Category: News

Spring Into Better Home Comfort with Ductless

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Illustration of a family in their home with a ductless systemOnce spring arrives, people often start to think of the warmer weather ahead. Many people have central air conditioning systems that rely on the home’s duct system installed in their homes. However, homeowners who don’t have ductwork or have added or enhanced areas of their homes may be wondering if there is any sort of AC system available that can help keep them cool and comfortable. Luckily, there is – ductless air conditioning.

Homes with baseboard or radiant heat, for instance, often do not have a system of ductwork, and that can make it impractical or impossible to install a central air conditioning system. Ductless cooling is a great solution to that problem. And because ductless can be installed using either multiple units or just a single unit, it’s also a very practical solution for those who have built an addition or converted space in the home that isn’t attached to the home’s duct system. In this article, we’ll talk about the benefits of ductless cooling, and how it can help you and your family enjoy greater home comfort.

Why choose ductless cooling for my home?

Of course, as we mentioned above, ductless is a great choice for installations where adding ductwork is not a great option, or in rooms outside your home’s duct system. But there are many other benefits to choosing ductless that you might not be aware of. Keep reading to learn more:

  • Energy Efficiency: Because they rely on heat pump technology, ductless systems are highly energy-efficient, helping you save on energy bills, whether you use ductless in a single space or all throughout your home.
  • Sleek Design: Unlike clunky window air conditioners, ductless units are installed high on your wall or on your ceiling, allowing them to provide unobtrusive comfort that doesn’t take up room in your living space.
  • Quiet Operation: Speaking of window air conditioners, in addition to blocking your view and taking up space, they are notoriously loud. Ductless is whisper-quiet, so all you’ll notice is the comfort they provide.
  • Better Air Quality: Ductless systems filter the air before it enters your living space, helping to remove particulates like dust, pollen, and mold. And that helps you breathe fresher, cleaner air!
  • Ease of Use: Ductless systems are easy to control, most via remote. You’ll be able to easily adjust the temperature so it’s just right for you!
  • Year-Round Use: While some homeowners choose to install only ductless air conditioning, there are units available that can provide both cooling and heating, making them the perfect choice for those who need a year-round comfort solution.

How can I learn more about ductless cooling and heating systems?

Finding out if ductless is the right choice for your home is as easy as calling Stafford Mechanical Services. We’ll help you choose the home comfort solution that’s best for you, your family, and your home. Simply give us a call at 860.684.9485, and we will be more than happy to help you.

5 Reasons to Get Air Conditioning Maintenance this Spring

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

technician performing AC maintenanceMarch means that spring has arrived, and that means warmer weather will be here soon, too. For many people, it might seem too early to start thinking about their home’s air conditioning system. But, there’s really no better time than the present to call Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. to book your spring maintenance. Appointments tend to fill up fast, so you’ll want to get one scheduled before the warm weather hits!

Of course, you might be wondering why you should even bother with annual maintenance. You might think it’s an unnecessary expense, or not really important for your system. However, there are many reasons why getting preventive maintenance is a good idea – not only for the comfort of you and your family, but for the efficiency, effectiveness, and durability of your equipment as well.

Why should I get annual maintenance for my air conditioning system?

Many people don’t really think about their home comfort system – until something goes wrong with it. But your home’s air conditioning system is a complex machine with many moving parts, and needs preventive maintenance so it can last longer and operate better. Below are five reasons why getting AC maintenance is so important – learn more:

1. Improved energy efficiency. When the coils and filter of your air conditioning system get dirty, this can make your system have to work harder than usual. Annual maintenance will provide the cleaning your system needs to run more smoothly and in turn, use less energy.

2. Cleaner indoor air. As we mentioned above, components of your air conditioner can get dirty over time. Have you ever turned on your system and instantly noticed a musty smell? That’s because your AC’s evaporator coils play host to mold and mildew. Preventive maintenance includes coil and filter cleaning – helping to keep the air in your home fresher.

3. Longer life for your equipment. Maintenance provides your air conditioning system with the vital cleaning it needs. Your technician will also check to make sure all components are working properly and that refrigerant levels are where they should be. All of these measures will help to ensure any small problems with your AC are taken care of before they become larger ones that can lead to system failure.

4. Warranty maintenance. If you look at your original manufacturer’s warranty, you might notice that in order to keep your warranty intact, you must get regular maintenance for your system. Why is this important? Should your system need larger, more expensive repairs, your warranty can help you save money. Getting annual maintenance is a good safeguard – for your AC system and your warranty!

5. More effective cooling. Of course, the primary reason why you have an air conditioning system in the first place is so you can keep your home cool all summer long – and sometimes, even into the fall. If you’ve noticed your home isn’t as cool and comfortable as usual, that’s generally a good signal that your AC need a check-up. By getting the annual maintenance your system needs, it will operate much more effectively – helping you and your family stay comfortable.

How can Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. help me get the AC maintenance I need?

At Stafford Mechanical Services, we’re pleased to provide our customers with a complete lineup of air conditioning products and services, including annual maintenance. To learn more, or to schedule your AC maintenance, all you need to do is give us a call at (860) 684-9485, and we’ll be happy to help.

When You Need Better Heating in Your Home, Ductless Can Help!

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Woman sitting on couch next to a ductless unitWith so many people working and going to school from home this year, many homeowners are looking for ways to maximize all the spaces in their homes. Additions, seasonal rooms, and converted spaces are often used on a limited basis throughout the year, many times because they simply don’t have access to the home’s duct system. While people may utilize space heaters and window air conditioning as a means to keep these areas climate-controlled, there is a better, more efficient way – ductless heating and cooling.

Ductless heating and cooling systems operate outside of the home’s ductwork, making them a great choice for the above-mentioned areas. So, if you’ve been trying to maximize your home by creating a home office or classroom in these areas, but they’re just not as comfortable as you’d like, a ductless system may be a viable choice for you. Not to mention, ductless systems offer simple installation, so you’ll be able to enjoy comfort in that space quickly.

Aside from year-round comfort, how can installing a ductless system benefit my home?

While being able to enjoy all the spaces in your home, no matter what the weather is like outside, is a significant benefit, you may be wondering if there are other ways ductless can help you and your family. Below, learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system:

  • Ductless systems are discreet. Unlike space heaters that can take up a lot of floor space, or window air conditioning systems that can be loud and obtrusive, a ductless system is mounted high on the wall or ceiling. And, most systems are whisper-quiet, so you’ll stay comfortable without the noise often associated with room heating and cooling equipment.
  • Ductless systems are energy-efficient. Many ductless systems use heat pump technology. This is one of the most energy-efficient heating and cooling technologies available. Your ductless system will likely operate far more efficiently than a window unit or space heater, and provide you and your family with discreet, year-round comfort.
  • Some ductless systems may qualify for an incentive through your utility company. So not only will you be saving money on your energy bills in the long run, you could potentially save money on your new ductless system upfront!
  • Installation is usually quick and mess-free. Unlike a ducted system, your ductless heating and cooling unit can be installed with minimal construction. That’s because the indoor and outdoor components of the system are connected by a small-diameter tube. You’ll be able to enjoy comfort in a matter of hours – without a lot of construction clean-up.
  • Ductless can help your main HVAC system work more effectively and efficiently. That’s because a ductless system eliminates those hot or cold spots in your home. Your main HVAC equipment won’t have to work as hard to heat or cool the entire house – helping you save on energy bills!
  • Comfort control is as easy as pushing a button. Most ductless systems can be operated via remote control, so anyone using the room will be able to easily adjust the temperature as appropriate.

Stafford Mechanical Services can help you get the ductless system you need for your home.

At Stafford Mechanical Services, your comfort is always our priority. We can help you decide if a ductless heating and cooling system is right for you, and install it for you promptly. All you need to do is give us a call at (860) 684-9485, and we’ll be happy to help you find the ductless solution you need.

Heating Maintenance is Important – Here’s Why.

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

technician performing heating system maintenanceChances are, you’ve been running the heating system in your home for a while this winter. If you’ve noticed that it isn’t operating as effectively as you’d like, it may be because you didn’t get annual maintenance this year. If you haven’t, it’s a good idea to call Stafford Mechanical and schedule maintenance with us. It’s never too late to get your heating system the maintenance it needs.

For more information,
call or click here:
860.684.9485
Ask A Tech

When a heating system isn’t properly maintained, you may notice a few telltale signs. As we said earlier, you might not be as comfortable as you’d like. Or, your heating bills may be higher. There are many good reasons for getting heating maintenance on an annual basis, whether you have a furnace, heat pump, boiler, or ductless heating system. We’ve outlined a few of the main reasons below – keep reading to learn more!

5 Reasons You Should Get Heating Maintenance

  1. Your system will be more effective. When your heating system is properly maintained, it simply works better. Your home will be more comfortable without having to keep cranking up the heat.
  2. Maintenance improves heating efficiency. Along with working more effectively, your system will also be more efficient. A part of heating maintenance includes cleaning your system, which helps it run more smoothly and not have to work as hard. That helps your system operate more efficiently, which can save you money on utility bills.
  3. Your system will be less likely to break down. Heating maintenance helps ensure that your system is running smoothly. When your technician inspects and tunes up your system, they’ll find any small problems and get them taken care of for you. And that means you’ll be less likely to have to deal with costly repairs or replacement down the road.
  4. Your indoor air quality will be better. Heating systems tend to collect dirt, dust, and other debris. When not properly maintained, those particles get circulated around your home. Annual maintenance will help ensure system components, including the filter, are clean – helping your indoor air stay fresher and healthier as well.
  5. Your system’s warranty will remain intact. Most equipment manufacturers require annual maintenance as a part of warranty maintenance. Failing to get annual maintenance could void your warranty – and cause expensive out-of-pocket repairs down the road.

When you need heating maintenance, you can count on Stafford Mechanical Services.

Fortunately, keeping your heating system maintained is simple – all you need to do is give Stafford Mechanical Services a call! Our technicians are professionals and trained to provide your heating system with the maintenance it needs. If you haven’t gotten annual maintenance this year, don’t worry – we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment and get your system running at its most effective, efficient best. We proudly service Carrier equipment and many other brands as well. You may contact us via phone at (860) 684-9485. We look forward to helping you get the heating maintenance you need.

Make the Most of Your Home Heating this Winter

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Woman sitting on a couch in a cozy sweaterWhen the temperatures dip outside, it can be difficult for even the best heating system to keep your home warm on its own. Of course, this depends somewhat on the type of home you own, and the type of heating system you have installed. There are steps you can take to help your heating system run optimally, and help your home stay warmer no matter how cold it gets outside. We’re sharing the top five ways you can keep your home warmer, starting today!

For a warmer home this winter,
call or click here:
860.684.9485
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These simple steps can help keep your home warmer without having to turn up the thermostat – helping you save energy and ultimately money on your utility bills. Your family will be more comfortable, too!

Five Easy Ways to Keep Your Home Warmer in the Winter

  1. Make sure your doors and windows are free of drafts. This can cause heat to escape from your home, and cold air to come in. Usually, weatherstripping and draft guards can easily solve the problem.
  2. Consider installing a programmable thermostat. This can help you get better efficiency from your heating system by keeping your home warmer when people are there, but cooler during times when people are away or sleeping.
  3. Humidify your home air. Humidified air generally feels warmer. And, when you humidify your home air, you also help protect your furniture and woodwork from getting dried out, as well as your skin and nasal passages!
  4. Use heavier curtains or draperies. By installing heavier drapes in the winter, you can prevent some of the heat loss – and cold air entry – that can occur around your windows.
  5. Take advantage of the sunlight. On sunnier days, pull the drapes and blinds and let the sunshine in! This will help keep your home warmer by taking advantage of the natural warmth of the sun.

If you need help with your heating equipment, give Stafford Mechanical Services a call.

At Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc., we’re ready to help you keep your home more comfortable all winter long, no matter how cold it gets outside. Whether you need heating maintenance or repair, or a brand-new heating system installed in your home, we’ll be glad to help you meet your needs. We proudly install Carrier heating equipment, and service Carrier 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.

Is Your Furnace Headed for a Breakdown? Here Are 5 Warning Signs.

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

technician inspecting a furnaceOnce winter’s chill settles in, people rely on the heat their furnace provides on a daily basis. But if their furnace isn’t operating properly, it can quickly become a frustrating situation. Frequent repairs are costly and inconvenient, and when your furnace isn’t working right, you’re likely to be concerned about your family’s comfort and safety. Nobody wants to think about being without heat when the cold weather hits, but that’s usually when your furnace breaks down.

Furnace questions or concerns?
Call or click here:
860.684.9485
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So, short of waiting for it to happen, what can you as a homeowner do? Fortunately, there are a few indications that spell trouble for your furnace. Knowing your furnace’s age and repair history, and keeping an eye on your energy bills from year to year are all helpful places to start. And, ENERGY STAR® offers a few signs that point to a possible furnace breakdown – we’re sharing five of the most important signs below.

5 Signs that Your Furnace May Be Headed for a Breakdown

  1. Excessive Dust. The good news is, if your furnace seems to be producing excessive dust without any other problems, the fix is likely a relatively simple one. You probably just need to replace your furnace filter. Your filter collects dust, dirt, and other particles in the course of the usual furnace operation. When it gets dirty, it blows those particles through the air in your home. Changing it whenever it’s dirty helps alleviate this problem. Of course, if there are other issues along with excessive dust, or you’re not sure how to change your filter, calling your heating contractor is always a good idea.
  2. Unusual Noises. As with any other type of equipment, your furnace will make some noise during the course of the usual operation. However, there are some noises that aren’t normal, such as banging or squealing. When those noises are present, there could be issues with belts or the motor, so having it serviced by a professional is probably in order.
  3. Equipment Age. While nobody wants to think about the expense of having to replace a furnace, no equipment lasts forever. If your furnace is around 15 years old, and it isn’t keeping your home as comfortable as you’d like or heating bills are inexplicably creeping up, then it may very well be time to start thinking about a replacement. Of course, there are some things you can do to ensure your furnace lasts as long as possible, like annual maintenance and changing the filter whenever it is dirty.
  4. High Utility Bills. If the price of utilities hasn’t increased substantially, but there has been a noticeable spike in your utility bills, the chances are your furnace is working harder than it needs to – and therefore is using more energy. This could be because of a problem with your furnace that needs to be addressed by a qualified contractor, so the best thing to do is to call your HVAC professional if you notice this is happening.
  5. Frequent Repairs. A furnace that needs to be repaired often is definitely more likely to break down entirely at some point. This is especially true if your furnace is on the older side, or hasn’t received proper annual maintenance. Eventually, you’ll need to weigh the costs of repairs against the cost of purchasing a new system. One way to decide if you should keep repairing your system or consider replacing is following the “5000 Rule” – multiply the repair cost by the age of your unit, and if it meets or exceeds 5000, it may be time to replace. For instance, if your furnace is 12 years old, and the repair is $480, that comes out to 5,760 – and a replacement may be in order.

What to Do If You Think Your Furnace Might Need Repair or Replacement

If your furnace is showing any of the above signs, or you’re simply concerned that it isn’t operating properly, your next step is to contact a trusted heating contractor. No matter what your heating need, 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.

Heating System 101: Learn About the Different Types for Your Home

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

technician inspecting a heating system

If you’ve been considering replacing the heating system in your home, you should know that gone are the days when the only systems available to customers were either furnaces or boilers. Home comfort technology has advanced a great deal over the past couple of decades, and homeowners have many more options when it comes to their home heating.

For more information
call or click here:
860.684.9485
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So, short of waiting for it to happen, what can you as a homeowneAt Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc., we’re pleased to offer our customers an array of heating systems that can help them enjoy better comfort and efficiency. Our skilled technicians are specially trained in the installation, maintenance, and repair of many different types of heating systems, so you can count on expert service from us.

Learn about the heating systems Stafford Mechanical can install in your home.

At Stafford Mechanical, it’s important to us that you always get all the information you need when it comes to making a large HVAC purchase like a heating system. Below, please find a description of the different types of heating systems we offer:

  • Furnaces: Furnaces are generally centralized heating that sends heated air through a home’s duct system. Furnaces generally use fuel oil, electricity, or gas to heat the air.
  • Boilers: Boiler systems work similarly to furnaces, except they use heated water instead of heated air. The heated wateHow do I know what type of heating system is right for my home?

It can be difficult to know the exact system that will best suit your home, but usually, if you’ve had a furnace or boiler installed it’s best to replace it. Most of the time, these heating systems are between 10-20 years old by the time they need replacement, so you can count on a new furnace or boiler to be much more energy-efficient than the one it’s replacing. Additionally, some homes can benefit from the addition of ductless heating units or radiant heat in specific rooms or spaces. The best thing to do is to contact Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. and schedule a consultation with us.

When you choose to work with Stafford Mechanical for your heating needs, you’re working with a full-service HVAC contractor. We can help you get the new heating system you need from quality manufacturers such as a Carrier®. And, we can help you with any service you might need after the installation because we provide complete annual maintenance and repair services.

If you’re ready for more effective, efficient heating this winter, give us a call at (860) 684-9485 and we will be happy to assist you.

The Top 5 Reasons You Need Fall Maintenance

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

While the autumn season is still providing us with some warm days, the chilly winter weather will be here sooner than many of us would like. You will want to make sure your heating system is ready to take on the cold weather ahead. Just like getting your vehicle inspected and tuned up, getting your heating system maintained is good practice, too. The HVAC professionals at Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. can provide you with the annual maintenance your system needs to keep you warm all winter long.

To learn more about
heating maintenance,
call or click here:
860.684.9485
Ask A Tech

You can count on our highly-skilled heating technicians to help you with your heating maintenance needs, effectively and efficiently. However, you might be wondering why you even need to think about heating maintenance in the first place. Believe it or not, there are many important reasons why you should choose annual maintenance for your heating system, from better efficiency to warranty maintenance. Learn more about the benefits of heating maintenance below.

Why You Should Choose Heating Maintenance for Your Home

  • Improved Efficiency. Heating maintenance includes cleaning your system, replacing a dirty filter, and proper lubrication of mechanical parts. Your system will work much better, helping to improve energy efficiency – which can help you save on heating bills!
  • Better Air Quality. Heating systems, especially forced-air systems like furnaces, can blow dust and other particles throughout your home. Often, a dirty air filter is a cause. With heating maintenance, the dirty filter will be replaced or cleaned, helping to improve the air quality in your home.
  • Longer System Life. Your vehicle probably wouldn’t last too long if you never changed the oil or got new tires. The same goes for your heating system. Not getting yearly cleanings and check-ups can lead to system failure later on – and possibly premature replacement.
  • Fewer Expensive Repairs. Part of your annual maintenance includes a full system check-up, which can locate small, easy-to-fix issues before they become larger ones. Taking care of problems earlier than later can help prevent system failure – and a much more expensive repair or even replacement – down the road.
  • Maintaining the Warranty. Many people do not realize that most heating equipment manufacturers require maintenance to keep the warranty intact. Failure to get heating maintenance per your warranty’s requirements can void it – leaving you to pay out-of-pocket expenses that would otherwise be covered.

Stafford Mechanical can help you get the heating maintenance you need this fall.

Getting the annual heating maintenance you need is as easy as calling Stafford Mechanical at (860) 684-9485. We will be more than happy to schedule an appointment with you. Keep us in mind for your heating repair and installation needs, too.

Not Happy with Your Indoor Air Quality? We Can Help!

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

As we enter late-summer, many people start to see their seasonal allergies resurface. That’s because weeds and grasses like goldenrod and ragweed blossom and the leaves that fall from the trees often grow mold. As a result, those with seasonal allergies can suffer significantly.

Unfortunately, this year allergy symptoms can be even more cause for worry. Scratchy throats, runny noses, and coughing are all common allergy symptoms. The good news is, products are available that can help reduce pollen in your home – eliminating some of the worries for you.

Learn about the products that can help reduce and remove allergens from your home’s air.

For better indoor air quality,
call or click here:
860.684.9485
Ask A Tech

Because of COVID-19, people are spending more time in their homes than they possibly did in the past. As such, their indoor air needs to be fresh, clean, and free of as many contaminants as possible – most especially for those with allergies. The professionals at Stafford Mechanical Services are ready to help. We have the products you need to improve your indoor air quality (IAQ), including the following:

  • Air Filtration: We’re happy to help you with your air filtration needs. Our filters are beneficial because they trap pollutants, allergens, and other pathogens that can cause inadequate indoor air quality.
  • Air Purification: Our air purification system helps keep your home’s air fresh, clean, and contaminant-free. Our system uses a unique process that produces ionic oxidizers that actively seek out and purify pollutants in the air and on surfaces. As a result, it reduces the number of odors, pollutants, smoke, mold, bacteria, and viruses in your indoor air.

For those who deal with allergies or other respiratory concerns, air filtration and air purification may be vital. By choosing these products, you and your family will notice improved indoor air quality right away. The air will likely smell much fresher, and you’ll notice less dust and other particles in the air circulating around your home.

Stafford Mechanical can help you get the best air quality for your home.

Now more than ever, the quality of the air we breathe every day is crucial – especially for those with respiratory concerns 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 of your comfort needs.

Air Conditioning System on the Fritz? We Can Help!

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

When the summer temperatures get too hot to handle, most people turn to their home’s air conditioning system for relief and comfort. Our home cooling systems allow us a reprieve from the summer heat, giving us space to relax, cool down, and sleep better at night. But, if your home’s AC system is acting up, you and your family might not be enjoying the best comfort possible.

For AC Repair,
call or click here:
860.684.9485
Ask A Tech

Fortunately, there are a few ways you can tell if your air conditioning system needs some service. Of course, if it isn’t operating at all, you should call your HVAC contractor and schedule an appointment right away. But, there are a few other indicators that are more subtle, but can point to air conditioning concerns that shouldn’t be ignored.

5 Signs You May Need AC Repair Services

If you’re concerned that your air conditioner isn’t performing as well as it should, here are a few signs that you might need some repairs:

  1. Utility bills are on the rise. If you’ve noticed an increase in your utility bills that seems unusual, there is a chance your AC is working harder than it has to be. This could indicate an issue with your system – it could be as simple as a dirty filter. Check your filter first; if that’s not the problem, it’s probably time to give Stafford Mechanical Services a call.
  2. Different temperatures throughout your home. If you have central air and notice that some rooms are noticeably warmer than others, there could be a problem with your air ducts or the sizing of your current AC system.
  3. Noises coming from your unit. Obviously, your air conditioning system will make some noise when it runs. But if those noises sound like grinding, whining, or pinging, it could indicate an issue with your system.
  4. Your home is dustier than usual. If you’re noticing extra dust flying through the air when your system is operating, chances are you need to change the filter in your system. This is a simple measure that you can do yourself, but if you’re not comfortable with that, our technicians are happy to help.
  5. You’re just not comfortable. Maybe you have to keep adjusting your thermostat, or maybe your system isn’t cooling your home down as well as it should. If you’re noticing that your AC system is simply not keeping you as comfortable as it has in the past, you may need some repairs.

Getting the air conditioning repair you need is as easy as calling Stafford Mechanical.

At Stafford Mechanical Services, we’re ready to help you get the air conditioning repair services you need to be comfortable all summer long. We take great pride in not only providing our customers with top of the line equipment from brands such as Carrier®; we are also pleased to offer you professional services from our expert technicians. So, if you need repair services, give us a call at (860) 684-9485. We’ll be happy to help with all your home comfort needs.