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.

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

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. 

5 ways to get more warmth this Winter

A lot of people think that it takes a lot of investment to make the home energy efficient. The truth is, some simple and affordable choices can give almost the same result that very hefty investments can give. Below are 5 smart ways to make your home efficient with minimal investment.

Insulation Refill 

You, like many other homeowners, can mistakenly consider discomfort in the indoor a result of system declining its efficiency when in actuality, it is the failing insulation that is raising the level of discomfort. Check out the walls and attic and get them refilled before the peak winter begins. In case you have never had your home insulated, at least get the attic insulated. It will keep your indoor warmer and will reduce the bills.

Leaking Windows? 

To your surprise, a whole lot of warmth in winter gets wasted only through the leaks in the windows. Even small leaks let significant warmth out of the indoor. This way, not only the comfort gets compromised but also the heating system runs unusually more resulting in wear and tear and higher energy bills. Sealing windows takes not more than a few dollars. You can get yourself a duct tape and seal the leaks.

Do some alteration to your water heating system 

A lot of people are upgrading to tankless water heaters because they offer instant hot water and are energy efficient. But these two benefits come at a price that not everyone can afford. This makes Tank Water Heaters still the only resort for some people. Using a Tank Water Heater efficiently is an art known to a few. Consider for example these hacks;
Insulate the pipes with foam. Insulated pipes reduce heat loss resulting in retaining the temperature of the water as it passes through the lines. Do it particularly if you have long supply lines. Also, insulation of the tank makes a whole lot of difference. Although tanks are already insulated, adding another layer will help in saving the time for heating water and saving some dollars on energy bills.

Cook and bake efficiently 

The indoor can become warmer in winter with less use of Furnace if you cook efficiently. Instead of using electric ovens, make use of your gas ovens. Also, keep the door of the oven open after cooking so that the warmth spreads in the indoor.

Upgrade to energy efficient appliances 

Upgrading to energy efficient appliances may appear to be a costly investment but the overall expense can reduce to a significant extent by taking advantage of rebate programs. There are several governmental and non-governmental programmes that offer rebates on the purchase of energy efficient appliances.

As said above, there are simple and affordable ways that can help make the home energy efficient. Following the smart practices and making some slight upgrades, you can choose to pay less on energy bills and increase the level of indoor comfort.

So how do you keep your home energy efficient in winters? 

3 HVAC myths

There are a number of homeowners who once start following a HVAC myth never again revise their practice and never really try to find out if the practice they are following has some real grounds. Today, we shall learn about some commonly followed HVAC practices that are nothing more than myths.

Duct Cleaning is a DIY 

Filter cleaning is certainly a DIY but duct cleaning? Say that again? Did you say Duct Cleaning is also a DIY? Well, that is the same that a vast majority of Canadian homeowners think and as a result, try to perform the cleaning themselves instead of calling professionals. A proper Duct Cleaning requires proper equipment, professionalism and the right way so that all the dust and debris of the ductwork does not fall out into the home or does not go and stick into the system's components. In addition, getting harsh with cleaning can result in damaging the ductwork, creating a trouble of repair which could be costly depending on the damage. So DIY duct cleaning is both a bad and risky idea. If you have never taken a professional duct cleaning before, take it now and you'll know the difference between a DIY and a professional's work.

Once the ductwork is installed, it's all done, all set 

Of course, once the ductwork is installed, it is anticipated that it will provide with comfort for the years to come. But that is not always true and should not be considered so. Just like all the other components of the HVAC system need maintenance, the ductwork needs it too. Over time, it can develop holes and leaks, the material can damage or corrode, as in the case of metal sheet ductworks and foil ductworks. And other than that, there are some cases in which the ductwork installed is not the right ductwork for the type of architecture the home has or the type of system that is later installed. In the former cases; of ductwork damage, it is important to maintain the ductwork and get it repaired as soon as it develops holes and leaks. In the latter case; of the wrong duct type or in the case of upgrading the system, get the ductwork renovated accordingly.
So buddies, "ductwork once installed is an all good good", is actually not a real thing. A myth once again!

Air Filters/Purifiers purify the air completely 

As far as the common duct air filters are concerned, they are of such quality so as to only trap dust and debris and that too limited to their capability. The bacteria, viruses and other microscopic organisms never get filtered by these paper filters. The Air Purifiers that are additionally installed with the ductwork; however, do some additional work of cleaning but then their capabilities are limited as well and not all Air Purifiers are meant to serve the same purpose. While some are for smoke, others may be for odours or bacterias. Assuming that one ordinary unit completely purifies all types of indoor impurities is....a myth once again. However, there are some latest models that are multi-purpose. But those are neither cheap nor very economical for everyday use.   

Postponing VS Immediate HVAC service

There are hundreds of homeowners that have to face serious consequences as part of delaying the necessary HVAC repairs. Although we all know that delaying can worsen the problems, it still happens so frequently and there are the following major reasons that make homeowners delay urgently needed services;

- The busy schedules are one of the primary causes of delaying repairs. The busy routines of home to work and work to home do not provide enough time to think seriously about calling a repair tech and instead, homeowners try some DIY, alternatives or a temporary solution to fix the issue.

- Another reason is services that always are lazy at giving quotes and responding to customers queries. While homeowners wish to dial and hire a pro, this does not happen that quickly. A caller has to wait for a callback and that call back sometimes never come which results in delaying the repairs.

- Another reason is the homeowners common perception that delaying repairs will help them save their dollars not knowing that this delay constantly contributes to worsening the problems that exist. There are instances when appliances break down as well just because they were not repaired in time.

Immediate HVAC fixing is important, here's why

While you might be aware of the delaying benefits only, learn today about the advantages of same day/immediate service.

Safety Insured!

Living with an Air Conditioner that constantly makes weird noises, a Furnace that has a leaking gas pipeline, a Boiler that has wiring issues or a Thermostat with exposed mercury are all such situations in which you and your home are at a constant risk. Anything can happen from CO poisoning to short-circuiting and fire break out. Fixing the repairs in time means you are choosing safety over risk which is, of course, a wise choice.

Saving Insured!

As mentioned above, many people postpone repairs hoping to save some dollars. However, how things really work is like this;

- You postpone a repair that would cost you $50

- You saved $50 and ignored the repair

- The issue gets worsened and the repair cost increases

- Eventually, the repair reaches at such a point where you can't ignore it anymore and now you have to pay $100+ for the same repair that was costing you $50. So did you really save by delaying the repair?

Choose timely repairs to ensure you'll have some hundred dollars left as part of your saving.

Comfort Insured

Why do we install the HVAC appliances in the first place? To get comfort? What then is the point of appliances, that are installed, operational, costing you bucks and yet cease to provide the desired comfort? One of the benefits offered by timely HVAC repairs is that the quality of comfort doesn't get compromised. So it's worth going for!

Have you been noticing your HVAC appliance showing issues lately? Have you been delaying contacting a professional expecting to save money? Make no delay any further. Contact a professional today to bring yourself comfort, safety and savings.

And never mind contacting us; we are HVAC professionals serving for over 15 years to help homeowners fix their HVAC issues in time at affordable rates.

Call: 905 201-1293

5 signs your home Insulation is failing

Home insulation is a wonderful way to save on energy bills. It keeps home warm in Winters and cool in Summers. But in addition to that it also offers multiple other benefits among which are;
- Reduction in outdoor noise level
- Safety from outer pollution
- Eco-friendly, since due to insulation, home heating/cooling appliances are used less

If you live in a climate that necessitates home insulation without which the home heating/cooling appliances will cease to work efficiently, you should go for it straight away without a second thought. And if you already had your home insulated some time long long ago, there are ways you can suspect your home's calling for insulation.



Many homeowners remain in the delusion that home insulation is only necessary if their home was built before the year 1980. This is wrong. Whether or not your home needs insulation depends on several factors that include these two for sure;
- Where your home is (in what kind of climate)
- What kind of Insulation material was used when it was first insulated since different insulation materials have different durability

Sign#1 Constant running of heating/cooling appliances

As said already, Home Insulation keeps the indoor warm in Winter and cool in Summers with minimum use of Furnace/Air Conditioner, one way to suspect the wrong with your insulation is the continuous running of heating and cooling appliances. That shows your home is failing to maintain a moderate indoor temperature and the old insulation is taking its part to cause temperature fluctuations. Call an HVAC professional to inspect and confirm whether or not you need insulation

Sign#2 Sudden rise in energy bills

There's another simple hack to suspect outdated Insulation. Compare the bills of last year with your ongoing bills. If you find a noticeable difference in the energy bills, there is an indication that your outdated insulation is taking up more HVAC appliance usage and is thus raising the energy bills.

Sign#3 Visible Icicles on gutters and eavestrough

Visible icicles hanging from gutters or on eavestrough is a clear sign of poor insulation. The warm air that leaks into the attic makes the attic warmer and melts the ice on the roof. This melted ice freezes again as it passes through the gutter lines.

Sign#4 Visible condensation and warmer attic

A major heat loss is caused by the attic. If your attic is warmer than the rest of the house and condensation takes place that is either visible on the walls or ceiling, think seriously about insulation your home.

Sign#5 Hot/cold patches

Hold/cold patches or uneven, varying temperature throughout the home is another indication that your home sweet home is now yelling for insulation. You will find certain rooms colder than others or certain parts warmer than others. This could mean there are holes in your insulation or the overall insulation is failing. Once again, you'd need to call a professional to guide you and find you ways to fix the home insulation. Although insulation takes a heavy investment, it is an investment worth making as it drastically raises the comfort level of the home.

Has your Touchscreen Thermostat stopped working? Do this!

As long as the time-saving technological devices keep functioning smoothly, they bring ease, comfort and relief but everything goes upside down when they begin to show problems. Let's talk about Touch Screen Thermostats in particular; Unlike the old Thermostat models, these models are not only easy to use but are also more accurate and more energy efficient. Set the temperature for a day or schedule it for an entire week, use the Thermostat for optimal home cooling or effective home heating, control it using the interactive user interface or manage to control it from anywhere in the world using wifi technology, there's a bucket full of ease and comfort that this small HVAC device known as ''Touch Screen Thermostat'' brings. But hey! Bad times can come to anyone at any time without prior notice. All this comfort can disappear all of a sudden as the Thermostat stops functioning. Since technicians are not always available and particularly not available with a quick response in Summers, we always recommend learning quick HVAC fixes. So let's assume your Thermostat has stopped working, what are you supposed to do now?

Every time you face this issue, there are three quick fixes that you can try.

1. The last time you changed the batteries was 100 years ago

There are several HVAC appliances that require maintenance only in terms of cleaning and regular manual inspection, however, there are others that need part replacement on a regular basis for them to operate properly. HVAC primary or secondary devices like Thermostats, CO Detector and others come in this category. Since they rely on batteries to fuel them, the batteries need a replacement after every six months at least else, a year. If your Thermostat stops working, the first thing is to recall what was the last time you changed the batteries? If it was 100 years ago, the batteries must have said goodbye to you to rest in the heavenly abode and you need to replace them. However, if you've changed the batteries recently, try to make sure they're properly fixed in the Thermostat before moving on to the next troubleshooting.

       

2. Do you reset your Smart Phones to fix some issues? Reset the Smart Thermostat too

Oh yeah! So how many times have you tried this? Your touchscreen mobile phone was posing issues with the touch panel or something else and a factory reset worked out. Most Touch Screen Thermostats use softwares to operate particularly the Wifi supported Thermostats. These softwares often times interrupt the operation. The reset option in many cases works as effectively for Thermostats as it does for Smartphones. Hit the reset option!

3. Check for wiring and cleaning

After the battery issue, this is the most common reason of why Touchscreen Thermostats stop working; the wiring defects and the lack of cleaning. If the Thermostat is completely dead and you've changed the batteries recently, there are 80% possibilities of a defect in the wiring. Uncover the Thermostat plate and look up for damaged wires. In case an issue is suspected and you're unsure how to fix, call on a professional.

In the case when the Thermostat is partially operating; the touch screen is posing issues, some touch buttons are working some not etc, there are chances that it is due to the dirty screen. Use a soft fibre cloth and clean the Thermostat screen with soft hands. It is recommended to use a pertinent cleaner.  

Still not fixed? The last resort - A Pro

That's all you could do. If none of the above-mentioned DIY troubleshooting worked, it seems the Thermostat itself is defective and it either needs a replacement or a professional technician to fix the defect. Call a professional, that's the only resort left.

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13 Simple Ways to lower Energy Bills

Who does not like saving? We all do! And when it comes to Summer utility bills, the desire for saving become intense every time a more fatty bill is received. But how exactly to make savings on energy bills? Are there genuine ways that can really help reduce utility bills?  

Well, there are not one or two ways, there are, in fact, tens of ways to save on energy bills. All you have to do it to practice the saving practices and there you are; saving hundreds of dollars on energy bills every year. Let's explore 13 ways that can help you in this venture:

1. Your Thermostat is your saving box

Indeed it is!

The US Department of Energy says that Thermostats can help save on energy bills up to 15% if they're turned up a few degrees for the time you're not at home. So every time you leave home, don't forget to raise the temperature on your Thermostat. Use Programmable or Smart Thermostats for auto setting the temperature.

2. Don't keep devices plugged when they're charged

So do you see when your mobile device is charged, your device shows a notification ''please unplug'? Keeping the devices plugged even when they're already charged not only takes energy unnecessarily but can also damage the device altogether by overcharging it. Unplug as early as the device get charged to not waste energy.

3. Check capacity of appliances before purchasing

While a high-efficiency Air Conditioner or Heat Pump can cool your home quickly, it also takes more energy. If you've a medium sized or small sized home, there's no need to purchase a high capacity system. Not only will it cost you initially but will also continue to charge you in terms of energy bills. Ask a professional to suggest you a compatible system for you home.

4. Make use of off-peak hours

The electricity charges on the off peak hours are less than the peak hours. Make use of the off-peak hours and use heavy machinery in those hours. This will help you save to a great extent.

5. Look for air leaks

You'll be wasting a lot of energy if there are holes and passageways that leak air from the house. As a consequence, more energy will be required to keep the home cool which means fatty energy bills. Check for any leaks and seal them with a sealant.

6. Curtains and Blinds

Did you know that 10% of cooling loss occurs through the windows with no blinds/curtains? Draw the blinds/curtains as soon as the sun begins to get hot in the day. Just by drawing curtains, you can save energy.

7. Make use of energy efficient appliances

Technology has progressed and it has served us with appliances that are better in efficiency and cheaper in utility. If you're using old heating, cooling systems, you are spending much more than what you'd spend with the latest energy efficient system. Replace the system by making a one-time investment and then save, save, save.

8. Clean Filters regularly

One simple step that can help save. Just clean your filters. Dirty filters bar the air flow and the system as a consequence has to put in more effort to operate which takes more energy.

9. Clean the ductwork

Cleaner ducts not only provide cleaner air to breathe but also reduce the burden on the system that otherwise is if the ductwork is filled with piles of dust and debris. Clean ducts, lighten the burden on the system and enjoy a reduction in energy bills.

10. Solar Power?    

Why not make use of the Sun's energy? Even if you cannot afford to convert the whole home on solar power, think of converting some appliances on solar. Solar power is far cheaper than the electricity we use. Once installed, forget about monthly bills.

11. Ceiling fan always works

Don't forget the fans totally in intense hot Summer. They are always of use. It is recommended to use fans when the weather is still moderate but even when it gets super hot, keep making use of your fans. Using a fan in combination with the Air Conditioner can help reduce energy bills since you can raise your thermostat temperature up to 4 degrees without feeling a difference in temperature if you've your fan serving along.

12. Replace Incandescent Bulbs

Fluorescent lights take up to 25% less energy compared to Incandescent bulbs. Every time an incandescent bulb fuses, replace it with energy efficient Fluorescent Lights.

Consider LED as an option too if you can afford to install them throughout the home. Lately, LED lights have become more popular because of their efficiency, environment-friendly nature and cost effective feature.  

13. Go Green

The more green you grow around, the cooler it will keep you. Plant shady trees around your home. They will keep your home cool. You can also keep some plants within your home. Not only do they help keep the environment cool but also work as natural air cleaners.

4 simple ways to prolong the life of your HVAC system

Investment in HVAC systems is a hefty investment we make and, therefore, every homeowner wants to prolong the life of his system as much as possible in order to make the most of it without having to invest again. So are there any ways to actually prolong the system’s life? Oh yes! There are!

1. Pre-Season Check Up

It is crucial to get your system cleaned and tuned up before the beginning of the season when they’ll be used the most. Better to tune up cooling appliances in Spring to make them ready for Summers and tune-up heating appliances in Fall to make them ready for Winters.

This will get any issues resolved before the season begins, and will also guarantee efficient appliance performance.

Also, remember that at the peak of seasons, HVAC professionals are full time busy and it is hard to schedule visits to get maintenance and repairs, plan maintenance at a time when they’re easily available; the timings mentioned above.

2. Checking Air Filters regularly

Messy air channels can confine the stream of air to your HVAC system which overloads the system by making the system work harder in pushing and pulling the air. This harms exorbitantly the blower assembly since it needs to put excessive energy to perform its function. Checking duct and appliance filters regularly can help remove the stockpiles of mud and dust, eventually improving the system’s efficiency and extending the life of your HVAC system.

3. Daily check up of HVAC System

Examining your HVAC system regularly can help get little issues resolved before they transform into huge ones. While you will need a professional’s help to assess your conduits for air spills and tune up your system; there are things you can take a look at by yourself. Keep a careful eye on components that are vulnerable to wear and tear. Moreover, for Air Conditioner outdoor units and Heat Pumps etc that are out of sight usually, it is a good practice to give them a quick look to make sure everything’s fine. Water leaks should also be checked on a regular basis to avoid any serious harm to the system.

4. Give pause to your system

Several homeowners in Canada run their systems 24 hours which ultimately affects the efficiency of the system. Giving pause to the system lowers the workload on it and allows the components to refresh which then leads to a prolonged lifespan of the system. But who has time to turn the system on and off? Well, installing a programmable regulator/thermostat device can do this favour for you. It helps in adjusting the temperature of your system and keeps on tuning it according to the outdoor temperature consequently not running it 24/7.

Bottom Line

Although an estimated lifespan of an appliance is predefined, there are ways that can be incorporated to prolong the life of the system and enjoy its performance for a longer period of time. There is no denying the fact that people who keep their appliances well maintained have to spend the least on HVAC system.

Are you one such wise homeowner? If not yet, start following these 4 ways and experience an ultimate comfort with massive savings.  

Make the most of your Programmable Thermostat

We observe interesting things on our appliance tune up or repair visits to homes. People often buy home comfort appliances but fail to make the most of them. Often times, the reason of fatty bills is the improper use of appliances. Therefore, we suggest customers read the user manuals properly before beginning to use their appliances and also seek a professional's help to get to learn how can the appliances be used effectively and efficiently. If you have a Programmable Thermostat at home but always turn it off when not in need, there's something you need to explore about it. And don't worry, we'll help you in that.

How do Programmable Thermostats work?

Simply very simply. Although, it's difficult to say with precision the complete working of a Thermostat since tens of Programmable Thermostat makes are in the market, each with its own idiocentric features, a general working principle that all programmable thermostats follow is that they  turn on and off at a given temperature or get automatically set to a programmed temperature on their own. Different thermostats offer different settings, however, the three most common settings that they allow are here under:

5+1+1 day Model

This model allows one schedule for 5 days of the week while 2 separate schedules for Saturdays and Sundays

5+2 days Model

Thermostats that have 5+2 settings allow scheduling of one schedule for entire week while one schedule for the weekends i.e Saturday, Sunday

7 days Model

7 days model is one of the most adopted ones currently in Toronto. This type of Thermostats allow setting different schedules for different days of the week.

Make use of energy saving points

Set energy saving points. Energy saving points is the temperature at which you want your HVAC system to work when you aren't at home. After setting up energy points, the thermostat automatically switches to those points when you aren't at home.  

Make use of Hold Button

Here's another trick to save energy and improve the efficiency of your HVAC appliances. Put the Thermostat on a constant hold when there's a change in your schedules. This will help save a lot of energy.

Set Temperatures Wisely

That is important or else you'll be using your Thermostat and still will be missing the great advantages of it. Analyze the schedule of the family members and set the thermostat accordingly. It is wise to set the turn on time a little before the time for the homeowners to come so that the home is cool as they enter. Similarly, set the Thermostat to turn off a little before you're supposed to leave.

Mount it properly

For your Thermostat to work efficiently, it is important that it is able to sense the surrounding temperature properly. For that, mounting the Thermostat at a place where it can sense proper temperature is important. In case the Thermostat receives direct sunlight, it will function with faulty efficiency. To make the most of your Programmable Thermostat, mount it at a proper location.

Bottom Line

There are simple tricks that most homeowners miss and end up having fatty bills. If you're using any HVAC appliance at your home, go through the user manual in detail. Follow the do's as well as the don'ts. In case you fail to understand some features, ask your service provider or explore the stuff online in order to not miss any benefits.  

Also, Find out Lennox Programmable Thermostats