Do Leaky Windows Affect How My Home Is Heated?

Heating systems strain against the chill of the winter wind to keep your homes warm and comfortable. But air leakage can interfere with the dynamics of heating a home in a bad way, and this can cause your heating equipment to overwork, leading to lower efficiency, increased energy consumption, and unnecessary HVAC repairs.

Air leakage is a very common problem but not one that is immediately evident. Thus, it rarely gets the attention it should. Hot air from inside the home can escape from in between the cracks and gaps of the windows. Unfortunately, this counteracts the dynamic of your home’s thermal pocket, creating hot/cold spots. In the following article, we take a closer look at this issue and explain why you should take action immediately if you feel this is happening in your home.

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Do Leaky Windows Affect How My Home Is Heated?

Read on to learn more about the severe impact that leaky windows have on the heating of your home. Remember that these concepts apply to any flaws in the integrity of your home’s thermal pocket, including doors, fireplaces, crawlspaces, electrical outlets, and anywhere else.

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Why Leaky Windows Are An Problem

In accordance with the second law of thermodynamics, heat always travels from regions of high temperatures to regions of low temperatures. This is why the ice melts on the sidewalk, and the sidewalk does not freeze under the ice.

By the same measure, if your windows are open, or slightly open, or even just a crack open, heat will be escaping from your home’s thermal pocket and causing your heating systems to work harder and unnecessarily use more energy. This means that leaky windows can make it harder to control your interior temperatures. Furthermore, there are other complications that can arise from this issue.

The Impact Of Air Leaks On Energy Bills

As the heat escapes your home, there will be a noticeable drop in temperature. This will cause the home’s heating to fire back on as a way to increase the temperature in the home to your desired levels. The heat will escape much faster than it ought to, and the process will repeat itself. This means the heating will be turned on far more often than necessary and result in increased energy consumption. Failing to act quickly can result in a considerable loss of energy and finances.

But the financial implications of a leaky window do not end there. A furnace is a finely tuned implement measured to heat your home’s thermal pocket for an estimated amount of service life. If it is forced to work harder, it will suffer a great reduction in its service life as a result of wear and tear. Before its final and early retirement, it will likely suffer premature breakdowns and require replacements. All these details can add up to result in a considerable financial strain on your budget.

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How Do I Test for Air Leakage?

The next logical question concerns detecting such a budget-flattening situation brewing in your home. If you have an air leak in your home, you will certainly want to know about it as soon as you possibly can. Here are some tips on how to perform a fairly thorough inspection of your home’s windows to determine the presence of a leak.

• Visual Inspection: Begin with a visual inspection; you can usually tell what is well-sealed and when these seals are cracked and in poor condition. While you are walking about the house, take a moment to check the seals and frames of all doors, attic hatches, and baseboards. This inspection will alert you to the conditions of these important components of your home’s thermal pocket, so make some notes of everything you find.
• Building Pressurization Test: This is a test that will try to detect the movement of air through the house. But it will only work if everything is still. Shut off the heating and vents and walk around the house with an incense stick. If the smoke can pass from the inside to the outside, you can be pretty sure there is a leak. Run the stick of incense around the edges of the windows to detect any currents of air escaping the home.
• Blower Door Test: This is a slightly more advanced method of finding the leak in the windows and is typically only carried out by professionals — it also delivers more precise results. HVAC technicians will hook up a blower to one of the vents in the home and push air into the home. This will create negative pressure and force air out of the home through the gaps and cracks. This will allow them to identify the leaks in your home. They will also be able to measure the amount of air that is escaping your home.

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Tips For Sealing Air Leaks

There are some measures the average homeowner can take to counter this issue. Slim gaps can be filled with caulking, and larger gaps can be addressed with foam sealant. But if the air leakage is extensive, it may require more advanced solutions and specialized insulation work. A professional service will deliver superior results from the use of specific tools and specialized training.

Common Areas That Benefit From Air Sealing

 

• Doors & Windows – Over time, doors and window seals will deteriorate with exposure to the elements. Sometimes the installation technicians will overlook the caulking in some sections of the window. This can lead to cool drafts in the winter. It is imperative to your energy expenses that this is sealed instantly.
• Switch Plates & Electrical Outlets – It is often apparent that these features of the electrical system are sitting flush with the walls. However, the errors can be hidden but have considerable consequences. This could be due to poor installation work or uneven wall surfaces. Gaskets can help you to seal off this perimeter completely.
• Plumbing & Wiring – There may be points where the piping in the home passes through walls and insulation. If this is not sealed properly, the leaks in your home can cost you a bundle. Make sure these spots are addressed with a non-hazardous material.
• Roof & Attic – Thermal expansion can lead to gaps created in the roof of your home. This can lead to leaks when it rains. But it can also lead to seams and corners becoming disjointed and allowing interior heat to escape.
• HVAC Air Ducts – Ducts are the conduits through which air moves about the home. If these were to develop leaks, there would be substantial temperature differences between the rooms. A professional service will be able to hunt down these leaks and address them decisively.

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Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey.

Our certified technicians can provide you with excellent HVAC services, including heating and cooling tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each technician has outstanding knowledge and experience to serve your HVAC system needs correctly the first time around.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees to provide the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. Our maintenance services ensure to improve your comfort, increase your system’s energy efficiency, and reduce your home’s heating and cooling costs.

Need your system repaired or replaced? We’ll recommend the best solution that works well within your budget. The best part is that all our work is backed with a guarantee to ensure your satisfaction. To schedule a service appointment, give us a call today!

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8 Reasons Your Heat Pump Can Cause Your Breaker To Trip

When an appliance trips your home’s circuit breaker, it’s a sure sign that something is wrong. This kind of issue can crop up from time to time, but what if it’s your heat pump causing the problem? Without a working heat pump, the temperature of your home may not be as comfortable as you’d like. That’s why if your breaker trips as soon as you flip the switch of your heating system, you need to call a professional HVAC contractor who can identify the issue and perform a heat pump repair. In this article, we discuss why a heat pump keeps tripping breaker.

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When Your Heat Pump Constantly Trips Your Breaker

One main reason a heat pump unit trips a circuit breaker is that it draws too much power to operate properly. Several things can cause this:

1. Your Heat Pump Air Filter is Dirty

A filthy air filter can obstruct proper airflow. As a result, your home’s air quality decreases. In turn, your heat pump has to work harder and longer to circulate cooled and heated air throughout your home. This type of inefficiency means the heat pump draws significantly more amps, which causes the circuit breaker to trip. If your indoor vents are closed or blocked, it can also hinder airflow and cause the breaker to trip.

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2. There are Heat Pump Wiring Problems

Your circuit breaker can also trip if your heat pump has wiring issues. Typically, there are three main reasons for electrical problems:

• A Short Circuit In Your Motor Fan: This happens when the electrical current doesn’t flow through its normal path. Shorts usually occur when the insulation around the wires deteriorates. The wires then receive too much power, which leads to the breaker tripping.
• Wiring That’s Worn-out Or Loose: When wires are loose or damaged in some way, they can draw too much power or heat and trip the circuit breaker.
• The Breaker Is Faulty: Normal wear and tear can cause an old circuit breaker to malfunction, which can result in constant tripping. If this is the case, you’ll need to hire a professional to inspect the fan heat pump and wiring and then either install new wires or repair degraded ones. A skilled HVAC technician can diagnose and fix wiring problems or provide a referral to an electrician if needed.

3. The Outdoor Fan Needs Fixing

Your heat pump’s outdoor fan can fail and cause your breaker to trip. The fan blows air over the refrigerant coils. If there’s an obstruction, the fan motor can lock up and malfunction. The result is that it may draw more power, causing the circuit breaker to trip. Therefore, it’s crucial to have it professionally maintained and cleaned regularly.

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4. The Heat Pump Compressor is Malfunctioning

Think of the compressor at the heart of the heat pump. It’s an essential part of the heating and cooling process as its job is to pump the refrigerant throughout the system. During normal operation, it requires a lot of electric power to operate. However, certain issues can cause the compressor to draw too much power and trip the breaker. Multiple things can lead to compressor problems, including:

• Heat Pump Compressor That’s Hard To Start: Older compressors usually don’t fire up as easily as newer ones. This can lead to circuit breaker trips since a hard-starting compressor draws too much current from the circuit when starting.
• Compressor That’s Grounded: This means the wiring is touching the metal casing, effectively creating a short. The result is a tripped breaker.
• Fault With The Capacitor: The capacitor is a component that stores electrical energy and helps the compressor to start. If the device malfunctions, the compressor will have difficulty starting. If you find that your circuit breaker trips every time the outdoor unit starts up, a faulty capacitor is likely the problem.

Preventing these issues is as simple as routine maintenance by a professional. Besides being able to spot failing parts earlier, a certified HVAC technician can fix certain problems, such as compressor malfunctions. However, some problems are slightly more difficult to resolve. For example, since compressors are sealed tightly, technicians have a hard time repairing them. In cases where it’s impossible to fix the compressor, replacement is the only solution. Although a new compressor is expensive, it may still fall under your manufacturer’s warranty if the warranty is still valid. An HVAC technician can help you determine whether you need a replacement compressor and if it’s covered by your warranty.

5. The Heat Pump Condenser Coil is Dirty

The heat pump’s condenser is another part that will stop working efficiently if it becomes too dirty. The condenser coil gathers and releases heat, which either cools or heats your home. A dirty condenser coil means your heat pump must work extra hard to do its job properly and generate the same amount of heating or cooling. Regularly checking your unit can help you avoid this problem.

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6. Your Heat Pump is Overworked

Clogged air filters, dirty outside units, and closed or blocked vents are all culprits of a heat pump that’s malfunctioning because it’s overworked. These issues are preventable, making it all the more important to have a licensed HVAC technician diagnose and repair issues during regular maintenance visits.

7. Your Heat Pump Has a Short Circuit

A short circuit will trip your breaker the moment you flip the switch of your unit. Short circuits are incredibly dangerous, which is why you should immediately call a licensed HVAC technician. Besides causing serious damage, short circuits can lead to a fire. In fact, a report by The National Fire Protect Agency reveals that fire departments across the United States were called to handle around 44,880 fires caused by electrical malfunctions each year between 2012 and 2016. Cooking and heating equipment were responsible for about 10% of those fires.

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8. Your Heat Pump is Low on Refrigerant

Heat pumps use a liquid substance called “refrigerant” to cool and heat your home. When refrigerant levels are too low, which is generally caused by a leak, the heat pump cannot effectively warm or cool an area. To compensate, the heat pump works harder to reach the temperature you’ve set on your thermostat. Due to the additional stress on the system, components tend to draw more power and trip the breaker.

Again, to avoid an issue like low refrigerant levels, it’s crucial to establish a regular maintenance schedule for your heating system. Furthermore, you should contact an HVAC professional as soon as you notice your system’s refrigerant is leaking. A technician will use the right testing method to find the leak’s source and fix it. On the upside, when your circuit breaker trips because of heat pump issues, you know your breaker is functioning correctly since its job is to prevent an overload of electrical current. When a circuit breaker isn’t working properly, you run the risk of an electrical fire, which can result in bodily harm, fatalities, and property loss.

 

Conclusion

If your heat pump repeatedly trips your circuit breaker, it’s likely due to the air filter being dirty, wiring problems, your outdoor fan having issues, a malfunctioning compressor, a filthy condenser coil, your heat pump being overworked, short circuits, or a refrigerant leak. All of these causes are preventable as long as you have your system regularly maintained and cleaned by a professional. Hiring a reputable HVAC technician with the proper credentials to sort out any issues not only ensures your safety but also ensures your home is a comfortable, temperature-controlled environment.

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Contact Point Bay Fuel For Your HVAC Needs

Point Bay Fuel offers top-notch heating and cooling services in Monmouth and Ocean County, New Jersey. We only hire the best-certified HVAC technicians who can tend to your every HVAC repair, tune-up, installation, and replacement need. Since our techs are properly trained and certified, they have the knowledge and experience required to correctly service your HVAC system.

At Point Bay Fuel, we guarantee you’ll get the most competitive HVAC service prices in the area. With our maintenance services, you’ll increase your home’s energy efficiency, reduce your cooling and heating costs, and improve your comfort. If your system requires HVAC repairs or a replacement system, we offer recommendations for the most suitable solutions for your home while keeping your budget in mind. Our work is backed by a satisfaction guarantee, so schedule your service appointment by calling Point Bay Fuel today. We provide free, in-home quotes.

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My Furnace Turns On But No Heat – Why?

Your home offers warmth when the temperatures outside plunge. All you have to do is turn on your furnace to heat your indoor air. It is a reliable system that typically works well, but there may be times that it encounters an issue, so it doesn’t operate as it should. For example, what if the furnace turns on but no heat? This is a common problem, and many homeowners become frustrated, especially if the indoor temperature plummets fast. Being level-headed will let you assess each of the likely causes.

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Why Am I Not Getting Any Heat When My Furnace Is On?

The simple fact that your furnace still switches on is beneficial. It signals that the power supply is in good working condition. However, something else within the system may keep it from working properly. The problem may be a simple oversight that needs some quick tweaking for the unit to get back to proper working order. This is typically the case, so you don’t have to panic. If the issue is more complex, you can leave it in the capable hands of a licensed HVAC contractor.

Read on to learn the most common causes of a furnace that is not producing heat even when turned on. Some of these are incorrect thermostat settings, airflow problems, furnace ignition problems, and insufficient fuel.

This article includes what can go wrong in these areas. It also contains basic furnace troubleshooting so the unit can be set straight. Every homeowner can do these simple measures. With luck, your furnace will return to operation so you can put its issues behind you. However, if the furnace remains unresponsive even after performing a furnace inspection, call an HVAC professional for help. Learn from this experience as well. This way, you can keep the problem from recurring.

Problems at the Thermostat

Furnaces are built to operate as instructed. If your intention and instruction to your furnace differ, you will receive unexpected results. The thermostat is your heating system’s control center, so you need to be sure that you input the correct information. For example, you may have wanted your heating unit to produce warm air but haven’t set the thermostat yet to trigger heat production. In this case, your furnace isn’t really malfunctioning as you only need to change the thermostat to match your heating goals. The thermostat may be set to COOL, so you must change it to HEAT.

Someone in your house may have adjusted it while you were away and forgot to turn it back. Never assume that the settings in your thermostat are correct. Take your time to check it first.
The fan settings should be checked as well. Many homeowners think that a moving fan means the furnace produces and distributes heat. However, this doesn’t always happen. A fan set to ON means it will run all the time, even when the furnace isn’t in a heating cycle. It is better to set the fan to AUTO, so it will only run during heating cycles, ensuring that only heated air is forced through the vents. You can also opt to set your thermostat higher by around five to ten degrees. This will help you feel a noticeable difference. Call a professional HVAC technician if cold air from your furnace persists even after doing these steps.

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Problems With Furnace Airflow

Air should be able to travel freely throughout your furnace so that the unit operates properly. Airflow issues can result in the heat being unable to travel from the system to each room. Heat may not be coming out of your furnace due to an obstruction stopping the flow of air. Some of the common causes of this problem are:

The Furnace Air Filter Is Dirty

Air filters capture airborne debris, such as dirt, pollen, dust, and pet dander. They are crucial components as they keep the ductwork and furnace interior from becoming dirty. However, they tend to accumulate gunk over time. As a result, the filter’s surface becomes covered in a thick layer of dirt that blocks the air from freely passing through them.

The best approach homeowners can take is to perform monthly air filter checks. This way, they can see when they need to replace it. Many can follow the manufacturer’s replacement schedule but keep in mind that several factors affect when is the best time to replace their furnace air filters. Some homes may need a more frequent filter change than others, especially if the area they live in tends to have a lot of dust or if they have a lot of pets.

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Fallen Debris & Other Obstructions

Items may have fallen into the heater vents. If so, they need to be removed. Take off the vent covers and use a flashlight to see. Remove any objects you can reach immediately. Use a pair of gloves to be safe if you are unsure what you are retrieving. You can try using a long wire or stick for any items that are hard to reach.

Some Of The HVAC Vents Are Closed

The problem may be as simple as a few closed vents. Walk around your home to ensure that all louvers are open. Make adjustments when needed. The louvers may have gotten stuck, so remove the vent covers and clean them from time to time. Jammed covers may need to be replaced.

Moreover, ensure that the registers or vents are not blocked. Someone may have moved furniture, causing a block to a vent. Remove these blockages to ensure good airflow again.

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Furnace Ignition & Fuel Problems

Furnaces that switch on but do not generate heat may be low in fuel. A furnace that doesn’t have an energy source will not be able to accomplish anything. If the furnace is gas-powered, check that the gas valve is open and verify that there is no interruption with your gas company. If the line service was interrupted, determine when it will be restored.

On the other hand, determine how much fuel is left if you have propane- or a heating oil-powered heating system. Book a delivery if necessary. Monitor your fuel levels to keep this problem from happening again. You should also be mindful of your fuel usage on a regular basis. You can also install monitoring devices to keep track of your fuel levels for you. The heating oil company can also handle the fuel level monitoring for you, so you receive timely refills.

When you are certain you have plenty of fuel, the ignition system may be causing the problem. The ignition system is responsible for starting the fuel combustion. Your furnace cannot generate sufficient heat if it doesn’t work properly. If you have an older model, ensure it has a lit pilot light. Otherwise, follow the manual’s instructions on how to relight the pilot light. If you have a newer model, check the ignition switch located in the electronic ignition system. Carefully wipe away any dirt on the metal strip before retesting the ignition.

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Conclusion

Having a furnace that turns on but doesn’t generate heat can be confusing. Learning the best troubleshooting steps to take can help you the next time you face this problem. If the tips mentioned in this article do not work, consult a professional HVAC technician. These licensed professionals are equipped with the tools, skills, and training to handle complex issues your furnace may have. They can provide accurate and quick diagnoses and apply the best solution to your furnace problems.

Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey.

Our certified technicians can provide you with excellent HVAC services, including heating and cooling tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each technician has outstanding knowledge and experience to serve your HVAC system needs correctly the first time around.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees to provide the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. Our maintenance services ensure to improve your comfort, increase your system’s energy efficiency, and reduce your home’s heating and cooling costs.

Need your system repaired or replaced? We’ll recommend the best solution that works well within your budget. The best part is, all our work is backed with a guarantee to ensure your satisfaction.

If you wish to schedule a service appointment, give us a call today!

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 My Furnace Turns On But No Heat – Why? appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

Using Ductless As A Supplemental Heat Source

There is nothing like coming home to a nice warm room on a cold winter night. Many homeowners use central heating to keep their homes toasty. Homeowners want to stay comfortable, even when it’s really cold outside. This comfort comes at a cost. Central heating systems can be expensive to run. This is especially true if not all the rooms in the home are in use. Why heat rooms that no one is using? One answer to this is supplemental ductless heating.

These HVAC systems are more efficient than central heating but still provide all the home comfort you desire. As such, ductless heat pump systems are rapidly gaining in popularity over central heating systems. Here, we discuss what a ductless heat pump system can do for you.

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What Do I Need To Know About Ductless Heat Pumps?

A ductless heat pump system, also known as a mini-split system, has two main units. One of the units is outside. This is called the compressor or condenser unit. The other is indoors and takes in the inside air. The units are connected with a conduit. This conduit contains all the things like power and refrigeration needed to make the heating and cooling work. A homeowner can use this heat pump system to heat rooms in a home that lacks traditional ductwork. For example, heating garages or additions to the home that are not connected to the main HVAC system.

Even homes that have traditional ductwork and central heating benefit from supplemental heating. You can now reduce the temperature setting on the central heating thermostat. This frees you to use the ductless system only in the most frequently used rooms.

This is a more attractive option than simply shutting off vents to unused rooms in the home. Closing a vent actually increases wear on the heating system. The closed vent causes an energy-draining pressure imbalance in the system, reducing the lifespan of the HVAC unit. If you choose to heat the whole home, even the unused rooms, your energy cost goes up.

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Are Ductless Systems Energy Efficient?

The cost of operation is an important factor in any decision to install a new heating system. This is critically important in areas where extremely cold weather often occurs. Ductless heat pump systems are more than capable of providing high-efficiency heating and cooling.

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What Are the Benefits Of Ductless Heating Systems?

If you want to get a ductless heat pump, expect some of the following benefits:

Heat Only What You Need

You can program a ductless heat pump system to heat your home on a room-by-room basis, otherwise known as HVAC zoning. For example, you can heat the downstairs instead of the upstairs. You can also use the ductless system to heat your bedroom. You can then reduce the thermostat on the central heating. You won’t need to heat the entire home while you are sleeping. Plus, you can stay cozy while under the covers. The ductless system can heat one room or zone without affecting the others. You can also set heating zones, as we will discuss later.

Reduce Your Energy Costs

You will also see the benefits show up in your monthly energy bills. High-efficiency ductless heat pumps minimize the amount of energy needed to heat your home. These systems also provide more effective heating and cooling than traditional central heating and air systems. The lack of ductwork in mini-splits means that you won’t have to deal with the issues that arise with ductwork, like leaks and energy losses.

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No Ducts Needed

Central heating and air systems require a maze of ducts to transport air around the home. This is not needed with the mini-split ductless heat pump system. These systems push conditioned air directly to the rooms or zones where it is needed. Over time, ducts can develop gaps, cracks, and other leaks, which reduce energy efficiency. Mini-splits resolve this by not needing to move air long distances. This reduces the potential losses you get from moving air through ducts.

HVAC Zones For More Control

One benefit of ductless mini-splits versus central heating and cooling systems is that you can easily set HVAC zones. That is, you can define a zone for heating. For example, since your kitchen has heat sources, you can reduce the temperature setting on your ductless heat pump when cooking or using the stove. You also can define a bedroom zone with a higher setting to keep warm while sleeping. Overall, zones allow you to be in charge. You can decide which areas in your home need the most heating or cooling at any given time. This is especially useful for multi-story homes or larger buildings. No more one-size-fits-all for whole homes or buildings. No more boiling the upstairs to keep the downstairs tolerable, either. Everyone gets the heating they need without sacrificing the comfort of others.

Comfort in Summer, Comfort in Winter

Any air conditioning system has a major drawback. No matter how energy efficient it is, the system can only cool. And conversely, a furnace can only heat. A ductless heat pump, though, provides comfort all year round. When it’s warm, you can use the cooling setting. When it’s cold, switch to the heating feature. The ductless unit provides supplemental comfort whenever it is needed, summer or winter.

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Boost Indoor Air Quality

Maintaining indoor air quality is an important concern for all. You want to avoid having too much dust or too little ventilation. You also want to avoid having indoor air that is too humid or too dry. These issues reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. This is in addition to making indoor air just plain uncomfortable and unhealthy. Ductless heat pumps come with features like advanced filtration systems, which lessen these issues. Many models feature dehumidifiers and high-quality air filters to improve indoor air quality.

High Energy Efficiency

A key performance rating for heating units is called the high heating season performance factor, or HSPF. When buying, look for a heat pump with a high rating. Most heat pumps do well in this category, with some having ratings from 8 to 10. Ductless heat pump units are among the best in the market.

A key cooling performance rating is the season energy efficiency rating or SEER. As a bonus, heat pumps get high ratings on cooling performance as well. The best performing units on the market are awarded the Energy Star mark, given by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These have, at minimum, an HSPF rating of 8.2 and a SEER rating of 14.5. Most ductless heat pump systems are Energy Star compliant.

Ductless mini-splits are highly efficient. Therefore, it’s easy to see why so many people use them as both a source of supplemental heating and cooling. These units are far more efficient than central air and heating units. When outdoor temperatures get extreme, you can rely on these systems to keep your home snug.

 

Supplemental Heat Where You Need It

Sometimes certain parts of a building or structure simply cannot be heated or cooled by conventional means. You can use ductless systems to provide heating or cooling to those areas. This is certainly useful if you need comfortable temperatures in any area of your home or structure. You can then heat or cool those unreachable areas without central heating or cooling, or ductwork. For example, you can use ductless systems to heat those hard-to-heat places like problematic rooms, standalone sheds, attics, basements, garages, or other additions to your home.

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Call Point Bay Fuel To Learn More About Ductless HVAC Systems

Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey.

Our team of certified technicians can provide you with excellent HVAC services, including tune-ups, repairs, replacements, and more. Each technician has outstanding knowledge and experience to serve your HVAC system needs correctly.

Point Bay Fuel guarantees to provide the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. Our maintenance services will improve your comfort, increase your system’s energy efficiency, and reduce your home’s heating and cooling costs.

Need your system repaired or replaced? We’ll recommend the best solution for your home while working within your budget. The best part is, all our work is backed with a guarantee to ensure your satisfaction. To schedule a service appointment, give us a call today! We also offer in-home estimates.

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 Using Ductless As A Supplemental Heat Source appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.

Prepare Your Home In The Fall, Before Winter Arrives

You want to protect your home from the cold winter temperatures, but you want to do it before winter arrives. The perfect time to take action is in the fall. In autumn, the conditions are mild, and you won’t have to rush. Sure, it’s never fun to work on the fall to-do list, but you will be thankful you did when winter does finally arrive.

Preparing for the autumn…

includes both indoor and outdoor tasks, including a heating tune-up. Brick, New Jersey residents will want to prepare now, well before winter is here. Here at Point Bay Fuel, we can help you prepare with the heating system maintenance services we offer. This will ensure your home is warm when you need it to be the most.

In the rest of this article, we’ll discuss some of the tasks you should do before the cold temperatures arrive.

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Preparing Ahead Of Winter

Now is the perfect time to start doing…

any additional work on your home. By doing it now, you will enjoy the luxury of being able to take your time, which is not the case if you do things in the winter. With that said, you can do the following:

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General Home Cleanup

Do a general cleanup around the home this autumn. Instead of only doing a spring cleaning, do a fall cleaning too. By doing a cleanup twice per year, you won’t have much of a mess to take care of each time. Besides that, you’ll have far more space for the stuff you need during the cold winter months.

Locate Air Leaks & Seal Them Up

Your heating system works harder than it has to when air leaks are present. Your heater uses more energy to keep your home heated, and this means higher utility bills. Locate air leaks and seal them up right away. Look around your doors and windows because this is where they are commonly found. Cracks along the walls can sometimes have air leaks too. By doing this, you can save quite a bit on your monthly energy bills.

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Clean The Gutters

Gutters catch debris and leaves, which can cause clogs. This means they won’t drain out snow and water as effectively as they should. This can result in flooding and gutter damage. Clean your gutters and remove leaves and other debris that can cause clogs.

Inspect Your Roof

Inspect your roof in the fall and look for signs of leaks, cracks, and holes. If you find any, fix them. If there are bald spots, then buy new shingles to cover them up and seal even the smallest of holes because if you don’t, they will get bigger. They will also get harder and more expensive to fix.

Freeze-Proof Your Plumbing Fixtures

Plumbing fixtures that are exposed can freeze during the winter. Water expands and eventually becomes ice during extremely cold temperatures. This can cause pipes to burst. You want to find exposed plumbing fixtures that are located outdoors and freeze-proof them. Drain the line and cover faucets with styrofoam products. This will protect them from freezing up during winter.

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Clean Your Humidifier

Clean your humidifier this autumn because…

this will ensure it will work properly. Inspect all of its elements and clean them if they are dirty. The best way to clean it is to use a detergent solution. Afterward, rinse off the detergent with water. If there are mineral deposits that won’t come off, then use a brush with very hard bristles to scrape them off. A humidifier that functions properly will prevent the wood from cracking. Be sure to ask your local HVAC contractor about a whole-house humidifier.

Get A Tune-up For Your Heating System

The fall is the perfect time to schedule a tune-up on your heating system.

A tune-up will keep your system running efficiently. It can solve many issues, such as noise, unreliability, and inefficiency. Such HVAC problems can be caused by leaky ducts and faulty thermostats, to name a few. If there is an underlying issue, the professionals will find them, fix them, and give you advice on how to take care of your home heating system. Remember, it’s much cheaper to fix heater problems as soon as you find them instead of repairing them later on. Schedule an appointment with a professional, and they will more than happy to perform a heater tune-up.

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Heater Tune-Up Brick NJ

Do not be like many homeowners and skip a tune-up due to furnace tune-up cost. The price of a heater tune-up is worth it because minor issues can be found and fixed quickly. If you ignore issues, they will only grow into more expensive and complex problems. A tune-up will ensure your heating system is ready for the winter and can play a role in reducing heating costs. Contact Point Bay Fuel today to schedule a tune-up on your heating system.

 

Conclusion

Many homeowners neglect to have a heater inspection because they don’t want to pay the furnace tune-up cost. Paying for a tune-up is much cheaper than paying for an expensive breakdown later on. When your heater is functioning properly, it will save a significant amount of money on your energy bills each month. To schedule a heater or HVAC tune-up, you should contact Point Bay Fuel.

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Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your Heating Requirements

Point Bay Fuel offers expert heating and cooling services throughout Monmouth and Ocean County, New Jersey. This includes HVAC maintenance, repairs, and installations. Our services can improve your system’s efficiency while enhancing your comfort and indoor air quality. Furthermore, all HVAC tune-ups can reduce your home heating and cooling costs. Overall, our tune-ups are a small investment with a big return.

Be sure to schedule a heater tune-up before the cold weather arrives. This way, you will ensure that your system is ready to keep you nice and warm throughout the winter. Let our certified technicians use their skills and experience to service your heater. Call Point Bay Fuel today to speak to one of our home comfort specialists.

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We service Allenwood NJ 08720, Brick NJ 08723, Brielle NJ 08730, Island Heights NJ 08732, Lakewood NJ 08701, Lavallette NJ 08735, Manasquan NJ 08736, Mantoloking NJ 08738, Normandy Beach NJ 08739, Pine Beach NJ 08741, Point Pleasant Beach NJ 08742, Sea Girt NJ 08750, Seaside Heights NJ 08751, Toms River NJ 08753, and surrounding areas.

 

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How To Avoid Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke When Your AC Goes Down

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that dehydration, sunburns, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke are some of the common health hazards that happen in the hot and humid summers. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 1,300 Americans die from heat-related conditions annually. Hence, staying cool during the hot days of the summer is crucial because overheating can cause heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially when your cooling system is on the fritz. Remember to take the needed steps to prepare your HVAC system for the hot season.

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Avoid Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke When Your Air Conditioner Goes Down

Read on to learn several steps in how to keep cool if your air conditioner malfunctions in the middle of the summer. However, it is essential to note that annual air conditioner maintenance can prevent many air conditioner breakdowns.

Why Would My Air Conditioner Stop Working?

The US Department of Energy states that the air conditioner thermostat should be set at 78 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Unfortunately, summer storms can cause power outages at times. The air conditioner cannot turn on during this time unless you have a power backup. The air conditioner can also fail because of old age, wrong cooling system size, lack of AC maintenance, and overworking.

Make sure to book annual air conditioner maintenance in the spring to prevent issues from happening in the first place. If your air conditioner breaks down, you and your family become susceptible to heatstroke and heat exhaustion. The good news is that the tips below can help you prevent such problems from happening when your air conditioner isn’t working as it should.

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Contact An HVAC Contractor Right Away

Calling a professional HVAC contractor should be the first step you take when you notice that your air conditioner isn’t functioning as it should. An expert will thoroughly check the cooling unit and resolve any issues causing the malfunction. After several minutes or hours, your air conditioner should be back up and running, depending on the problem’s nature. You may have to wait several days if the issue is bigger to allow your HVAC contractor to gather replacement components, replace malfunctioning parts, or even install a new HVAC unit.

Make sure that you stay cool while your air conditioner isn’t available. Remember that your pets also need to stay cool, as they can also suffer from excessive heat.

Stay Hydrated

Our bodies start sweating to cool down as a response to heat. Researchers from the Pennsylvania State University state that you can become dehydrated if the lost water from sweating is not replaced. This is why dehydration is a common issue during the summer. Therefore, it is crucial that you keep hydrated and drink at least eight glasses of water daily as per the recommendation of the Harvard Medical School. Staying hydrated can usually save you from heat exhaustion and heatstroke that can happen if your body remains at high temperatures for an extended period.

Take Cold Showers

Take cold showers throughout the day. This is a simple and effective way to stay cool in the summer as it relieves your body from having to get rid of the excess heat from the inside. A cold shower gives you a refreshing feeling, which is definitely welcome during hot summer days.

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Avoid Using Heat Generating Gadgets

Strive to reduce the heat in your home. To do so, be aware of your heat-generating appliances, including ovens, stoves, toasters, dryers, washers, vacuum cleaners, and computers.
These gadgets can be extremely helpful during a cold day, but they aren’t needed in the summer, especially when your air conditioner is down. Therefore, avoid using them for some time to keep them from producing more heat in your home.

Block The Sun’s Heat

Closing the window that directly faces the sun is not enough to cool your home. You must block the sun’s rays from entering your house through this window. Therefore, close the curtains or blinds. You can also cover the window with tin foil to reflect the sun’s rays.

Stay Downstairs

The rooms upstairs are likely hotter than that downstairs during the summer as they are closer to the roof. Moreover, keep in mind that warm air rises, so the lower rooms are cooler than the upper rooms. Make sure you spend most of your time downstairs, ideally in the basement.

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Dress Appropriately

It is normal to wear fewer clothes in the summer, but the National Public Radio reports that this won’t help cool you down. As more skin is exposed, it only makes you lose more water via evaporation. Wear clothes made of linen or natural cotton regardless of how light or heavy you dress. These materials help slow evaporation, so sweat is held to your body. This way, you don’t lose too much water from sweating. At the same time, avoid tightfitting polyester and nylon as they tend to increase your body heat.

Open Windows Appropriately

The summer season means temperatures are relatively high throughout the day. However, the outdoor temperatures can significantly drop at night. Take advantage of this temperature change.

Open and close your windows as needed to cool your home. More specifically, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) suggests opening your windows at night when there are low outdoor temperatures and closing them during the day. Remember that even one open window can heat your home in minutes on a hot day, especially if the window is on the western side of your house.

 

Conclusion

Contact a professional HVAC contractor as soon as you notice your air conditioner malfunctioning in the summer. Follow the tips in this article while you wait for the contractor. These tips can help you stay cool and avoid any heat-related illnesses. Book regular air conditioner maintenance to make sure your HVAC system doesn’t break down unexpectedly. You should also ensure that you have the right air conditioner size so it doesn’t work harder than necessary and malfunction in the process.

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Call Point Bay Fuel For Your Air Conditioning Needs

Point Bay Fuel provides first-rate HVAC services in Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey. We have highly skilled and the best professionally certified technicians for all your heating and cooling service needs, such as boiler installations, furnace maintenance, AC repairs, ductless replacements, and more. All our techs have the experience and knowledge to service your HVAC system properly and promptly.

Our company offers budget-friendly HVAC service prices in the area. Our tune-up services can help increase your energy efficiency and comfort while lowering your home’s cooling bills. If you need an HVAC repair or replacement system, we can recommend the best and most affordable solutions for your home. All our work is backed with a guarantee to ensure your satisfaction. Give Point Bay Fuel a call today to schedule a service appointment. We offer free, in-home estimates.

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

The post How To Avoid Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke When Your AC Goes Down appeared first on Point Bay Fuel.