Your HVAC Back to School Checklist
July 26, 2024
This time of year is always busy! Families rush around making sure they have everything they need to send the kids back to school. Checklists are printed and supplies are bought. In all the rush it is easy to put your home’s checklist on the back burner. While you’re out checking off school supplies, we encourage you to sit down and take a few minutes to make sure everything on your HVAC checklist hasn’t been forgotten.
Have you changed your air filter in the last 1-3 months?
On average air filters should be changed every 1-3 months depending on things like the foot traffic in your home, the presence of pets in your home, and the age of your unit. Making sure your filters are clean not only helps your HVAC unit run more smoothly but also decreases the buildup of dust and dirt in the air of your home! If you would like to know more about when to change your filters, check out this article.
If you have a programmable thermostat, has it been programmed with the school year in mind?
Programmable thermostats were made with the productivity of your HVAC unit in mind, so why not make the most of them? If your kids are headed back to school and all the adults will be at work, don’t be afraid to schedule downtime for your unit while no one is home and save yourself some money!
Are your ducts and registers clean?
Sometimes ducts and registers can go unnoticed and forgotten for months. When you’re making your back-to-school lists, go ahead and sneak this one on there. Giving your registers a good cleaning is something you can do on your own. They can be vacuumed or, if that doesn’t work, take a paper towel or damp rag and clean the dust off. As for duct cleaning, call a professional to help you with that!
Are there any air leaks that need to be sealed?
This is also something that gets forgotten about. Sometimes these air leaks don’t seem like a big issue but are causing your HVAC unit to work harder therefore causing you to spend more money on your energy bill. No one likes that! Take a few min to see if any leaks need to be sealed around your doors, windows, and any other areas where air might seep out. If you find any leaks, simply seal those and you’re good to go!
Have you thought about scheduling your fall maintenance appointment?
It’s not fall yet, but it is right around the corner, make sure to schedule your fall maintenance appointment to guarantee there are no issues with your HVAC unit that will cause you any grief this winter. It is better to get everything checked out now while the weather is decent instead of sitting in your home freezing when something breaks without notice this winter.
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As temperatures drop, ensuring your home heating units are functioning properly is crucial for your comfort and peace of mind. At B. Dumont Heating and Air, we understand that heating issues can be frustrating and inconvenient. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the most common heating problems homeowners face, along with helpful troubleshooting tips to assist you. If you ever require professional HVAC help, our skilled team is just a call away. 1. Dirty Filter A dirty air filter can severely restrict airflow, leading to overheating or even a complete shutdown of your heating system. To prevent this, make it a habit to clean or replace your air filters every 1-3 months as part of your ac and heating maintenance routine. 2. Dirty Ductwork Over time, ductwork can accumulate dust and debris, which can be dispersed throughout your home when the heating system is in operation. Cleaning your ducts can enhance air quality. You can attempt to clean them yourself with the right knowledge or enlist the help of a professional to ensure the job is done effectively. 3. Pilot Light and Ignition Issues If your home heating units are not producing heat, the pilot light or ignition system may be the culprit. Check to ensure the gas supply is on and that the ignitor is functioning properly. If you’re unsure or if issues persist, seeking professional HVAC help is recommended. 4. Thermostat Malfunction The thermostat is the brain of your heating system. If it malfunctions, your entire system could be affected. Verify that the thermostat is properly set and that the batteries are functioning. If initial troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, it might be time to call a technician. 5. Tripped Breaker or Blown Fuses If your heating system appears to have no power, inspect your breaker box for tripped breakers or blown fuses. This may indicate that your system has been overworked, potentially due to a clogged filter. After replacing the filter, if the issue remains, a professional can provide further diagnostics. 6. Water Leaks from the Unit Condensation can lead to water leaks if the drain lines become clogged. You might be able to clear the lines by pouring a mixture of bleach and water down the drain. For persistent leaks, contact a professional to get the situation resolved. 7. Uneven Room Temperature When some rooms in your home are warmer than others, it may be a sign that your ductwork needs adjusting or that there’s an issue with airflow. A thorough inspection from one of our technicians can help identify the underlying cause. 8. Cool Air Instead of Heat If your heating system is blowing cool air, first check the thermostat settings to ensure it’s set to "auto" instead of "fan." Next, inspect the air filters and pilot light. Should the issue continue, it’s best to reach out to an HVAC professional for assistance. 9. Burning Smell When your heating system is first activated for the season, a slight burning odor can be normal. However, if that smell persists for longer than a couple of hours, it could indicate a clogged air filter or a more serious issue. It’s advisable to turn off your system and call a professional if the smell continues. 10. Frequent or Over Cycling If your heating system frequently turns on and off, examine the thermostat settings. This issue could stem from a thermostat set too high or low or from a dirty filter. If these adjustments don’t resolve the problem, a technician can help identify and fix the issue. 11. Rattling or Pinging Noises Strange noises, like rattling or pinging, can occur due to ductwork expanding or contracting with temperature changes. It might also indicate loose panels that need tightening. If the sounds persist, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for an inspection. 12. High Humidity Excessive humidity can cause significant problems, leading to mold growth and damage. This may result from inadequate ventilation or malfunctioning exhaust fans. A qualified HVAC professional can assist you in finding an effective solution. Being aware of these common heating problems can help you troubleshoot issues with your home heating units effectively. However, when in doubt, or if you need HVAC help, don’t hesitate to call B. Dumont Heating and Air . Our team is ready to assist with any HVAC installation, repairs, or maintenance issues you may have. Contact us today to ensure your heating system is running smoothly all winter long!
When it comes to managing our household expenses, finding ways to save on energy costs is always a top priority. During extreme weather conditions, such as the peak of winter or summer, our electric bills tend to skyrocket due to increased heating or cooling needs. Naturally, we seek ways to cut back on these costs and redirect the savings to other areas of our lives. One common question that arises in this quest for energy efficiency is whether it's advisable to turn off the heating system entirely when we're away for extended periods. In this blog, we'll explore the pros and cons of this approach and provide alternative strategies to help you lower your energy bills during the cooler seasons. The Risk of Turning Off Your Heat Turning off your heat completely while you're away for several hours can indeed lead to lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills, as the heating unit won't be running unnecessarily. However, it's essential to exercise caution when considering this option, particularly in cold climates. When outside temperatures drop below freezing, switching off the heat can pose the risk of frozen and burst pipes, resulting in potentially costly damage to your home. If the weather is mild enough to prevent this scenario, then turning off the heat may be a viable option to save on energy costs. An Alternative Approach: Adjusting the Thermostat A more balanced and safe approach to reducing energy consumption while you're away is to adjust your thermostat settings. Many HVAC professionals recommend lowering the thermostat temperature by around 10 degrees when you're not at home or even during your sleeping hours. By making this adjustment, you can still achieve significant energy savings without the potential risks associated with turning off the heat entirely. Additionally, using extra blankets or layers can help compensate for the slight temperature decrease, ensuring your comfort while reducing your utility expenses. Long-Term Benefits of Lowering Energy Consumption In addition to the immediate cost savings, reducing your energy consumption by adjusting your heating settings can contribute to the long-term health of your HVAC system. Decreasing the operational time of your heating unit can minimize wear and tear, potentially extending its lifespan and reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. To further optimize your energy usage and ensure consistent comfort in your home, consider installing a programmable thermostat. This modern solution allows you to schedule temperature adjustments based on your daily routines, maximizing energy efficiency without sacrificing comfort. In conclusion, the decision to turn off your heat when you're away requires careful consideration of various factors, including the outside temperature and potential risks to your home. By exploring alternative strategies such as thermostat adjustments and seeking professional guidance for your HVAC needs, you can achieve significant energy savings while maintaining a comfortable and well-maintained home environment. For comprehensive residential HVAC services, including heating and air system maintenance, repairs, and installations, it's essential to rely on experienced professionals. When it comes to optimizing your AC and heating systems for energy efficiency, as well as ensuring their reliable performance throughout the seasons, the expertise of a trusted HVAC service provider is invaluable. If you're looking for expert assistance with your heating and cooling systems, don't hesitate to reach out to B. Dumont Heating and Air. Their dedicated team is equipped to address all your HVAC needs, providing tailored solutions to enhance your home's comfort and energy efficiency.
As the temperatures drop in Central Arkansas, it's crucial to ensure that your heating and cooling systems are functioning efficiently to keep your home comfortable. Your furnace plays a vital role in maintaining a warm and cozy environment during the colder months. However, like any other appliance, furnaces are prone to wear and tear, and it's important to be aware of the warning signs that indicate a potential breakdown. Recognizing these signs early on can help you avoid unexpected issues and ensure that your residential HVAC system operates smoothly throughout the season. Inconsistent Heating If you notice that some areas of your home are significantly warmer or cooler than others, it could be a sign of inconsistent heating. This inconsistency may indicate that your furnace is struggling to distribute heat evenly, which could be due to various issues such as clogged air ducts, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a failing blower motor. Odd Noises Unusual sounds coming from your furnace, such as banging, popping, or squealing, are not normal and should not be ignored. These noises could be indicative of mechanical problems within the heating system, such as a worn-out belt, loose components, or even a failing ignition. Quick Cycles or Constant Cycles That Lead to High Energy Bills If your furnace frequently turns on and off in short cycles, known as short cycling, or runs continuously without shutting off, it can lead to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. This behavior may be caused by issues with the thermostat, clogged filters, or improper airflow, all of which can strain the furnace and lead to premature failure. Yellow Pilot Light & Odd Smells A yellow pilot light on your furnace is a cause for concern as it could indicate the presence of carbon monoxide. Additionally, strange odors emanating from the heating system, such as a burning smell or a musty odor, may signal potential hazards, including gas leaks or overheating components. Constant Repairs Frequent breakdowns and the need for constant repairs are clear indicators that your furnace is struggling to operate efficiently. Continuous issues with the heating system not only lead to inconvenience but also add up in terms of repair costs, making it more cost-effective to consider a replacement or upgrade. Excess Dust Near the Vents If you notice an accumulation of dust and debris around your air vents, it could be a sign that your furnace is not effectively filtering and circulating the air. Poor indoor air quality can result from dirty or clogged filters, negatively impacting your family's health and comfort. Illness & Poor Air Quality Poor indoor air quality caused by a malfunctioning furnace can lead to health problems such as allergies, respiratory issues, and discomfort. Symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or congestion may indicate that your heating and cooling system is not maintaining adequate air quality. Poor Temperature Control Difficulty in maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature in your home despite adjusting the thermostat can point to underlying issues with your furnace's performance. Inaccurate temperature control may stem from thermostat malfunctions, sensor problems, or inadequate heat distribution. High Furnace Age An aging furnace is more susceptible to malfunctions and breakdowns. If your heating system is approaching or has exceeded its expected lifespan, it may be prone to frequent issues and reduced efficiency, indicating the need for a new furnace for heating and cooling. Water Leaks or Moisture Problems Water leaks near the furnace or excess moisture in your home can be signs of a malfunctioning HVAC system, potentially leading to damage to the furnace itself and your property. Moisture issues can stem from condensation problems, clogged drain lines, or even a cracked heat exchanger. Remember that regular maintenance will keep your furnace working accurately and will keep your family safe from any hazardous problems or dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. If you notice any of these warning signs, it's essential to address them promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the safety and efficiency of your heating and cooling system. For all your residential HVAC services and furnace maintenance needs in Central Arkansas, B. Dumont Heating and Air is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance check-up and ensure your furnace is in optimal condition to keep your home warm and comfortable throughout the season. Don't wait until it's too late – let us take care of your heating and cooling needs. Stay warm and cozy this winter with B. Dumont Heating and Air by your side!