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Don't Ignore These Signs - Your AC Might Be Leaking Refrigerant

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Is your air conditioning unit not cooling as efficiently as it used to? Have you noticed a strange hissing sound or a persistent warm airflow coming from your vents? These could be early warning signs that your AC might be leaking refrigerant – a problem that shouldn’t be ignored. Refrigerant Leaks Refrigerant leaks in your air conditioning system may seem like a minor issue, but they can have significant consequences. Identifying and addressing these leaks is crucial to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your AC unit. A refrigerant leak can lead to a loss of cooling power, causing discomfort during hot summer months. It can also result in frozen coils, reducing the efficiency and overall performance of your air conditioner. Loss of Cooling Power A refrigerant leak in your air conditioning system can result in a significant loss of cooling power. When there is a leak in the refrigerant lines, the level of refrigerant in your AC unit decreases. This reducti
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Do Open Windows Affect Indoor Air Quality?

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Exploring the Impact of Fresh Air on Your Home’s Atmosphere As spring approaches, many homeowners begin their annual spring cleaning routine. This can involve a variety of tasks, including both exterior and interior improvements. For some, spring cleaning is an essential aspect of maintaining a productive and healthy living environment. Winter pollutants and allergens can accumulate indoors, and opening windows to let in fresh air can improve indoor air quality. In this article, we will focus on indoor air quality in Lake County, IL, and investigate whether opening windows can reduce home pollutants. With the rise of air pollution and environmental concerns, it is essential to understand the impact of indoor air quality on our health and well-being. What Are Common Air Pollutants In Los Angeles? Air pollution can be a significant concern in Lake County due to its high population density and being near Chicago. The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures the pollution level, with
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Should I Set Back the Temperature When I Leave My House?

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If your energy bill leaves you with sticker shock every month, finding ways to save energy at home is crucial. One common question we often hear from customers is, “ Should I set back the temperature when I leave my house? ” Let’s explore the answers and strategies to optimize energy efficiency: The Impact of Air Conditioning on Energy Consumption Air conditioning stands out as one of the most energy-consuming appliances, constituting 17% of energy usage in homes, especially in mixed-dry climates like Los Angeles (U.S. Energy Information Administration). Understanding Setback Setback: The act of adjusting your thermostat from the normal temperature to another level to save on HVAC operation costs. While the setback temperature may not feel comfortable when you’re present, the idea is to apply it when you’re away. Is it Worth Changing Your Thermostat When Leaving? Before deciding on thermostat adjustments, consider the following factors: - Duration of Absence: Ass
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How Long Does the Average Furnace Last?

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The lifespan of a well-maintained furnace can reach 15 to 20 years. With proper care and timely repairs, some owners manage to extend their furnace’s lifespan even further. Various factors can influence the longevity of a furnace, and here are some key considerations: Furnace Size - You need a system that’s the right size for your home. - Furnaces that cycle too quickly are more prone to parts wearing out prematurely. - If the furnace is too large, it may turn on and off too frequently, impacting its components. - An undersized furnace may run excessively, reducing its efficiency and causing wear on its parts. Installation - The ductwork that is too small, too large, or inadequately sealed can limit airflow. - Poor drainage systems can be problematic, especially for extremely energy-efficient furnaces. - An incorrectly installed fuel line can affect the furnace’s performance and longevity. Usage/Maintenance - Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the
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Understanding SEER and EER Ratings: A Guide to Energy-Efficient HVAC

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If you’ve ventured into the realm of shopping for new heating and air conditioning units, you might have encountered the often overlooked yet crucial SEER and EER ratings associated with these products. Understanding these figures can significantly aid in enhancing energy efficiency and cutting down on energy consumption. SEER Rating SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio . It gauges the efficiency of heating and air conditioning units over a specific period, typically a heating or cooling season. This rating provides an overview of a unit’s efficiency, aiding in projecting energy usage over prolonged durations. EER Rating Heating and air conditioning systems also feature an EER rating, representing the Energy Efficiency Ratio . This figure offers insight into a unit’s efficiency during operation. A helpful analogy is likening it to car speeds: SEER is the average speed from point A to point B, and EER is the current speed at any given moment. A Comparison When
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Maximizing Home Sales: The Impact of HVAC Systems on Selling Your House

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Selling a home involves a lot more than putting up a ‘For Sale’ sign. Every little detail counts, and one big detail is your home’s Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. It might not seem like a big deal, but it can make a huge difference in how quickly you sell your home and for how much. Imagine this : You’re trying to sell your house, and people come to look at it. They want it to feel like a place they could call home forever. But if it’s too hot, too cold, or just plain uncomfortable because of your old HVAC system, they might not stay long. That discomfort could mean they won’t even consider buying your home. When you’re showing your house to potential buyers, you want them to feel at ease. That’s where a good HVAC system comes in. It helps create a cozy atmosphere that makes people think, “Yeah, I could live here.” Bills are another thing buyers need to think about. They not only look at the price of the house but also how much it’ll cost to live ther
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Ultimate Guide to Furnace Types: Choosing the Best Heating Solution for Your Home

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Furnaces stand as the cornerstone of residential heating systems , playing a pivotal role in maintaining comfort during colder months. These appliances have long been the stalwarts of warmth, circulating heated air through homes, ensuring cozy interiors even when temperatures plummet outside. Within the realm of home heating, an array of furnace types exists, each with its unique features and functionalities. This article aims to embark on an insightful journey, delving into the diverse landscape of furnaces available in the market today. From traditional models to innovative, energy-efficient designs, we’ll explore the range of options, enabling a comprehensive understanding for those seeking the ideal heating solution for their homes. Gas Furnaces Gas furnaces operate through a process of combustion and heat distribution. The ignition of natural gas or propane within the combustion chamber initiates the heating process. As the gas burns, it generates heat that warms the heat
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