Monday, October 28, 2019

The Benefits Of An HVAC Maintenance Agreement

hvac maintenanceEvery type of equipment requires upkeep for continued use. This is certainly true for heating and cooling systems. Although they are designed to be reliable, they are not immune to wear and tear. Regular HVAC maintenance is necessary if you would like to avoid debilitating breakdowns in the future. It’s worth paying for this small cost as you’ll be able to avoid more expensive repairs down the line. One effective way to accomplish reliable performance from your HVAC system is by signing up for an HVAC maintenance agreement.

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What Is An HVAC Maintenance Agreement?

While you could call a contractor for tune-ups every now and then, this is not the best approach for such a vital service. After all, your heating and cooling system work hard to keep you comfortable during the summer and the winter. Instead, it is more effective to forge a formal long-term maintenance agreement for periodic inspections.

With an HVAC maintenance agreement in place, there are fewer worries and lower costs. Caring for the equipment will become systematic, and you will be able to enjoy the many perks that come with it.

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Scheduled Reminders For HVAC Maintenance

Summer and winter are the peak seasons for HVAC contractors. They get a mountain of requests for tune-ups, repairs, and replacements from frantic customers. Most people wait until the last minute until they do something about nagging concerns.

Anticipating this phenomenon, contractors will try to attend to customers with an annual HVAC service contract before things get busy. They will provide scheduled reminders for maintenance in the spring and fall so the units can be inspected, cleaned, and optimized ahead of time. This way, when you need to utilize your system throughout the season, you can have the peace of mind, knowing that it will work reliably and efficiently.

Priority HVAC Service

priority HVAC customer serviceWhile periodic maintenance can reduce the probability of breakdowns, HVAC equipment can still fail for a variety of reasons. Getting immediate repair services is ideal as this will minimize disruption. Contractors will be sure to prioritize customers with an existing HVAC yearly contract over those who don’t. They will treat the matter as an emergency and send an experienced technician right away. This is a major advantage during the height of winter or summer as equipment failures become commonplace.

Documentation Of HVAC Service

Your HVAC contractor will keep detailed documentation of their maintenance work. This paperwork is crucial for all heating and cooling units, especially if they are still under warranty. These warranties will often require regular maintenance to stay valid. If you are not doing your part in keeping the systems in good shape, then the manufacturer might refuse to provide service in case a problem arises. Having a consistent maintenance record will also be beneficial if you are planning to sell the house. Use it as proof of the HVAC system’s excellent condition.

Prolonged HVAC Equipment Lifespan

family spending time indoorsHeating and cooling systems can last for a long time. If they undergo regular maintenance, then they can be operational for much longer than one that doesn’t. This should give owners plenty of time to recoup the cost of their investment and save for the eventual replacement units. On the other hand, those who neglect their HVAC equipment are likely to experience frequent issues, premature failures, and HVAC repair calls. They will have to replace their heating and cooling units much earlier than the projected lifespan.

Reduced Home Heating & Cooling Costs

Heaters and air conditioners tend to lose their efficiency as they get older. They have a harder time reaching the desired temperature, and, consequently, they consume more energy to get the job done. This results in increased utility costs every month. Thanks to a maintenance agreement with an HVAC company, you can be sure that your units will continue to run with high performance and efficiency. You can enjoy low heating and cooling costs since energy consumption will remain manageable.

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Discount Rates For HVAC Equipment Parts & Labor

The fees paid for maintenance agreements can quickly be recouped through service discounts. HVAC contractors will provide discounted rates if there is ever a need for repairs. This will cover both parts and labor, so the total savings will potentially be a significant sum. Nobody likes to spend on repairs, but it’s nice to know that the HVAC service cost will be more bearable, thanks to the perks of the long-term maintenance contract.

 

Call Point Bay Fuel For Your Heating & Cooling Needs

The best heating and air conditioning companies understand the need for regular equipment tune-ups. Knowing the importance of HVAC maintenance agreements, they do everything they can to provide reliable and cost-effective coverage for their customers. Consider signing an agreement with a reputable HVAC contractor and take advantage of all the benefits.

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in the area. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly. As always, we prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more.

Looking for an HVAC maintenance agreement that fits your needs? No worries. You are in good hands with Point Bay Fuel. We offer different plans to fit your needs. Click here to learn more about our HVAC maintenance agreements. You can also give us a call today to find out more about what Point Bay Fuel can do for you.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

The post The Benefits Of An HVAC Maintenance Agreement appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

Monday, October 21, 2019

How To Tell If Your Gas Furnace Ignitor Is Not Working

image of a gas igniterAn electronic ignition failure is one of the most common problems you can encounter with a gas furnace. Knowing how to spot when your gas furnace ignitor is not working can go a long way. This way, you will be able to determine if the problem is something simple or if you need the help of a professional HVAC contractor.

How To Tell If Your Gas Furnace Ignitor Is Not Working

In this article, we discuss the best ways to troubleshoot a gas furnace ignitor. Also, we will cover when you should use the help of a professional HVAC technician.

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Types Of Furnace Ignition Systems

In the past, furnaces came with pilot lights that stayed on when the furnace was on. With this type of system, the gas valves to the burners opened up to ignite the combustion gas. If the pilot light failed, the heater wouldn’t turn on.

Modern furnaces come with electronic ignition systems. These are either intermittent pilot systems or hot surface ignition systems.

The intermittent pilot system uses an electric spark to turn the pilot light on. Once the sensor detects that the pilot light is lit, it opens the valve to the burners, and the pilot light ignites the burners. For a hot surface ignition system, electricity flows to the area. Once the ignition system reaches a set temperature, gas flows to the burner and lights up the ignitor.

Both of these systems turn off the pilot light once the furnace is on, making it a more energy-efficient system than older furnaces.

What Is Electronic Ignition Gas Furnace Failure?

furnace repair serviceAn electronic gas furnace ignition failure occurs when the electronic ignition fails and therefore does not ignite the burners.

When this happens, the furnace doesn’t produce any heat. A related problem is delayed ignition. You know you are getting delayed ignition if you hear a loud bang before ignition occurs.

In this case, gases tend to accumulate if you turn on the ignitor multiple times in succession. This could create a potentially serious safety problem and needs to be examined by a furnace expert immediately.

Common Causes For A Gas Furnace Ignitor To Stop Working

Below, we will discuss some common causes for ignitor issues.

Damaged Ignitor

Ignitors can be damaged or become worn down. Old ignitors need to be replaced because they don’t last as long as the furnace itself. Your HVAC technician knows how to tell if the furnace ignitor has worn out and needs a replacement. This usually involves removing the furnace service panel to inspect for damage, removing ignitor wires, and testing the ignitor with a multimeter.

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Wrong Ignitor For Furnace

A wrong ignitor with an incorrect voltage can lead to ignition failure.

High-Temperature Limit Switch

Furnaces come with a limit switch that prevents temperatures from becoming too hot. Clogged air filters can cause the switch to turn the ignitor off early. Mechanical problems with the limit switch itself can also prevent the ignitor from turning on.

Power Surges

Power surges can damage the electric ignitor, causing it to burn out. This is particularly common for hot surface ignitors that use burning filaments.

Furnace Ignitor Troubleshooting Tips

circuit breakerIt pays to know how to do simple troubleshooting, so you have an idea of what you’re dealing with. Common troubleshooting steps you can take include:

Check The Power

The circuit breaker could have a problem and is not delivering power to the unit. Check the power source to see if the furnace is powered up.

Reset The Furnace Ignitor

To reset the ignitor, you need to kill the power to the furnace first. Turn off the circuit that powers the furnace. Next, locate the burner door. Behind that, you will see the ignitor. Turn it to the “Off” position. Wait 5 minutes before turning it back on. Replace the burner door, making sure that the door switch is engaged correctly. Restart the furnace by turning the furnace power from the main electrical panel.

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Always Call An HVAC Contractor When You Experience Issues With Your Gas Furnace

It is important that when it comes to any type of heating system malfunction, you should always call in a professional HVAC company. Their training and expertise can accurately determine the cause of the issue. Likewise, they will be able to find the best solutions to remedy your furnace issues. This way, you can have the peace of mind that your system is operating safely and efficiently.

Unless you are a trained HVAC technician, performing any DIY repairs on a gas furnace is always a very dangerous idea. Not only is it dangerous but you could cause further damage to your unit. Many homeowners who attempt to repair their own gas furnace end up regretting their decision. They usually cause more problems, costing more to repair. Save yourself the time, stress, and money by calling an HVAC company right when you notice any gas furnace issues.

 

Conclusion

Ignitor furnace problems may be more complicated than an old ignitor that just needs a replacement. For one, furnaces with electronic ignitors cannot be lit manually. Other problems like dirty filters still need the expertise and equipment of professionals if you want them replaced or cleaned properly. It is useful, however, to know the possible causes so you have a good idea of what your problem could be. Knowing a few troubleshooting tips can also help you understand what is going on so you can describe the issue to your professional HVAC company.

Call your local professional HVAC technician so you can get a professional solution and have your furnace back in working condition in no time.

Give your local HVAC service provider today.

 

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your Heating Needs

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in the area. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.

Need a heating system repair or replacement? No worries. You are in good hands with Point Bay Fuel. We guarantee the most competitive furnace repair and replacement costs in the area. As always, we prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. To schedule an appointment, give us a call today for a free, in-home estimate.

 

Call Now: (732) 349-5059

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

The post How To Tell If Your Gas Furnace Ignitor Is Not Working appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

Monday, October 14, 2019

5 Most Common Thermostat Problems Impacting Your Comfort

thermostatYour HVAC system should keep you comfortable at all times. If it is not able to do so, then you should investigate right away. One or more components might be failing.

For example, thermostat problems are quite common among heating and cooling systems. These may be fixed through repairs or replacement, depending on the situation.

Signs Of Thermostat Problems At Home

Below are some of the significant signs that you are dealing with a faulty thermostat:

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Problem 1: Thermostat Not Reaching Set Temperature

The thermostat is the control center of your HVAC system. You can set your preferred temperature, and it should comply as soon as possible. If the room doesn’t feel any different even after some time, then there could be a problem.

For example, it may be experiencing direct sunlight because of its placement near doors or windows. The exposure will warm up the thermostat and give it false readings. It will think that the whole room is hot and make the heater shut down before reaching the set temperature. Cover the windows with curtains to block the sun. Remove heat sources near the thermostat.

Problem 2: Thermostat Is Old

manual thermostatOld thermostats are prone to error. Although these units can last for a long time, their effectiveness drops at some point. They cause too many issues and become harder to maintain. Connection problems may become frequent. Also, the dirt may be harder to clean, and the sensitivity may plummet.

It might be a good idea to replace an old thermostat with a new smart thermostat to start fresh.

Problem 3: Thermostat Is Dirty

It is the job of the thermostat to read the room temperature accurately. If you find the reading to be inaccurate, then investigate the cause of the error. Sometimes this can be attributed to the dust buildup inside the box. Particles can get between contacts and cause thermostat problems. The easiest fix would be to open the case and brush away the dirt. Be sure to use a soft brush and gentle strokes.

Problem 4: Thermostat Is Miscalibrated

Thermostats have internal sensors that are calibrated out of the factory to ensure proper readings. After a while, however, these become less efficient and become miscalibrated. This situation can cause uneven temperatures inside the home. Some rooms may feel hot, while others feel cold. Miscalibration can also lead to incorrect system commands such that the fan and compressor may turn on and off too quickly. This short cycling can lead to a reduced lifespan, discomfort, and high energy bills.

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Problem 5: Thermostat Display Not Working

The thermostat should provide valuable information about the current state of the HVAC system, including the current temperature and the operating mode.

Touchscreen displays also accept input directly. If the display is not working, then it will be impossible to change the settings or check the state of the system.

Check whether the system has been turned off and put it back on. If the heater or the AC is running without a working display, then consider replacing the thermostat batteries. Be sure to check for loose wires and faulty connections as well.

 

Advantages Of A Thermostat Replacement

Below are some of the benefits that come with a thermostat replacement:

1. Save Money On Your Home’s Heating & Cooling Costs

programmable thermostatHeating and cooling systems use up a lot of energy. Anything that could reduce consumption is welcome as it will also result in reduced energy bills. Replacing an old manual thermostat with a programmable thermostat is one of the most effective ways of doing this.

You can adjust the temperature to your own preference and schedule. You can make the system work harder when you’re at home and have it shut down during office hours when you’re not there.

Furthermore, many modern thermostats allow you to track your energy usage, allowing you to manage your energy costs even more.

2. Auto Adjustments

There will be no need to keep adjusting the temperature settings throughout the day as you can program the behavior of the system in one go. Set it once and then forget it as the new thermostat will remember everything for you. You will never have to worry about whether you are entering the right settings when you’re about to leave the house or when you’re about to sleep. Just go about your day as the system will do what needs to be done automatically.

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3. HVAC System Optimization

thermostat upgradeFew people have the budget for a full system replacement even if they are dealing with a very old heater and AC.

It’s a good thing that they don’t always have to go to this extent to enjoy improvements in HVAC operation. They can simply replace the old thermostat with a modern one and experience significant gains in reliability and efficiency.

It is important to note that a modern thermostat will improve the efficiency and comfort of your home. However, when your home has an old and outdated heating or cooling system, it is important to follow through with the necessary HVAC replacement.

The benefits of a thermostat upgrade will not replace the benefits that come with a new furnace or air conditioner. A modern thermostat will work in conjunction with a new HVAC system to achieve high levels of efficiency and comfort.

4. Improved Connectivity

The latest programmable thermostat models have more built-in connectivity options than ever before.

For example, they could connect to the home network via Wi-Fi such that owners can control them with connected phones from anywhere in the home.

This is an added convenience that many will appreciate.

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Needs

Home thermostat problems often have simple solutions such as repositioning, cleaning, and fresh batteries. However, sometimes, it is necessary to replace the unit with a new one for greater reliability, enhanced efficiency, auto adjustment features, and improved connectivity. Contact a trusted HVAC company, like Point Bay Fuel, for advice regarding your thermostat problems at home.

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in the area. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.

Need a thermostat repair or replacement? No worries. You are in good hands with Point Bay Fuel. We guarantee the most competitive HVAC services in the area. If you happen to need a thermostat replacement, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. As always, we prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. To schedule an appointment, give us a call today for a free, in-home estimate.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

The post 5 Most Common Thermostat Problems Impacting Your Comfort appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

Monday, October 7, 2019

Heating System Repair Vs. Replace: Which Option Is Best?

image of a furnace repairYour heating system is your best friend during winter. No matter how cold it gets outside, it will keep you and your family warm inside. Over time, however, problems might develop that will force you to consider ether a repair or a replacement.

It is not always easy to know if you should repair or replace your heating system. Most will try to have their system repaired over and over again because of the lower cost. Yet, there are cases wherein heating system replacement is actually the more logical choice.

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When To Opt For A Heating System Repair Vs. Replacement 

In this article, we discuss some telltale signs that you require a heating system replacement. By knowing these signs, you can save money on HVAC repairs while enjoying an energy-efficient, comfortable home.

Age Of Your Heating System

Heating systems are generally reliable. They are known to last between 15 to 30 years depending on the design, maintenance, usage frequency, manufacturer, and other factors. You could try to maximize those three decades, but it is not always possible. Sometimes issues start to develop much earlier at about 12 to 15 years. By this time, you have already gotten a lot of service from the equipment, so it’s not that painful to have it retired. You will save yourself from the stress of repairs in the future by going for a replacement. Technological progress will also make newer models quite appealing.

A Decrease Of Energy Efficiency

expensive home heating costsAll machines suffer from a gradual reduction in efficiency over time. There are ways to slow this down, such as regular tune-ups. However, this decrease in efficiency cannot be eliminated entirely.

As heating system efficiency decreases, the system will start to consume more fuel to produce the same amount of heat. At some point, the decline in efficiency can be so drastic that fuel consumption becomes unreasonable.

If this happens, a heater replacement will make better sense than holding on to the old machine. High energy consumption is simply not good for the environment as more greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere. Also, you will notice a drastic increase in your home heating costs.

Increased Home Heating Costs

The rise in fuel consumption comes with a corresponding increase in energy costs. Fuel prices vary over time and can spike due to shortages and high demand. However, with an aging or underperforming heating system, it will use more fuel and energy than it normally would. The additional amount of money going to fuel purchases can add up to a significant sum. A few repairs might produce efficiency improvements but not by much. If you replace the heating system, then the new one will immediately impress you with its low fuel consumption and operating cost.

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Frequent Heating System Repairs

In theory, a homeowner can keep having the system repaired as long as there are available parts and skilled technicians. That means the 30-year lifespan can really be achieved. Yet, few actually wait for that to happen because repairs can cost a great deal in both time and money. An annual visit by a technician might be tolerable. However, if it becomes three, five, or more time in a year, then you have to wonder if it is all worth it. Perhaps all of the heating system repair costs can simply be channeled into getting a new furnace installed for better reliability.

Discomfort and Heat Imbalance Throughout The Home

image of a home with a broken furnaceThe effectiveness of the heating system will also regress with time. In the first few years, it was probably able to keep every room warm enough to keep the whole family comfortable. After a while, the rooms located farther from the system will begin to feel a bit colder until staying in them becomes unviable.

This is one of the surest signs that you need heating system replacement. The machine is no longer up to the task so you have to install a unit that can do the job in its place. Do this at the soonest possible time.

Dusty Home & Poor Indoor Air Quality

We often worry about outdoor air quality because of the factories, cars, and other well-known pollutants. What many fail to realize is that indoor air quality can suffer, too. Dust, debris, and dirt can be trapped inside the home, circulate with the indoor air, and cause discomfort among the occupants of the space. This can be improved by regularly replacing the air filters, cleaning the ducts, and installing UV lights at strategic places. Using an air purifier is another good option. However, if all these are already being done and the air quality has not improved, then perhaps a whole system replacement should be considered.

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Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your Heating Needs

The debate about repairs or replacement is endless. However, you will have to take action at some point for the sake of your family’s health and your long-term financial stability. By all means, try to take low-cost options first and see if that works. You might be able to fix problems quickly without spending too much if you act right away.

Just be open to the possibility that you might indeed need to undertake a full heating system replacement when it reaches a certain age or displays other signs mentioned above.

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in the area. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.

Need a heating system repair or replacement? No worries. You are in good hands with Point Bay Fuel. We guarantee the most competitive furnace repair and replacement costs in the area. If you happen to need a replacement system, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. As always, we prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. To schedule an appointment, give us a call today for a free, in-home estimate.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059

Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!

The post Heating System Repair Vs. Replace: Which Option Is Best? appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.