which to use, natural gas or an electric furnace has been made, there are still many questions left. The price of the unit itself should not be the only major deciding factor for which model furnace to purchase. Consulting a competent installation professional will help to answer some of these important questions. To be sure that the furnace chosen for the home is the best option, consulting a reputable dealer is a must. The Better Business Bureau is a great first step in choosing a professional. Also be sure that the company chosen installs the models of furnaces researched, and that the company is licensed, bonded, and insured. The choice of furnace and often many appliances is an investment that can last over 20 years, so it is important to do your research before making a commitment to either.

For more information and guidance about Heating and Cooling, visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Taxing the Furnace, Boiler or Water Heater Can Increase the Likelihood of Equipment Failure

This has been an exceptionally cold winter season setting record low temperatures and taxing almost everyone's furnace, heat pump or water heater. This is particularly true in northern regions of the U.S. such as Pennsylvania. Sub-freezing temperatures can also have a disastrous effect on water pipes and water heaters, especially if the temperature is consistently freezing or below for a moderate length of time.

As the temperature of the water drops due to harsh freezing ground conditions, the water heater needs to work harder to heat the new incoming water. Should the water source be from a well, this can also introduce dirt and heavy minerals into the water heater, thereby greatly shortening the water heaters life span. Many home owners in northern states may not have an electric or gas water heater. Some may have a furnace, often referred to as a boiler depending upon the method of transferring heat throughout the home.

Older furnaces are not as efficient as newer equipment. One simple way to determine this is if the utility bills have slowly crept higher and higher over the past few years for the same quantity of fuel. If the home owner has not kept receipts of fuel or electric bills from years past to compare, a call to the electric company or fuel supplier may be able to give the home owner a monthly summary of past energy usage. A little basic math will probably be required to determine if the actual cost has increased.

Should the temperature inside the house become colder despite adjusting the thermostat, it may mean the furnace is failing. Because many homes use a furnace for supplying heat and hot water, should the hot water from the tap seem cooler than usual, a broken furnace may indeed be the culprit. Even though at its heart, a boiler is a simple machine, there is nothing simple about replacing one.

If the home owner decides to troubleshoot themselves, the thermostat will be the cheapest place to start. Replacing the thermostat with a newer digital thermostat will be a plus, whether the old one was faulty or not. Thermostats are not universal. A particular model which works on a single stage heat pump will not work for a furnace or boiler. The wiring diagrams can also be flawed due to a variety of possible configurations a home may have.

Although it may add to the cost, there is no substitute for a qualified service technician or company. If the heating equipment has failed, there probably will not be the luxury of time for shopping around for just the perfect solution. Safety and comfort need to be the priority. With the current economic status quo, some HVAC companies may extend payment plans to their customers. Whether this is the case or not, always exercise diligence when looking for a reputable company. Ask the neighbors for recommendations. Word of mouth is still one of the best ways of advertising, especially in smaller communities.

Learn more about furnaces, boilers and water heaters by visiting Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

HVAC Inspections...

Make Sure the Heat and Air Conditioning Works When the Weather Turns Ugly

While winter is in full swing throughout the northern states, most major cities, such as Harrisburg, PA or smaller cities like York, PA, are able to effectively deal with the freezing temperatures due to larger maintenance budgets. Those families and the common man without "deep pockets" will most assuredly find it a greater challenge to make ends meet. One aspect of home and equipment maintenance which can not be overlooked is the HVAC system.

Whether the home is outfitted with baseboard heating, radiant heat or the traditional furnace, the equipment should be inspected annually. Hopefully the HVAC system was inspected before the bitter cold of winter arrived on the scene. The reason for this inspection is to help ensure that the heating will be working properly to maintain a moderate comfort level.

Nothing is worse than being stuck in a snowed in house when the furnace or other heat source fails. Interior temperatures can plummet. The two demographics which are at the greatest risk of sustaining serious injury or negative effects from the bitter cold are the elderly and the very young. Every year there are multiple reports of some elderly man or woman who has expired due to hypothermia or freezing. Those individuals with pre-existing health conditions are even more susceptible.

Different sources will cite a large varying of statistics regarding deaths attributed to cold temperatures. The New York Times, in a ten year old article, reported that there are more than 700 deaths every year due to cold weather temperatures. Other reports state that number as being in the thousands.

The point of this writing is not to instill fear, but merely to point out that in many of these cases exposure to the cold can be detrimental. It is also quite possible and realistic for a home owner to prevent this condition in the first place. Most, if not all heating and air conditioning service companies, provide maintenance contracts and residential inspection services with just this in mind.

The problem is most home owners do not anticipate any heating failure. When a furnace or heat pump does break down the home owner will usually expect that a HVAC service company will be able to come out and simply and quickly repair the equipment. The problem is that every part that may be faulty can not possibly be stocked by a heating and air conditioning company. There are simply too many components and models of furnaces and other heating equipment to accommodate. Some parts may need to be ordered. In this case the home owner will need to wait. In the meantime the individual will need to have a backup emergency plan or suffer the consequences.

Learn more about HVAC services and receive a free quote by visiting Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.