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It’s Almost Fall Allergy Season – Are You Prepared?

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

young girl blowing her noseSummer is winding down, and before you know it, autumn will arrive. While there are so many things to look forward to in the fall – changing leaves, crisp, sunny days, and pumpkin spice everything – there are unfortunately some culprits that can make the fall season a less than exciting thought. For many people, allergens are on the rise, and that can make autumn a sniffly, sneezy, and uncomfortable time of year.

But you should know, there are products available on the market that can help keep fall allergens at bay in your home, helping you to create a safe haven. In this article, we’ll talk about the two most common autumn allergens, how they can affect you, and the products available that can help keep them out of your indoor air.

First, let’s talk about fall allergy symptoms and the two most common culprits.


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Most of the time, people who have allergies are well aware of the fact that there is some particulate in the air they’re breathing that’s causing a problem. The Allergy & Asthma Foundation of America describes symptoms that include:

  • Sneezing
  • Nasal symptoms – itching, congestion, runny nose
  • Itchy mouth, ears, and eyes
  • Irritated eyes (red, watery, swollen)

They add that mold allergies often produce similar symptoms. Mold, however, can also get into the lungs and cause an uptick in asthma and other respiratory concerns.

Mold

While most people enjoy watching the leaves on the trees change to all sorts of beautiful colors, that also signals that those pretty leaves will soon be falling to the ground. Once there, leaves and other organic materials that are beginning to die off become the perfect place for mold to grow. Of course, you might be thinking, “How does that affect my indoor air quality and cause allergies once I’m inside?”

Unfortunately, mold can enter your home on your shoes and clothing. And, because fall tends to be a damp season, areas of your home prone to moisture, like bathrooms and basements, may grow mold more easily this time of year. If you suffer from a mold allergy, it’s important to take all the measures possible to keep mold out of your home – and out of your respiratory system!

Ragweed

Ragweed is one of the main causes of allergic rhinitis in North America, mainly because this plant can grow anywhere. From rolling meadows to cracks in the pavement, where there’s a patch of dirt, there’s an opportunity for ragweed to take root. Ragweed produces about one billion grains of pollen per plant per season, so you can see that anyone with an allergy to it is bound to suffer once it starts blooming – usually late summer throughout the fall season.

Ragweed pollen is also highly mobile and travels easily through the air. That means it can land on your clothing, your hair, and even on your pets! It can enter your home easily that way, as well as through an open window or door. While keeping ragweed pollen out of your home may seem like an impossible feat, there are fortunately some products that can help.

What types of products can help me keep my indoor air free of allergens?

Fortunately for allergy sufferers, there now are several types of products available on the market today that can help you improve your home’s indoor air quality. Learn more about the products offered by Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. below:

Air Filtration: Did you know one of the easiest ways you can keep the air in your home cleaner and fresher is simply by making sure your system’s filter is changed regularly? Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. is happy to help with your air filtration needs. Air filters are beneficial because they trap pollutants, allergens, and other pathogens that can cause poor indoor air quality.

Air Purification: Stafford proudly offers our customers indoor air quality (IAQ) products that keep the air in their homes fresh, clean, and contaminant-free. We offer 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.

Okay, I want to learn more about better indoor air quality. What’s next?

Fall allergies don’t have to get the best of you this year – you can count on Stafford Mechanical Services to help you get the products you need to keep mold and pollen at bay. You may contact us via phone at (860) 684-9485. We look forward to helping you with all of your comfort needs.

How Can I Help My Air Conditioning System Operate More Efficiently?

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

grass cutout in the shape of a houseHaving an air conditioning system in your home is one of the best ways you can help your family stay comfortable during the hottest months of the year. Of course, your AC system relies on energy to operate, and you’ll probably see an increase in your energy bills during the summer months. In fact, the Department of Energy notes that average homeowners can attribute 6 percent of their annual energy costs to home cooling.

As a result, it’s important to ensure that your home’s air conditioning system is operating as effectively and efficiently as possible. But what can you do to keep your home nice and cool, all while keeping your energy usage as low as possible? Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to help with your air conditioning system’s efficiency – today!

5 Steps You Can Take Today for Better AC Efficiency

As you know, your home’s air conditioning works hard to keep the air in your home cool and comfortable for you and your family. And, the hotter it gets, the harder it has to work. That’s why it’s so important to minimize the amount of heat in your home, especially when the temperatures outside are soaring. Below, we’re sharing five easy things you can do right away to help keep the heat out – and your air conditioning system running as efficiently as possible.

  1. Minimal use of appliances that heat up your home: This includes home appliances like ovens, stoves, and dryers. When you run these appliances, they naturally cause your home to heat up – and your AC to work harder.
  2. Turn off ventilation fans when not in use: Your ventilation fans in the bathroom and kitchen do a great job of drawing the heat out of your home when you’re showering or using the stove. But, they can also draw the cool air out, so make sure they’re off when you’re not using them to remove heat from your living space.
  3. Close windows and doors: Open windows and screen doors can let the heat into your home, and allow the cooled air to escape. When your air conditioning system is running, closing windows and doors will help keep the cool air in where it belongs, and your AC won’t have to work so hard to do its job.
  4. Change the direction of your ceiling fans: Set your ceiling fans so they turn in the counterclockwise direction. This allows the cooled air to be pushed down into your living space, rather than be drawn up to the ceiling.
  5. Consider dehumidification: Humid air holds the heat. Your air conditioning system removes some of the humidity from your indoor air, but if it’s especially humid inside your home, you can help your AC system operate more efficiently by installing a dehumidifier to remove the excess moisture.

Call Stafford Mechanical Services if you’re concerned about your AC’s efficiency.

If you’re concerned that your air conditioning system is using more energy than it should be, it may be time to have a professional check it out. You may need air conditioning maintenance, or possibly a repair. At Stafford Mechanical Services, we work hard to make sure our customers enjoy the greatest level of home comfort possible. Our skilled technicians are able to troubleshoot virtually any make and model of air conditioning system, including Carrier® products. We’ll thoroughly diagnose your system and get to the bottom of any issues, including system inefficiency. Just give us a call at (860) 684-9485, and we’ll be glad to schedule an appointment with you.

Do You Have Pets? Then You Might Need These HVAC Products.

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Woman and dog on couch next to a ductless unitFor many people, sharing their home with a pet is a rewarding experience. While there are all types of pets in homes across the country, in the United States, people are most likely to own dogs, cats, or both. Of the approximately 85 million households with pets across the country, more than half of them call a canine or a feline a member of their family.

With pet ownership comes responsibility, of course. Most pet owners will tell you that they view their four-legged friend as a member of the family. As a dog or cat parent, there are a few things you can do to help your pet enjoy better comfort – and help the humans in your home in the process!

Keeping Your Pet Comfortable at Home

Most families can’t spend their entire day at home with their pets and often choose to contain them in a specific area of their home while they’re away at work or school. It’s important to keep those areas comfortable for your pets, especially during the summer months. This is especially true if you need to crate your pet for any length of time. If the room you keep your pet in while you’re away from home isn’t air-conditioned, it can get uncomfortably hot for your dog or cat. Fortunately, there is an easy way to make this space in your home more pet (and human) friendly – ductless air conditioning.

Unlike window air conditioning, a ductless unit won’t block out your furry friend’s window view, because ductless systems are attached high on your wall or ceiling. You also won’t have to worry about any cords being chewed, pulled, or unplugged like you might a window unit. And, ductless is easy to control – some systems can even be attached to your Wi-Fi, so on those days when the temperatures might get unexpectedly hot, you can turn the ductless unit on for your pet remotely. What’s more, ductless AC is energy-efficient, so you’ll use less energy than you would with a window air conditioner. And, it makes the space it’s installed in more comfortable and accessible for your entire family – furry or human!

Cutting Down on Pet Fur, Dander, and Allergies: 5 Tips

Of course, sharing a home with a dog or a cat also means sharing your home with their fur and dander. And, for pet owners who may suffer from some allergies, this can cause some discomfort. Here are a few tips to help you keep your home as free from fur and dander as possible – and a few ways Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. can help, too.

  1. Groom your pet regularly. Cats and dogs can always benefit from a good brushing and occasional baths. This helps you control their shedding and keep unwanted hair (at least to a larger degree) off furniture and clothing. And, keep in mind that some dog breeds require frequent professional grooming to best keep their fur under control.
  2. Vacuum carpeted areas often. Especially in the spring and fall, when your pets tend to shed the most. You’ll want to vacuum at least weekly, and likely more often during prime shedding months. And, keep tiled and wood floors swept and damp-mopped as well. You may even want to vacuum your upholstered furniture, too, as it tends to be a pet hair magnet.
  3. Keep your pet’s bed – and your bed – clean and fresh. If your pet uses a pet bed, it’s important to keep it as clean as possible if you don’t want excessive fur flying around your home. If you share your bed with the resident kitty or doggo, you’ll want to make sure you regularly wash your bedding, too.
  4. Make sure your HVAC filter is clean. Your HVAC filter gets dirty with use, but when you have pets, it can become clogged more quickly. That’s because pet hair easily circulates through the air in your home – and through your HVAC system. If you know how to check and change your own filter, you’ll probably want to do so more often if you share your home with furry friends. If you’re not sure, just give Stafford Mechanical a call and we’ll be happy to help!
  5. Consider installing indoor air quality products. Many people with pet allergies still choose to keep a cat or dog in their home, in spite of feeling sniffly or sneezy. Very often, people are allergic to the dander – the tiny flecks of skin shed by pets. Certain types of indoor air quality products, like air purifiers, can help to cut down on the amount of dander in your home’s air. Stafford Mechanical offers air purification systems that can help!

Call Stafford Mechanical for the products you need to keep your family comfortable.

Whether you’re looking for a cooling system that can help your entire family – furry and human – more comfortable, or indoor air quality products that can help control pet hair and dander, Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. can help you. Just give us a call at (860) 684-9485, and we’ll be happy to discuss your options with you!

When Is It Time to Replace My Old Air Conditioning System?

Posted on by Stafford Mechanical

Technician repairing an AC systemIf you’ve been concerned about the aging air conditioning system in your home, but you’re not sure whether or not it’s time to replace it, you’re not alone. Most of the time, people wait until their air conditioner finally breaks down to replace it. Unfortunately, this can be costlier than replacing it before that final breakdown. But how do you know that your AC needs to be replaced? The good news is, there are a few telltale signs you can be on the lookout for.

In this article, we’ll explain what those signs are – and we’ll also tell you how they can sap money from your wallet over time. And, we’ll share with you how Stafford Mechanical Services can help you get the air conditioning you need – for less. Keep reading to find out the five signs that you can look out for that could indicate that it’s time for an air conditioning replacement in your home.

5 Signs Your AC Needs Replacement

  1. Your air conditioning system is more than 10 years old. When air conditioning equipment reaches a certain age – usually around 10 years – its efficiency levels start to decrease, especially if it hasn’t received the maintenance it needs. Often, there are new technologies within that time frame as well, that make newer equipment operate more efficiently. An inefficient system will have a direct impact on your energy bills, so if you notice an unusual increase, it could be that your older equipment is simply not operating as efficiently as it should.
  2. You’re calling for repairs more often than you’d like. Often, an increase in the need for air conditioning repair calls and an increase in your energy bills go hand-in-hand. This is due to inefficiency, and also due to your system simply having to work harder to effectively keep your home cool.
  3. There are hot spots and cold spots throughout your home. There are a few culprits that could be causing this, including duct issues, poor insulation, and improper equipment operation. If your duct system is in good working order, and you have the right levels of insulation throughout your home, it’s likely that your older AC system is just not working as well as it used to.
  4. Your home is very humid. Part of an air conditioning system’s job is helping to remove humidity from the air. If it isn’t doing that efficiently anymore, then chances are it needs replacement. Because humid air tends to hold the heat, it takes more energy for your AC to cool the air to the temperature you’d prefer, and your home comfort level is probably not where you’d like it to be, either.
  5. Your air conditioning system is noisy. All air conditioning systems, new or old, obviously make some noise when they operate. That’s to be expected. But if your AC is making a loud, unusual noise, it could indicate that your air handling unit needs replacement, which unfortunately can be costly. If your system is older and out of warranty, many times it is more cost-effective to replace the unit rather than the coil.

When you need air conditioning services, Stafford Mechanical can help.

At Stafford, we understand that nobody wants to think about having to replace their air conditioning equipment. We know new air conditioning installation can be costly, but we also know an older, inefficient system that needs frequent repair can often cost you more in the long run. When you schedule a consultation with us, we’ll provide you with an honest assessment of your current system. If you don’t need new equipment or simply need a couple of cost-effective repairs, we’ll tell you. But, if you should consider replacement, we’ll explain to you why, and how we can help.

Right now, we can help you save up to $1,650 on a new system with manufacturer rebates, with additional utility rebates available to you on some models. This special offer is only available through June 30, 2021, so call us today at (860) 684-9485 to learn more. We look forward to helping you get the comfort – and energy efficiency – you and your family deserve.

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.