BEN TEST SITE Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Fairview Park’

New Home HVAC Considerations in Avon Lake

Monday, November 5th, 2012

Purchasing a new heating and air conditioning system for your Avon Lake home is a big decision, and with all of the choices and options on the market it can be a tough one to make. When you add the stress that comes with the construction of a new home to this situation, though, you can really have trouble figuring out where to begin. At Westland Heating and Air Conditioning we like to make the home heating and air conditioning system installation process as pain-free as possible for our clients. That’s why we’ve put together a list of tips and items to consider before commencing with the HVAC system installation project in your new Avon Lake home. Feel free to contact Westland Heating and Air Conditioning with any additional questions that you may have. We’re always happy to help you make the best decisions for your home and comfort.

First of all, you must have total confidence in the contractor that you choose to hire for the heating and air conditioning installation project. Do not rush into anything without getting a few estimates, and be sure to ask all of the contractors that you are considering for a few business referrals. Talk to as many real customers as you can; anyone can write a testimonial online. Find out what accreditations and qualifications they have and what their field experience is like. Do your homework and make sure that your contractor is up to your high standards. After all, not every company provides the same level of exceptional HVAC installation services that Westland Heating and Air Conditioning does.

You will also have to decide what type of heating and air conditioning system you would like to have installed in your home. Whether you are using a furnace, heat pump, ductless mini splits or other HVAC systems will affect the design of the system and inform your contractor whether components such as ductwork will be necessary. The more information you have about your options the better, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.

It is important that once all of the installation work is completed you have everything inspected to be sure that it is up to local codes and regulations. There is a reason that these codes are in place. Total compliance with these laws and expectations is necessary to ensure that you can heat and cool your home safely and with confidence.

You deserve total comfort in your new home, and Westland Heating and Air Conditioning can help. Let us handle the installation of your HVAC equipment in Avon Lake. We’ll make sure that every aspect of the project is handled with the exceptional service that we are known for.

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Westlake Heating Tip: Increase Energy Efficiency This Winter

Monday, October 29th, 2012

If your Westlake house is struggling with energy efficiency problems, you might actually be wasting quite of money on your energy bills each month. We’ve put some suggestions together to help you increase the energy efficiency of your home.

Insulation

Insulation is absolutely vital to increasing the energy efficiency of your home. The insulation in your home is what helps keep all that nice heated air actually inside your home. If you have old or deteriorated insulation, that hot air might be slipping away outside. The first place to check is your attic. Because your attic is at the top of your house, it is the first place where all that toasty warm air going to go. You can use weather stripping or cans of foaming insulation to seal up your window and door frames. There are also window insulation kits that are basically invisible and will help keep your hot air in and the cold air out.

Heating Tune-Up

If you have an older furnace that hasn’t received any attention recently, it might be operating below its optimal level. Regular maintenance on your vehicle is something that is common knowledge. But performing regular maintenance on your heating system is just as important. As your system wears down over time, it gradually has to work harder to produce the same results. This reduces its efficiency and can cost you extra money. Having it tuned up can potentially lead to more efficiency and energy savings.

Upgrade Your Heating System

While this may not seem like an economical investment up front, it can actually save you money. This is especially true if you have an older heating system. In the case of furnaces, older models typically have an efficiency rating of 60%. This means that 40% of the fuel you buy is wasted. Newer models can have an energy efficiency rating of up to 97%. In the case of furnaces, they are one of the cheapest heating systems to replace. Also, in some areas there are energy rebates for upgrading your system.

If you have any questions about the energy efficiency of your home, contact the heating experts at Westland Air. We have years of experience offering exceptional heating services in Westlake.

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Rocky River Heating Replacement Guide

Monday, October 22nd, 2012

When you have to replace your heating system in Rocky River, there are a lot of different factors that you have to keep in mind. We’ve put together a list of some of the most important things to remember:

Efficiency

The efficiency rating of your new heating system will impact the future cost of running your heating system. Newer models tend to have a higher efficiency rating than older models. But among the types of newer systems, the efficiency rating can vary. An average new furnace will probably have an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating of 80%. The more most efficient ones can have as high as 95% AFUE. However, geothermal heating systems and some heat pumps can have a 100% or higher efficiency rating. This is obviously very attractive to homeowners who are looking to save money on their utility bills.

Fuel

Another thing to think about is what kind of fuel you’ll be using for your heating system. Energy prices aren’t coming down and people are looking for all kinds of ways to save their money. Depending upon where you live, the price of electricity, propane, oil and other fuels can vary. Prices fluctuate all the time. For people who have the space, the money and are tired of depending upon fuel supply companies, geothermal systems can be a great option. This system uses the renewable energy stored in the earth to heat and cool their home. However, the installation cost of this kind of system can be prohibitive to some people. Also, a geothermal system needs a certain amount of available ground space in order to be effective.

If you have any questions about replacing your heating system or if you’d like one of our Rocky River heating experts to visit your home, then just call Westland Heating and Air Conditioning today.

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Bay Village Heating Question: Why Install a Garage Heater?

Monday, October 8th, 2012

Here are some reasons you may want to consider heating your Bay Village home’s garage.

  • Storage: It’s tempting to toss anything you don’t use on a regular basis into your garage. Keep your property protected from the elements with the installation of a garage heater. Not everything handles the cold well, and if you’re in the habit of storing items all winter long there is ample time for damage or compromises in quality to occur.
  • Maintain comfortable working conditions: Are you the handy type? If so your garage can serve a number of purposes, providing you with the opportunity to pursue your own mechanical repairs or use the space as a wood shop, craft area or art studio.
  • Extend your living space: Garages don’t necessarily have to be used to store cars, tools and decorations. If you have a big family or an aspiring drummer in your home a comfortable garage can make a great addition to your living space. Enjoy a football game with your friends or quality time with your kids in a comfortable, well heated garage.
  • Increase property value: When people are looking to buy a house, seemingly small benefits such as a heated garage can go a long way in impressing them. Your garage does not need to be completely refinished or furnished to show prospective buyers potential. The installation of a heating system in your garage shows that you’re a homeowner dedicated to comfort and willing to make improvements to your home, which can really help make the right impression.

If you’re interested in the installation of a garage heater in your Bay Village home, call Westland Heating and Air Conditioning today! We can answer any questions you may still have about the operation of a garage heating system and the models available to you.

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Rocky River Water Heater Guide: Why Your Water Heater is Underperforming

Monday, October 1st, 2012

An underperforming water heater can be a frustrating problem to have. Whether it results in the water in your Rocky River home being cooler than you’d like or if you are simply frustrated with how high your bill have been lately, there are a number of reasons why your water heater might be under performing and not all of them involve replacement or even needing repairs. Here are some and the best ways to handle each:

  • Sediment or Mineral Build Up – Over time, the bottom of your water heater can build up a layer of dirt or sediment due to hard water. This is perfectly natural and doesn’t damage your water heater, but it does block absorption of heat from the burners by the water in the tank and can reduce efficiency.
  • Dirty Air Vents or Grates – The air vents below your water heater can get clogged with dirt or dust which can lead to not enough air getting to your pilot light and it going out on occasion. This can also result in poor burning and inefficient heating which is bad for your system as a whole.
  • Bad Pilot Light Igniter – If the pilot light refuses to stay lit or if you have an electronic igniter that doesn’t always work, it can affect the performance of your water heater in a number of ways. For this reason, it is recommended that you have it inspected immediately for possible issues.
  • Clogged Lines or Bad Thermostat – A bad thermostat may simply read the water temperature wrong and force you to turn up or down your water heater to accommodate. Clogged water lines due to old pipes can also be a problem.

When a problem develops in your water heater that has a negative impact on your home’s hot water supply, the first thing you should do is do a quick check of these things. Whatever the case, an underperforming water heater is almost always something that can be repaired.

For water heater repair or replacement in Rocky River, give Westland Heating and Air Conditioning a call today!

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Maintenance for Radiant Heating Systems in Rocky River

Monday, September 24th, 2012

If you have a new radiant heating system installed in your Rocky River home or are interested in having one installed, it is important that you make regular maintenance a part of your schedule. Annual maintenance performed on a radiant heating system ensures that it not only continues to work as intended to keep you and your family warm, but that it does so as efficiently as possible.

What exactly is involved in maintenance on a radiant heating system? Here are a few tasks we will perform when we visit and why they are so important.

  • Inspection of the Burners and Pilot Light – Older systems may need to be cleaned and inspected once a year. Many newer systems don’t even need this much maintenance because they are installed as sealed systems.
  • Flushing of the Hydronic Boiler – The system should never need to be flushed, but if a leak occurs or if a problem is suspected, this may be a maintenance task recommended by your technician.
  • Testing Pipes – Pipes may be periodically tested to check for leaks or other issues. Due to the nature of the system, leaks are very rare, but should still be inspected every year or so.
  • Clean Around the Boiler – The area around your boiler should always be kept clean and clear of any excess debris, dust, dirt or other things that could get in the way of proper combustion and air flow.

A good radiant heating system will require very little maintenance to operate effectively over time. It is a closed system which means it was carefully calibrated to work properly without any outside intervention. However, periodic checks for leaks, burner issues or pipe problems will ensure it stays that way.

To schedule a maintenance service for your Rocky River radiant heating system today, call Westland Heating and Air Conditioning!

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Westlake OH Heating and AC Question: Why Do I Need a Pool Dehumidification System?

Monday, September 17th, 2012

Too much humidity can be a big concern for Westlake pool owners.  Humidity can cause damage to many structural areas, which can be costly to fix.  In order to avoid this type of problem, it’s a good idea to install a pool dehumidification system.  The dehumidification system alleviates any humidity problems, ensuring the structural aspects of the building remain intact and its integrity isn’t compromised.

 Pool dehumidifiers house big metal plates which are cooled off with refrigerant gases by a gas compressor.  The metal plates prompt the moisture in the air to condense on them, and as the moisture slides off the plates it is gathered in a tray and pumped out.  All pool dehumidifiers have a humidistat which can be set to regulate the humidity to the appropriate level for any given pool area.

These systems can also help pool owners by heating the air around the pool.  This is done in one of two ways. Either an electric heater is built into the humidification system or one can be attached to the regular heating system for the building.  This helps to save electricity by using already warmed air.

Pool dehumidification systems come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate all types of pools.  Installation by a trained Westlake HVAC professional is necessary to make sure the system is being installed properly and that it is in a position to provide the greatest benefit.  They can be installed in a variety of places such as the rooftop or inside the pool area, depending on your individual situation.

In order to make sure you get the right type of system for your pool, it’s a good idea to speak with the experienced professionals at Westland Heating and Air Conditioning. And after installation, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance for your pool dehumidifier to ensure it continues to run smoothly.

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Common Problem Areas for North Olmsted HVAC Systems

Monday, August 20th, 2012

The following are a few of the most common problem areas for North Olmsted HVAC systems.  It is important to pay attention to these and contact the professionals at Westland Heating and Air Conditioning when they do occur.

Some of the most common problem areas for HVAC systems that are already in place have to do with power lines, drains, and venting.  When one of these main systems need attention, an immediate repair is best.

The power lines on HVAC systems are what keep them running continually, day in and day out, all year round.  An HVAC system uses a lot of electricity and if it shuts off suddenly or frequently shuts down, it can be a sign of a power issue.  There could be damage to electrical lines from extreme weather conditions, animals, or other factors.

The drains on HVAC systems are important in keeping the system functioning properly.  They release condensed water that builds up inside the HVAC as it runs, and if drains clog there is no way for this water to escape.  Drainage problems can mean an overflow of water, which can in turn seriously damage your system.

The vents on your HVAC system allow air to be dispersed throughout your home. They also allow air to return and be heated or cooled once again.  When vents become clogged it can result in more than just stuffy air. Indoor air quality suffers, heightening allergy symptoms and allowing for higher levels of contaminants.  Additionally, clogged vents can result in decreased energy-efficiency.

Westland Heating and Air Conditioning has the experience and knowledge necessary to help you understand your North Olmsted HVAC system better. For all your HVAC needs,  call us today!

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Air Conditioner Fins: Everything You Need To Know For Your Avon AC System

Monday, August 13th, 2012

What Are Air Conditioner Fins?

There are two types of air conditioner fins: condenser fins and evaporator fins.  Each performs a similar job of allowing air to flow smoothly through and out of an air conditioner, while each does this in a unique way.

Compressor fins are located on the outdoor portion of an air conditioner near the compressor is something that looks like a grill with metal fins all along it.  These air conditioner fins are a part of the condenser that assists heat in moving away from the air conditioner so that the heat disperses more quickly.

Evaporator fins are located on the evaporator and as it extracts heat from the air the metal fins help with the thermal energy exchange process that occurs with the surrounding air.  Air is blown across the evaporator fins where it is cooled and then sent from the air conditioner through ducts and vents and into various rooms.

AC Fins: What to Do With Bent or Clogged Condenser and Evaporator Fins

Because they are so delicate, AC fins whether condenser fins or evaporator fins can bend easily.  With normal use air conditioner fins can also get clogged with dirt and debris.  When condenser fins or evaporator fins are bent or when they get clogged it causes a major restriction in air flow that would usually pass through the air conditioning system, which means a decrease in efficiency for the entire AC.  When an AC has to work harder to create the cooled air because of less air flow, it can mean higher utility costs and an air conditioning system that will wear out more quickly because of overuse.

As air conditioning specialists in Avon, Westland Heating and Air Conditioning can provide you with the AC fin solutions you need such as handling clogged air conditioner fins and fixing bent AC fins.  Contact us today and get your air conditioning system back up and working efficiently once again with our quality AC repair services.

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