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Why is my furnace blowing cold air?

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:18:16 GMT

Why is my furnace blowing cold air?

During the winter months, no one wants their furnace blowing cold air. However, this occurs more often than people think and can result from a plethora of different issues. Here are some of the common and uncommon reasons we see furnaces blowing cold air.

Common Reasons:

Thermostat

One of the main culprits of cold airflow is an improperly set thermostat. Often, other individuals in one’s home or workplace change the thermostat’s setting from “Auto” to “On,” thinking that it will lead to the warmer or colder temperatures they desire. However, what this is doing is telling the fan to continue to blow air even if the furnace is not actively heating; this will result in non-heated air circulating your home as well as a higher electric bill.

In addition to incorrect settings, your thermostat could be no longer operating correctly, it may have a bad battery, or possibly have been incorrectly installed if it is a recent replacement. While replacing the batteries is a simple DIY job, ensuring your thermostat is fully functional and compatible with your furnace is something that may require a professional’s touch.

Air Filters

Another common issue is clogged air filters, causing your system to overheat and turn the burner off, which will result in your system flowing non-heated air throughout your home. When this happens, it is fixable by replacing your filter and returning your system to its normal working state. In some instances, you may need to relight the pilot light manually. If this is a job you are not comfortable with, do not hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.

Other Issues:

Pilot Light/Ignition Issues

Your furnace’s pilot light may have gone out, or your electronic ignition system may not be operating correctly. Some older furnaces have continuous pilot lights, and it is possible that the light has been extinguished and needs to be relit manually. For more modern systems with electronic ignition, your system likely has a malfunction, and with units driven by computers, your system may need rebooting.

Valve Issues

The value that allows gas into the system may be faulty and not properly allowing gas to flow into the furnace, giving your furnace no fuel to ignite. If you believe this to be an issue, we suggest you contact us for proper repair.

Duct Work Issues

There is potential for loss of heat through inadequate or porous air ducting. When there are holes or loose fittings, you can end up heating places where it is not needed, such as an attic or behind walls. Consider contacting an expert to diagnose your system if you think this may be a possibility.

Malfunctioning Flame Sensor

Your furnace likely has a flame sensor responsible for telling the system when the igniting flame is on versus off. If this isn’t operating properly, the sensor may believe the flame is on when it is out, or it can keep causing the burner to turn off when it should be on. A common symptom of this issue is when your furnace turns on and blows warm air but begins blowing cold air shortly after ignition.

The Final Verdict

Regardless of what may be leading to your furnace blowing cold air, we can all agree it is an undesirable problem to have when we need it the most. If you find your home or business suffering from this problem, don’t hesitate to contact us for an appointment at (812) 683-0675 to diagnose your system. In addition to repairing the heating issue, it can often lead to cost savings that may have been hindered by a previously inefficient system.

Signs it’s time to upgrade your home’s heating unit

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:17:23 GMT

Signs it’s time to upgrade your home’s heating unit

It is time to consider if a replacement of your home’s heating system is on the horizon with winter here. While good home heating is something, many of us in the more northern latitudes depend on for comfort and warmth, replacing a home’s heating unit can also have monetary and environmental benefits. Here are a few things to consider when asking yourself if it is time to consider a replacement:

The age of your system

While some units may last longer than others, the industry norm for a heating unit’s lifespan is generally between 15-20 years. As your unit works tirelessly at its job in the winter months, its internal parts and mechanisms will begin to deteriorate and break down. While some of these deteriorations may create issues that require immediate repair, many others may go unnoticed and continue to jeopardize your unit’s effectiveness. After years of steady decline, your unit will eventually reach a point where replacement is warranted. Consider beginning an evaluation of this decision around year 15.

Your energy bill is rising rapidly

As an older unit deteriorates, it harms the heater’s operation and increases the amount of money it costs to run. Generally, your home’s heating unit loses five percent of its efficiency for each year of operation. As the years go on and this loss of effectiveness compounds, you will likely begin to notice an alarming increase in your utility bills during the winter months. As we continue to make advancements in the technology responsible for heating our home, we see units brought online that run significantly more efficient than their older models. Overall cost-saving efficiency may be something to consider when contemplating a replacement. In some particular instances, it may be surprisingly cost-effective to consider a replacement sooner than later.

Your home is cold

While there can be a wide range of reasons why your home seems colder than it should be, an older heater can be one of the main culprits. As units age, their ability to spread warm air evenly throughout your home becomes more challenging. Uneven air distribution could lead to a house that’s cold or unevenly heated, which can be quite an annoyance if you have family members who are regularly spending their time on different floors. If one room of your home is always cold while another is much warmer, it may be time to consider a replacement.

Your unit is noisy

Your home should be a place for peace and solitude. However, if your home’s furnace is getting in the way of that, it may be time to call in the professionals. While it may be something that might be repairable, experts may also discuss the possibility of a replacement if it is warranted.

Other mechanical issues

In addition to the reasons above, there can also be a long list of mechanical issues that may require replacement. The list of potential issues is long and will require an expert’s eye to diagnose. Regardless of the outcome, your in-home expert should be able to provide you with a list of options and solutions.

Regardless of what may be plaguing your home’s heating system, it is something that should be at the top of mind. Nobody wants to replace their heating system in freezing temperatures, so it is best addressed before your system breaks down. Consider calling us at (812) 683-0675 today to discuss replacing your home’s furnace.

Why is the red light on my furnace blinking?

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:16:39 GMT

Why is the red light on my furnace blinking?

If you ever take a close look at your home’s furnace, you should notice a small red LED light located somewhere on a side panel. No, this light isn’t just an ‘On’ indicator; instead, it is a way to communicate with you about its current status. Manufacturers came up with this creative way of communication years ago, and its use is now widespread enough where you can be confident your unit utilizes this concept. Let’s learn more about how it works.

Are you familiar with Morse Code? Well, our home’s furnaces use a similar system, although one much easier to understand. Instead of dots and dashes representing letters, they express numbers in this system, much more straightforward. When broken down into its simplest sense, the number of blinks between a pause is the error code. And while the shortest codes may be single-digit codes, some more complex ones maybe double digits. In a system like this, dashes will represent the second number. Confused? Probably. Here are a few examples to help you out.

dot, dot, pause, dash, dash, dash = 23

In the example provided above, when your light quickly flashes twice, it represents the number two. Then, after a brief pause, it is followed by three dashes, meaning 3 or 23 when combined. Here are a few more examples:

dot, dot, dot, dot, dot = 5

dot, pause, dash, dash = 12

The next step is to reference the code chart. In most instances, usually located directly on the furnace itself. If not, it will be in your manual, or you can find it by a quick Google search. Matching the code with the corresponding error on your chart will help you identify the problem with your furnace and the suggested repair needs. If you are lucky, this may be a simple DIY fix. However, this may not always be the case. We recommend expert help for fixes that require a certified HVAC skillset or knowledge.

Now that we know what the light means when it’s blinking, what does it mean when doing something else? If your light is a steady red, that is a good sign; all systems function properly. If you notice the light is out, this is a sign that your furnace is not receiving power and will likely not be working. More often than not, this means your system has blown a fuse, which is resolved by a short trip to your fuse box

Regardless of your unit’s current functionality, it is a good idea to check your red light occasionally. Although everything may seem fine, there could be an underlying issue that needs prompt addressing and repair. Trust us when we say it could save you a big headache down the road.

Winter Fire Safety Tips

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:12:09 GMT

Winter Fire Safety Tips

With winter now upon us, one must consider the risk of fire during the colder months. While fire seems unlikely during the colder months, homes are actually at an increased risk. The increased risk is that people spend more time indoors during the winter and use various heating sources to stay warm. This reliance on numerous heating sources could lead to a fire. Here are some common threats of fire and ways to help prevent a potential accident.

Candles

According to the National Fire Protection Association, “Winter is the peak time of year for home candle fires. Each year, between 2013-2017, an average of 7,900 home candle fires were reported. The risks associated with candles are significantly high, even though candles are part of the cozy winter spirit and an enjoyable home ambiance. Homeowners, especially those with children or pets moving around unmonitored, should consider the risks of using candles. If you choose to use candles, make sure they’re more than 12-inches away from any other object. Also, make sure to extinguish them before you leave or go to bed.

Space Heaters

While space heaters can add a much-needed boost of heat during the coldest days, their risks are similar to those posed by candles. When using a space heater, make sure flammable objects are at least 3-feet away from the heater. And double-check that heaters are off when leaving or going to bed. Most modern space heaters turn off automatically when tipped over, but not all. Ensuring your space heater is off is especially important if you have young children or pets that may knock the device over.

Maintain and Monitor Your Home’s Heating System

Your home’s furnace, and even the air ducts and vents associated with it, are at an increased risk of causing a fire during the winter months. Manufacturers are designing new systems to be as safe as possible, but homeowners should take a few steps to ensure their safety. First, make sure that no vents are blocked or covered by something flammable. Your furnace needs ample room around it to function safely. Next, schedule an inspection for your furnace and AC systems to ensure there are no underlying issues. You can call us to do your inspection at (812) 683-0675.

Warning Devices

Do not underestimate the importance of smoke detectors. In fact, the risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half when homes have a working smoke alarm. Having an alarm on every floor is recommended, but there is no such thing as too many. Depending on the square footage of one’s home, you may need multiple devices per floor. Beyond ample coverage, test these devices monthly to ensure their batteries are working and that the device has not exceeded its 10-year lifespan.

While considering the importance of smoke alarms, you should also remember it’s sibling device: a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and toxic gas created by the burning of carbon fuels. Because of our inability to detect it, we must rely on these devices to notify us of the danger. When conducting the monthly checks of your smoke alarms, make sure to follow the same steps, and check your carbon monoxide detectors as well.

Keeping your home safe from fire during the winter is one of the most important considerations for a homeowner. While following the steps above is a great start, we suggest a yearly inspection of your home for threats. Regardless of your home’s layout and risk, no one is safe from the fire risks and should continuously work to mitigate as many of these risks as possible.

And as a reminder, the safest way to heat your home is via a well-maintained and inspected heating system.

HVAC System Warranty — Why You Need One

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:11:31 GMT

HVAC System Warranty — Why You Need One

One of the most significant considerations when purchasing an HVAC system is whether a system warranty is necessary. Is it part of sound financial planning? Or another unnecessary expense? While it may be true that some warranty offers are not in your best interest, a warranty for your HVAC system is a prudent and long-term investment in your home.

These warranties cover much more than parts and labor; they give you peace of mind. These devices need to function at full capacity for you to enjoy your home. When something goes wrong, and your home loses heat in the winter or air conditioning in the summer, you’ll have peace of mind that you won’t be facing exorbitant costs of a significant repair. The importance of an HVAC warranty cannot be understated, and it is essential to understand that there are two types of HVAC warranties: a manufacturer warranty and a labor warranty.

Manufacturer Warranty

A manufacturer warranty covers the equipment and parts associated with the covered appliance. If your system fails because of a faulty part or a burnt-out motor, the necessary replacement parts fall under a manufacturer’s warranty.

Most manufacturer’s warranties come with a 5-year plan. However, more and more brands offer to extend this plan to 10 years if you register their product. So you can add five years to your warranty by just filling out and sending in the registration form. Just make sure to adhere to the correct timeline for registration and follow the steps listed.

Labor Warranty

A labor warranty covers any issues associated with the installation of the system. HVAC systems are complex and require expert installation and maintenance to ensure that they operate correctly. Generally, the company that installs the system can offer an extended warranty option, typically for ten years. The labor warranty will usually cover any system issues that are not due to a faulty part or internal problem covered under the previously mentioned manufacturer warranty.

The Whole Picture

Together, these two warranties can give a homeowner peace of mind for many years to come. Like anything, warranties are subject to fine print and usage requirements.

When considering whether to buy HVAC warranties or not, you have to ask yourself what level of risk you’re comfortable with? When it comes to HVAC and whether your home is livable, we suggest a security blanket of warranties. The last thing any homeowner needs is to be without this vital system, especially when you may need it most.

If you’d like to look at the warranties that RG Mechanical offers, please click here: https://www.rgmechanical.net/warranties/

What to expect from your HVAC system when buying a new home.

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:01:29 GMT

What to expect from your HVAC system when buying a new home.

Buying a new home is an enormous task, one filled with a seemingly endless list of questions and considerations. One must look at their purchase holistically, and do a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis. And it is important not to overlook a home’s HVAC system when making such a monumental decision.

What is often seen during the purchasing of an older home is an HVAC system nearing, or beyond, its suggested lifespan. Often, homeowners that are contemplating selling their home will hold off on repairs and replacements. Because of this conundrum, potential homeowners should ask questions about the home’s system and request supporting documents to back up any claims made by the seller.

If you believe the home’s HVAC system to be faulty or in disrepair, consider working with the seller to negotiate a discount for future replacement and repair. The last thing a new homeowner needs is additional expenses. Here are some things to look out for:

Age and Condition of the System

Most components of a standard HVAC system have a lifespan of 10-15 years. The first question you should ask the seller is the age of the various components and documentation supporting those claims. If any of the components are nearing the end of their 10-15-year lifespan, you should ask to have the cost of a future replacement discounted from the asking price.

Inspect the various components, both visually and audibly. If you see obvious signs of decay, such as misplaced parts, rust, or other forms of degradation, this should be considered. Additionally, knocking or hissing noises can be a sign of problems to come.

Ask the seller for a copy of any regular or emergency maintenance. This will help you gain an understanding of the reliability of this system.

Inquire About the Home’s Insulation

A home’s insulation is one of the most vital components of its ecosystem and is often overlooked by homeowners and potential buyers alike. A well-insulated home will save a homeowner money every year in heating and air conditioning costs. When a home is poorly insulated it requires your HVAC system to work in overdrive to reach and sustain the desired internal temperature. This will ultimately lead to overuse and will reduce the overall lifespan of your HVAC system.

Inspect Ductwork

If you think of your furnace and air conditioning unit as the heart of your HVAC system, ductwork serves as the blood vessels. Without proper air flow through the home, your HVAC system is suffocating, unable to function properly. Proper ductwork should be void of gaps, loose connections, and other signs of issues such as water or rust. They should also be clean, and if you see dusty or dirty ductwork, you should work with the seller to have a comprehensive cleaning completed before your family occupies the home.

Overall Level of Comfort

When you’re doing a walkthrough of the home, monitor the overall level of comfort you feel and see if it’s in line with your expectations. Also, when walking room to room, pay attention to any temperature differences. When different rooms have different temperatures, it’s probably a sign of an HVAC issue.

Buying a home is already a stressful and daunting task, and ensuring your family’s comfort through a reliable and trustworthy HVAC system should be a priority. By paying close attention and asking the questions above, hopefully you can limit the number of headaches from purchasing a new home.

If you have recently bought a new home and would like us to come and inspect the condition of your current HVAC system, please call: (812) 683-0675 .

Winter is Almost Over! Should I Wait Until Next Winter to Buy a New Furnace?

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 15:00:50 GMT

Winter is Almost Over! Should I Wait Until Next Winter to Buy a New Furnace?

Replacing your home’s furnace is a big task, both logistically and financially. With modern advancements in technology and the installation and servicing of these systems, a replacement is easier than ever. The last thing a homeowner wants is for their home’s unit to stop working in the dead of winter when it’s needed most. The stress from this situation can be enormous since the restoration of heat needs to be immediate.

To ensure homeowners are not facing an emergency replacement, we suggest considering a replacement if your device meets some of the following criteria. If your system is nearing the window for replacement, contact a professional who can conduct a comprehensive inspection and diagnosis.

The Age of my Furnace

Most furnaces have a lifespan of 10-15 years. If your unit is breaking down year to year, it costs you time and money in constant maintenance. Before it becomes a financial burden, consider a replacement. Especially if you have both a manufacturer’s warranty and a labor warranty, which we always recommend.

The Efficiency of my Home’s Furnace

Year to year, a furnace loses its ability to function at the level it initially did. Annually, a basic residential or small business furnace may lose up to 5 percent of its efficiency. Depending on your furnace’s age and the 5 percent rule, it may be financially prudent to consider replacing your HVAC system with something that will meet your standards. One way to assess this is by referencing your previous heating bills. When doing so, look for increased rates of usage or abnormally cold months. This information is a great way to diagnose how well your unit is functioning.

Noises or Other Mechanical Issues

Nobody wants to be best friends with their repairman. If this is a friendship you think you are developing, it may be time to consider a replacement. If your furnace is constantly making noise, struggling to keep your house warm, or has a seemingly endless list of mechanical issues in need of repair, consider a replacement.

To Replace or Not?

Replacing a furnace is an important, long-term financial decision. Taking all things into account, if you believe your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan, both mechanically and economically, it is wise to consider replacing it during the warmer months. An HVAC professional can consult with you and offer advice on replacement options.

If you would like an inspection and estimate on replacing your current furnace, please call us at: (812) 683-0675 .

How can you tell if you have low refrigerant levels?

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 14:15:20 GMT

How can you tell if you have low refrigerant levels?

Refrigerant is the main ingredient of our home’s air conditioning system. Without it, the system functions no differently than a fan moving room temperature air endlessly throughout one’s home. In the early 20th century, electronic refrigerant systems became more commonplace. Their introduction into the home cooling market revolutionized the way we live. Places deemed too warm for enjoyable living could now be called home. From 1930 into the 1990s, the Sunbelt states saw a six percent increase in their population size compared to the rest of the United States. The impact air conditioning has had on the world cannot be understated.

As much as we have all come to depend on our AC, it is important to remember your AC will struggle or be unable to offer those magical cooling properties if it becomes low on refrigerant. Here are five ways to tell if this happens.

Your AC Bill is Higher Than Usual

One significant way to determine if you have an AC issue is through an abnormally high electric bill. Your home’s AC system is one of the most significant drivers of that bill. If something is wrong with the system, this is a good indicator. However, it is important to remember that it may not automatically mean something is wrong with the refrigerant because your bill is high. A few other underlying issues may need to be addressed with your AC system, such as a clogged filter or aging system. Evaluate these minor issues first and if you are uncertain, consider contacting a professional.

Your Vents are not Blowing Cool Air / Your Home is Unable to Reach the Desired Coolness

Your AC unit works by blowing warm air over evaporator coils that contain refrigerant. As this air is blown over these coils, the refrigerant absorbs the warm temperature and expels it outside, allowing cooled air to flow freely throughout your home. If refrigerant levels are low, your home may not be capable of sufficiently cooling the air resulting in abnormally warm temperatures.

Ice or Frost is Forming on Your AC Unit

Evaporation coils will become cooler than they are designed to when an AC unit’s refrigerant amount is depleted. The cooling coils leave a noticeable amount of ice or frost, a glaring sign of a refrigerant-related issue if this type of formation occurs during the summer.

Water Leaking Around the Unit

A puddle of water will form around the base of your AC unit when the ice or frost melts. Water around your unit or any other component of your AC system is never a good sign and likely an issue that needs addressing.

Hissing Sounds

Refrigerant is almost always pressurized. If there is a leak in your system, it could be due to a puncture. As this pressurized gas escapes the puncture, you should be able to hear a hissing or bubbling sound. Hearing such a noise from your AC system is likely a sign of a potential leak.

While refrigerant has revolutionized the way we live and work, it is a dangerous chemical to be treated with caution and respect. It is always advisable to seek expert assistance if you believe refrigerant is the culprit to your home’s lack of cooling or other issues. There are dangers associated when working with these chemicals. Because of these dangers, strict environmental regulations must be adhered to when working with them. Play it cool and consider calling a professional today: (812) 683-0675 .

What are the benefits of cleaning condenser coils?

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 14:14:32 GMT

What are the benefits of cleaning condenser coils?

Your air condition system is a complicated beast with a variety of components and mechanical movements taking place. The key to enjoyable living and a palatable electric bill is to ensure each of these components are working correctly. There is a long list of parts that need to be monitored, repaired, and cleaned. One of the most important is the condenser coils.

While your home’s cooling is quite a technical endeavor and uses words most of us haven’t used since high school (see thermodynamics), we will try and break it down in the simplest of terms. The cooling of your home’s air during the warmer months is done by removing heat from the air already present, then blowing the cooler air throughout your home before the process begins all over again. Once the heat is removed, it needs to go outside. The heat removed from your home’s air is channeled outside to a condenser unit where the heat is expelled.

The ability in which this heat can be rapidly expelled from inside your home to outside of it directly impacts your home’s ability to stay cool. When this system is not functioning correctly, your air conditioning system will likely have to work much harder. This will lead to increased electricity bills, increased need for maintenance, and probably shortening your system’s lifespan.

Condensers work hard to cool your home, especially in the middle of the summer. Grime, dust, and other debris cling to the coils and reduce the necessary heat transfer effectiveness. Therefore, cleaning these coils either annually or semi-annually is highly suggested. Coils contain dangerous refrigerants and are highly sensitive. Contact a professional for this job, especially if it has been some time since a prior cleaning.

Cleaning your condenser coils will lead to cost savings and increased productivity. It will also improve your home’s air quality. Over time, coils become a haven for bacteria and mold that can seep into your home’s air supply. Through a regular cleaning schedule, you can significantly reduce the proliferation of bacteria.

Your home’s AC condenser is an essential component, and treating it as such is vital to ensure you and your family can live in a comfortable space. Consider calling a professional to conduct cleaning and an evaluation on your system as a whole. Catching problems before they become issues is often the best way to save a few bucks. Call RG Mechanical today: (812) 683-0675 .

Does the type of ductwork matter in your energy bills?

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 13:55:52 GMT

Does the type of ductwork matter in your energy bills?

When constructing or remodeling any ventilated building, one of the first decisions to make is what type of ductwork to use. While your architect or contractor will make some decisions due to physical limitations or environmental concerns, the building’s owner will have some latitude in deciding the best fit for the building itself. There are two categories of ductwork to choose from: rigid and flexible, and various subcategories within the rigid family. However, in most applications, flexible is the choice in situations where rigid ductwork simply cannot be used, such as curved or other complex spaces. Regardless, the majority of your building will feature rigid ductwork. More on that below:

Rigid

Sheet Metal

Sheet metal is the most common type of ductwork, the one in which we are accustomed to seeing our favorite spy character sneaking around. This ductwork class is the most durable and commonly used in situations where it may need to support weight or have people walking on it, such as beneath a floorboard. Additionally, sheet metal is very smooth and relatively easy to clean, making it a reliable choice if you are conscientious about the building’s amount of dust. Regular cleanings of your ductwork is a great way to mitigate dust particles, and sheet metal makes this job incredibly easy. Due to the smooth, non-porous sheet metal surface, there is little potential for the formation of mold and other biological agents. While sheet metal is an excellent choice due to these features and its simplicity to install, it can sometimes leak at its joints and seals.

Fiberglass Lined

Fiberglass-lined ductwork is essentially a modified version of its sheet metal counterpart, lined with fiberglass on the interior or exterior. This lining helps prevent heat loss and the formation of condensation, which makes it great for places that may experience low temperatures. Fiberglass lining shines when it comes to its ability to silence the hums of most HVAC systems. The fiberglass acts as an insulator, making this style a go-to for office buildings.

However, due to fiberglass’s porous and rigid nature, this ductwork style is more prone to those biological hazards one does not want in their air supply. Additionally, they are also susceptible to releasing tiny particles of fiberglass into the air. Due to these risks, well-trained professionals should regularly clean these ducts.

Fiberboard

Fiberboard is compressed fiberglass laminated with a foil sheet. This lamination is excellent at protecting the ducts from moisture while also serving as an effective insulator. Fiberboard ducts are also the cheapest to install. However, these ducts are lined with fiberglass and therefore can harbor mold and other bacterial substances. Fiberboard is also known to restrict airflow due to the rigid nature of the fiberglass interior.

Flexible

Flexible ductwork consists of a circular coil that covers a flexible material, such as plastic. Some of these also include an additional layer of insulation if needed. This style is by far the easiest to install and is relatively cheap. As stated before, flexible ductwork’s use is for awkward spaces for the installation of rigid material. Flexible ductwork is also the most likely to have leaks, as it can be easily punctured or damaged. They can also have kinks or bends that may restrict airflow and add stress to your HVAC system.

Determining which style of ductwork to use in your home can be a difficult decision. But with the help of a trained expert such as RG Mechanical, it can be made easy. Next time you are remodeling or beginning a new build, consider your ductwork options; call us at (812) 683-0675 to schedule an estimate for not only ductwork options, but install, and maintenance too.

Are homes with pets breathing healthy air?

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 18:57:32 GMT

Are homes with pets breathing healthy air?

It is an estimate that over 70% of American households have a pet. We love our pets and those of our family and friends. Having a pet is a rewarding experience, and the health benefits they have on us are well known. Given that having pets is so popular, we must understand their effects on indoor air quality.

Particles of skin called dander are released when pets shed. The dander’s size is significant, as it is smaller than dust mites. For this reason, it becomes both hard to remove and stays airborne for long periods. Consequently, most homes with pets have an invisible enemy lingering in their air supply, ready to attack the next houseguest with pet allergies. In addition to its small size, pet dander has jagged edges. It has a velcro effect when in contact with furniture, which often latches onto and remains in place for a long time.

It can be a challenge to maintain your home’s air quality, especially when a pet is involved. Most homeowners can easily manage this situation with proper equipment and upkeep.

Removing Pet Dander

The quickest way to increase your home’s air quality is by removing dander, making the environment more suitable for those with allergies. Reducing the amount of dander and loose fur your pet has is the easiest way to improve air quality by regularly brushing and bathing your pets. Through these processes, you are effectively removing a significant number of potential allergens from the pet before it releases into your home.

Another way to combat pet dander is to purchase quality HVAC filters. Consider purchasing a filter with an MVAC rating between 8 and 11, designed to address pet particles. Regular replacement of these filters is essential because they tend to clog up and strain your system. While a home without pets may need a filter replacement every 30-90 days, those with pets may need to consider a monthly replacement cycle.

A good filter can only go so far. Regularly vacuuming your home (both the floor and furniture) as well as the dusting of flat surfaces with a microfiber cloth is necessary and in tandem with good filtration.

Having a pet should lead to enjoyment and companionship. If you are considering getting a pet or already have one, ask yourself if you are doing everything you can to create a home environment that is enjoyable for all. Do not hesitate to contact RG Mechanical for a home evaluation by scheduling an appointment by calling (812) 683-0675. While we are good with HVAC systems, we are great with pets as well.

Ways to lower your AC costs this summer

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 18:57:00 GMT

Ways to lower your AC costs this summer

With summer comes the joy of warm weather, sun, and the great outdoors. While many of us look forward to this season, one thing most of us can agree we don’t look forward to is the increased utility costs of keeping one’s home cool. Although keeping costs down through rising temperatures can be a challenging task, it’s a task that can be made easily obtainable through simple strategies and regular maintenance. To make things easy, we have broken things down into three basic categories: functionality, maintenance, and replacement.

Functionality

Reducing utility costs doesn’t always mean purchasing new equipment or making expensive repairs (but more on that later) rather it can be as simple as utilizing your home’s infrastructure in an economically prudent fashion. Our homes are designed and fitted with an extensive list of features that we can use to save money. So, if they are already there, why not use them? Here are a few ways to get started:

Proper Use of Fans: Did you know that for each cent per hour it costs to run a ceiling fan it costs 36 cents per hour to run your home’s AC? While we are here, did you also know that running a fan can cool a room by 4 degrees? The point we’re trying to make is that by utilizing your home’s preexisting fan inventory, you can achieve significant temperature reduction for a fraction of the cost.
Using Your Windows Properly: Using your home’s windows is a fantastic way to both insulate and cool. Sealing your windows and ensuring they are closed properly during hot days will help your home best sustain cooler temperatures. On the flip side, opening windows and creating drafts during times of cooler outdoor temperatures, such as during the evening, is a great technique to cool for free!
Blinds: Closing blinds and drapes during periods of bright sun will help lower the indoor temperatures of your home. For each kilowatt of sunlight that enters your home through a window, you will require an additional kilowatt of cooling to offset the increase in radiant temperature. This is especially prevalent during the morning and evening hours when the sun’s angle shines more light inside.
Controlling your Thermostat: Utilizing your home’s thermostat can be one of the simplest ways to address expensive cooling costs. Consider smart thermostats which can quickly adapt to your family’s schedule and preferences. These thermostats work so well in reducing energy consumption, that a significant number of utility companies will offer rebates for homeowners that choose to install them. However, if purchasing one of these devices is off the table for you, it can be as easy as ensuring you are using the AUTO function when cooling your home.

Maintenance

While increasing your home’s functionality is a great method to lower your AC costs, regular maintenance cannot be disregarded. Here are two important maintenance topics all homeowners should consider.

Replacing Filters: The importance of regularly replacing your home’s filters cannot be understated enough. Regular replacement can reduce energy costs by up to 15% and greatly improve the health of the home’s occupants. The industry standard for replacement is every 90 days. However, if you have furry pets or family members who are sensitive to airborne debris, we suggest monthly replacements.
Seal your Ducts: The ductwork operates as the blood vessels for your home’s AC, and any leaks in those vessels will result in an unnecessary loss of precious cool air. Through sealing leaks, you can greatly increase your HVAC efficiency by preventing leaks and easing the burden on your system.

Replacement

While nobody wants to replace an expensive component of their home’s HVAC system, sometimes it can be a good economical choice. Over time, your home’s AC system loses efficiency and can become costly to run. Modern-day systems are designed with energy efficiency in mind and can lead to significant cost savings. If your HVAC system is nearing the end of its lifecycle, it may be time to consider a replacement sooner than later.

Stop Believing These Top 9 Plumbing Myths

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 18:54:30 GMT

Stop Believing These Top 9 Plumbing MythsIs Drain Cleaning Part of Your Spring Cleaning?

When it comes to your home and more importantly, its plumbing system, there seems to be no shortage of myths. While some of these have been thought of and spread by unexpecting homeowners, some are part of elaborate marketing schemes by companies trying to sell their products. Regardless, we see much too often a home or businesses fall prey to these myths, resulting in the need for expensive repairs. Here are some of the top myths we see when it comes to plumbing:

If you hear a water heater rumbling, it will explode.
One long-standing myth is that when your water heater is making that strange rumbling noise it is on the precipice of a catastrophic explosion. While there could potentially be a more serious issue, more times than not it is nothing more than your water heater’s old age and having to work through years of sentiment buildup to fully operate.
Flushable wipes are flushable.
Contrary to their namesake and branding, flushable wipes are not to be flushed! Most of these wipes (baby wipes included) are made of dense materials that can get trapped in your pipes and lead to clogs. Even worse, clogs produced by these wipes are generally in the very pipes you certainly do not want clogged.
Lemon peels are good for your garbage disposal.
Some homeowners enjoy the refreshing scent of lemon and place their peels into their disposal as a scent enhancer. However, not just can the lemon peels itself can cause clogs, but the corrosiveness of the lemon can damage the disposal. We suggest using standard dish soap or other garbage disposal-safe cleaners if you feel the need to address a lingering smell from your disposal.
Speaking of garbage disposal, ice cubes sharpen them.
Contrary to popular belief, ice cubes will not sharpen the blades of your home’s garbage disposal. In fact, garbage disposals do not even have blades, rather they have a set of teeth responsible for grinding up food particles. While ice cubes can be used to help clean the interior of the unit, they will have no impact on increasing any functionality of the grinding process itself.
Mixing hot water with grease makes it suitable to be tossed down the drain.
Grease should never go down your sink, period. While some believe that the hot water helps to break down the grease, allowing it to flow through your home’s pipes, in reality, the grease and hot water will rapidly cool and stick to the interior of your pipes, creating a problematic clog.
Water drains in a different direction in Australia.
While many like to adhere to this harmless myth, it simply is not true. The flow of a toilet is a result of the direction its jets are designed to swirl. The toilet manufacturer picks the direction, not the earth.
A plunger is the fix to everything.
While a plunger is a handy tool to release a jammed toilet and get yourself out of a sticky situation, it is not suitable for addressing a long-term problem. If you find yourself having to use a plunger regularly, it likely means there is a more significant jam somewhere down the line, one that should be addressed by a trained professional.
Drain cleaners are safe.
While most drain cleaners are advertised as safe, some use strong chemicals that can cause your pipes to oxidize and degrade over time. It is always advised to use non-chemical methods to relieve drain clogs in place of these chemical cleaners. In addition to their degrading compounds, these cleaners have a deleterious impact on the environment and should be avoided at all costs.
Bleach tablets will help clean your toilet.
Placing bleach tablets inside your toilet is never suggested and has the potential to cause long-term damage to your toilet’s inner mechanisms. If you elect to use bleach to clean your toilet, use special bleaches designed specifically for bathroom use and follow the directions carefully.

How to Avoid HVAC Scams

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 18:53:46 GMT

Is Drain Cleaning Part of Your Spring Cleaning?

HVAC scams have plagued the industry and its users for years, and unfortunately the trend only seems to be growing. Our specialists have been called to a countless number of repair jobs that are a result of shoddy or inadequate repair jobs completed by a scam artist. And while there is no fix-all for scammers, the best way to avoid yourself being scammed is to know their strategies and techniques. Here are some things scammers are known to do:

Unsolicited calls or visits from a “professional” who claims you have an issue that needs immediate addressing. They may employ this scare tactic by insisting these repairs are vital to the safety and functionality of your home’s HVAC system. They may reference technical specs or parts that may not even exist in your particular unit but to the unsuspecting ear may sound legit. Unless you receive official notice of an issue or recall from the manufacturer, you should disregard these types of claims.
The same callers are also known to call homeowners and state they are operating in the area and are offering “free inspections.” You can be sure that such a so-called inspection will almost certainly result in an issue that needs to be urgently addressed and can only be addressed by the inspecting individual.
Showing excessive aggression when insisting that repairs need to be done. While this may not necessarily be as dubious as the examples mentioned above, most unqualified repairmen are in the business to make a quick buck. These individuals may insist on repairs that simply do not make sense or seem out of place. For example, does it really make sense that your 1-year old furnace already needs the blower replaced and that for some unique reason it isn’t covered by a warranty?

Now that you are aware of some of the scams employed by these individuals, here are some of the ways you can ensure you are doing your own proper due diligence.

Research the person or company you are interested in hiring. With today’s power of the internet, a basic search into anyone’s professional reputation is no more than a keystroke away. All service-related businesses should have a strong track record of excellent service and a good grade from the Better Business Bureau. Struggling to find any history of the company or person you are considering for a repair job should be a major red flag, and unless this discrepancy is thoroughly explained, you should avoid considering such an operator.
Understand and keep up to date with the maintenance cycles and past repair work of your system. While parts break and issues do arise, with a proper understanding of timelines and past repair work, you should be able to set your own repair expectations. For example, if you just had a particular part repaired, by an individual you trust, does it make sense that a random repairman that showed up to your door says it’s broken again? While this may be easier said than done, this requires homeowners to question things that don’t seem to make sense, and more importantly, if something doesn’t feel right, ask for a second opinion.

While scams continue to grow in their sophistication and ease, keep in mind that homeowner’s access to information is more readily available than ever before. If you feel you are potentially being targeted by a scammer, pause, pick up a computer, and do some research. Just as you are reading the article, you can find countless others out there to guide you in the right direction.

Is Drain Cleaning Part of Your Spring Cleaning?

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 18:50:50 GMT

Is Drain Cleaning Part of Your Spring Cleaning?

Often an afterthought, a home’s drainage system plays an important role in our home’s general health. While we may think of drains as the place for things to go, vanishing from our life into the unknown abyss, they should rather be treated as the place where things do not go.

Clogged drains can lead to serious issues and can even harm the health of the home’s inhabitants as well as the environment. Through regular maintenance and more importantly, routine care, homeowners can prevent basic issues from spiraling into more substantial problems.

While many of us abuse this basic principle, it is a great place to start – Drains are designed for liquid, not solids. This means working to make a concerted effort to prevent solid or semi-solids from entering our drainage system. Common culprits being hair in the shower and food in the kitchen sink. While we may not always be able to prevent these culprits from entering the drain, we can do our best to try, and if trying fails, our best to address the issue before it spirals out of control. Using drain covers is a simple and cheap way to stop excess debris from entering your home’s pipes. These can be obtained from any home supply store and will fit a variety of fixtures. However, if this solution does not suit your home, you can clear debris by using the end of a hanger or a non-corrosive, biodegradable drain cleaner to clear those pesky buildups.

While people are often enticed by the powerful drain busters full of chemicals and other toxic elements, they often hurt more than help. The strong chemicals utilized by these clog busters to eat through debris are the same chemicals that can eat through your pipes. If your find the use of these cleaners to be necessary, make sure to purchase a non-corrosive brand that is safe for the environment. The last thing one wants to do while releasing a clog is to harm their home or the environment surrounding it.

While basic preventative work is a great start and will add to the longevity of your home, it does not replace the need for the more expansive care that can be offered by a professional. Our experts can diagnose and repair more severe underlying issues that often go unnoticed and can lead to expensive repairs down the road.