3 blunders you're making with your Thermostat

A Programmable Thermostat is a wonderful choice when it comes to improving the indoor comfort level and controlling the utility bills. But a large number of homeowners fail to enjoy the expected benefits as a result of not using the Thermostat the right way. Below we discuss those 3 blunders which you and many other homeowners are making.

Set right to get the right comfort

Setting the Thermostat in a wrong setting and expecting it to provide you with comfort is one major mistake homeowners make. True that a programmable thermostat is an advanced version however, it still follows however you direct it. Homeowners either keep the temperature constant on the Thermostat which results in overheated indoor or keep tweaking the temperature as the temperature difference is felt in different parts of the home.

The ideal way to resolve this is to know what temperature is generally the ideal for which parts. 70 degrees is perfect for living rooms, rooms which are occupied like bedrooms should be given 64-68 degrees. This is directly not possible without having a zoning system installed however there is a tip to maintain these desirable temperatures and that is by setting the radiator valves differently. Begin by setting the radiator in the living room at a comfortable level let's say four. Then use this as a measure and set the valve in the rest of the rooms one level lower; in this case, at three.

Lastly, make sure to set the valve in unused rooms at the lowest level.
This ensures that all places in the indoor remain comfortable, no energy is wasted and that the utility bills remain in control.

Wrong location of Thermostat

And here comes another most common blunder which is installing the Thermostat either in a very cold or in a very warm room. And as the Thermostat senses the air to reach the desired temperature, the wrong signals are given to it when the placement is wrong. A true reflection of the indoor temperature becomes impossible as a result. The most suitable location to have the most accurate temperature is to install it on the interior walls. The height from the floor should be around 5 to 6 feet. Also, please note to never install the thermostat where direct sunlight has a reach.

Not reading the user manual in case of issues

Homeowners, as mentioned above, upgrade to Programmable Thermostats but still fail to achieve the desired results. One prime reason is that they do not fully explore the features. Although the HVAC technician explains the use, most people tend to use the HVAC accessories on the simplest possible settings. As a result, what could have been enjoyed is simply lost.

In addition, when heating/cooling issues arise, the manual is still not consulted and later on, after paying a few hundred dollars to a repair tech, it is revealed that the problem had arisen only as a result of a wrong setting, battery failure or Thermostat wiring.

Bottom Line

If you have recently upgraded to a Programmable Thermostat and feel that it wasn't worth buying, look out for these blunders. And bet that you must already be making these.

Smart tactics when negotiating with an HVAC dealer

Home comfort heating and cooling appliances are big investments that people make. A hefty amount is spent on the purchase and it is the wish of every homeowner to end up choosing the best possible brand and model and that too within the range their budget can afford. But since common homeowners have little to no knowledge about brands and models, it is the dealer on whose suggestions they have to depend. The most common request made by homeowners to the dealers is to show them a model with good efficiency and low price. There are many factors why a dealer would not suggest you, one such model, even if there is one. One prime reason is if he is a dealer of a particular brand, he won't recommend another brand even if that fulfills the requirements. Another reason is, selling a particular model may be causing more profit than selling the other. 

In this case, what is the best way homeowners can make the best deals and negotiate the smart way with the tactful dealers? We bring to you some suggestions;

Get some know-how about the local pricing

The area you are living in has multiple dealers and estimate experts. Before going straight into the head of a dealer to purchase a unit, it is recommended to get some know-how about the price range in which the unit you are most expectedly purchasing, are being sold. This gives an impression to the dealer that you have your homework done and he, as a result, is careful in giving you an overly charged estimate.

Explain your need and budget

You must explain your need and budget. When that is done, for example, if your need is to have a unit with the least noise, a dealer can't try to sell you a noisy unit. With your budget explained, he also understands that with this budget and this specification, he can't sell you another unit. As a result not only that you get a suitable unit but also a price cut.

Offer a free advertisement

All businesses know that it is better to have several good customers who pay average than to have just one who pays good but comes once a year. Another simple tactic to get a cut in the price from a dealer is to tell him that his company will be recommended to friends and family or that you will make certain referrals. Sometimes, low sales make this a great statement to convince dealers as they are already actively looking for more customers.

Offer a quick payment option

Offer a payment method that is most suitable for the dealer is another way to make a convincing hit to win the deal and have a cut made in the quote. Cash payment or quick credit card payment can be used to ensure the dealer instant payments. People who request for installments and then request for a cut in price hardly get it. A one-time instant payment, however, does quite a good job.

So the next time you negotiate with a dealer, don't forget;

- To get know-how about market pricing and get some free estimates
- To explain your budget and the need for a specific unit
and
- To make the dealer offers of recommendations and instant payments 

With these tactics followed, a cut in the price is guaranteed.

Troubleshoot your Furnace's Pilot Light Problems

So who wants to go to to the Furnace to check the pilot every now and then? Particularly, when the temperature falls below minus 30? None, of course! And what do you think about that embarrassment when, in front of the guests, the Furnace keeps shutting off and the guests leave early because of the discomfort felt at your home? Well, there are numerous reasons behind why a Furnace shuts off and among them is that the Furnace Pilot won't remain lit for long.

So, in your Toronto home, with Winter on its peak, how to troubleshoot a frequently problematic pilot? And, are there any simple hacks to solve the issue as a DIY without worrying to call an HVAC specialist? Fortunately, yes! While a problematic pilot halts the operation of the entire Furnace, fixing it doesn't take much. Below we discuss some primary reasons behind the scenario of the Furnace pilot that won't stay lit and the possible DIY solutions to that.

Reason#1

Dirt and Debris on the Thermocouple:  

Here's for your information; dirt and debris is the primary reason behind Furnace breakdowns. And one reason behind a problematic pilot is also dirt. If your Thermocouple component (which is responsible for measuring the temperature) has dirt on it, this will frequently turn the pilot off.

How to Fix? Rid the thermocouple of the dirt. Don't forget to shut the power and gas supply off. Then clean the component with a soft brush or with sandpaper. You're good to go.

Reason#2

Bent/Twist in the Thermocouple

When the thermocouple is bent, the flame won't be able to reach it and as a result, the gas valve will then shut off.
How to Fix? Begin by turning the power and gas supply off. When the unit cools down, bend the Thermocouple back in place to be able to access flame.

Reason#3

A Broken Thermocouple

If the dirt has been cleaned and the device has been checked for any bends, this is the time to thoroughly analyse if the thermocouple is old enough to be replace. There could be rust, holes or other factors affecting its performance.

How to Fix? Reach out to your trusted HVAC retailer to purchase a new Thermocouple. If you are not a good DIY handyman, consider calling a professional to replace the old unit with a new one.

Poor location and Problematic Pilot

Other than the above-mentioned causes, wrong location of the Furnace unit could be one reason why the pilot won't remain lit. If the location is conjested, the Furnace will have less oxygen for combustion. This will eventually let the pilot to burn out fire. Also, a wrongly placed Furnace may as well cause accumulation of Carbon Monoxide in the house
.
How to fix? Allow enough space around the Furnace. If possible, change the location of the Furnace.

Bottom Line

These are some easy to do DIY solutions that you can try if the Furnace pilot keeps burning the fire off. However, if the problem persists, it is always recommended to call a professional to thoroughly analyse the unit.

We are here to respond to your queries 24/7.
Call today 905 201-1293

What is Air Balancing: Ways to avoid hot and cold spots

Do your rooms not feel comfortably conditioned or there are some pesky hot and cold spots? Homeowners complain that they suspect change in temperature moving from one place to another. Fortunately, this inconsistency in temperature can be figured out by optimising your HVAC system.
In this article, we have unearthed some of the easiest ways to balance airflow for your home comfort.

What is air balancing?

- Balancing a residential system is a process that involves readjusting the HVAC system to ensure the air is evenly distributed throughout the home.

- Every part of the HVAC system should work in harmony, ensuring that each zone has an equal amount of heat transfer.

- Air Balancing is one of the most crucial steps to increase air circulation, produce more comfort, reduce energy bills and enhance the overall performance of the heating and cooling system. 

Why is air balancing needed?

Air balancing is needed to test the HVAC system efficiency and to spot any issue that causes uneven airflow or negative air pressure. By this, every part of your home will be as comfortable as possible.

DIY methods for air balancing

Check filters for cleanliness

The role of filters to improve the air quality and efficiency of furnace has always been imperative. In addition to this, it reduces unwanted strain and extends the lifespan of your heating and cooling system. One of the reasons for the improper airflow will be an accumulation of debris that puts an extra burden on the system and results in the inconsistent heat in your home. 

Avoid placing electronic equipment near a Thermostat

Heat generating equipments like high-end computers or large screen TV’s tend to change the heat in a room and require adjustment to the vents. Especially if these types of equipment are close to a thermostat, they make AC to run for longer hours. The reason is, the Thermostat is likely to pick heat from these appliances. 

Check for drafts

Windows and doors should be properly sealed in order to avoid the hot and cold spots in your building. It is one of the best quick-fixes that homeowners should pay heed to for the even and better heat distribution.

A 3-degree offset:

If you are living in a two-story home, and have two thermostats: Set the temperature for each floor differently. For example, upstairs should always be set 2 or 3 degrees higher than the downstairs. This simple remedy aims to rectify the airflow issues. 

Prevent all air-flow restriction

When the registers are covered by furniture or any other item, it will impede the airflow, making your system to work harder and consumes more electricity. To fix out this issue, rearrange the furniture or object that is coming in the way of vents. Remember, vents need at least sixteen inches of space to throw air evenly. 

Wrapping up:

Some issues can’t be figured on your own like the adjustment on the system’s blower fan or problems related to ductwork or when you are not aware whether the home is insulated correctly. In these scenarios, we recommend contacting an HVAC professional for the better guidance or a professional evaluation.

What Is The Best Time To Change Humidifier Water Panel

The importance of a Humidifier is not overstated in maintaining the best home comfort. The humidifier is functioned to add moisture - it does so using a component namely humidifier water panel. Hearing the term for the first time? It also goes by names like water filler, water panel, evaporator pad, and humidifier. Typically, it is constructed with aluminum honeycombed mesh dipped in a ceramic slip. These water panel evaporators are an integral part of humidifier and are meant to be changed on regular basis. Water panel, if goes unchanged, can dry out air and make your nose bleed. It can also result in itchy skin, headache, and other health-related issues – making the life of allergy sufferer miserable. Therefore, we recommend to replace it every season to get numerous benefits.

  

Why should I change my Humidifier water panel?

Water panel is more likely to clog over time as particulate move into a unit by air that continuously moves through it and mixes the various particulates with water. It is recommended to change humidifier water panel once per session, and if you somehow fail to do this, it will result in problems like:
- Itchy or dried skin, nose bleeds, and other health-related issues due to lack of appropriate moisture.
- The clogged drain lines of a humidifier can cause problems to the unit and surrounding area.
- An inadequate amount of humidity can cause increased static energy in the homes and poor indoor temperature.
- Poor HVAC unit performance as the dirty water panel can bring more burden on the system’s fan motor. 

How To Change humidifier water panel?

The process of changing a humidifier water panel is as simple as changing the battery in your remote. It hardly requires a few minutes, and you neither need to be techno-freak nor real mechanical to do that. However, each model will have different steps involved in changing the water panel. Locate the unit and follow the steps:

- Remove the cover either pressing a button or with the help of pressure panel that releases the lid
- Take out the enclosure that carries the humidifier water panel and insert the new unit
- After successful insertion of a new unit, make sure to put it back on the same way you toot it out
- Ensuring everything is secure and stable, replace the cover. AND YOU ARE DONE!

Important to note:

- Before you start, make sure to turn off the heating and cooling system.

- Each humidifier can have various steps to carry out the process; therefore, it's better to get guidance from the user manual.

- In case you encounter a trouble, immediately call an HVAC technician.

How Often Should I Change My humidifier Water Panel:

Manufacturers suggest homeowners should replace it once per season. For best performance, plan your replacement in advance. Sometimes, you may have to change it more often than a year – especially if a home has more water and water panel gets clogged with mineral water deposits.

Do you have a whole-home Humidifier? How often do you replace your water panel?

5 Slush Recipes To Keep Your #Summer Refreshing

Are you a slush fan and is it one of your favorite drinks in the summers? If yes, we have the best slushie recipes for you that too at the comfort of your own home. 

Coca Cola Slush Recipe

Who doesn’t like coke and that too in the summers? Let’s enjoy coke but in a different way with the slush recipe.

Ingredients:
- 3 cups coca cola
- 8 large ice cubes

Recipe:
- Freeze 1.5 cups of coca cola in an ice cube dish for at least 4 hours. Once the cubes are completely frozen, they are ready to make the slush.
- Chill the remaining coca cola in the refrigerator.
- Blend the chilled coke and the coke ice cubes in a blender. Once the mixture is blended well, is it ready to be served.

Strawberry Lime Easy Slush Recipe

Are you a strawberry fan? If yes, than get ready to enjoy this simple and easy recipe.

Ingredients:
- 12 strawberries (frozen)
- 1 cup sprite/7 up
- 2 limes
- ½ cup ice cubes

Recipe:
- Freeze the strawberries for at least 4 hours.
- Put the strawberries, sprite and the lemon juice in a blender.
- Blend all the ingredients well and once the mixture is ready add the ice cubes.
- Blend again until it becomes a smooth slush.
- You can add sugar if the slush is very tangy for you to add a pinch of sweetness.

Coffee Slush

Mostly people love having coffee but coffee in summers doesn’t sounds like a great plan. You can replace the hot coffee craving with a cold coffee slush.

Ingredients:
- 2 cups of coffee
- 2 tbsp sugar

Recipe:- Brew your favorite coffee and chill it in the refrigerator.
- Freeze 1.5 cups of coffee in the ice cube tray for at least 4 hours.
- Store the remaining cup of coffee in the refrigerator.
- Once the coffee cubes are ready, blend half of the coffee cubes with half of the remaining stored coffee.
- Add 2 tbsp sugar to the blender and blend until the sugar dissolves.
- Once done, add the remaining coffee ice cubes and blend well to make a smooth and chilling coffee slush.

Summer Tea Slush

Who doesn’t like a one ingredient slush recipe specially a tea lover? Get your summer rolling and save money with this easy one ingredient slush.

Ingredients:

- 1.5 cups tea ice cubes
- 1.5 cup tea

Recipe:- Freeze 1.5 cups of tea in refrigerator for 4 hours.
- Keep the remaining 1.5 cup of tea chilled in the fridge
- Once the ice cubes are ready, put the ice cubes and the tea in the blender. Mix well until the ice cubes turn into a smooth drink.
- You can add sugar if required.

Mango Slush

Mango slush is one of the most common and favorite slush. It gives you a fizzy, icy taste keeping the fruity part in it.

Ingredients:- 1 frozen mango
- 1 cup lime soda
- ½ cup ice cubes

Recipe:- Mix all the ingredients well in the blender.
- Is that all? Yes, the slush is ready! 

How about trying one of the slushies this noon? 

Basement flooding and homeowner's insurance in Ontario

Basement flooding is steadily increasing due to intense rainfall, earlier snowmelt and abrupt changes in the Canadian climate. The problem has become too familiar in Ontario, and families who fall victim to flooding pay a hefty amount in repairs. Besides costs, these urban floods are highly distressing as getting things back to normal requires a lot of effort and time. In some situations, homeowners have to face extreme disaster and prolonged time to get back on feet.

In order to be on the safe side, you may have homeowner’s insurance for flooding or water damage. But this insurance that majority of Canadians have with them is not necessarily providing adequate coverage and relying on this insurance can’t suffice since damages related to overland flood or sewage are not covered. 

Don’t delay unless you are in crisis and be aware of what the insurance covers in Ontario. 

Basement flooding is the topmost climate-related cost in Canada:

Intact centre on climate adaption in Canada has revealed, “The most significant climate-related damage Canadian have to deal with is “Basement flooding”. The average cost to repair the loss in 2018 was $43,000 – chances are high that the figure can rise as basement flooding incidents are not going to stop any time soon due to uncertainty in weather and climate changes. The report found that many homeowners don’t do enough to prevent water damages while cracks in basement windows, basement drain with low grading and ground level windows augment the chances of basement flooding

What does basic Homeowner's insurance offer for basement flooding?

Insurance plans do cover the basement flooding to some extent, yet most of the time it is contingent upon the source of water leakage. The insurer is likely to cover water damage resulting from malfunctioning home appliances or pipes bursting from freezing. But what if something causes sudden and accidental flooding due to plumbing issues like swimming tub outflow, or sudden toilet overflows that can damage the expensive flooring - this is where these instances fall short, and you regret not having additional coverage for flooding.

Do I need additional coverage for flooding?

No one likes to see anything where water seeps through basement wall windows and flooring. Therefore, before the home befalls due to sewage backup from the municipal system or you experience overland flooding; it's better to be proactive by getting extended home insurance as the unreinforced block basement can’t withstand heavy pressure and collapse easily. 

How to protect yourself:

It's in the best interest of any homeowner to take as preventive measures as they can - Getting an extended home insurance plan, and installation of backwater valve can go a long way to reducing flood cost. While there are other fool-proof actions, you can carry out to mitigate the flood risks like:

- Installing flood alarms, windows wells, and covers.

- Storing valuable belongings in watertight containers.

- Replacing deteriorating appliances and pipes.

- Extending downspouts along with regular cleaning of eaves.

- Installing a sump pump and maintaining backup powers.

What should the AC be set at in hot summer to get the most out of it

The scorching heat of summer is all set to overheat our body. The very first question that haunts us; what should the AC be set at in hot summer to get the most out of it. Well, the efficiency and cooling of an air conditioner is somehow contingent upon the ideal setting of a thermostat, which eventually saves cost and increases the useful life of an AC. As per National Resource Canada
“ The indoor thermostat should be set somewhere in the range of 22–25°C, depending on your comfort requirements.”
Statistics Canada reports from 2009 suggest that more than two-thirds of Canadian households with air conditioning adjusted the temperature in thermostats either by shutting down their air conditioner (55 %) or setting the temperature at or above 24C (13 %).

How to find the sweet spot?

Most of the people often get tired of fighting over a thermostat. As everyone has the opinion regarding the perfect indoor temperature, and finding that sweet spot becomes so hard. We understand for everyone being picky for the ideal temperature, but the study has suggested that the ideal temperature range is 22-26°C – neither too hot nor too cold, but just perfect. 

Saving on cooling cost:

We all don’t like to be spending our hard earned money on cooling our place 24/7. The right temperature setting is key to stay cool and save efficiently in summer. A recent study suggested a rise of each degree of a thermostat saves on 4-5% cooling cost.

Other no-cost ways to improve the efficiency of an air conditioner:

The role of the air conditioner in keeping your indoor environment comfortable is inevitable. Here we present the cost-effective and simplest ways to improve the efficiency of an air conditioner:

1. A proper cleaning around the outdoor condenser unit is mandatory. As the outdoor unit can work at its best if it has not any debris or dirt. The process of outdoor cleaning has no complication although you can opt for a technician in case you need thorough and in-depth cleaning.

2. In order to activate the saving mode, you must proactively use a Programmable Thermostat.

3. Make sure not to place any heat-producing equipment near a thermostat. If there is any generating equipment, it may excel the temperature and your air conditioner will have to work harder to cool a place.

4. Another no-cost way to improve the efficiency of an air conditioner is to keep the curtains and blinds closed as it prevents your air conditioner from overworking.

5. Insulating the exposed ductwork with the right duct insulating material also enhances the efficiency of an air conditioner. Any duct which runs through any unconditioned part should be sealed so the air does not leak in any part of your home.

6. The indoor cooling coil has a drain. Generally, mounted above the basement furnace. You can keep your drain clear through the summer if you flush one cup of chlorine bleach down your air conditioning drain and rinse it with a gallon of water.

Did this blog help? How do you keep yourself cool in the intense hot summer and what AC settings do you prefer?  

We have been helping homes and homeowners since the past two decades to enjoy the ''just perfect'' temperature. If you are having a hard time enjoying the expected Air Conditioning cooling, consider giving us a call for inspection & maintenance. We are here 24/7 to respond. Toll-Free 905 201-1293

The importance of disposing of your Thermostat properly

We are living in the age of progressively spreading smart technologies. From the things of personal use to the items of domestic and commercial use, everything is becoming smarter by upgrading itself to wifi support. The same is true for Thermostats. In the past few years, the use of Smart Thermostats has increased in Canada. More and more people are shifting to Smart Thermostats. While on one hand, this is good, this is also alarming because a large number of the conventional, old Thermostats are being disposed of and not everyone is disposing of them the right way. When these old Thermostats are thrown away in the garbage, the mercury tube in them bursts over time and the toxic element is spread in the environment. The phenomenon is hazardous for groud life but it is even more lethal for marine life.

How lethal mercury could be? 

Mercury is a neurotoxin and as it gets in contact with river or stream water, it turns into an absolute disaster. Usually, a mercury Thermostat contains somewhere around 2.5 to 10 grams of mercury. Just a minuscule amount of 1 gm of mercury can poison water for up to 80,000 square meters. This water then becomes undrinkable and in order to get an idea of how poisonous it gets, consider the fact that the fish from such water becomes unfit for consumption for up to one year. The water, if accidentally consumed can lead to severe consequences, the most probable of which is death.

Don't act mean. Think of others when you think of yourself 

When you think of upgrading your comfort by upgrading the Thermostat, don't forget to think about others. At the end of the day, we also have to live in the same environment that we pollute for others. So when you upgrade, seriously consider how the old unit will be disposed of. If it still works, consider gifting it to an underprivileged family so that they can improve their comfort. Or if the old Thermostat is in a condition which makes is unfit for further use, your job to find out the right way of disposal begins. And we are helping you out by suggesting some available solutions.

The TRP program in Canada

Recognizing the hazardous impacts of mercury on the environment, Canada's HRAI institute has launched ''Thermostat Recovery Program''. This program is dedicated to recycling and disposing of mercury thermostats safely in order to ensure that the mercury content does not get in contact with the environment. By April 2019, the TRP has safely recycled or disposed of up to 166,752 thermostats and the counter is still running. In order to give the Thermostat to the TRP, the nearest drop off location can be checked over HRIA's website; https://www.hrai.ca/participate. The Thermostat can be dropped there for recycling. Or alternatively, a ''send it back'' request can be sent to the TRP. This brings you a pre-paid personal recycling container so that you could safely recycle the Thermostat.
Although there is no law so far that punishes unsafe disposal of Thermostats, homeowners need to take personal responsibility and you, the reader, need to dispose of your mercury Thermostat with absolute safety; for yourself, for the environment.

Ways To Banish The Stuffy Air During Summer

What does it mean when your house feels stuffy and stale during the shifting seasons? It might be down to a single cause or a mix of things. Allergies often play a role, and low humidity does not help; stuffiness may also show a need for maintenance of your heating and cooling system or cleaning of the duct. Although homeowners have a choice to work on some essential steps to banish the stuffy air during the summer for good.

When does your house start feeling stuffy?

Here are some general reasons that prompt the stuffiness in your home.
1. For the first time in months, you switched on your Air Conditioner.

2. When plants release pollen and leaves start fluttering to the ground.

3. You close the windows and until spring you keep them shut.

4. Closed windows with issues in furnace and ventilation system can also result in staler air.

These issues when combined together can worsen allergy symptoms. Therefore, it’s better to take appropriate precautions in advance to avoid any inconvenience in the future. Below are the points discussed that trigger the stuffiness and stale air in our homes.

1. Indoor humidity is high

It is probably one of the major reasons why your home feels stuffy during the summer. Humidity often makes the summer environment unbearable whenever it exceeds from 45-65%. The high level of humidity makes the place muggy and sticky inside. The low humidity also has worse impacts on homeowners. Air with low humidity can dry out the nasal cavity he and we become more vulnerable to the viral diseases. 

2. Air leaks:

Leaking or damaged ductwork can make the situation of stuffiness even worse. The leaks allow the air loss resulting in reducing the supply of cold air to the home. With a compromised supply of conditioned air, the indoor gives the stuffy feel.

3. Dirty Air ducts:

When the air conditioner is turned on for the first time in months, it ultimately stirs ups all the mites and microbes that were residing in the air ducts. Therefore, contaminated air ducts often initiate sneezing and other symptoms and make the air feel staler. Cleaning air ducts timely will reduce many potential problems for your home.

Once you decide to clean the air ducts, make sure to hire a professional and certified HVAC team; who has expertise in using the appropriate steps and right air cleaning equipment and ensures the problem will not elevate in future.

4. Issues in Ventilation System:

Stuffiness in homes is often due to the poor ventilation system. The poor air flow makes hard for the stale air to circulate out of our living space. The problem is more common for homeowners who don’t check up their heating and cooling system for years. The right care and maintenance make your air conditioner to deliver the desired result for the extended period of time and also increases its lifespan.

Spring 2019 in Canada – when will it start

Every Canadian is desperate for the cold and persistent heavy snowy weather of winter 2019 to reach an end. Toronto experienced the coldest January with a temperature of -23c and snow accumulation in different provinces of Canada has doubled over a year ago. Snowshoeing and skating outdoor just became the dream since we continued hibernating in order to avoid the wind chill into the -30. In the meantime, the snowy winter also brought an extra strain to the heating system. To keep your Furnace running effectively, scheduled maintenance should be the prime concern. The timely maintenance keeps your heating system up and avoids all the risks that may lead to the emergency furnace breakdown.

Groundhog Day 

According to some legends, the fate of forecasting the coming of spring depends on the shoulders of some furry groundhogs every year on February 2—a day we call as Groundhog Day. The groundhogs of North America are in the agreement that in Feb-2- 2019 they are not observing their shadow. Hence, predicting an early spring. You better not warm your heart with the news as Farmer's Almanac is envisioning differently.

Farmer's Almanac

This time you have to prepare for the long winter than the usual one. As per Farmer’s Almanac prediction, Canada will witness continuing snow and cold temperature. The early march is more likely to bring snow showers to the various part of the country. The winter will linger throughout the April and early May.

How can you avoid the overworking of a Furnace in the long heating season?

You would like to ensure that your heating system runs optimally throughout the course and it can only be done with the regular Furnace maintenance. In the long heating season, you might sense some unusual noises coming out of your furnace. Don’t ignore such signs as they are the indication that something is wrong with the system.  Mind that a non-repaired furnace not only puts your family at a risk but can make water pipes to freeze costing you hundreds of dollars for repairing.

Read on to know how you can keep at arm's length from the furnace overworking.

·         In case you have a drafty home that lets the cold air in and results in furnace overworking while also spikes your electrical bill, make sure to add insulation to the walls so that the warm air can be trapped inside.

·         Don’t close the vents in an unoccupied room. You feel you are saving energy but you are paying for extra heat since closing the vents create more work for the system.

·         Whenever we feel cold, it is natural to turn up a thermostat few degrees high so the furnace can pump out the hot air speedily and we get warm quickly. You need to fight against such instincts, Moreover, changing the old thermostat with a smart or programmable thermostat is also worth considering.

Neglecting to the timely change of air filter should be a big deal to you – especially if you have active allergies. A dirty filter also disturbs the functionality of a furnace as it blocks the proper flow of air through the entire system. 

How To Improve Indoor Air Quality And Reduce Air pollution

We all like to seal in tight by keeping the windows and doors shut against the cold in the chillier winter season. The freezing winters exacerbate health issues related to respiration. We underestimate the importance of indoor air quality, but it is proven deadlier than the outdoor air. Heating systems and stale indoor air can excel in the presence of mould, spores, dust mites, and other allergy-inducing particles. In today’s article, we’ll share the easiest methods to combat air pollution without opening the windows.

Why indoor air is more life-threatening than outdoor air:

A recent journal published in “Science of total environment” has suggested that indoor air quality is twice noxious than the outdoor air. Indoor air quality becomes worse in the winter season because we restrict the flow of fresh air. This causes many problems including asthma, sleepiness, digestive tract issues, and fatigue.

Weekly clean the home:

Cleanliness plays a vital role to kick off the health hazards associated with contaminated air. To keep your place clean and healthier, you must vacuum once a week. A vacuum having a HEPA filter can double the benefit.  Sweeping back curtains and dust mite check also ensure better air quality.

Cleaning the air vents:

The irregular or restricted ventilation makes a place stale and contaminated. The homeowner should manage to schedule a plan to clean the air vents every year. It keeps the ventilation system clean and healthier for the long haul.

Air-purifying plants and purification system:

Plants are one of the excellent anti-pollutants. There are some air purifying plants, which have a tendency to absorb some volatile organic compounds. Plants reduce the toxins and play an integral role to keep a home healthier. This ultimately enables you to breathe in fresh and healthier air.

There are some other purification systems that can remove the unwanted airborne particles. Having such a purification system in the home will improve the indoor air quality without opening the windows.  

Keep humidity in-check 

Excessive moisture in the environment can initiate the growth of allergens. Never let the humidity rate to exceed more than 60% particularly if you are using a Humidifier.

Fixing leaks:

Leaks in ductwork are likely to be fixed, but the areas that are less inhabited are often ignored. The slight leaking on such places will leave adverse impacts, pulling bucks of dirts from the ductwork out.

Use Eco-friendly products

Make sure to choose eco-friendly cleaning products. There are certain nasty chemicals incorporated with differed fragrances or detergents that can damage the air quality in many ways. Refrain from using such products, instead opt for products which are non-scented or have the least chemicals.  

Pet cleaning:

Pets dander can be significantly harmful particularly for people with sinus or other respiratory tracts problems. It is, therefore, crucial to comb and bathe the pets regularly. This helps in reducing the filter clogs in addition to making the IAQ better.