What’s the Difference Between HVAC and AC?

“HVAC” is an acronym that homeowners hear bandied about a lot, but many people don’t know what it actually means. Consequently, some people confuse it with air conditioning. Air conditioning is only one of the services that fall under the general heading of HVAC. The letters in HVAC stand for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Let’s take a closer look at each of those services in turn. Heating Systems An experienced HVAC contractor should be able to perform all the services you need to keep your furnace or heat pump in good working order. This starts with the proper installation of the system. If your heating system isn’t installed the right way, the equipment may not be able to use energy efficiently. You’ll notice that inefficiency when you’re looking at your monthly utility bills. Regular maintenance is also essential if you want to prolong the functional life of your unit for as long as possible. Even with the most diligent maintenance, though, your system will probably need repairs from time to time. It’s smart to form a long-term relationship with a reliable HVAC company that understands how your heating system operates. Ventilation Systems Ventilation systems eliminate excess moisture and pollutants...

View Article

How Often Should My Furnace be Replaced?

A quality furnace can make it easier to keep heating bills to a minimum during the cold winter months in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. This is because it will generally run more efficiently and need less energy to produce heat. However, at some point, even a properly maintained furnace will stop working. How do you know when it’s time for yours to be replaced? The Furnace Was Installed 15 to 20 Years Ago The average life of a furnace is about 15 to 20 years, depending on how well it was maintained and other factors. Therefore, if your furnace is getting up in age, it may be time to consider getting a new one. At in Lake Geneva, we can service, repair or replace a furnace and other heating components. We can also service your hot water heater to keep it in good condition this winter. Your Utility Bills Are Going Up Higher utility bills could simply be a sign that recent winters have been harsher than most. It could also be because kids or others in the home leave the thermostat at a higher temperature than it was normally set at in past years. However, if nothing has changed except...

View Article

What Does it Mean to be an Authorized Rheem Dealer?

Rheem has much to offer customers and dealers alike. The company is known for its innovative approach to HVAC and water heater construction and has a reputation for providing excellent products and service. Following is a peek into what you can expect from an authorized Rheem Dealer. Plenty of Product Options Rheem offers products for both commercial and residential use. When you work with an authorized Rheem dealer, you can expect access to a wide range of options in various price points, making it easy for you to purchase the equipment that best suits your needs and budget. Top Notch Warranties Rheem provides some of the best warranty terms and conditions in the business, making it easy for you to get the service you need and deserve in a fast, efficient manner. Additionally, you can easily extend or verify warranty coverage on Rheem products via Rheem’s official website. Trained Technicians Rheem gives technicians both online and in-person training opportunities. This makes it easy for HVAC technicians from authorized Rheem dealerships to stay abreast of recent technological developments that will enable them to offer the best possible service. Rheem’s ongoing training programs include not just product installation but also maintenance and...

View Article

How to Increase Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Improving home energy efficiency reduces energy costs, increases comfort, reduces pollution and helps conserve natural resources. Here is a list of items you should inspect and some ways to reduce energy losses: Doors and Windows: Seal air leaks around windows and doors. Check weather-strips and caulking around windows. Add blinds, awning, or solar screens, or window tints, or plant trees near windows for shade. Utility Line Entry Points: Seal all access points for cables, vents, and plumbing pipes. Ductwork: Install mechanical fasteners to reconnect runs of disconnected ductwork. Apply mastic sealant to close gaps. Insulating areas of ductwork, as necessary to prevent radiant heat loss. Appliances: Replace fixtures and appliances with energy-saving models that use less energy and emit less radiant heat. HVAC: Replace dirty filters and straighten bent coil fins. Clean condenser coils and condensate lines. Have periodic inspections by your HVAC technician to test refrigerant levels, air flow, electrical functions and air tightness. Minor adjustments and repairs can save you from much larger repairs or replacements. Ventilation: Open windows or doors, or add an attic fan to pull fresh air into your house. Install more vents in areas where needed. Install double-sashed windows. Light Bulbs: Replace old-fashioned incandescent...

View Article