Reasons For The Changes In Heating Oil Prices

 

Homeowners and business owners know that heating oil prices do not remain the same price all year round. What you pay one heating season can be completely different the following season. Heating oil prices are constantly going up and down.

As a consumer, you might want answers as to why this is so. There are many reasons for this. Essentially, there are different factors that cause changes in the price of heating oil. In this article, you will find some of the factors that cause the fluctuations in heating oil prices Brick NJ.

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Primary Factors That Impact Your Heating Oil Prices

Below, you will find some of the factors that influence what you pay for your heating oil from one season to the next.

Price Of Crude Oil

There is a strong connection between the price of crude oil in the international market and the price of heating oil. The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) states that the price of crude oil is a huge factor in the price of heating oil. From the winter of 2006/7 through the winter of 2016/17 crude oil accounted for approximately 55% of the price of a gallon of oil. ¹ This is one reason why crude oil prices will always affect fuel oil prices. Other factors that affect the price of crude oil include crude oil supply from oil-producing countries and industrial demand from countries that use oil to power their industries. Political developments in oil-producing countries also have a significant impact on crude oil prices.

Weather

Heating oil prices usually go up when the weather is extremely cold. The winter of 2013/14 was one of the coldest winters in recent history. During this winter, heating oil prices rose by seven cents per gallon. In addition, severe weather conditions like hurricanes and tropical storms cause the price of fuel oil to rise. One reason is that a tropical storm brings low temperatures and this leads to an increase in the demand for heating oil.

Closely connected to this is the fact that severe weather makes it difficult for oil suppliers to deliver products to customers. In some cases, suppliers may run out of oil supplies. This will lead to scarcity and the scarcity will lead to very high prices for both crude oil and heating oil. The EIA says that fuel oil suppliers in some parts of the US might have to buy from Europe or elsewhere if they experience an oil shortage. It makes sense that heating oil from these distant sources will cost more due to logistical reasons.

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Government Policies

The price of oil is affected by government policies. This means that the price may rise or fall depending on the policy implemented by regulatory agencies. For instance, if refineries expect a decline in the demand for fuel, the prices may rise because the refineries are likely to scale down production. If policy changes take place in the warm summer months, prices may fall because the refineries have huge inventories at this time.

Your location has an impact on the price you pay for heating oil. If you live in an area with many suppliers of this product, you will pay less for heating oil. On the other hand, if you live in an area with relatively few suppliers of heating oil, you will pay more for the product. You are also likely to pay less for heating oil if you live near a refinery or a major oil-producing company. In effect, the price of heating oil is affected by location or proximity to the product.

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Alternative Heating Options

The alternatives to heating oil also cause fluctuations in the price of this product. Alternatives to heating oil include electricity, fireplaces, natural gas, and kerosene. However, unlike heating oil, these alternatives have safety, efficiency, and affordability limitations.

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Conclusion

Some of the factors that cause fluctuations in the price of heating oil are weather, crude oil prices, heating options, and changes in policy and regulations.

For The Best Heating Oil Prices In Brick NJ, Call Point Bay Fuel

Point Bay Fuel offers reliable and trusted fuel oil deliveries in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, New Jersey. We offer different oil delivery plans and financing options. This way, you can customize your fuel deliveries to meet your needs. You can expect us to deliver your heating oil on time, every time. Best of all, you can expect reasonable home heating oil prices.

Not only do we deliver high-quality fuel in a friendly and professional manner, but we can also maintain and service your heating system. This will ensure that it performs efficiently this winter. By using our affordable fuel delivery and our heating system services, you can reduce your energy costs while increasing your comfort this winter. Call Point Bay Fuel today to speak to one of our home comfort specialists.

Call Today: (732) 349-5059

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

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How To Prevent Accidental Heating Fires

Our home heating systems help keep us warm and comfy during the winter season. They are expected to be in perfect working condition at all times. However, it would help if you were wary about accidents that your heaters can cause. After all, heaters are among the most common reasons for residential fires.

Do not let your house be a statistic. Many of these accidents can be prevented if you exert effort and pay attention to the heating appliances you have in your home.

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How To Prevent Accidental Heating Fires

This article lists a few heating safety tips you can do to prevent heating fires in your home.

Schedule A Professional Furnace Inspection

Furnaces utilize heating oil, propane, or natural gas to generate warm air. This way, our homes remain warm and comfortable despite the cold weather outside. Furnaces are made of complex components. Therefore, it is no wonder that a lot can go wrong, especially if it does not receive professional HVAC maintenance annually.

Professional heating system tune-ups include a thorough check-up of the whole unit. Every inch of the system is cleaned to prevent clogs. All flammable materials around the system are also removed. An expert will ensure that you can use your heating system safely. Homeowners can also help by making sure that the filter is cleaned or replaced periodically.
Contact a professional HVAC company to conduct a heating system inspection and maintenance. For those in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey, do not hesitate to call and schedule an appointment with Point Bay Fuel today!

Call Today: (732) 349-5059

Get Your Chimney Cleaned

A fireplace adds warmth and ambiance to a home. However, it needs quite a bit of work to ensure that it remains in good shape. The chimney is prone to soot and dirt build-up. Even if you don’t use it often, it is still necessary to have it professionally cleaned. You can also use products that’ll help keep your chimney cleaner longer. This way, the smoke can escape upwards and not flow inside your house.

Assess The Unit For Any Damages

Chimneys should have airtight sides. However, it can develop cracks as time passes. It could be caused by various reasons, such as poor workmanship, worn-out materials, and water seepage. The air flowing through these cracks can blow the flames unexpectedly. The fire might get fanned to your living room instead of staying within the confines of the fireplace. Any nearby flammable materials can get caught on fire. It is best to have your chimney checked for any structural damage, especially if you have an old chimney.

Install A Screen Barrier

All flammable objects should be kept away from the fireplace at all times. As an add-on safety measure, you might want to consider installing a diffusion screen. This screen will act as a barrier between the fireplace and the room. It will allow you to see the flames from your preferred vantage point safely as it will keep sparks confined within the fireplace. This way, you will have peace of mind whenever you use your fireplace.

Look Into Space Heaters’ Safety Features

Whenever you are buying space heaters, make sure to look into their safety features. The space heater you purchase should have an emergency cut-off feature in case an accident happens. For instance, your pet or kids might knock the heater over. If this happens, the heater will switch off automatically so that it does not heat the carpets and cause a fire.

Homeowners should also use space heaters in the room while they are occupying it. The heaters should be placed on flat ground, and any nearby flammables should be removed. It is advisable to put it on concrete or tiled floors instead of carpeted ones. There should be a three-feet distance between the space heater and any object when it is turned on. Don’t forget to switch it off when you leave the room.

Clear The Laundry Room

Although you might not realize it, the laundry room can provide an opportunity for a fire to happen. The dryer is connected to a duct that provides warm air. It is also where lint can build-up as time passes. This lint accumulation can catch fire under certain conditions. Although the dryer is equipped with a feature that captures lint, some could still pass through. Make sure to include this duct in the regular cleaning schedule to ensure home safety.

Use Central Heating

Space heaters can have direct contact with the objects inside your home. This is part of the reason many fires start inside homes. If you switch to central heating, you only need to worry about one room, which you will need to fireproof to prevent fires. This might be a costly solution. However, it can be argued that the investment is worth it if you can save your whole house from catching fire.

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Get Your Water Heater Replaced

The water heater provides you with hot water during the winter months. It also keeps the pipes from freezing. Like any other equipment, it can succumb to wear and tear as well. Some of the issues you might experience include failed heating, mineral accumulation, and faulty thermostat readings. When a water heater experiences problems, a fire can develop. Consider replacing your old water heater or have a professional conduct the needed inspection and repairs.

 

Conclusion

Fires are one of the most dangerous accidents that could happen to your home. It is worth every penny to control everything you can in preventing it from happening. Seek professional assistance when needed so that you receive the best possible prevention efforts.

Contact Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Needs

Do you need excellent heating and cooling services in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey? No worries. Call Point Bay Fuel. Our professionally certified and trained technicians conduct superior HVAC services, such as repairs, maintenance, installations, and replacements. All our techs are friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced to service any HVAC make and model accurately.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees the most competitive heating and cooling service rates in the area. Our tune-up services help increase your comfort and energy efficiency while reducing your home utility costs. We can also help you replace your outdated HVAC system by recommending the best replacement unit for your home and budget. Your satisfaction is our priority, and all our services come with a guarantee. Book a service appointment with Point Bay Fuel today. We provide free, no-obligation, in-home estimates.
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Why Is My Furnace Leaking?

In a perfect setting, our machines and equipment do not need to be repaired or replaced. They would be in perfect working order for a very long time. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work like that. Modern furnaces are tough. However, just like any other machine, they will experience a problem somewhere down the line. For instance, your furnace might start leaking. A gas furnace leaking water will result in a stressful and uncomfortable home environment, especially if the cause is something serious.

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Reasons For Furnace Leaks

There are a couple of possible reasons for furnace leaks. This article will discuss what these are and the steps to take when you find your furnace leaking water.

Condensation Leak In Furnace

Many modern furnaces are highly efficient. Some are even equipped with two heat exchangers so that they can produce more heat. During the heating process, condensation is formed. These water droplets are drained through the pipes or floor drain. However, if the pipes are clogged or damaged, the water cannot drain properly. It will instead leak out of the furnace and pool around the base of your furnace.

Clogged Furnace Filter

The furnace filter ensures that your indoor air is clean. It does so by collecting the dirt, dust, and other debris in the air. It is recommended that you check the filters regularly as they can get clogged. When this happens, the indoor air quality will go down. Air cannot also flow properly. The latter will cause coils to freeze or pipes to clog. These issues will eventually lead to leaking. Therefore, it is essential to check your furnace filter periodically. Clean or replace it as needed so that this problem is prevented.

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HVAC Humidifier Leak

A humidifier generates moisture to keep the air from being dry and cause discomfort. Check to see if your home humidifier is connected to your heating system. If this is the cause, it might be the reason for the leak as your humidifier might have failed and is leaking into your heating system.

Air Conditioner Leak

If you use your A/C hand-in-hand with your heating system and there is a leak, it might be due to your AC. The water from your cooling system is drained and collected into the condensation pan. Once this becomes full, the water could trickle into your furnace. As the water is leaking from your furnace, you might mistake it as a furnace leak when, in fact, you have a leaking air conditioner.

Plumbing Leak

A plumbing system leak could have a negative impact on your heating unit. It is recommended that you check your plumbing system when you suspect a furnace leak. Your plumbing might be having some issues, such as a clogged or broken pipe. These can cause the drainage to back up, and a leak could appear at the base of your furnace. Make sure to contact a professional to resolve any plumbing issues you have.

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Heat Exchanger Leak

If you have checked all causes mentioned above and you still haven’t found the reason, you might have a leaking heat exchanger on your hands. Unfortunately, this can be an expensive and severe problem. The heat exchanger needs to be repaired, or you might have to buy a new furnace, depending on how serious the problem is. Discuss all possible solutions with your local trusted HVAC technician. This way, you can choose the best course of action to take.

Steps To Take When You Have A Furnace Leak

Call a professional furnace repair company and schedule a service appointment as soon as possible when you notice a leak from your furnace. Here are a few safety measures you can do while you wait for help to arrive:

• Shut off your furnace immediately. If you cannot locate the power button, switch it off through the breaker that supplies power to your heating unit.
• Make sure the furnace base is dry. You can use dry rags or a mop to absorb the water. Use a wet-dry vacuum if possible. This way, you prevent water from damaging your furnace and your home.
• Check the furnace filter, especially if it hasn’t been cleaned or replaced for a while. Clean washable HVAC filters, and replace disposable ones.

 

Why Hire A Professional Heating Technician

Repairing or replacing your HVAC unit should never be a DIY project. A furnace is a specialized machine made up of complex components. Most homeowners do not possess the necessary training, tools, and skills to conduct proper furnace repairs. You might damage your furnace more if you do not know what to do. If that happens, you’ll end up having to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars to get the much-needed heating repairs and replacements.

Experts always recommend that a professional HVAC technician conduct a proper heating unit inspection. This way, all issues can be diagnosed and repaired correctly. Do not call a handyman. All repairs should only be performed by those with proper certification, license, and extensive training. If your furnace is experiencing problems, switch it off and contact a professional HVAC repair service company right away.

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Conclusion

Our furnaces are responsible for keeping our homes warm and comfortable during the cold season. Any problems it might have will not only cause inconvenience. It can also significantly affect your home’s comfort and efficiency. If there is a leaking problem with your furnace, it is best to have an HVAC expert check and repair it immediately.

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

If you are looking for excellent heating and cooling services in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey, do not hesitate to contact Point Bay Fuel. Our professionally certified and trained technicians offer superior HVAC services, such as furnace repairs, AC maintenance, ductless installations, and boiler replacements. We have knowledgeable and experienced techs who are guaranteed to conduct accurate and fast HVAC services.

Point Bay Fuel has the most competitive heating and cooling service rates in the area. Our tune-up services help improve your home comfort and energy efficiency while reducing your HVAC costs. We can also recommend the most suitable and budget-friendly HVAC make and model for your home. Your satisfaction is important to us. All our services come with a guarantee. Give Point Bay Fuel a call to schedule a service appointment today. We offer free, no-obligation, in-home estimates.

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Why Are My Rooms Heating Unevenly?

According to the US DOE (Department of Energy), the ideal thermostat setting for winter is 68°C Fahrenheit. At this temperature, the HVAC system can still maintain enough heat to avoid freezing the pipes while maintaining a comfortable environment indoors. This prevents any risk of hypothermia or using too much energy. However, it is also critical for the heating system to be able to generate even and constant temperature in every room in the home. If you experience uneven heating in house, you are likely to try to fix the discomfort by adjusting the thermostat accordingly. This, inevitably, will lead to increased energy consumption and even more discomfort. However, it will not fix the uneven indoor temperatures.

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Causes For Uneven Heat Distribution Throughout Your House

There are several reasons why certain areas of your home are being heated unevenly. These are:

Incorrect Furnace Size

If your home furnace is too small, it will have to overcompensate to keep your home warm. This means that it will have to work harder to generate enough heat for a longer period of time. This overcompensation causes stress to the system and will not fix the problem with uneven heating.

An oversized system, on the other hand, will generate more heat than necessary, causing more discomfort. It will also trigger the thermostat to shut down far earlier than it should, which could cause the system to fail. This is also known as short cycling.

To prevent these problems from happening, choose a furnace that is the right size and capacity for your home. This will ensure comfort and even temperature inside your home. It will also help reduce heating costs, according to the NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory).

Let’s take a look at how sizing matters. A furnace that has an output capacity of 30,000 BTUs can effectively heat a 1,000 sq. ft. home. But it does not end there. There are other factors other than the indoor area that determine the perfect furnace size for the home. To find your perfect match, your HVAC contractor will have to perform what is known as a Manual “J” Load calculation. This will help determine the correct furnace size for your requirements.

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Furnace Maintenance

The ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers) recommends a furnace that has a minimum of 78% AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) to be able to perform optimally. If the system was not maintained regularly, its performance will drop significantly. Eventually, it will fail to produce heat to sufficiently keep your home comfortable. Timely maintenance will help identify and prevent potential problems in the HVAC system so these can be fixed before they worsen. Schedule an annual inspection with your trusted HVAC contractor. Just make sure that the work is done by a certified and licensed HVAC professional. Ideally, have your HVAC system serviced during early fall or before the cold season.

Uneven Heating Requirements

Hot air rises, which means that the rooms upstairs will likely be warmer than the rooms beneath. This means that rooms on the lower levels will need more heat. Uneven heating can also be blamed on the availability of just a single thermostat. An excellent solution for this would be using a zoning system so that every section or zone in your home is comfortable, thanks to the independent thermostats in each zone. This will allow you to set the preferred temperature in each section, which does not affect the temperature in other sections.

Air Leaks

Leaks in the rooms due to cracks, gaps, and openings allow cold air from outdoors to enter. This causes uneven temperatures indoors. Prior to the cold months, try to check doors, windows, the attic, basement, and other areas of the house to determine if there are any gaps or holes that will allow cold air in. In most cases, you could fix the problem yourself by sealing these spots using:

• caulk
• door sweeps
• foam tape
• weatherstrips
• window film
• insulated windows
• door snake
• IGUs (insulated glass units)

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Dirty Or Clogged HVAC Air Filters

Air filters trap dirt and other particulates from the air before it is distributed into the indoor spaces. Over time, air filters will become clogged with debris. This causes heated air to flow slowly because it cannot penetrate the filter as effectively. When air is obstructed, the furnace system cannot work efficiently, which results in a slow and uneven flow of air. As a result, rooms that are located away from the source of heat will feel cold. To fix this, simply make sure to check the HVAC air filter regularly (at least monthly) and have it replaced or cleaned periodically. This will keep the air filter clean and efficient, especially during the cold months.

Clogged Air Vents

Warm air is distributed through the air vents. If these are blocked, clogged, or closed, there will be an insufficient supply of heated air in the home. Worse, if the vents are blocked or completely closed, the pressure in your ventilation system can increase, which will, in turn increase the risk of a system breakdown. Make sure that the air vents are open, clean, and not blocked by any object.

Air Duct Leaks

If there are leaks in the air ducts, your HVAC system may not be able to deliver warm air efficiently, especially to the rooms that are far from the furnace. Holes, cracks, and damage to the air vents will cause air to leak. Some of the most common causes of these holes and cracks include:

• Deterioration of the structure because of old age
• Damage caused by rodents and other small animals
• Structural work damage
• Poor installation

To ensure that there are no air duct leaks, make sure to seal all holes and cracks with caulk and have all damages repaired.

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Thermostat Fan Settings

If your furnace fan is set on “auto”, it will distribute warm air only when the furnace generates heat, then stop when the furnace stops. Then it will begin the cycle anew. Due to the frequent starts and stops, you may experience uneven room temperatures. Plus, the fans could become susceptible to wear-and-tear.

You can prevent this by using the “on” setting for the fans. This will ensure continuous airflow indoors. Note, however, that keeping the fans on all the time will consume more energy, so your energy costs will likely go up. You could fix this by using a ceiling fan and setting the blades to turn in a clockwise direction at the lowest setting. This will help distribute the heat and save on electricity.

 

Conclusion

Uneven heating can cause discomfort and some inconveniences in your home. You may not always be able to fix the problem yourself or perhaps the problem is far more serious than you can manage, so it is important to call an HVAC professional to assist you. Trained HVAC technicians know the equipment well enough to provide you with the best and most appropriate solutions. This will help ensure that any problems are fixed and that serious issues are prevented.

Contact Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Needs

Point Bay Fuel offers reliable heating and cooling services in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey. We only hire top certified technicians who can provide you with first-rate HVAC services, repairs, installations, and replacements. All our technicians have the knowledge and skill to service your HVAC system properly.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees the cheapest heating and cooling service in the area. We offer maintenance services that can enhance your comfort and energy efficiency while saving you money. We can assist you to get an HVAC repair or replacement unit based on your specific budget. Our services are backed by a guarantee to make sure that our clients are satisfied with our work. To schedule an appointment, contact Point Bay Fuel today. We also offer free, in-home estimations.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059 Read Our Testimonials

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

The post Why Are My Rooms Heating Unevenly? appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

Why You Should Call A Professional For Your Furnace Repair

If you live in an area that experiences very cold weather, you have to make sure that you always have a well-functioning heating unit. You want to avoid a situation where the unit develops a fault in the middle of winter as much as possible. The best way to avoid such mishaps is to ensure that you schedule furnace maintenance on a regular basis. Furnaces go through wear and tear, and even breakdown sometimes. However, if the system is inspected and serviced frequently, you can avoid problems that can arise prematurely.

Although you might feel the need to do a DIY project when it comes to your furnace or even call an inexperienced friend to assist, that is definitely not the way to go when dealing with furnace issues. Find out why it is so important to contact a professional furnace repair company to solve your furnace issues. Not only is it wiser to do so, but it is also a good way to save money over time.

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Signs That You Need To Contact A Professional Furnace Service Company

The discussion below focuses on the important signs that every homeowner should not miss, and which need the attention of an expert.

An Overheating Furnace

Overheating is usually an indication that you have a blocked filter. Over time, your furnace is going to gather things such as dirt, dust, and many other particulates. It can get to a point where the filter has too many particulates that it hinders the proper flow of air. This causes the heating system to work much harder just to produce the correct temperature.

Overheating is also known to damage a part of the heating unit known as the heat exchanger. It can be quite expensive to fix the heat exchanger. In order to avoid overheating, the solution is to make sure that the air filters are cleaned or replaced on a regular basis.

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A Faulty Thermostat

The function of a thermostat is to show the temperature being produced by the heating system. A common indicator that your heating unit is not functioning as it should is a malfunctioning thermostat. If you have a heating problem, check the settings on the thermostat. It must be switched on and then set to “HEAT”. Also, make sure that the fan is at the “AUTO” setting.

If you notice that the thermostat is showing incorrect temperatures, look to see if it has any dust or dirt. Poorly maintained older thermostats sometimes give you incorrect temperatures. After, switching off the thermostat, take a clean and dry brush and clean off the dirt and dust. If there are areas that are corroded, simply make use of a contact cleaner to get rid of the dust; one that is made especially for electronics. Also make certain that the thermostat is placed far away from all heat sources, like stoves and direct sunlight.

HVAC Ductwork Damage

Your furnace could also not be functioning properly due to damaged ductwork. When the heating unit produces heat, that warm air is dispersed via the ducts in the house. However, if there is a leak caused by a gap, crack or some other damage in the ductwork, warm air will escape. This will lead to the uneven distribution of air throughout your home. If the ductwork is severely damaged, the furnace can actually stop working entirely.

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Why A Faulty Gas-Fired Furnace Is So Dangerous?

One of the downsides of a gas-fired furnace is that it can develop a gas leak, and a gas leak can be very dangerous. The gas which leaks from the unit can be toxic to the occupants of the house, including the animals. Serious health problems can result if you are exposed to gases like methane and carbon dioxide. If you are exposed to some of them for too long, it might actually lead to death.

Apart from being exposed to harmful substances, gas leaks can also cause explosions, fires, and electric shock. That is why you should never attempt to fix any issue with your furnace yourself. This is the job of a well-trained HVAC expert who will conduct the necessary inspection and repair.

What You Can Expect From A Professional HVAC Contractor

There are several benefits associated with hiring a licensed expert to help you if you have a faulty furnace. Some of them are discussed below.

Financial Savings

A professional HVAC contractor knows how to correctly examine your unit and spot any problems. He or she also knows how to correctly repair the unit if it has any issues, and how to perform maintenance procedures. They also have knowledge of every type of heating system, meaning that they will service or repair your system based on set guidelines for that particular contraption. If you choose to fix any problems yourself, or you offer the job to an inexperienced individual, chances are that you will make the situation worse and end up paying more to fix the problem.

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Safer Home

A professional technician will make sure that the repair process is carried out correctly, ensuring your safety. Any mistake in the repair process could result in the safety of the occupants of the house being compromised. An error could lead to things such as an explosion, fire, or the release of harmful gases. If you notice that your heating system has an issue, call a professional technician to assist you immediately.

Reduced Work Time

Because certified technicians follow set guidelines when identifying and fixing issues, it will not take them too much time to resolve the problem. If you opt for someone who does not have the requisite expertise, chances are that the process will take longer than it should.

Required Skills

If you choose a professional technician, you will be going for someone who has years of experience in this field. As such, you can be assured that the job they do will be done properly. It is important not to forget that a furnace is a specialized contraption that needs to be serviced or repaired in a specific manner.

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Better Warranty

The warranty which comes with every HVAC unit requires that only a licensed HVAC technician tune-up your furnace. So, if you want to ensure the validity of your heating system, make sure that a professional contractor handles the system. The warranty can be voided if you allow someone else, other than a certified HVAC contractor to repair the furnace. If you choose a reliable HVAC company, the company will make sure that the services they offer you are backed by a guarantee.

 

Conclusion

If you have a malfunctioning furnace, you are already at an inconvenience. It therefore does not benefit you to let someone who is not experienced take a chance and try to fix the problem. Simply call your local HVAC contractor instead and save money and time.

Contact Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Needs

Point Bay Fuel offers reliable heating and cooling services in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey. We only hire top certified technicians who can provide you with first-rate HVAC services, repairs, installations, and replacements. All our technicians have the knowledge and skill to service your HVAC system properly.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees the cheapest heating and cooling service in the area. We offer maintenance services that can enhance your comfort and energy efficiency while saving you money. We can assist you to get an HVAC repair or replacement unit based on your specific budget. Our services are backed by a guarantee to make sure that our clients are satisfied with our work. To schedule an appointment, contact Point Bay Fuel today. We also offer free, in-home estimations.

Call Now: (732) 349-5059 Read Our Testimonials

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

The post Why You Should Call A Professional For Your Furnace Repair appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

What To Do If A Rodent Dies In Your Ductwork

HVAC ductwork often collects dust, dirt, dander, and other particulates that can potentially pollute the air. However, ductwork also attracts pesky rodents. They have an uncanny ability to go through tiny spaces and slip into tight corners and cracks. Unfortunately, the presence of rodents can spell trouble for the homeowners, especially when a single rodent can leave 35 to 150 droppings in just one day. Aside from the dangerous microorganisms that rodent droppings generate, a dead animal in air duct will also produce a foul odor.

Since the air that is being distributed in the living spaces indoors passes through the ductwork, it likely will carry the smell, toxins, and particulates generated by the presence of rodents in the structure. This can cause a number of potentially serious health issues for the homeowners.

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What Happens If There is A Dead Rodent In Your Ductwork?

If a rodent dies in the ductwork, you need to act immediately. Here are the key steps you should take:

1. Find Out If The Foul Odor Is Actually A Dead Rodent

Anything that rots or decomposes will produce a foul odor. The bad smell that is coming out of the HVAC system could actually be anything, not just a dead animal. However, when a body begins to decompose, it releases gases such as methane and sulfur dioxide. The human nose can detect these odors readily. This means if you smell something rotten, there is likely a problem somewhere. It can also get worse if the animal is bigger in size since it will produce more gases during the process of decomposition. The smell will last for several weeks until the body completely dries up.

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2. Use Your Nose

After you have ascertained that the bad smell is actually coming from a dead rodent or animal in the HVAC ductwork, you need to find the body so it can be removed. You could use a type of instrument that can detect certain types of gases that carcasses emit. However, these instruments are rather impractical for home use. They also tend to be costly and may not be good investments for your home. Most people prefer to use their noses to find the source of the smell.

Seek out the place where the odor is strongest and you will likely find the source of the stench. Barring any physical or medical condition, your nose is the best instrument you will have to find the source of a stench in your ductwork. If you fail or cannot stand the stench yourself, you could call a professional HVAC technician to find problems in your ductwork and clear it.

3. Use The Right Tools

To prepare for the removal of animal carcass, make sure to put on protective gloves first. Dead bodies may carry disease-causing microorganisms that could be transmitted by direct contact. Protect your hands by putting on protective plastic or rubber gloves.

Use an appropriately-sized plastic bag for the carcass and make sure it is intact and has no holes. This bag will be used to store the carcass so it can be sealed prior to disposal. If the location of the carcass is out of reach, you may need to use a hooked tool that is long enough for the job. A wire hanger will also work for this purpose. However, if extricating the carcass is difficult for you, call an HVAC technician to help you instead.

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5. Remove the Source Of The Stench

If the carcass is close to the vents, removal should be fairly easy. Simply remove the barrier, take out the carcass, and place it inside the plastic bag. Take off your gloves and put them into the bag as well. Seal the bag or secure it tightly.

If the carcass is out of reach, use an elongated tool to reach it and bring it closer. It is likely that the decomposed material will fall apart or break off easily. Just make sure to remove every small bit. However, some extractions are challenging and difficult to complete. If you are having trouble taking out the carcass, call an HVAC professional to help you out.

6. Sanitize The Area

Once you have removed the carcass, you need to clean the area. Decomposing bodies leave behind blood, bodily fluids, and other organic matter such as hair, skin, and dried body fat. It is likely that parasites that used to live off of the rodent’s body may still be present as well.

To ensure that the area is clean, sanitize the duct. Use a liquid disinfectant and spray it on the area and in other areas as well. Rodents like to move around in their territories, so they may have spread dirt and other debris in other areas of the ductwork as well. Do not skip this step. By sanitizing your ductwork, you will eliminate any potentially dangerous microorganisms that could pollute your indoor air.

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7. Identify The Point Of Entry Of The Rodents Into The Ductwork

After the HVAC ductwork has been cleaned and sanitized, it is time to determine how rodents got into your HVAC system. This will help you create a preventive plan to ensure that your ductwork does not become a living space for rodents in your area. The fact that rodents got into the ductwork means there is a problem with the ductwork. Keep in mind that ductwork systems are built with barriers that should keep small animals away.

First, check if your ductwork has holes, cracks, or damaged joints. Maybe there is a broken vent or a corroded area that resulted in a hole that is big enough for a rodent to slip through. Check the entire HVAC ductwork to identify any entry points for rodents. When you find any, have them fixed right away. You may not always find all the entry points for rodents and other small animals, so it’s best to call an HVAC technician to do the job. An HVAC technician is trained and experienced in identifying the most likely areas that rodents will use to enter the ductwork.

8. Fix The Holes

If there are holes you can reach safely, you could probably fix them yourself, although this is not a good idea. When it comes to your HVAC system, it is always best to call in a professional.

Holes in the ductwork do not only allow rodents and other vermin in, but they will also cause the air to leak. This, in turn, will lead to the inefficiency of the HVAC system. When the system is losing too much air, the system will have to compensate for the loss and work harder. As a result, the HVAC system will consume more energy to generate the same amount of hot/cool air to keep your rooms comfortable. If you have any leaks in your HVAC ductwork, make sure it is checked by a licensed HVAC professional.

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Conclusion

Rodent infestation is fairly common, so it is not exactly surprising for the average home to experience a rodent issue from time to time. HVAC technicians are quite familiar with the problem, so they are quite adept at identifying and resolving the issue. The earlier the problem is identified, the safer and cleaner your ductwork will be. Not only will the technician be able to disinfect the area, but they can also seal any gaps to prevent another rodent infestation.

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

Point Bay Fuel is one of the leading heating and cooling services providers in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey. Our certified technicians are highly trained and experienced in providing you with top-notch HVAC services, from tune-ups and installations to repairs and replacements.

We can guarantee competitive service costs in HVAC services in the area. We make sure we offer you services that address comfort, energy efficiency, and cost-saving solutions while working within your budget. If you have a problem with a rodent infestation or just want to prevent any similar issues, call Point Bay Fuel today, and let’s schedule your free in-home estimate.

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Signs Your HVAC Air Ducts Are Leaking

Home heating and cooling units are made up of multifaceted components. Whether the forced-air HVAC unit is inside the house or outside, there are vents and ducts which ensure that the hot or cold air is distributed properly throughout the house. If you notice that your unit is not functioning properly, the problem could be the ductwork. Ducts are located inside the home, typically behind walls or ceilings. As such, it is not always easy to see if there is a leak in the ductwork. However, there are signs of leaky air ducts which can help you to figure out if there is a leak in the ductwork.

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Signs That There Is A Leak In The HVAC Air Ducts

Below are some of the typical indicators that there might be a leak in your HVAC ducts.

1. Higher Than Usual Energy Bill

When there is a leak in the ductwork, you will be able to tell because hot or cold air will not be distributed effectively. For instance, instead of the air being distributed to those rooms in the house that are normally occupied such as the living room and bedrooms, the hot and cold air will be mostly distributed in an area such as the attic. Therefore, the benefits of the air conditioner or furnace will be wasted. Also, because the system will be struggling to get to the desired temperatures and to maintain those temperatures, the unit will be using more energy. If you start receiving higher than usual energy bills, but you have not changed your usage, chances are that there is a leak in your ductwork.

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2. Dust In The House

Apart from causing air to be spread to areas where it is not supposed to be distributed, leaks can also cause dust to be released from hidden places in your home and then it is spread throughout the house. So, if all of a sudden there is more dust in your house but there is no clear explanation for the dust, chances are that there might be a ductwork leak. Dust is obviously not something anyone wants in their home, especially if you have residents who suffer from allergies, asthma, and other respiratory ailments.

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3. Uneven Circulation Of Air

Another sign that there might be a fault with your ductwork is if you observe that there is an uneven distribution of air in your home. Central air units are designed in such a way that they should distribute air evenly throughout the home. If the ductwork has a leak, you might notice that the area close to the leaky ducts will be much colder when using your air conditioner when compared to other areas that will be far from the leaky ducts. If that is the case, even if you attempt to adjust the temperature using the thermostat, nothing will change until you have fixed the issue.

4. Poor Air Quality Inside The House

Leaking ducts do more than just spread dust throughout your home. They can also scatter toxic gases which can affect people’s health. The system can end up pulling in air from the basement, garage, or other areas. There might be harmful chemicals in such places including thinners and pesticides. If you notice that there is an unusually strong smell or increased allergies inside your house, this needs to be attended to urgently in case you might be breathing harmful substances.

5. HVAC Units Need Regular Repairs

HVAC units break down just like every other machine, especially the older models. However, if you haven’t had your unit for a long time and you notice that it is breaking down a lot already, it is an indication that something is wrong somewhere. A well-maintained system should function properly for a decade or more. The reason for the constant breakdowns could be leaky air ducts. If the unit has leaky air ducts, it is forced to work harder. The result of an overworked system is quick wear and tear. In order to prevent this, make sure that the issue is resolved early.

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How To Find Leaks In Your HVAC Ductwork

Below are the steps you can take in order to identify leaks in your HVAC ductwork.

1. Perform An HVAC Ductwork Inspection

Carefully examine the ductwork to see in there any tears or holes. Some tears are more apparent than others so you have to be thorough with your inspections. Make use of a grease pencil to mark the damaged spots to make them easier to identify when the repairs are actually done by a professional.

2. Switch On The HVAC System Completely

Turning on the HVAC system to the maximum will force conditioned air to be circulated around the house. This helps you to identify the leaks in your system with greater ease because temperature fluctuations can be detected with greater accuracy around duct tears. If you do it correctly, you will be able to find most of the leaks.

3. Examine HVAC Duct Joints

The presence of weak duct joints in the HVAC system should not surprise you at all. Leaks naturally develop around them if they are not sealed properly. Inspect these joints carefully with your hands and feel if the air is flowing out.

4. Duct Tape Removal

It is probable that the previous owners of the house used duct tape as a makeshift solution for a leak in the HVAC system. It could well be the case that leaks are coming from this area. Get rid of all this tape so that the technician can put a more permanent seal.

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5. Smoke Or Incense

Use incense or any colorful smoke to expose affected areas. If an area around the ductwork is affected by leaks, the smoke will be swirling differently, allowing you to locate affected areas instantly. Small leaks can be identified easily using this method.

6. Seal The Ductwork Leaks

After you have done a thorough assessment of the entire system and you have identified the leaks, they must be sealed. If you are wise, let an experienced technician handle all of this to prevent the problem from resurfacing in the future. Hiring a skilled HVAC technician will save you a lot of time and money because they know exactly how to fix these problems permanently. They can even identify some spots that you missed during your ductwork inspection.

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7. Use A Fog Machine

When the leaks have been sealed, look for a fog machine to test the ducts. This method will expose the remaining leaks if there are any. Just make sure that you seal all the big holes prior to using this method to avoid filling the attic and basement areas with a lot of smoke. You do not have to do it on your own since HVAC technicians already have the equipment and expertise needed to locate the leaks with pinpoint accuracy.

 

Conclusion

No two situations are exactly the same. Household owners encounter problems with their units which require different solutions. HVAC technicians will know which techniques to use for your particular situation. They will know how to properly identify leaks in your ductwork and seal them the correct way.

Contact Point Bay Fuel For Trusted Heating & Cooling Solutions

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in Monmouth and Ocean County, New Jersey. We only hire expert certified technicians who can tune-up, install, repair, or replace your HVAC unit. Our licensed technicians have the required experience and know-how to service your HVAC unit properly. Our practical solutions will enhance your indoor air quality, unit’s efficiency, as well as improve the level of comfort in your home.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees the best-priced HVAC services in the area. We offer maintenance services that lengthen the lifecycle of your HVAC unit and lessen your heating and cooling charges. Should you require a repair or replacement unit, we can offer you solutions that fit within your budget. To ensure customer satisfaction, we support all our work with a guarantee. For an appointment, call Point Bay Fuel today. We offer free, in-home estimates.

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The post Signs Your HVAC Air Ducts Are Leaking appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.