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Spring Allergies? Learn How to Stop the Sniffles and Sneezes in Their Tracks.

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

woman with seasonal allergiesNow that the spring season has arrived, many people are looking forward to warmer days ahead. The higher temperatures and sunny days help the flowers blossom and the trees bud and that can make our springtime landscape beautiful. But for those of us who suffer from seasonal allergies, the blooming flowers and trees can also mean sniffles and sneezes.

While there isn’t much you can do to stop the pollen and other allergens from being in the air you breathe outdoors, there are some measures you can take inside to help mitigate their effects indoors. In this article, we’ll share some practical tips on how you can keep allergens at bay and tell you about some great indoor air quality products that can help.

5 Tips to Keep Allergens Out of Your Home

Spring allergies can be quite bothersome, but there are steps you can take to minimize allergens in your home. Learn more about how you can keep those pesky spring allergens at bay:

  1. Close Your Windows: As tempting as it is to let in the fresh spring air, keeping your windows closed helps prevent pollen from entering your home. Opt for using an air conditioner instead of a fan, which can draw in outdoor air.
  2. Choose the Right HVAC Filter: Make sure your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system has a good-quality filter. Regularly change the filter to ensure it effectively traps allergens like pollen and dust.
  3. Spring Cleaning: Regular cleaning can significantly reduce indoor allergens. Vacuum your home frequently using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter. Launder clothes promptly to remove any pollen that might have hitchhiked inside.
  4. Keep Your Pets Clean: Our furry friends can carry pollen indoors on their fur. Regular grooming and wiping down your pets with a damp washcloth can help minimize allergen transfer.
  5. Shower After Being Outside: When you come home, take a quick shower and change your clothes. This helps remove any pollen clinging to your skin and hair.

Remember, these steps can make a difference in managing spring allergies and creating a more comfortable living environment.

Indoor Air Quality Products That Can Help

Sometimes, even after you take all the necessary measures to keep allergens out of your home, you still may find that your indoor air quality is not what you’d like it to be. That’s when you should consider more advanced indoor air quality products, including:

  • Air Filtration: Air filters are beneficial because they trap pollutants, allergens, and other pathogens that can cause poor indoor air quality.
  • Air Purification: Stafford Mechanical Services proudly offers the Air Knight, one of the most advanced air purification systems on the market today. The Air Knight system uses a unique new indoor air quality process to naturally produce ionic oxidizers that proactively seek out and purify pollutants in the air AND on surfaces.

Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. is ready to help with your IAQ needs.

The quality of the air inside our homes is important. You can count on Stafford Mechanical Services to help you when it comes to your indoor air quality needs. You may contact us via phone at (860) 684-9485. We look forward to helping you with all your comfort needs.

Water Heater Problems? How to Tell If It Needs Repair.

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

The water heater in your home has an important job. It needs to deliver hot water to your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room for a variety of daily tasks, including cleaning, cooking, and personal hygiene. If your water heater stops working properly, it can be a major inconvenience, as it will be difficult to complete these chores without the hot water you need.

Fortunately, your water heater will likely give you some signs if it’s in danger of breaking down. In this article, we’ll share five of the most common signs with you, and explain how Stafford Mechanical Services can help. Keep reading to learn more!

5 Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair

Usually, your water heater will not stop working without giving you some signs that something is wrong. Here are some common things you should look out for if you’re concerned your water heater isn’t working properly:

  1. Your water heater is making unusual noises. Like any other type of mechanical equipment, a water heater will make some noise during operation. However, there are some noises you should look out for. If your water heater is making popping or vibrating noises, this could be the result of sediment buildup in your tank. A humming sound might be the result of a loose heating element.
  2. You notice rust in your tap water. If you notice rust in your tap water, it could be the result of the pipes that move the water out of your tank rusting, or the tank itself rusting. While this can, unfortunately, mean you’ll need to replace your tank if you call at the first sign of rust, your contractor might be able to replace a component within the system called an anode rod, rather than the entire unit.
  3. Water is pooling near your water heater. If water is pooling near your water heater, this is usually due to one of two causes – a bad anode rod, or a crack in your tank. An anode rod can be replaced by your contractor, but unfortunately, a cracked tank likely will need to be replaced.
  4. Your water is not hot enough. If your water is not hot enough, or you run out of hot water quickly, this is likely due to sediment in your tank. Most water supplies contain minerals such as lime, and over time that can build up in your tank, causing the heating element to not function properly and there to be less space for the heated water within your tank.
  5. Your tap water has a foul odor. If you notice that the hot water coming from your faucets has an unpleasant odor, your tank likely needs to be cleaned and flushed. Additionally, there may be sediment buildup in your tank, or your anode rod may need to be replaced. Your contractor will be able to troubleshoot your system and get to the root cause of the odor.

How can Stafford Mechanical Services help me if I need water heater repair?

As we’ve explained, water heaters stop working properly for many reasons, which is why you need a professional to help. The experts at Stafford Mechanical Services will make sure you get the right repairs for your water heater so that you’ll have hot water readily available in your home quickly.

Keep in mind, that a water heater generally has a life expectancy of 10 years, and a leaking tank can cause thousands of dollars in damage, especially in a finished area. It is almost always less expensive in the long run to proactively replace an aging water heater. Fortunately, our skilled craftspeople can easily provide you with a new water heater installation.

To schedule an appointment, you may contact us via phone at (860) 684-9485. We look forward to helping you with all of your water heater needs.

How Can I Tell if My Furnace Needs Repair?

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Cold woman on the sofa at home with winter coatOnce the winter weather settles in, people rely on their furnaces to keep them warm and comfortable. Because the winter season in our area tends to last for a few months, it can mean that your furnace often has to work hard to keep you and your family as comfortable as possible. Unfortunately, this can mean that occasionally, repairs are needed.

However, it can be difficult to know when your furnace needs service, and sometimes that can lead to a complete breakdown – and more expensive repairs or even replacement. So what are some of the warning signs your furnace may give when it needs repairs? In this article, we’ll share some of the signs and how Stafford Mechanical Services can help.

5 Signs Your Furnace Needs Repair

Nobody wants to think about their furnace breaking down when the temperatures outside are chilly. If you notice any of the following signs, you should call an HVAC professional as soon as possible so that you can potentially avoid complete furnace failure.

  1. Your furnace doesn’t seem to be heating your home evenly. There may be some rooms that are nice and toasty, while other rooms feel chilly and uncomfortable. There are a few things that can cause this issue, including furnace issues, leaks in your ductwork, or problems with your thermostat. A qualified technician can diagnose the problem and make the appropriate recommendations and repairs.
  2. Your utility bills have been on the rise. It’s a given that during the winter months, your energy bills will likely increase somewhat. But if you’re seeing a significant increase for no apparent reason, it could be that your furnace is working harder to do its job than it needs to.
  3. Your furnace is making unusual noises. All furnaces make some noise when they operate, but it shouldn’t be making any loud or strange noises. If you’re hearing grinding, squealing, or banging noises, there is very likely a problem. These types of noises can indicate an issue with the furnace’s motor, fan, or belt, and should be checked out by a professional technician.
  4. Your furnace runs constantly or short cycles. A furnace that runs all the time, or conversely goes on and off frequently, is probably in need of repair. This concern may be due to a dirty filter, thermostat issues, improper sizing, or other concerns.
  5. You find that you need to adjust the thermostat often. You should be able to set your thermostat to an appropriate temperature and forget it. Most homeowners find that setting their thermostat to about 68 degrees Fahrenheit when they’re home is ideal. But, if you’re frequently adjusting the thermostat because you’re either too cold or too warm, there could be a problem with your furnace or the thermostat itself.

If you’re having any of these issues with your heating system, you should call Stafford Mechanical Services to take a look at your furnace and help you with the repairs you need.

Call Stafford Mechanical Services when you need furnace repairs.

At Stafford Mechanical Services, your home comfort is always our top priority. If you think you may need furnace repairs, we’re ready to help you. As a full-service heating contractor, we’re pleased to provide our customers with the heating maintenance, repair, and installation services they need. We proudly service Carrier heating equipment and many other brands as well. You may contact us via phone at (860) 684-9485. We look forward to helping you with all your heating needs.

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality for Comfort & Joy This Holiday Season

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Little boy sitting between his parents on sofa in the living room and using laptop. Father holding poodle in his lapThe holiday season is a special time of year for most of us when we look forward to inviting family and friends into our homes to celebrate the season. Unfortunately, holiday guests can often bring with them allergies, colds, and other viruses. The good news is that you can keep the air cleaner and more comfortable this winter by choosing indoor air quality, or IAQ, products for your home.

Air filtration, air purifiers, and humidifiers are all helpful products once the winter season arrives. In this article, we’ll explain how each of these products can help improve your home’s indoor air quality – and help you keep the season merry and bright! Keep reading below to learn more.

3 Products That Can Help Improve Your IAQ

Today’s indoor air quality products are made with the homeowner in mind. Many modern homes are much more airtight than they were in the past. While this is great for energy efficiency, it can mean that the air circulating throughout your home and HVAC system can become stale and dry. Luckily, the following products can help keep your indoor air clean, fresh, and comfortable.

Air Filtration

If you see specks floating in the air in your home, or if you notice that your furniture needs to be dusted often, chances are you need to improve the air filtration in your home. Air filtration products benefit your home by trapping the pollutants, allergens, and other pathogens that can cause poor indoor air quality.

Proper filtration can also help your home’s HVAC system operate more effectively and efficiently because the air moving in and out of the system is cleaner. In homes where there are allergy sufferers, proper filtration is vital, because it helps to remove common allergens like dust, dander, and pollen.

Air Purification

Many people think air filtration and air purification are the same. However, there are differences, and today’s air purifiers are made to keep harmful contaminants, viruses, and bacteria at bay. For instance, the Air Knight purification system we offer is one of the most advanced air purifiers on the market today. It uses a process that proactively seeks out and purifies pollutants in the air and on surfaces.

The Air Knight is a virtually maintenance-free unit that reduces odors, air pollutants, chemical odors, smoke, mold, bacteria, and viruses. Because of this, the Air Knight is often recommended for homes with anyone with respiratory concerns such as allergies or asthma.

Humidification

The winter season can bring with it dry, uncomfortable indoor air, especially in homes that use a forced-air heating system, such as a furnace. If the air in your home is overly dry, you’ll notice things like dry, flaky skin, itchy eyes, static electricity, and creaky wood furniture and fixtures. All of these are sure signs that your home’s air needs more moisture.

A whole-home humidification system uses your ductwork and HVAC system to deliver moisturized air throughout your home. Depending on the size of the humidifier, it can deliver between 12-18 gallons of water vapor per day. Aside from making the air in your home more comfortable, a whole-home humidifier may also allow you to reduce your temperature settings and save on heating costs, too.

How can Stafford Mechanical Services help my family get cleaner, fresher indoor air?

At Stafford Mechanical Services, we know that now, more than ever, the quality of the air we breathe every day is important. That’s why we’re pleased to provide you with a full range of IAQ products that can help you and your family breathe easier, this winter and all year round. Give us a call at (860) 684-9485 and we’ll be more than happy to tell you more about our indoor air quality products and how we can help you enjoy fresher, cleaner air.

What Can I Do to Keep My Heating System Running Effectively?

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Beautiful Mother and Her Little Daughter are Sitting on a Sofa in the Living Room, They Use Tablet Computer. It's Evening, Room is Cozy and Warm.Once the chilly temperatures return, we rely on our home heating system to stay warm and comfortable. In the Northeastern part of the United States, most homeowners rely on their heating system for several months during the year. That’s why it’s important to make sure your heating system has what it needs to operate at its best and most efficient.

Fortunately, there are some ways that you as a homeowner can help your home’s heating equipment operate both effectively and efficiently once Old Man Winter comes to stay. In this article, we’ll share five tips that can help you, and we’ll explain how Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. can assist in keeping your heating system operating properly. Keep reading to learn more!

5 Tips to Help Your Heating System Keep Your Home Cozy This Winter

Even though it’s still the fall season, cooler weather has arrived. There’s no better time than the present to take some measures that can help you make the most of your home heating system.

  1. Check for drafty doors and windows. Drafty doors and windows let the cold air into your home, and that makes it harder to regulate the temperature and forces your heating system to have to work harder. One way to check for drafts by doors and windows is the candle test. Simply hold a lit candle near the door or window, and if the flame flickers or goes out, a draft is likely. You can find what you need to seal the draft, such as caulk and weatherstripping, at most home improvement stores.
  2. Keep your home well-insulated. Insulation helps to keep the heated air inside your home and keep the cold air outdoors where it belongs. And, proper insulation levels can help during the summer months, too, as it keeps the conditioned air inside and provides a barrier against the heat.
  3. Replace outdated thermostats. Older thermostats often have issues with their sensors, which means they don’t measure the temperature accurately. And, many older models are non-programmable, which means you need to remember to lower the temperature when you leave your home or at bedtime. A programmable or smart thermostat can help your heating system operate more efficiently – helping you save money on your utility bills.
  4. Use the sun’s rays to help heat your home. Even on chilly days, if the sun is shining brightly, it can help keep your home warm. Open your blinds and drapes on sunny days to take advantage of its warmth.
  5. Make sure your HVAC filter is clean. A dirty HVAC filter can cause your system to operate much less efficiently and can even cause the air in your home to be filled with dust and other particles when your heating system runs. It’s good to check it at least monthly during those times when your heating system runs frequently.

By following these tips, you can help your heating system operate more effectively and efficiently, allowing you to enjoy better home comfort, and potentially even save money on your heating bills.

Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. can help you get the heating services you need.

At Stafford Mechanical Services, we work hard to ensure that your home is always comfy. As a full-service heating contractor, we’re pleased to provide our customers with the heating maintenance, repair, and installation services they need. We proudly service Carrier heating equipment and many other brands as well. You may contact us via phone at (860) 684-9485. We look forward to helping you with all your heating needs.

Why Get Heating Maintenance This Fall?

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Autumnal Background. Toy house and dried orange fall maple leaves on grey knitted sweater. Once the fall season arrives, people start to think of good times with family and friends, from holiday dinners to football get-togethers. Because it’s that time of year when we’re more likely to have company indoors, most of us want to be sure our homes are comfortable havens for our guests. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your home’s heating system is working properly.

One of the best ways to do that is by getting your heating system the seasonal maintenance it needs. Aside from ensuring that your system is ready to keep you, your family, and your guests comfortable once the chilly temperatures return, heating maintenance offers many additional benefits. In this article, we’ll talk about the benefits of heating maintenance and how Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. can help. Keep reading to learn more!

5 Reasons to Choose Heating Maintenance for Your Home

Are you still on the fence as to whether you should schedule fall maintenance for your heating equipment? Here are a few reasons why you may want to consider it:

  1. Improved Energy Efficiency: Regular maintenance can increase energy efficiency by ensuring optimal performance of the unit’s components. Filters are cleaned or changed, which improves airflow, and moving parts are lubricated or if worn, replaced, so that the system operates more smoothly. All these factors help to make the system more efficient, saving you money on energy bills.
  2. Longer Equipment Life: Seasonal maintenance can help to prolong equipment life by identifying and addressing potential issues before they become major problems, maintaining optimal performance of the unit’s components, and preventing breakdowns, thus extending the lifespan of the equipment, and reducing costly repairs and replacements.
  3. Cleaner Indoor Air: Maintenance can improve indoor air quality because it ensures that dirty or congested filters are replaced, ductwork is inspected and if necessary, maintained, and any sources of bacterial or mold contamination can be addressed. These factors help to improve the overall air quality inside the home.
  4. Safety Concerns: Maintenance can help to improve equipment safety by identifying and addressing potential hazards, especially concerning electrical connections and proper equipment component operation (such as the furnace ignitor).
  5. System Warranty: Unauthorized equipment maintenance by anyone other than a licensed HVAC contractor may void the equipment warranty. If this happens, the homeowner will likely need to pay out of pocket for any repairs or replacements that the warranty would have covered – and that can be much more costly than proper system maintenance.

Stafford Mechanical Services can help you get the heating maintenance you need.

You and your family deserve a warm, inviting home once the cooler weather hits. At Stafford Mechanical Services, we work hard to ensure that your home is always comfy. As a full-service heating contractor, we’re pleased to provide our customers with the heating maintenance they need.

We proudly service Carrier heating equipment and many other brands as well. You may contact us via phone at (860) 684-9485. We look forward to helping you with all your heating needs.

Seasonal Transitions Are Easier with Ductless

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Family sits on couch with mother adjusting ductless unit with remoteDuring the months of September and October, the temperature outside can fluctuate greatly. It’s often impossible to know if the days will be warm and sunny, or chilly and cloudy. This can make it difficult to keep your home comfortable. Fortunately, there is an all-in-one solution that can help you stay nice and comfortable, no matter what the weather is like outside – ductless cooling and heating.

Ductless systems are a perfect choice for people who do not have ductwork in their homes. Generally, a home that uses baseboard heating likely does not have ductwork. This makes it extremely difficult and obtrusive to install central air conditioning, so many homeowners without ductwork must rely on window air conditioning to stay cool in the summer. Unfortunately, this can leave homeowners with chilly drafts during the transitional months. Ductless systems offer a solution that provides both better efficiency and comfort.

How do ductless systems provide both cooling and heating?

Ductless systems are generally installed as individual units per room or zone. They usually are straightforward to install, with technicians only needing to drill a small hole to connect the indoor and outdoor components. Most ductless systems then use heat pump technology to cool and heat the spaces in which they’ve been installed.

Because they use heat pump technology, they can keep homes cool in the summer and warm in the winter. They do this by transferring heat from one space to another. In the summer months, they remove the heat from the indoor air and transfer it outside. The process is reversed during the winter months, extracting heat from the outdoor air, and moving it inside. Modern ductless systems have been developed to work even in colder climates, so people can rely on them to provide the heating they in chilly weather.

What are some other benefits of ductless cooling and heating?

Aside from providing year-round comfort, ductless systems offer many other benefits, including:

  • Energy Efficiency: Because they use heat pump technology, ductless systems are usually highly energy efficient. According to the Department of Energy, they can offer up to 50 percent energy savings compared to baseboard heating. Not to mention, ductless systems are much more efficient than most window or room air conditioners, and you won’t have to deal with them taking up living space or blocking your view.
  • Improved Indoor Air Quality: Each ductless unit has its own filter, which helps to clear the air of dust, dirt, and other particulates so you can count on the air being cleaner in your home. Additionally, ductless systems work great at keeping humidity levels where they should be in your home, helping reduce bacterial and mold growth.
  • Quiet, Unobtrusive Operation: Most people who own ductless systems are impressed by how quiet they are – much quieter than window air conditioning. And, because they’re mounted high on a wall or in the ceiling, you won’t have the worry of them taking up floor space in your home or becoming a fire or burn hazard, as can happen with space heaters or baseboard heating.

Can Stafford Mechanical Services provide ductless cooling and heating for my home?

We can! At Stafford Mechanical, we offer complete HVAC services, including ductless system installation, maintenance, and repair. When you need ductless cooling and heating for your home, you can count on us to assist you. You may contact us via phone at (860) 684-9485. We look forward to helping you with all your ductless needs.

Why Choose Stafford Mechanical Services?

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Technician servicing an hot-water heaterWe know that when it comes to your home comfort company, you have a lot of choices. It isn’t always easy to know how to choose the best HVAC contractor, and what you should be looking for. You need your cooling and heating system to operate effectively and efficiently, and you need a company that can provide you with the support you need, whether you need maintenance, repair, or a new system installed.

6 Things to Look for in an HVAC Company

There are several things you should keep in mind when choosing the best HVAC company for your home comfort needs. Below, we’ll outline what you should look for, and how Stafford Mechanical Services fits the bill.

  1. How long has the company been in business? Experience matters. When you’re looking for an HVAC company, it’s important to choose one that has been around for a while. Why? The longer a company has been in business, the more likely it is that they know how to keep customers satisfied, and that those customers have recommended the business to others. Stafford Mechanical Services has been helping people stay comfortable since 1991 – more than 30 years!
  2. Does the company provide quality equipment? When choosing an HVAC contractor, it’s important to consider the brands they provide, as well as affiliations with those brands. Many manufacturers require HVAC contractors to be authorized to sell their brands, and they must complete training and meet the appropriate criteria to be considered an authorized dealer. Stafford Mechanical is a Carrier® Factory Authorized Dealer, and we take great pride in representing one of the best brands in the HVAC business.
  3. Will the company provide support before and after the sale? When you choose an HVAC company to install new equipment in your home, you’ll want to look for a contractor that not only can provide the installation but makes sure you get the best possible type of equipment for your home and is able to service it in the future. As a full-service contractor, we’ll make sure the equipment we install for you is the right size and configuration for your home. And, we’ll provide you with any future maintenance or repair services you may need.
  4. Does the company have positive review ratings? Sometimes the best recommendations are word-of-mouth. Check out a company’s Google and Facebook reviews before you choose an HVAC company. You’ll want to read through the positive reviews and see how the company responded to negative ones. While few companies will have a perfect, 5-star rating, you’ll likely want to work with a company that has at least a 4-star rating on both sites. At Stafford Mechanical Services, we’re proud to have a 4.8-star rating on Facebook, and a 4.6-star rating on Google.
  5. Is it easy to request an estimate? An HVAC company shouldn’t make it difficult for you to request an estimate on the work you need done by them. At Stafford Mechanical Services, you’re able to request an estimate directly on our website, and we take the time to meet with our customers to discuss the different types of systems available and the unique needs of their homes.
  6. Does the company have proper licensing and accreditations? Many states and even municipalities require licensure for HVAC companies, as well as various types of insurance. Additionally, there are several accreditations that companies can apply for that show they follow strict guidelines when it comes to employee training and the work they do in your home. Stafford Mechanical Services is fully licensed and insured, our technicians are NATE and EPA certified, and we are accredited with The ACCA Quality Assured (QA) Program and the IGSHPA.

Stafford Mechanical is ready to help you get the HVAC products and services you deserve.

Stafford Mechanical wants to help you and your family with all your home comfort needs. As you can see, we work hard to provide you with the best professional services available, as well as quality Carrier® products that are built to provide effective, efficient heating and cooling, for years to come. Just give us a call at (860) 684-9485 and we will be happy to assist you!

Should I Consider a Geothermal Heat Pump System for My Home?

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Crystal globe on moss, ecology and environment sustainable concept.Most people can agree that nothing feels better on a hot, humid day than the cool comfort provided by an air conditioning system. But some homeowners avoid getting a system for their home because they’re concerned about both energy usage and environmental impact. Today, there are many options available that provide both energy-efficient cooling, as well as a smaller carbon footprint. One of those options is geothermal cooling and heating.

What is Geothermal Cooling?

Geothermal cooling works by absorbing the heat from your home and transferring it underground where the cooler earth absorbs it. A geothermal system consists of a heat pump inside your house and vertical loops buried in the ground outside your house. The heat pump circulates a fluid mixture through the loop, which acts as a heat exchanger. In the summer, the heat pump removes heat from the air inside your house and transfers it to the fluid, which then releases it to the cooler ground. This leaves only cold air inside your house. During the winter months, the process is reversed, pumping heat from the ground into your home.

What are some of the benefits of having geothermal cooling and heating installed in my home?

We briefly explained some of the benefits above regarding geothermal, such as better efficiency and smaller environmental impact. Here are a few more details about the benefits of geothermal:

  • Energy efficiency: Geothermal is very energy efficient, which can save you money on your energy bills. In fact, geothermal systems can save you up to 50% on your heating and cooling costs.
  • Improved home comfort: A geothermal system provides a consistent level of comfort throughout the year, regardless of the outside temperature. That means it can also be used to heat your home in the winter. Instead of pumping the hot air out of your home, it extracts the heat from the ground and pumps it inside, making it a great solution for year-round comfort.
  • Environmentally sound: Geothermal is a renewable energy source, so it is good for the environment. Because it does not require fossil fuels to operate, it does not produce any emissions, so it is a good choice for people who are concerned about air quality.
  • Long lifespan: Geothermal systems have a long lifespan, so you can expect to get many years of use out of them. In fact, the Department of Energy indicates that a properly installed and maintained geothermal system can last for more than 20 years.
  • Incentives: Often, government agencies and manufacturers provide rebates and incentives that can help make geothermal heat pump systems a more attractive choice for homeowners.

What are some of the concerns about geothermal heat pump systems?

While a geothermal system can be a great choice for homeowners looking to save energy and enjoy year-round comfort, there are a few concerns people have when it comes to choosing it. One issue is cost. Geothermal systems are often more expensive than their traditional counterparts, but it’s important to note that energy savings are often enough to offset initial costs. Another concern is space. It’s important to have a qualified HVAC contractor look at your property to ensure there is enough area to install a geothermal system.

Can Stafford Mechanical Services tell me more about geothermal systems?

We can! At Stafford Mechanical, we’re pleased to offer our customers geothermal installation, maintenance, and repair. We can help you decide if a geothermal system is right for your home, and make sure you get the services you need after installation. To learn more about installing a heat pump system in your home, contact us via phone at (860) 684-9485. We look forward to helping you with all your geothermal heat pump needs.

How Do I Know If I Need a New Air Conditioning System?

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

couple is feeling the heat under an AC system that is not working properlyOnce the good old summertime rolls in, many people rely on the cool comfort of air conditioning. Your air conditioning system works hard all summer long to help keep your home at a comfortable temperature. And, if it is well-maintained, your air conditioning system should last a long time, up to 15 years. Unfortunately, the older an AC system gets, the harder it may be for it to keep up with the demands of cooling your home.


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Usually, you’ll begin to see some telltale signs that will let you know that it may be time to consider a new air conditioning system. In this article, we’ll talk about some of the things to look for if you suspect your AC is on its way out, and how Stafford Mechanical Services can help you when it comes time to replace your system. Keep reading to learn more!

Signs Your AC System May Need Replacement

Nobody wants to think about the expense of having to replace an air conditioning system, but the truth is, it can end up costing you more money in the long run to keep an old, outdated system going. Here are a few ways to tell if your system may need to be replaced:

  1. Your energy bills keep increasing. AC systems use energy to operate, and as such you can expect that your utility bills may increase during the summer months. But if you’ve noticed a dramatic spike in your energy bills this summer, there’s a good chance that your air conditioning system is using more energy than it once did to do the same job.
  2. Your system’s refrigerant is expensive to replace. Older systems often develop refrigerant leaks, and your technician will need to recharge it so the system can work properly. If your system uses an older refrigerant, like R-22, it can be very costly to recharge, and may even be impossible.
  3. Your AC is not effectively cooling your home. As air conditioning systems age, it becomes harder for them to provide the same level of cooling as they did when they were first installed. And, many homeowners change the layout of their homes, convert unused rooms into living quarters, or add space over the years – and that means the AC system is often no longer the proper size.
  4. Your system is making unusual noises and/or you notice strange odors. When components inside your AC system are breaking down, you might notice squealing or grinding sounds coming from your unit. You may also notice foul odors that smell like melting plastic or burning rubber. If you notice any of these sounds or odors, you should turn off your system and call a professional.
  5. Repairs are needed more frequently and have become more expensive. Older systems may need repairs on a more frequent basis, as components within the system age and succumb to wear and tear. System components like compressors can be very expensive if they need to be replaced. If the cost of the repair is more than 50 percent of the current value of your system, replacement is recommended.

As you can see, high energy use, expensive and hard-to-find refrigerants, and frequent, costly repairs can often outweigh the cost of replacing an air conditioning system. So, if you have an older system in your home that’s experiencing any of the above concerns, a replacement may be in order.

How can Stafford Mechanical Services help?

At Stafford Mechanical Services, we provide a comprehensive list of air conditioning services, including repair, maintenance, and new system installation. We can help troubleshoot your AC system and help you decide if repair or replacement is more feasible. And, if you decide to replace your old system, we will go over all your options with you and will provide you with expert installation of the quality system you choose. We are a proud Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer and are pleased to install high-quality Carrier air conditioning systems in our customers’ homes. If you’re considering replacing an old air conditioner in your home, Stafford Mechanical is ready to help you. Simply give us a call at (860) 684-9485 and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with you.