Tips and Advice

August 18 2022

3 Effective Summer Cooling Tips

You’re never going to run of reasons to love summer: the sun, tan, unlimited outdoor activities — the list goes on. And when you’re at home, you have an air conditioner to take care of your indoor climate. But everybody knows running an AC is quite expensive, and perhaps, you’re looking for ways to minimize your use of it and save some cash in the process.

Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your preferred HVAC company in Fridley MN. In this article, we will give you a few tips to consider to effectively cool your home without having to make your AC work too hard.

Check your home’s insulation.

Proper insulation keeps your home from letting out cooled air and your hard-earned money. Windows, doors, attics, and other parts of your home are often leaky because of poor insulation.

If your window sill has a crack or there’s a tiny opening under the door, conditioned air can easily sneak out of your home. This causes your air conditioner to work longer and harder to reach your desired temperature. Ultimately, this causes more wear and tear to your system, and makes your home warmer than it should be.

In addition, proper insulation is also crucial when it comes to keeping the hot outdoor air out of your home. Insulation is your most effective way to protect the home from the heat of summer and to keep the cool air from escaping through the leaky areas of your home.

Therefore, you should contact a local contractor and schedule a home energy audit, which will give you an idea of your home’s current insulation quality. Once determined, be sure to seal the leaks, install weather-stripping, and add more insulation to get the most out of your air conditioner while lowering your utility costs.

Guard the heat.

Keeping the heat from getting into your house in the first place means spending less on your AC use. So, shade windows and walls using external coverings, like blinds, canopies or large potted greenery. Plant deciduous trees that cast shade over your home in the summertime, but still let the sun shine through during winter. If your budget permits, invest in window tinting, which will help keep the warmth in the cold season, too.

Plan your daily tasks.

Keeping your home comfortable this summer doesn’t rest solely on your air conditioner. You can actually start planning your day wisely to maximize your options. A good idea is to open the windows during early morning hours and late at night but be prepared to close them and turn your air conditioner or fan on when the heat becomes too much.

Similarly, you can also perform household chores like dishwashing or pressing clothes during the cooler parts of the day. To keep your house cool when you have to cook during the day, you can opt to use the grill outside or the microwave to minimize the heat circulating in your home.

Use ceiling fans wisely.

You might feel like ceiling fans just push the hot air around your home rather than cool it down, and you’re right. Fans that aren’t rotating counter-clockwise may be doing exactly that. With that in mind, you need to be a little wiser in operating your ceiling fans. Set them to rotate counter-clockwise in summer to push air down, which helps create a cooling effect and clockwise in winter to pull cool air up.

In the warm months, set the fan speed high and low in the cooler months. Ceiling fans can also be used alongside other cooling systems, so making sure they rotate in the correct direction can cause a significant change in the temperature throughout your home.

Questions? Ask Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning

Like many homeowners, we know you want your home to be as energy-efficient as possible. While these three tips will definitely help, they are not substitutes for professional HVAC maintenance. So, talk to one of our St. Louis Park heating and air conditioning experts and find out how you can keep your air conditioner in tip-top shape and save as much energy as you can. For over forty years, we have been the go-to contractor for homeowners looking to have comfortable, energy-saving homes.

May 26 2022

Why You Should Consider Regular Heat Pump Maintenance

admin Info Articles, Tips and Advice

Compared to a furnace, a heat pump requires less maintenance. Since the process does not involve the combustion of fuel, it is also much safer. There are steps that you can perform on your own. But as a responsible owner, you should consider having a professional look after your heat pump. And in this article, we will tell you why.

Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your reliable HVAC company in Richfield MN. We are experts at maintaining home comfort systems, including heat pumps. We have teams of seasoned and NATE-certified professionals who will ensure your heat pump gets the care it deserves.

Here are a few reasons why you should look into having professional maintenance done on your heat pump at least once per year.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be up to 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air. In some cases, it can be up to 100 times more dangerous, i.e., during home renovation work. This issue is particularly harmful to those who have allergies or preexisting respiratory conditions.

Not only does your HVAC system give you indoor comfort, but it also plays a significant part in maintaining the quality of your indoor air. As forced air moves throughout your ductwork, it carries with it any loose contaminants that are confined due to clogged filters and dirty system parts. These particulates can pollute your indoor air, causing allergic reactions and respiratory tract infections.

The regular replacement of filters, and cleaning of ducts, and coils will ensure your furnace effectively collects dirt, dust, and debris. When your system is regularly maintained, you can easily avoid health risks by allowing clean, safe air to flow throughout your home.

Early Detection and Correction of Issues

Professional maintenance on your heat pump will ensure every part of the system stays in great shape, guaranteeing efficient heating and cooling for your home. A team of qualified HVAC professionals understands your heat pump from the inside out. They will give it a thorough cleaning, and inspect every part. In case there are minor issues, they will be able to detect them and make the necessary adjustments to avoid them from getting any worse.

Costly heat pump repair is something you would like to avoid, and professional maintenance can help you do so. During a heat pump maintenance visit, the technician will inspect, calibrate and clean every part of your system. This reason alone can save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Personal Safety

Sure, there are simple tasks that you can do on your own, such as cleaning the filter, but there are other things that require special knowledge and tools. For example, if the condensate line is not dripping while the system is on, this could mean that there is an internal obstruction that needs to be removed immediately. It can also mean other things. A qualified professional can look into the problem and take away the clog easily and restore the unit’s proper operation. Trying to DIY this step may be inconvenient and even dangerous for an untrained individual, so it’s safer to have a knowledgeable person do it for you.

Warranty Coverage

This is one of the most important benefits of having an annual system check-up. You should be aware that most, if not all, equipment manufacturers require proof of annual maintenance when a repair claim is submitted under warranty. Certain components that make your heat pump work are substantially expensive, such as the compressor and condenser. Investing in an annual maintenance program will keep such parts covered under warranty. This coverage will save you a considerable amount of money should a costly component ever needs to be repaired or replaced. Therefore, continued warranty coverage should be a key point you should consider as you decide to get professional maintenance for your heat pump.

Need Help? Ask Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning

Your heat pump is a valuable piece of equipment that deserves professional care. Thankfully, you can trust a Bloomington heating and air conditioning company like us which has been recognized for its excellent workmanship and unparalleled customer service. Should you need help taking care of your heat pump, all you have to do is give us a call and we’ll be there in no time.

May 19 2022

5 Effective Ways to Deal With Airborne Allergens

admin Info Articles, Tips and Advice

In a perfect world, there should be no airborne allergens in your home. Everybody should be able to breathe clean, fresh air without worrying about allergy triggers. But this is not a perfect world. This season is known for the release of pollen, causing countless people to suffer from hay fever and spring allergies. Sadly, there is no permanent cure for allergies. However, there are practical ways you can employ to minimize your risk of allergic reactions.

Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your total HVAC company in St. Louis Park MN. We are experts at establishing clean indoor air in residences and workplaces.

Overview

According to research, 8 out of 10 people in the United States are exposed to dust and 6 out of 10 people are exposed to cat or dog dander. Also, cockroaches cause allergic reactions in those who live in downtown areas or southern parts of the country. These studies are sufficient reasons for you to take your indoor air quality to a state where you can effectively fight off airborne allergens. With that in mind, here are some steps you can take.

Clean your house regularly.

Most homeowners dust off their homes at least once weekly. However, many fail to wipe their HVAC vents and registers. These vents transport forced air from your HVAC system, collecting dust. This is then circulated throughout your home via your furnace or heat pump. You should first gather the dust in every room, using damp or treated rags when dusting your home to keep it from picking up mites and other dust particles that can trigger allergic reactions. Keeping your home clean is an effective way to fight allergies.

Be on top of dust mites.

Keeping your home clean is a step toward controlling indoor allergens. So, keep surfaces clean and tidy. In your bedroom, try to have bare floors and walls. If possible, avoid wall-to-wall carpets, and if you really want to have carpeting, use low-pile carpets or washable throw rugs. If you can, avoid heavy drapes and overstuffed fabric furniture as well. To effectively protect yourself against dust mites, wash your bedding, uncovered pillows, and stuffed toys in water at a minimum of 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Dry them in a hot dryer.

Consider duct cleaning.

You may not realize it, but your air ducts are another source of allergens in your home. Your home’s ventilation system and duct network usually run through the attic, basements, and crawlspaces—areas that are rarely cleaned. If your ducts are old, leaking, or have cracks, they can suck in air from these areas. Your HVAC system then pumps the air directly into your living spaces, further casting allergens that are normally found in the dirtiest parts of your home.

Duct cleaning and maintenance should be entrusted to a qualified HVAC professional. If you think there are issues within your ductwork, call a trained technician who will inspect and seal them off. Maintaining your ducts is a great way to ensure your HVAC system does not circulate airborne.

Upgrade your air filter.

Your HVAC system is equipped with an air filter to keep pollen, pet dander, and other airborne pollutants at bay. Your regular filter should be kept clean to ensure its potency. However, you can improve your home’s indoor air quality by upgrading to a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. These types of filters are known to capture up to 99.97 percent of airborne contaminants, including allergens. You might want to contact your preferred HVAC contractor to determine the right high-grade filter for your existing unit.

Use a whole-home humidifier.

Maintaining a healthy indoor air quality not only involves house cleaning or vacuuming; it also requires making sure your home is properly humidified. The cool mist released by a humidifier helps invigorate the body and clear up the congestion in the nasal cavity. That’s why you should consider running one if you have someone suffering from sinusitis.

Protect Your Family with Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning

Airborne allergies can be prevented. By following these steps, you can increase your level of protection and have peace of mind. For best results, give us a call and we’ll give you more information on how to give your family the best protection against airborne allergy triggers. We are your trusty Fridley heating and air conditioning company.

April 14 2022

Tips on Using Your Heat Pump the Right Way

Paul Kwekkeboom Heat Pumps, Tips and Advice

If you want your home to have the most efficient HVAC system and meet your heating and cooling needs, you should take a look at heat pumps. But owning one comes with the responsibility of taking care of it. Considering that comfort systems can cost a considerable amount of money, you should do everything you can to ensure your heat pump lasts for as long as it can. With proper usage, you will enjoy the best performance, the most energy savings, and the most lifespan out of your heat pump.

Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your trusted HVAC company in Maple Grove MN. We have been helping homeowners like you establish comfortable and energy-efficient homes for over four decades now.

Here are heat pump usage tips you might want to consider.

Set the temperature properly.

In terms of reading the temperature of a room, a heat pump works differently compared to your old heating system. Set your heat pump to a comfortable temperature and make little but accurate adjustments over a few days until you’ve reached your desired setting.

Making big jumps upward or downward can activate the backup heater, making your setup less energy-efficient. Keep in mind that heat pumps circulate air that feels cool out of the vent, but is warm enough to heat the house properly.

To save energy, lower the temperature a few degrees overnight or when you’re away for several hours. Some heat pumps are equipped with programmable thermostats that are designed to automatically make adjustments without relying on additional heating systems.

Normally, the backup heating unit automatically starts when the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. To increase your system’s efficiency, set the thermostat to 68 to 70 degrees during the cold months and 78 to 80 during the hot months. Doing so will enable your thermostat to work without triggering the automatic start of the backup heating system.

You don’t have to set the temperature back at night.

If you have a two-stage thermostat, you don’t have to change the settings at night because turning the heat back up in the morning may activate the backup resistance heater, which can easily erase all energy savings you collected from turning it down throughout the night. In case you want to lower the temperature at night to make your sleep more comfortable, slowly increase the setting a few degrees at a time in the morning and check the thermostat indicator to make sure the backup heater is not activated.

Make sure your heat pump has proper airflow.

Any HVAC equipment needs enough space to have proper airflow. For the indoor part of your heat pump, be sure to clear the area surrounding it and keep all furniture away from the unit. Avoid blocking the vents and registers to ensure proper airflow. For the outdoor unit, keep it clear from plants, shrubs, leaves, and similar items.

Change your filters regularly.

Your heat pump’s filter plays an important role in its overall performance. It traps airborne contaminants, such as dirt, dust, and dander, which can hamper the system’s airflow if the filter is clogged. Also, a dirty filter can cause your system to overheat, force it to work harder and use more energy while failing to deliver a comfortable temperature. To avoid these problems, simply check your filter once every 30 days and clean it as needed. If you have a replaceable filter, you can buy one from your favorite home improvement store.

Restart the unit properly.

In case of a power outage of more than 30 minutes, you will need to manually restart the system. While the power is still out, you can use the heat pump’s emergency heat. When power comes back, wait for about an hour before programming the heat pump to its normal setting. The refrigerant may need to heat up first before turning the unit back to a normal setting.

Ask the Experts in Home Comfort

For more information on proper heat pump care, call Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning. We offer comprehensive heat pump maintenance, ensuring optimum performance and outstanding energy efficiency for your heat pump. We are your reliable Plymouth heating and air conditioning company.

March 17 2022

What You Can Do to Avoid Furnace Repairs?

admin Furnace Repair & Services, Tips and Advice

Furnace repairs don’t come cheap. In fact, you’re probably going to get charged just to have a heating expert visit your home. That goes without saying the inconvenience brought about by a malfunctioning unit, especially when you need it the most. But don’t fret, with a few steps you can actually avoid the inconvenience and costs associated with a faulty furnace.

Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your leading heating company in Roseville MN. We have teams of trained and seasoned technicians who are adept at maintaining furnaces in tip-top shape.

Here are some tips you should consider to make sure your furnace works as it should.

Choose the right furnace for your home.

The first thing you need to do is to make sure your furnace meets your home’s heating needs. Therefore, you should pay close attention to the unit you want to be installed in your home. Choose a reputable brand that is known to build heavy-duty, energy-efficient HVAC systems. These names may cost more compared to less-known ones, but quality eventually wins over price.

Pick the right installation team.

The quality of installation plays a major part in the overall performance and energy efficiency of your furnace. That’s why you should choose the right HVAC company, which may require some research. Selecting the right team to install your system is as important as choosing the furnace itself. A good team of technicians possesses in-depth knowledge of the product and installs the system according to the manufacturer’s specifications. As a result, you’ll enjoy optimum comfort and significant energy savings.

It is also important to work with a company duly licensed and certified to deal with heating systems. A legitimate HVAC company complies with legal requirements, whether it’s federal, state, or local. By determining the contractor’s authority, you can have peace of mind, knowing that they will be there in case of complaints and inquiries after the installation is completed. To do this, you can check a contractor’s history by verifying it with the Better Business Bureau’s website.

Moreover, work with an installation team that has the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification. This certification will guarantee the workmanship and customer service skills of the technician are on par with industry standards.

Pay attention to your furnace.

It’s possible for your heating system to not be in good condition but you haven’t noticed it. But the sooner you identify the problem, the better. If you ignore the issue, a furnace repair can easily cause you major financial concerns. So, be sure to get in touch with a professional if you notice unusual things, such as abnormal short-cycling (turning on and off of the system), odd noises coming from the unit, hot and cold spots, unexpected temperature fluctuations.

Be on top of the filter.

Your furnace’s filter is the part that you can clean or replace without the help of an expert. You can save money on a service call just by simply knowing how to manage it. A clogged filter causes different kinds of issues, including inconsistent heating and system overheating. To ensure the system has proper airflow, change your filter at least once per month—you’ll be happy you did.

Schedule routine maintenance.

The most effective way to keep your furnace in great shape and prevent repairs is by scheduling maintenance for your system. A regular furnace tune-up is a service offered by many HVAC contractors. This process gives your furnace a comprehensive inspection and adjustment, making it less likely you’ll run into problems when your furnace is working the hardest.

Qualified technicians will check your heating system’s ignition, examine the filter, replace or adjust small components, clean off the burners, and more. These steps are critical to the proper functioning of the system as well as its operational safety. Now, we’re sure you won’t risk your family and home’s safety.

Ask the Heating Masters

To enjoy hassle-free New Brighton heating and air conditioning maintenance, be sure to work with a reputable company like Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning. Because of our dedication to excellence, we are duly recognized as a Lennox Premier Dealer, a distinction given to contractors that meet and exceed industry standards in workmanship and service.

March 10 2022

Furnace Maintenance and Its Many Benefits

Paul Kwekkeboom Info Articles, Tips and Advice

Taking care of your furnace is a responsibility that yields several benefits, and in this blog, we’d like to discuss with you some of those good things.

Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your reliable heating company in Anoka MN. We are dedicated to helping homeowners keep their furnaces in tip-top condition. Consider these advantages as you’re looking into the upkeep of your furnace.

Lower Energy Costs

A furnace can easily account for nearly half of your total energy bill during the heating season. That can easily go up, especially if we have a particularly long winter. This is why professional furnace maintenance is essential to help you save money on energy.

A properly maintained furnace is more energy-efficient. In fact, studies show that regular professional maintenance can save you as much as 30 percent on your monthly energy bill.

The reason behind this energy efficiency is a thorough cleaning of your heating system. A trained technician inspects, cleans, and regulates your entire HVAC system to ensure it runs in the most energy-efficient ways. It is quite normal for furnaces to collect dust, dirt, and debris, which add strain to the unit, making it harder to heat your home. But when neglected, the collected dirt can cause different issues.

If you have a gas-fired unit, the gas lines and burners can also lower the system’s overall efficiency, especially if they are not maintained. A professional can perform a comprehensive check and identify which parts need cleaning and lubrication. When your furnace is clean from the inside out, it is guaranteed to work in tip-top condition, lowering your energy use.

Fewer Repairs

Not only is a furnace breakdown frustrating, but it’s also expensive. In a perfect world, you want to deal with as few as possible and when you get maintenance frequently, you can turn that ideal scenario into a reality. Cleaning and parts checks prevent the vast majority of these issues you commonly face.

Are you aware that regular tune-ups can actually help you avoid about 85 percent of the repair needs your furnace might ever need in its lifespan? A qualified technician checks for small problems before they even have the chance to become bigger.

The HVAC professional will alert you to these small needs during your tune-up, giving you enough time to get repairs on your schedule. Once those alerts are addressed, you’ll have the peace of mind that your furnace is ready to go and keep your family warm and comfortable all season long.

Advanced Detection of Dangerous Leaks

If you have a gas-fired unit, it utilizes combustion as part of the system’s overall process. A simple problem in the furnace’s combustion system can lead to a gas leak. If the unit hasn’t been properly maintained, it runs the risk of carbon monoxide leaks. While you can detect a gas leak by its smell, it is harder to identify a carbon monoxide leak because this gas is both colorless and odorless. Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can cause severe headaches, nausea, confusion, and in some cases, even death.

By allowing a professional to perform routine maintenance, he can spot potential leaks and seal them off right away, eliminating the risk of inhaling these dangerous gases.

Safety

Heating systems are not innately dangerous. Otherwise, they won’t be allowed to be sold on the market, let alone be used at homes. This statement is particularly true of modern units, which are built with safety in mind, with several features to ensure the safest operation.

However, when a gas-fired system isn’t well maintained, you could run into problems—many of them. A poorly maintained gas furnace has the risk of developing cracks. The one place you don’t want these breaks is on the heat exchanger, which can cause a carbon monoxide leak in your home.

This problem is most likely to occur with an aging furnace rather than with a younger system. But maintaining it when it is still new lowers the risk of problems taking place later on.

Questions? Ask Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning

These are just four of the benefits of our Champlin heating and cooling/furnace maintenance offering. To know more, simply give us a call. We’d love to help you get your unit in great shape, ensuring both safety and reliability.

March 3 2022

4 Things You Can’t Miss When Buying a Furnace

Paul Kwekkeboom Furnaces, Tips and Advice

If you’re in the market for a new furnace, you must be prepared not only financially, but also practically. Choosing your next heating system isn’t as easy as picking a washing machine or a dishwasher. There are more factors you need to consider. Since it is going to be one of the major pieces of equipment in your home, you should do some research and get relevant information. You need all the help you can get to make sure you’re buying the right unit.

Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your reliable heating company in Andover MN. We have been helping homeowners establish comfortable homes in the most energy-efficient ways. Here are four factors you might want to consider as you search for your new furnace.

Stages of Heating

Furnaces can be classified as single-stage, two-stage, and multi-stage heating systems.

Single-stage furnaces are the most common on the market; they are also the cheapest. They have a singular-size flame and is either on or off without options in between. These units create a loud sound before delivering warm air to the vents, and when the desired temperature is reached, it turns off and back on when needed.

Two-stage heating systems are engineered to be more efficient than their single-stage counterparts. They have two flames, with a smaller one that runs non-stop when temperatures are milder. But when it gets colder, the larger flame starts up to provide more heat. These furnaces are quieter than single-stage units.

Multi-stage or modulating furnaces are the best option for your home because they are the most efficient. They can heat your home uninterruptedly with minimal energy use. The flame slowly increases or decreases, giving your home consistent heat.

Proper Sizing

Buying the most advanced or the most expensive furnace doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be getting the greatest comfort. When it comes to furnaces, size does matter—that is to say, sizing your furnace based on your home’s needs.

If you tend to worry about your budget, you may lean towards a smaller, cheaper unit. However, when a furnace is too small, it doesn’t have enough power to properly heat your home, making it run longer, in an attempt to reach your desired temperature. Not only does it use more fuel, but it also forces your furnace to work with added strain. An undersized furnace uses more energy to perform its job and is more likely to fail prematurely compared to a properly sized unit.

Meanwhile, an oversized furnace heats the home too quickly but consumes too much energy. A furnace that is too large tends to short cycle, which means the unit will shut itself off before it even reaches the right temperature. Frequent short cycling isn’t good for the furnace as it causes the unit to fail prematurely.

Features

Shooting for high-end features offers significant benefits and adds substantial value to your furnace. If you want a more efficient unit, look for one with a variable-speed blower, variable heat output, and dual heat exchangers. You can also look for advanced filtration systems to improve your home’s indoor air quality. Choosing a unit with digitally-controlled zoning systems is perfect if you have a larger home. If you want a peaceful environment, choose a furnace with low noise levels and sound-absorbing materials. And don’t forget to look for an ENERGY STAR-labeled system. Such a furnace meets and even exceeds federal standards for energy efficiency. But keep in mind that with these features, you will be paying more than with a standard unit.

Warranty

Not every homeowner pays close attention to the warranty of a furnace. However, this is an important factor to consider, especially when the system fails unexpectedly or prematurely.

The warranty on your furnace will differ depending on the manufacturer, model, and dealer. High-efficiency furnaces typically have longer warranties compared to low-efficiency units. With a furnace having at least 90 percent AFUE, it is especially important to have a long-term warranty on the heat exchanger because this part is quite expensive to replace or repair.

Upgrade with Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning

If you need help finding the right furnace for your home, be sure to reach out to us and speak to one of our heating specialists. As your dependable Coon Rapids heating and air conditioning installation company, it would be our pleasure to assist you in making a well-informed decision.

February 24 2022

High Energy Costs in Winter: Reasons and Solutions

Paul Kwekkeboom Info Articles, Tips and Advice

During winter, it is expected to run your furnace non-stop, especially during the coldest part of the season. As such, the rise of your energy cost is inevitable. But did you know that there are other reasons why you pay more for energy during this time of year?

Here at Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning, we aim to provide you with not just products and service that meets your heating or cooling needs. As your leading heating company in Richfield MN, it is our objective to provide you with relevant information that will help you understand your HVAC systems better. Here are things you may want to think about.

It costs more to generate power.

The delivery of electricity from the power plant to your home is an intricate process. The generator moves power through the grid before it arrives at your local network, bringing the electricity to your residence. Since homes need more energy during winter, the cost of power generation and delivery increases as the grid becomes more overloaded. You will see this spike shown in your electricity bill.

Using electricity wisely is a step you can take to minimize energy use. So, disconnect unused appliances and use energy-saving light fixtures. You can also try opening your curtains and blinds during the daytime to take advantage of the greenhouse effect and allow the sun to naturally heat your home. But don’t forget to close the curtains at night.

You can also save energy by putting on warm clothing. It’s much more economical to warm your body than your house. To keep the thermostat low, simply wear a nice sweater and warm socks around the house. Stay snug at night under a thick blanket, comforter, or quilt.

You’re using hot water.

Electric water heaters consume a lot of energy. Electric hot water heating elements can become covered with silt and other water sediments. This issue insulates the water from the heat source, making the heater work harder than usual. Added use of hot water for washing clothes and personal services can increase your usage, resulting in higher energy costs.

Drying clothes is a rather challenging task during winter because your home’s exterior cannot provide the heat needed. One of the appliances you operate during frigid days is your tumble dryer, which uses a considerable amount of electricity.

You can set the temperature on your water heater a few degrees cooler to save you a couple of dollars on your energy bills.

Your old furnace uses more fuel.

Another reason you have higher than average heating bills during this season is an aging heating system. Furnaces typically work anywhere from 10-15 years before they’re considered outdated. If your existing unit is beyond this age, you may notice it has more frequent breakdowns and more energy to provide your required heat level. The only solution to this problem is to upgrade your furnace to a new, more efficient unit. While doing so involves an upfront cost, you’re going to have to upgrade your system soon, anyway. A new furnace will pay you dividends in the long run as it helps you save energy each month.

Your home has poor insulation.

The quality of your home’s insulation says a lot about your energy consumption. If you have an older home, it’s best to consider improving your insulation. It’s easy for an older home to lose heated air through the doors, windows, or any opening in your inner and outer walls. Consider having your insulation professionally checked and upgraded to keep the hot air in and cold air out. Alternatively, you can try caulking and weatherstripping to air-seal your home. Such an upgrade will cause a significant reduction in your energy use.

Save Money on Energy with Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning

Heating your home doesn’t have to be expensive. With the help of our heating experts, you can save your hard-earned dollars by making your home energy-efficient. To find out how, give us a call. We’d love to sit down with you and understand your heating needs more. With over forty years of experience as your preferred Bloomington heating and air conditioning maintenance company, we sure have the solution to your heating issues.

February 10 2022

Furnace Troubleshooting Steps You Can Do on Your Own

Paul Kwekkeboom Tips and Advice

Did you know that not every furnace issue requires technical expertise? You heard us right. Sometimes, all you need is a little troubleshooting knowledge to carry out the task.

Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your reliable heating company in Blaine MN. We have been helping homeowners keep their homes comfortably warm and safe for over four decades.

Here are some do-it-yourself tips you can follow when your furnace gives you a headache instead of warm air.

Be on top of your filter.

Whenever you’re experiencing furnace issues, the first place you would want to check is the air filter, which cleans the air that goes into the furnace as well as the warm air that flows throughout the house. Air filters collect dust, debris, and other particles in the air. Over time, the filter gathers too much debris that it can restrict the air circulating through your furnace. This dirt buildup adds pressure to the furnace, causing it to work harder than it should. A dirty air filter blocks the airflow, resulting in a smaller amount of heat, a stressed-out furnace, mold buildup, higher utility and repair costs.

Without a doubt, dirty filters are one of the most common yet avoidable maintenance issues in residential furnaces. If you have a fairly new unit, you have less work to do because certain furnace models automatically shut down before too much dirt is collected, prompting you to clean or replace the filters. Unfortunately, older units don’t have this function and will keep on working—but with significantly diminished efficiency.

We recommend that your air filter should be replaced every 3 months, depending on how dirty it is. Set a monthly reminder to check your furnace filter.

To make sure you have the right filter, try these steps:

Remove the dirty filter to identify which type and size of filter your furnace is equipped with. Find the right replacement. Filters are usually available at hardware stores, home improvement stores or online. If you can, stock more than one filter. Look for the markings on the new filter that tell you which side of the filter should face the furnace. Slide the filter into place and put the cover back over it. Don’t forget to take note of the date you replaced your filter.

Check the burner flames.

The most common failures related to your burners can come from contamination. You will want to inspect your burners to make sure they are free from debris or any kind of impurity. Make sure your burners are clean and one way to do this is to look at the flames.

Check if the flame is blue and consistent, which means your burner is likely clean. If it is yellow, you probably have dirty burners. You can clean your burners with a vacuum cleaner. Just make sure to turn the power and the gas off before taking this step. Another area you should clean with a vacuum cleaner is the area around the blower.

Check your gas valve and pilot light.

If your furnace’s gas valve or pilot light is malfunctioning, chances are, your heating system will act up.. If the pilot light has gone out in your heating system, you need to light it up again. But before relighting it, make sure your gas valve is turned off. It may have been turned and left off accidentally, causing your furnace to produce less heat. Also, before lighting your pilot light again, turn off the gas for about 5-10 minutes to ensure that all fumes have evaporated and you can light it up the pilot safely.

Reset your circuit breaker.

In case your furnace fails to produce heat, resetting your circuit breaker can be an easy fix. If the thermostat is set to “HEAT” but the system is unable to heat the home, it’s possible that you have a tripped breaker or a blown fuse.

To check your breakers, go to your home’s breaker panel and look for the circuit that controls the furnace. You want to make sure it is set to the “OFF” position, or whether it’s in the middle. Flip the breaker back and forth. Then, make sure it stays in the “ON” position. This trick will reset the breaker. If this does not do it, you have a problem with either the wiring in the circuit or the circuit breaker itself. If so, consult an electrician.

Ask the Heating Gurus

If the problem seems too complicated, call Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning, your trusted Columbia Heights furnace repair company. We’d love to restore the heat in your home in no time.

February 3 2022

7 Reasons Why a High-Efficiency Furnace is a Great Investment

Paul Kwekkeboom Tips and Advice

Are you having doubts about investing in a high-efficiency furnace? Maybe this blog can help you see things more clearly and enable you to make an informed decision.

Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your trusted heating company in Burnsville MN. We offer high-efficiency furnaces engineered to address the issues associated with older furnaces such as high fuel consumption, unsatisfactory performance, and poor indoor air quality.

Understanding AFUE

Annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) is a measure of how efficient a furnace is in transforming energy in its fuel to heat over a typical year. To be precise, AFUE is the ratio of the annual heat output of the furnace versus the total annual fossil fuel energy is consumed.

For example, a furnace with 99 percent AFUE converts 99 percent of the fuel to usable heat. The remaining 1 percent goes up the chimney or elsewhere. Old furnaces from 30 years ago typically had an AFUE of 78 percent or less. This means that 22 percent of the heat or more becomes unprofitable.

Today, the government has set a minimum AFUE for brand-new furnaces, which is 80 AFUE. Meanwhile, heating systems that have an AFUE of 90 percent or more are considered high-efficiency units.

The Federal Trade Commission orders manufacturers to display the AFUE on their furnaces so consumers can compare the heating efficiencies of different models.

The High-Efficiency Advantage

Energy Star Approval

Most high-efficiency heating systems have the ENERGY STAR® label. ENERGY STAR-approved products are the same or better than standard products, only they use far less energy. To earn the ENERGY STAR label, furnaces must meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the US Department of Energy. Since they use less energy, these systems save you money on your electricity bill and help protect the environment by creating fewer harmful emissions plus you get the features and quality you expect.

Safe Operation

Also known as a condensing furnace, a high-efficiency heating system uses an electronic ignition system that is much safer and more reliable than a standing pilot light found in low and mid-efficiency furnaces. This ignition system only uses heat when the furnace needs it. With an electronic ignition, your home has a lower risk of starting a fire.

Clean Indoor Air

High-efficiency gas furnaces are equipped with better air filtration systems to catch pollutants before they can contaminate your air, which is particularly useful if you live in an area that has a lot of dust and other pollutants. If you have family members with preexisting respiratory conditions, a high-efficiency furnace will significantly enhance your indoor air quality, making your home a much safer place to live in.

Less Heat Loss

A high-efficiency furnace uses a vent damper that is set to automatically shut the flue pipe when the burners are turned off. This process results in shutting in the warm air inside, minimizing the amount of heat loss. It utilizes a second heat exchanger to catch much of the heat that would normally escape up the chimney.

Consistent Heating

A conventional furnace blower typically operates at full speed. On the other hand, a high-efficiency furnace uses a variable-speed blower that maximizes fuel savings. Such a blower provides more comfortable heating by adjusting the airflow speed to meet your real-time heating needs.

Silent Operation

Older, inefficient heating systems are infamous for creating loud operational sounds. On the contrary, high-efficiency furnaces are equipped with sound-absorbing materials that offer quiet performance while providing the most favorable comfort. Since they have variable-speed blowers, they don’t have to work as hard or burn as hot to properly heat your home. With minimal operational sounds, you and your family can enjoy quiet nights, promoting better sleep.

Environment-Friendly

Because high-efficiency furnaces have a higher energy efficiency rating, you save on natural gas fuel expenses while lowering your home’s greenhouse gas emissions. If you upgrade to a low-NOx unit, you will have an even lower carbon footprint.