Informative Blogs on Heating and Cooling Systems

Do you own a condo or apartment complex? Are you considering upgrading your suites with ductless air conditioners? On top of being a value-add for your tenants, here are five additional benefits of upgrading to ductless air conditioning.

Ductless heating and cooling systems, including heat pumps and air conditioners, have been steadily gaining in popularity due to their numerous benefits over traditional ducted HVAC systems. Are you considering replacing your current furnace or air conditioner with a new heating or cooling system? Here are five good reasons to go ductless.

Are you building a new home and considering including a central vacuum system in the plans? Do you want to retrofit your current residence with a powerful built-in cleaning system? If so, here’s a breakdown of how central vacuum systems work to ensure you understand the ins and outs.

Are you thinking about ditching your corded vacuum for a central vacuum system? There are plenty of benefits to making the shift. Here are four good reasons to install a central vacuum in your home.

If there’s a puddle under your water heater, don’t panic. Before calling a professional water heater repair service, there’s some troubleshooting you can do to find the source of the problem. A solution may be easier than you think. Here’s what to do if you think your water heater is leaking.

Like most household appliances, tankless water heaters require regular maintenance to operate efficiently and prevent premature breakdowns. If you plan to buy a tankless water heater or recently purchased a property with one already installed, here’s what you need to know to keep it operating smoothly.

Like all water heating appliances, your boiler has a limited lifespan. When your water boiler breaks down, it’s usually too late to repair, and you’re left in a frigid home without hot water. That’s why it’s crucial to identify the early warning signs that it’s time for a boiler replacement. Here’s what to look for.

If you’re looking for a hot water solution for your home, you’ll need to consider water heaters and boilers. Both deliver hot water for showers, laundry and cleaning, but understanding the differences is crucial before booking an installation. Here’s what you need to know.

Your home’s gas furnace should be professionally cleaned and serviced at least once a year to maximize efficiency and prolong its lifespan. However, the furnace’s age, the number of people living in your home and whether you have pets are all factors in furnace maintenance. Here are indicators that your furnace is due for a cleaning.

Most homeowners take their furnaces for granted until they find themselves without heat on a cold winter night. An old or poorly maintained furnace is an emergency waiting to happen. Here are some problems you may encounter with your gas or electric furnace that require the attention of an HVAC technician.

A home heat pump system is generally durable and reliable. However, like any appliance, a heat pump can break down without proper maintenance. Identifying minor issues early can help prevent future costly repairs. Here are five signs that your heat pump needs repair.

A heat pump provides versatile heating, cooling and humidity control. It moves heat outside your home in summer and pulls heat into your home in winter. Like most household appliances, a heat pump needs proper care to ensure peak performance. Here are some tips to maximize the efficiency of your home’s heat pump system.

If you want to keep your gas fireplace operating at peak efficiency, you must invest in annual maintenance. Gas fireplaces burn carbon-based fuels and, in doing so, produce a small amount of soot. Over time, the soot gathers in the burners, pilot assembly and inside the glass. This can lead to costly repairs if left unchecked. Here are four signs it’s time to schedule a fireplace maintenance appointment.

Investing in a gas or electric fireplace can be a great addition to your home. However, deciding between a gas or an electric fireplace takes careful consideration. Both options have pros and cons, depending on how and where you use them.

Did you know that installing a new gas or electric fireplace in your home can increase your property value by up to 12 per cent? With winter on its way, the cozy ambiance and additional heat can make your home much more comfortable. The good news is that installing a gas or electric fireplace is simpler than you think. Here’s what you need to know.

Although gas fireplaces require less maintenance than wood fireplaces, they’re not maintenance-free. Gas units require annual check-ups by a certified professional to ensure they stay beautiful and effectively warm your home. Without proper maintenance, your gas fireplace could run into the following problems.

Stay safe this holiday season with these tips

As the song goes, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” And yes, the year-end holiday season offers many opportunities to celebrate, gather with family and friends and get out of your usual routines. Carrier wishes you all the best for a happy holiday season, and offers the following tips to promote a SAFE season as well.

If you’re decorating…

• Be careful on ladders – use every rung and maintain three points of contact (two feet and one hand, for example).
• When inside, use a step-stool instead of standing on furniture to hang decorations.
• Don’t overload electrical outlets – inside OR outside. Follow manufacturers’ recommendations for maximum number of lights / decorations per outlet.
• Monitor fireplaces and candles – don’t leave open flames unattended.

If you’re traveling…

• Turn off your water supply at the main shutoff valve. Drain water lines by opening faucets after the water is off to avoid leaks or potential pipe freezing during cold weather.
• Put deliveries on hold until you return.
• Put interior lights on timers or install smart bulbs/plugs that can be turned on/off remotely.
• If driving, use safety belts and car seats.

If you’re hosting…

• Wash hands frequently.
• Be sure to handle meats properly and cook thoroughly to recommended temperatures.
• Refrigerate leftovers promptly – don’t leave perishable foods out for more than two hours.
• Keep an eye on children as they play or eat.

If you’re doing all of the above…

• Manage stress levels with balanced activity schedules and keep expectations realistic.
• Maintain sleep schedules to avoid becoming over tired.
• Avoid over-indulging on sweets, goodies and alcohol – everything in moderation!
• Don’t overspend – stick to a holiday budget.

Of course, one sure way to ruin the holidays is an unexpected breakdown with your heating system. To help avoid the unexpected, inspect your air filter and replace if needed, and if you haven’t had your system serviced this year, contact your local HVAC contractor ASAP. Happy Holidays!

Spring is around the corner and it’s time to hit the road for a much-needed break from winter routines. While the word “vacation” elicits visions of fun, adventure or relaxation, getting there and making the most of it takes a little preparation.

Planning your trip

Pick a destination that has something everyone can look forward to — adults and children alike.

Once you have a destination in mind, set a realistic budget that you can afford.

Make flight and hotel reservations early to help save money on travel costs.

If traveling by car…

Schedule your vehicle for any needed pre-trip maintenance – oil change, tires/breaks, windshield wipers, etc.

Keep younger travelers safe with appropriately sized and properly functioning car seats.

GPS systems and smartphone apps are a great way to get you where you are going, but know your route in advance and bring a printed road atlas as a backup.

If traveling by plane…

Try traveling on less popular days and scheduling your flights early in the morning or late at night.

Be sure to know your airline’s requirements for carry-on and checked bags, including dimensions and weights.

Bundle your flight reservation with hotel, rental car and amusement park packages to help save you money using online travel sites, or through club memberships.

Before you go…

Install smart outlets or timers that can turn lights on and off to give the appearance that your home is occupied.

Arrange for a trusted relative, friend or neighbor to stop by and check for deliveries, water leaks or other signs of activity.

Set up some basic home monitoring devices that include indoor and outdoor security cameras.

Adjust your thermostat for energy savings – better yet, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat like the Carrier® Infinity® System Control.

And, if you are already calling your local Carrier HVAC contractor about adding a new smart thermostat, don’t forget to schedule your annual spring HVAC system clean and check!

Before COVID-19 changed everything, working from home was more of a nicety than a necessity. But today, many people are being asked to turn their living space into a work space. And while working from home conjures up images of sitting on your couch in PJs with a laptop and a hot latte, creating a productive work environment in your home takes a little effort. Here’s how:

1. Set some boundaries

Working from home can disrupt daily routines for you as well as those you are living with. To help keep you focused while limiting distractions, establish regular “office hours.” Then, stick to them as closely as possible – don’t do personal business during office hours and don’t conduct business during your personal or family time.

2. Carve out some space

If you don’t have a home office, try to establish a dedicated work area. A guest bedroom, basement or little-used formal dining room are ideal options. If space is tight, get creative – put a small desk in a closet, set up shop in a garage, or put up a folding table in an out-of-the-way corner.

3. Dress for success

Sure, it might be a little more comfortable wearing some old sweats and a pair of bunny slippers, but dressing for work can put you in a more business-like state of mind and lead to added productivity. It also sends a message to your housemates that you are “on the clock.”

4. Keep communication lines open

Just because you are isolating at home doesn’t mean you can’t reach out to your work associates. Collaborate on work projects using approved phone conferencing systems, email or direct messaging. Keeping in touch with your work friends will make it easier to maintain some sense of normalcy in unusual times.

5. Give yourself a break

While you are trying to maintain a consistent work schedule, it’s important keep a consistent break schedule as well. Make sure you take a daily lunch break. And, step away from the computer or phone from time-to-time – stand up, stretch or even step outside for a little fresh air.

6. Hunker down in comfort

Because you’ll be spending a lot of time there, you’ll want your home office to be comfortable. Make sure your cooling and heating system is up-to-date on filter replacement and maintenance. Consider a smart thermostat that allows you to control the temperature in your home from your smart phone or laptop.

It may take a little patience… a lot of communication between you and your housemates… and a little trial and error… but in the end, working from home can be just as productive, if not more, than working at an office.

Whether it was pre-planned or last-minute, for business or pleasure, traveling in the summer of 2020 looks a lot different than it did just one year ago. Regardless of how you feel about pandemic-era travel, leaving your nest to hit the open road – safely – has always, and will continue to be an exercise in planning, patience and perseverance. Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning this summer’s travels:

Picking Your Location

Keep in mind that different states and cities have different restrictions on travel. Be sure to research and understand the current situation in your travel destination, including any self-quarantine requirements. And, be aware that those restrictions can change.

Method of Travel for Vacations

According to the CDC, any type of travel can increase your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19. Here are some things to consider as you choose your mode of transportation:

• Airlines: Most germs and viruses don’t spread easily on flights, but crowded planes and security lines make social distancing difficult and can expose you to frequently touched surfaces.
• Buses or trains: These methods of transportation make social distancing difficult – you will often be within 6 feet of others.
• Autos: Stopping for food, gas and bathroom breaks may put you and your companions within close proximity of other travelers and frequently touched surfaces.
• RVs: Traveling by RV can lead to fewer stops for restrooms and food, but RV parks may offer higher amounts of exposure.

Health Precautions While Traveling

Protect yourself and others by following CDC-recommended precautions:

• Wash your hands often – minimum 20 seconds with soap and water – after touching surfaces, being in a public place, after blowing nose/touching face, etc.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Keep social distance of 6 feet or more.
• In public, wear a face covering (cloth is fine).
• Cover sneezes and coughs.
• Pick up food at drive-thru windows, curbside service, or from stores.
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Save Energy and Money at Home While on Vacation

Any time you will be away from your home, you can save energy by:

• Turning your water heater down to “vacation mode” – or at least a lower water temperature setting than normal.
• Unplug “vampire” electronics that use electricity even when they are off – TVs, laptops, printers, etc.
• Set your thermostat to a higher than normal temperature – or better yet, upgrade to a Wi-Fi®-enabled smart thermostat like the Carrier Infinity System Control for remote monitoring and temperature adjustments.
• Check your HVAC system’s air filter and replace if necessary. If you are uncomfortable doing this, consider contacting your us for a system inspection or clean-and-check appointment.