Category: Heating

5 Ways to Keep Warm During a Heating System Breakdown

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Woman and child seated by a window reading a bookIt’s Murphy’s Law (or National Lampoon’s Christmas) – if your heating system is going to break down, it’s going to do so when you have a house full of people staying over for the holidays. What can you do if you have all the relatives over, and you suddenly realize that your heating system isn’t working? Well, the first thing we hope you do is give Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. a call. We’re available 24/7 for emergency heating services, and our top priority is keeping you and your family comfortable.

You’ll probably want to keep heat loss at a minimum while you wait for us, though, so here are five simple measures you can take in order to stay comfortable while waiting for service:

Block Window and Door Drafts

Exterior doors and windows can be a top culprit when it comes to home heat loss. Rolling up towels or blankets and placing them at the bottom of your doors and windows can help block cooler air from coming in and warmer air from leaving. If you have a door that goes through your garage or an enclosed porch and need to leave, choose that one instead of one leading directly outside – letting the cold air in will only hasten the drop in your indoor temperatures.

Use Curtains to Keep Heat In

Curtains can work to help you during a heating system breakdown. For instance, you can open curtains a bit if it’s sunny out to let some of the heat from the sun in, or, if it’s dark and dreary out, you can keep them closed so the heat stays in.

Congregate in the Living Room

Or whichever room has the most space to accommodate the whole family. Keep any interior doors shut so the heat stays in, and make sure you have plenty of blankets, sweaters and even hats and mittens. Consider doing something active like dancing or playing games that require movement.

Go Indoor Camping

This sounds funny, we know, but if you have a tent and ample room, put it up inside. The kids will love it, and you can gather inside and tell stories, read books, or just pretend that you’re on a fun camp-out. The tent will serve to capture the heat from your own body, as well as everyone else’s – keeping everyone toasty. Please do not build a fire for s’mores, though – unless, of course, you have a fireplace!

Dream By the Fire

If you do have a fireplace in your home that is operable and well-maintained, you will likely want to get the fire going in the case of a heating system failure. Gas or electric fireplaces are easy enough to turn on and off as needed. Wood fireplaces, as long as the chimney is in good order, are another good choice for keeping your family warm while you wait for repair services.

Of course, we want you to remain safe during your heating emergency. Be mindful of carbon monoxide levels in your home. If your CO detector indicates the presence of carbon monoxide in your home, crack open a window, get your family out of the house and someplace safe, and call your local fire department. Be aware, too, that many portable heaters that run on some form of fuel produce carbon monoxide. Never use one indoors that has been designed for outdoor use, or better yet, use an electric space heater.

When you choose Stafford to help you with your emergency heating needs, we’ll provide you with top-of-the-line service from our highly skilled HVAC technicians. We want to help you save money and most importantly, to stay comfortable no matter how chilly the winter weather gets. When you need emergency heating repair services for your home, rely on us to help. Simply give us a call at 860.684.9485 and we’ll be pleased to assist you.

Five Signs That It May Be Time For A Furnace Replacement

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Woman with child on lap seated by a window

Winter is coming… have you been thinking about your home heating needs? One thing’s for certain, you’ll want to be sure your furnace is prepared for the chilly weather ahead. If you noticed last winter that your furnace might be in need of a major repair, or that it’s reaching an age where replacement is inevitable, it’s time to start thinking about replacing your old furnace. The Better Business Bureau offers some solid advice on how to know it’s time for furnace replacement.

Here are five signs that you may need a furnace replacement:

An Increase in Utility Bills. Have you noticed that your energy bills increase year after year, beyond the increases in fuel costs? If so, it may be time to consider replacement. But take heart – if you haven’t had annual furnace maintenance in a while, that could be a prime factor. A good cleaning sometimes is all it takes; however, if your utility bills don’t improve even after annual maintenance, your system could be on its way out.

A Lot of Expensive Repairs. If your furnace is being maintained regularly, but you’re still experiencing system breakdowns – and the subsequent repairs – your furnace could be failing. The older your furnace gets, the more likely this is to occur. You’ll need to carefully evaluate whether the cost of repairs outweighs the purchase price of a new, more efficient furnace. Often, a new furnace is far more cost-effective than making repeated, costly repairs.

Static Cling and Creaky Floorboards: Older heating systems were made in such a way that they kept household moisture levels very low. This led to people experiencing dry, flaky skin, woodwork and furniture drying out, static electricity and even respiratory concerns. While damp air can be problematic, so can overly dry air. Modern furnaces account for that and allow for the right amount of moisture in the air.

Strange Noises from the Basement. Clanging, popping, rattling – none of these noises are ones you want your furnace to be making. These sounds are more than just annoying; they’re an indication that there could be real problems going on with your furnace. These noises can be a sign of pressure buildup or other hazards, and you should call Stafford right away to get to the root of the problem.

Fluctuating Temperatures. You may notice that you need to adjust your thermostat on a frequent basis in order to stay comfortable. Or, that your home takes an unusually long time to heat up. Of course, when you can’t regulate the temperature in your home, the first place to look is the thermostat. If that isn’t the issue, it’s probably time to have a professional look at your furnace – especially one that is older and/or has needed frequent repairs.

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

When you choose Stafford to help you with your furnace needs, we’ll provide you with top-of-the-line equipment, installed by our highly skilled HVAC technicians. We want to help you save money and most importantly, to stay comfortable no matter how chilly the winter weather gets. When you need furnace installation for your home, rely on us to help. We proudly provide Carrier® equipment for your home comfort needs. Simply give us a call at 860.684.9485 and we’ll be pleased to assist you.

Enjoy Better Comfort & Save Energy This Winter With a Heat Pump System

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Woman reading a book on an orange chair

Autumn has just arrived, so people aren’t necessarily thinking about the cold chill of winter quite yet. But if the telltale signs point to needing a new heating system for your home, it’s the perfect time of the year to install a new system. Fall is a great time to get into a new heating system. Outdoor temperatures are still mild enough that you probably won’t need your heating system running quite yet, allowing for the time it takes to remove your old system and replace it. And, manufacturers and utility companies often have rebates and incentives available this time of year, so you’ll likely be able to save some money.

If you’d like a system that offers not only optimal comfort, but also excellent efficiency, then why not consider a heat pump system? Many people have never really heard of heating equipment outside the traditional furnace or boiler. And, those who have heard of heat pump systems often think that they don’t work well in colder New England climates. But this is a misnomer – advances in heat pump technology have made it possible for heat pumps to operate effectively and efficiently even in colder climates.

According to the Department of Energy, “Cold climate ASHPs (air-source heat pumps) can reduce household energy consumption by up to 40 percent, with homeowners currently utilizing electric resistance (e.g., baseboard heat) or fuel oil to heat their homes likely to see the most cost savings.” How do heat pumps operate so efficiently, you may wonder. They work by using electricity to move heat from cool spaces to warm spaces, making the cool area cooler and the warm area warmer. During the colder months, they bring heat from outdoors indoors.

An added bonus? They can keep your home cool in the summer too!

The way heat pumps do that is essentially by reversing the process that keeps your home warm in the winter. They move the heat from your house outdoors, and because they move heat rather than create it, they can be much more energy efficient than traditional systems. So having a heat pump can mean better year-round comfort and energy efficiency – helping you cut your energy consumption and pay less on your utility bills.

And, you can replace your current system with heat pump technology, whether you have ducts or not. There are applications that work with your current ductwork, as well as in homes that previously used baseboard or radiant heat rather than forced air. Ductless offers the same energy-efficient home comfort as a ducted heat pump system, but can easily be installed in any room of your home. And that means you won’t have to deal with a massive renovation project, and the inconvenience and mess that accompanies it!

If you’re ready to consider an effective, efficient heat pump system for your home this autumn, Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. is ready to assist you. 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 of your heating needs.

Cooler Weather is Coming… Is Your Heating System Prepared?

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

White house with red trim in rural setting with white fenceFall has arrived. We’ve enjoyed a fairly warm transition from summer into autumn, but cooler weather is on its way. Now is the time of year when people begin to ready their homes for the winter months ahead. From adding weather-stripping around doors and windows, to cleaning the gutters, it’s important to be prepared for when the snow flies. And that goes for your heating system too – is it winter-ready?

HGTV recommends that you have a professional, like one of our expert technicians here at Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc., perform a routine check on your heating system before the colder weather arrives. At Stafford, we know how important annual maintenance is for your heating system. That’s why we offer a comprehensive annual service agreement that ensures your furnace, boiler or heat pump operates effectively, efficiently and safely all winter long.

Additionally, it’s recommended that you change your filter monthly during those months when your heat is running.

Why? There are a couple of reasons. First of all, your heating system filter catches all the dirt, dust and allergens that flow through your air ducts. That means filters get clogged and dirty. Airflow is restricted, and the air that does make it into your living space is of poor quality – and that can cause allergies and other respiratory concerns.

Also, trying to push the air through a dirty filter makes your heating system work harder, which can lead to inefficiency and a shorter system life. When Stafford visits your home to perform your annual service, we’ll be more than happy to show you where your heating system filter is located, and how to change it. Of course, you’ll always have the option of giving us a call if you’d like us to change your filter for you.

We’re pleased to provide you with the maintenance you need on virtually all types of heating systems, including:

At Stafford, we’re happy to help our customers get the most out of their heating system. By choosing one of our heating maintenance plans, you’ll receive an annual cleaning and inspection of your home’s heating system. And, you’ll get priority service in the event of an emergency. Your heating system will perform more efficiently – and it will be less likely to experience a costly breakdown.

We’re pleased to service Carrier® heating equipment, and many other brands as well. Let us help you get your home heating system prepared for the cooler weather ahead by calling us today at 860.684.9485 to schedule your annual heating system maintenance appointment with us. We look forward to helping you stay comfortable all winter long!

Choosing Ductless: The Benefits May Surprise You!

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Living room with ductless unit over a couch

More and more, people are hearing about ductless heating and cooling. However, few people know that there are numerous benefits when it comes to choosing this home comfort technology for their home. Ductless heat pump systems have the capability of keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and with advanced technology, many of these systems are adaptable to the cold climate we experience. You can enjoy comfort all year round with today’s ductless – and much more.

Maybe you have an area of your home like an addition, converted attic or garage, or finished basement that could benefit from heating and cooling. Or, perhaps you’re considering replacing your entire antiquated electric heating system. Ductless air conditioning and heating is the perfect solution in both scenarios. That’s because ductless is just as the name indicates – a system that can keep your home comfortable year round, without the need to install additional ductwork.

And because ductless systems use heat pump technology, they are extremely energy efficient.

Each zone (if you install a ductless mini-split system) has its own thermostat. As a result, temperatures throughout the home can be precisely controlled. Because you’re only conditioning spaces that are being used, energy is saved – and ultimately money on your utility bills. And, according to the Department of Energy (DOE), ductless systems are also more efficient because of the simple fact they don’t use ductwork – the DOE indicate that duct losses can account for more than 30 percent of energy consumption for space conditioning.

But beyond the advanced comfort and energy efficiency these systems can provide, many homeowners love ductless because it’s both quiet and unobtrusive. Because ductless systems are so flexible because they come in a number of styles, including high wall, ducted console, and cassette units. Ductless is also engineered to provide low operating noise. Unlike clunky, noisy window units ductless systems can be streamlined to fit into your home environment seamlessly. All you’ll notice is better comfort.

With ductless, you and your family will breathe easier, too.

A final benefit to ductless is its ability to help with allergen control in your home. Each separate unit has its own filter. That lets the air in rooms that have ductless installed be more comfortable, cleaner and fresher. With ductless, the air is circulated within the confined space of the room. That means no cross-contamination such as fumes, dust and odors from other areas of the home.

Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. is ready to assist you with your ductless heating and cooling needs. 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 get into a new ductless system for your home.

Top 5 Reasons Why Seasonal Heating Maintenance is Important

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Most people make sure their vehicles have the proper windshield wipers and tires before the winter weather hits. They likely take their car in for a tune-up, inspection and oil change before the snow flies, too. Yet, many of us don’t think of our home comfort equipment the same way. But, the furnace in your home needs proper care in order to run its very best, just like your automobile does. You may have heard about seasonal maintenance, but you may not understand the importance of it.

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At Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc., we think it’s important to do more than simply tell our customers that they need a product or service. That’s why we take the time to explain to you the benefits of the services we provide. That includes seasonal heating maintenance. Choose us to help you get the maintenance you need for your furnace. You’ll quickly see the advantages every time the heat kicks on.

Here are five reasons why seasonal heating maintenance is good for your furnace:

Energy Efficiency

When you maintain your furnace properly, it enjoys better energy efficiency. That’s because mechanical components are lubricated and work more efficiently, requiring less energy to get the job done. And, cleaning or changing out the filter helps with efficiency, too, as your furnace can easily circulate air through your home – instead of trying for force it through a clogged, dirty filter.

Life of Equipment

Seasonal maintenance helps to prolong the life of your equipment. All the important inner workings of your equipment are checked, cleaned and maintained, so It also helps to find any tiny issues and remedy them before they become larger ones that are more difficult to fix.

Air Quality

Think about it – when your furnace isn’t clean, how can the air moving through it be? A well-maintained system allows for freer airflow – and keeping your filters changed or cleaned on a regular basis is an important part of that. Your filter will trap many of the common allergens that plague your home, including pollen, dust, and pet dander. Getting furnace maintenance helps you breathe easier – literally!

Savings on Repairs

Even with preventive maintenance, sometimes you may need repair services. Usually, annual maintenance helps keep the repairs on the smaller – and less costly – side. When you have a maintenance plan from Stafford, you will save money on your repairs, should you need them. Plus, many warranties indicate that annual maintenance is necessary for the warranty to remain valid.

Better Home Comfort & Safety

When your furnace is running properly, your whole home will be more comfortable. As mentioned above, you’ll have better indoor air quality. And, it’s less likely that your furnace will experience any fires or carbon monoxide emissions, so you can feel a whole lot safer when your furnace is maintained. Helpful hint – coincide checking and/or changing smoke and CO detector batteries with your annual furnace maintenance for an added layer of protection.

Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. provides the seasonal maintenance you need for your home.

As you can see, seasonal maintenance is an important part of staying comfortable all winter long. To get the furnace maintenance you need for your home’s comfort and safety, simply contact Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. at (860) 684-9485, and we will be more than happy to help you get the maintenance you need.