Summer temperatures in SLC can reach as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit, which means that Salt Lake City HVAC systems will have to work doubly hard. Heavy usage of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, however, inevitably equates to higher energy costs—definitely bad news if you’re the one footing the bill. Luckily, you can reduce home cooling costs without sacrificing comfort through the following methods.

Fill in the holes in windows and doors.

Even the smallest and least visible cracks on doors and windows can allow the cool air from your air conditioning unit to escape. As such, be sure to plug up all the holes you can find, no matter how miniscule they may be. Use high-quality caulking and weatherstripping products to fill in the gaps.

Clean your AC.

Dust particles can infiltrate your lungs and cause respiratory problems. Solid contaminants affect your AC unit in a similar way by hindering air flow and reducing your AC unit’s efficiency or else causing it to fail entirely. To avoid total AC failure in the middle of scorching weather, you can call on professional contractors for a thorough cleaning and air filter change as needed.

Install energy-efficient window treatments.

Curtains made with light fabrics may not provide sufficient protection from the summer heat. As such, you may want to opt for energy-efficient window treatments such as Roman shades and roller blinds that deflect the sun’s rays. These products also have higher R-values, which indicates their ability to resist heat transfer.

To keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter, quite a number of households also rely on geothermal heating and air conditioning in Utah. These units are equipped with heat exchangers that extract and transfer excess heat or cold away from the building and into the ground. For professional HVAC installation and maintenance in Salt Lake City, trust only the professionals like Harris Aire Serv.

If you have been living in Utah’s lowlands for a few years, chances are you’ve seen your home’s HVAC system go above and beyond the call of duty in the summer. While air conditioners are typically expected to have a service life of up to 15 years, constant use, even with regular maintenance, can dramatically shorten that lifespan. When your AC system arrives at that critical juncture in which it is unlikely to be of use to your home for even one more summer, it’s time to install a new unit with the help of a Salt Lake City airconditioning company such as Harris Aire Serv.

When you are choosing a replacement air conditioner, look for one that has the ENERGY STAR label and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) numbers in the double digits. High SEERs indicate favorable efficiency grades. For the best value for your money, have the contractor inspect your house to ensure that the replacement machine has the appropriate SEER rating.

You shouldn’t make the mistake of neglecting your furnace as you go about replacing your air conditioner. Fortunately, companies such as Harris Aire Serv also specialize in Salt Lake City furnace repair work to prepare your home for the cold months. An inspection of the entire system can reveal some issues that need to be fixed as soon as possible.

Sagging ductwork, for instance, can badly affect the airflow, and diminish heating effectiveness. These can be realigned and cleaned to restore unrestricted passage of air. Additionally, lubrication of the internal workings of the furnace can address motor noise issues. The tech crew can likewise replace the filter, and tweak the burners to keep the appliance at maximum efficiency. While carbon monoxide is often an unwanted byproduct of combustion, good furnace maintenance can keep it at a minimum, and prevent its presence in rooms.

Technological devices such as air conditioners and furnaces have to contend with obsolescence. Tapping a credible heating and air conditioning company will help you set up a fresh unit and stay on top of its maintenance, or even allow your veteran HVAC system to battle a few more seasonal changes with you.

A number of heating furnace systems are available in the market, with the electric, natural gas, wood, and hot-water types among the more popular. Of these, hot-water furnaces are a class all their own. Also known as hydronic boilers, they course heated water through pipes under the floorboards, then extract the heat for distribution. If you are interested in having such a system installed at home, a Salt Lake City heating company such as Harris Aire Serv can get it working in short order.

A hot-water furnace has an array of parts. This includes the thermostat, a gas valve (for gas-powered models), a circulator pump, a flow control valve, and an expansion tank that handles the water when it is heated. Regular maintenance is paramount in such machines, as the boiler itself can burn or explode if defective.

Hot-water furnaces are often categorized into four types of system. Closed systems recycle the water for reheating, while open systems continually replenish it. A gravity-based system has no circulator for the water. A single-pipe system links the heated water supply to a section of the home requiring heat, with another pipe bringing the water back to the boiler.

In choosing a quality hot-water furnace for your Salt Lake City HVAC system, take note of new annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings set forth by the US Department of Energy. Under guidelines slated to take effect on May 1, 2013, non-weatherized gas furnaces should have minimum AFUE ratings of 80 percent; while weatherized systems should have ratings no lower than 83 percent. However, furnaces at homes in the northern half of the US – including Utah – must have a 90 percent AFUE rating.

Installing a hot-water furnace in your home with the help of companies such as Harris Aire Serv will boost heating coverage, and make life more comfortable. It is advisable to choose a system with high AFUE ratings to increase home value.

About Geothermal Systems

Geothermal heating systems harness the natural solar energy that has been absorbed and stored in the earth’s interior. The energy is then brought to the surface and is distributed throughout the home as warm air. The process is reversed in the summer, during which heat is drawn from the home and then reabsorbed into the earth, thereby making geothermal systems versatile appliances for heating and air conditioning in Utah homes.

Advantages of Geothermal Systems

Eco-friendly

Traditional heating systems like oil and gas furnaces burn non-renewable fossil fuels to produce heat, and consequently release harmful greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. Meanwhile, geothermal heating systems run on an abundant and renewable natural resource that leaves no negative effects on the environment. In line with campaigns to reduce the use of fossil fuels, the use of geothermal heating systems is certainly a step in the right direction.

Energy-efficient and Cost-efficient

Geothermal heating systems may entail much higher upfront costs compared to traditional home heaters. However, the initial expense is well justified, considering that geothermal systems can reduce residential heating expenditure by up to 70 percent. To put it simply, a geothermal heating system can be a wise investment.

Increases Home Market Value

Since home geothermal heating is relatively new, only a handful of properties are bound to have geothermal heaters installed. So if you have such a home heating appliance in place, you’ve definitely got something unique to offer the housing market. Consequently, your home can command a higher resale value.

As with conventional heating systems, homeowners rely on experienced and skilled professionals in HVAC in Salt Lake City like Harris Aire Serve for the proper installation and maintenance of geothermal heating systems. These professionals can ensure optimum heating and cooling efficiency for any home in any type of weather.

Insufficient heat

If the furnace fails to warm a room sufficiently, the typical culprit is a busted heating coil. The heating coil is a key furnace component since it generates heat whenever an electric current passes through it. A blower then helps circulate heated air throughout the home.

With age, the heating coil is likely to develop cracks, which can lead to thermal inefficiency. A visual inspection should reveal the presence of cracks on furnace heating coils. However, it is not advisable to touch the coil with one’s bare hands as this may cause electric shock. Be sure to disconnect the furnace from the power source and let it cool before carrying out an inspection.

Poor warm air distribution

In certain instances, homeowners may find no visible defects with the heating coil yet feel a palpable lack of heated air being circulated around their homes. When this happens, it becomes necessary to check whether the blower motor is still running properly simply by listening to it. If it is awfully quiet, then the blower motor is probably busted.

In case the blower runs yet doesn’t produce the necessary airflow, the problem may be traced to a defective blower belt. Professionals advise to inspect the blower belt for signs of wear or breakage. If the blower belt does not show any obvious signs of damage, a tripped circuit breaker, as well as a tripped fuse, may be considered possible causes since furnace blowers are usually set on a separate fuse.

Frequent episodes of the above furnace problems can indicate the need for a furnace replacement project. Otherwise, if these problems persist, homeowners can expect to rack up huge repair costs in the long run. Reliable furnace dealers and specialists in heating for Salt Lake City homes like Harris Aire Serv can install cost- and energy-efficient furnace systems to keep homes warm and comfortable during winter.

However, even the best AC systems out there can degrade in performance over time. Clunky fans, congested ducts, and busted motors can and will happen to the machine. Experts estimate that given frequent maintenance, the system should last up to 15 years. In addition, environmental concerns also impel the development of safer and cleaner air-conditioning systems. If you want these installed at your home, ask Salt Lake City air conditioning companies like Harris AireServ about their energy-efficient home systems.

If you are interested in getting a much more efficient central AC system, ask the contractor to review your existing system first. The ducts should be properly insulated, and have balanced supply and return systems. The system of choice must have high seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) grades. The SEER is the cooling output for a certain climate region, divided by power input. The AC systems that have the Energy Star label often have SEER grades of 14; with 15 and 16 ratings found in higher-ranking systems, as certified by the Consortium for Energy Efficiency.

Both the compressor and indoor unit should be replaced at the same time. This prevents premature blowout of the compressor, ascertaining that both components are up to current standards. The technicians can also test the system on site.

Now that your airconditioning system is in order, what about your furnace? This would be a vital piece of home equipment in the colder months. If you need to keep the machine in tiptop shape, Salt Lake City furnace repair specialists can be called in to do so. The work includes reattaching loose ductwork, ensuring there are no blockages at heat vents, and ensuring that the fans and pumps are in full working order.

Upgrading your house’s HVAC system is a smart investment. While it may seem to cost considerably, it will, instead, save you thousands of dollars in repair expenses and energy expenditure.

As far as AC unit inspections go, remember that while doing it yourself is no substitute for professional work, it can help you find defects early. You can then get help from a Salt Lake City air conditioning repair professional to fix the problem before it causes serious harm. A problem neglected today will not go away on its own.

Experts recommend monthly inspections to ensure the continuous proper functioning of your AC unit which, when defective, can be a formidable energy glutton. Before you begin with the inspection, remember to shut off all power and follow the safety precautions suggested by the manufacturer. Take great care when handling parts or reaching into units; some of them have very sharp edges which can cause injury if you are not careful.

One of the first things you would want to do for your AC unit maintenance is to check the return air filter. Keeping it clean is one of the easiest and least costly ways to keep your unit running properly. Dirty filters can cause your unit to use extra electricity or even break down. If your filter is the reusable type, wash it with soap and water (or a suitable cleaner) and let it dry completely before returning it to the unit. Replace the filter if it has become dirty beyond cleaning.

The AC unit’s condenser and condenser coil are just as important as the filter; so keep them clean as well. Brush away dust and other debris in the condenser that may cause obstructions and lead to costly repairs. Most AC units have a side panel that can be opened to facilitate this task. Check the base pan in the condenser, and empty it out to ensure that the unit drains easily. Lastly, wash the condenser coil with soap and water to prolong its useful life. You don’t want salt, calcium, or any other mineral depositing on the coil.

If you notice anything amiss during inspection, contact a Salt Lake City HVAC repair company like Harris AireServ to look into the problem. Nothing beats skilled and experienced hands when servicing a complex machine such as an AC unit.

It almost goes without saying that these conditions make it necessary for every home and business establishment in Salt Lake City to have its own heating system. Heating brings more than momentary relief; it’s just about the only way one can withstand winter temperatures. This being the case, it becomes especially important to pick out the right Salt Lake City heating appliance to keep your place warm.

Heaters work by warming air, then distributing it through pipes that circulate around the building. Some heaters are similar in appearance to air conditioning units. However, instead of blowing cold air, they produce warm air to counter frigid conditions outside.

Yet, one can’t simply install a heater into a home and expect it to immediately work like a charm. It’s important to consider things like air circulation efficiency, ventilation, the size of the building, the power requirements for the heater, and so on. You’re going to need experts on the matter to choose and install the right heater for your dwelling.

To properly mount a heating system, you’ll need the expertise of professional Salt Lake City UT HVAC services, like Harris Aire Serv. These experts understand the subtleties and dynamics involved in keeping a home warm. What may seem like a simple pipe laying operation is actually a meticulous, scientific process that maximizes warm air currents to ensure that a home stays comfortable. Put simply, it’s a job best left to the pros.

Winter isn’t all that bad; but without efficient heating, freezing temperatures can be cause for worry. Unless you’re okay with turning into a human popsicle when the cold rolls in, have your heating systems checked early in the season and, if you’re not happy with your existing heating, find out what sort of heater is best for you. Ask for advice from a capable HVAC service provider who can provide you with the most updated information on new, more efficient heating systems to choose from.

Luckily, advances in technology have long made it possible to change the atmosphere in any building interior to keep occupants comfortable. You don’t need to suffer the biting cold or the searing heat when all you have to do is adjust the thermostat to either cool down or warm up your home. This is all possible with Utah heating and air conditioning systems.

Simply put, a furnace-equipped heating system warms a building; whereas an air conditioner cools it. These appliances make homes more habitable in the midst of unforgiving temperature extremes. In places with semi-arid conditions like Salt Lake City, Utah, homes and commercial establishments can certainly benefit from such systems.

Although Salt Lake City has a relatively dry climate, there’s no shortage of precipitation and cold weather in the metropolis. Thermometers in the city can register such lows that efficient Salt Lake City heating is considered a must in every household and commercial establishment. On the other hand, temperatures in the metropolis can also rise to sweltering extremes in the summer time, making air conditioning a necessity as well.

Since heating and air conditioning devices are bound to break down at some point, specialized maintenance and repair services are invariably necessary. Reputable companies such as Harris Aire Serv are dedicated to providing timely repair services for heaters and ACs to ensure their clients’ continued comfort. This is particularly relevant for homes as well as commercial establishments that must maintain comfortable conditions at all times for homeowners, tenants, employees, and customers.

With climate change affecting weather patterns all over the world, temperatures are likely to reach unprecedented extremes. This fact highlights the need for reliable and energy-efficient heating and air conditioning systems. For instance, quite a number of households are now turning to greener and cost-saving alternatives such as ground heat pumps. For professional installation and maintenance of heating and cooling systems, you can count on experienced providers like Harris Aire Serv.

h2>Electric Furnaces

While Energy Star-labeled electric furnaces aren’t prohibitively expensive, they can considerably increase monthly utility bills if they’re not regularly maintained. The efficiency of your furnace or heating system will depend on how quickly you deal with specific problems. Whether you’ve just bought an electric furnace in Salt Lake City from a reputable company, or you’re still wondering what could have gone wrong with your malfunctioning one, consider the following:

Ensuring Energy Efficiency

Many problems can cause your furnace to waste energy. Frayed or damaged wires, a malfunctioning thermostat, and burnt fuses are among the usual causes of skyrocketing electric bills. It’s advisable to make a schedule of regular check-ups for your furnace and heating system, especially before and during winter. If any of the components need to be replaced or fixed, consider getting professional repair services.

Getting Much-Needed Repairs

Winters can be quite chilly in Salt Lake City where the temperature ranges from 21.3 to 38.0 degrees Fahrenheit. In a breakdown, engaging reliable air conditioning repair from Salt Lake City AC repair companies like HarrisAireServ.com, is necessary. Unless you are a mechanical or electrical autodidact, you’ll do yourself (and your appliance) a favor by getting professional service instead of attempting to fix it yourself. When you think your time and energy are better used elsewhere, it must be so.

Improved Comfort and Increased Savings

Electric furnaces have to be cleaned frequently. If they exhibit inconsistencies in performance or make strange sounds, call the professionals right away. If the filter, fuse panel, power relay, blower, heating relay, blower motor, and heating elements have been checked and maintained correctly, you can expect a toasty and comfortable winter—without excessively taxing your bank balance nor the ecosystem.