Need Heating Repair? Heat Pump on the Fritz? Try These Tips First

Although we aren't going to advocate that you take on particularly large or complicated jobs that require expertise and know-how, we understand that as a home or business owner, sometimes heating repair needs taken into your own hands.

But because much of your personal expertise has to do with the specific type of system that you have, some general tips might work for you the best. 

So with that in mind, here are some tips and tricks covering a large swath of HVAC, condensers, and furnaces. We hope you can find something to help you if you're in a pinch.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps can be a headache when they aren't working. So if your heat pump is acting funny or simply not turning on, try these steps:

- Check that the power to the thermostat is on by taking a look at the circuit breakers.

- If your heating or cooling air fluctuates wildly, try adjusting the temperature by 5 degrees, waiting, and checking again. If that doesn't work, try cleaning filters and coils.

- If your heat pump freezes up, ensure that the registers aren't blocked.

- If all else fails, contact a professional.

HVAC

Your HVAC system handles all the cooling and heating in your property. With this double-duty, it means they stand a greater chance of failing.

- Establish a preventative maintenance routine. Regular care can mean the difference between a high-functioning system and one that costs your extra money.

- Check filters and clean coils regularly. 

- If your system functions poorly, consider having an electronic thermostat installed.

- If allergies are a concern in your home, use a denser filter designed for pets.

Furnaces

A furnace is like your best friend: it's always there when you need it most. Keep it working by following these tips.

- Ensure that the switch is set to heat. You'd be surprised the amount of people who forget this simple step and end up wasting money on a service call.

- If you have fan-forced heat, and you hear a whistle while your furnace is on, you need to change the filter.

- Furnace not cycling on at all? Check the circuit breaker or power switch. 

- If your furnace was built after 1990 it has a tiny window with a light. If you are having trouble, the circuit board inside the unit will flash the light in a sequence. Try counting the flashes to crack the code to your problems.

For more information on how we can help you, please contact us any time.

Home Electrical Safety Tips from Your Austin Electrician

We all care about keeping our families safe, and while our homes are often the safest and most comfortable place, they have potential to be the most dangerous too.

As an electrician, we have seen some situations where safety wasn't of the highest concern. When that happens, we always take the time to explain to customers what needs changed, and do our best to help them reach the high level of safety that they deserve.

Because, let's face it, electricity has potential to be dangerous; there's no reason to let it be that way.

Here are some home electrical safety tips.

Extension Cords

They make life easier, but there some big no-no's involving extension cords.

- Never route them under rugs.

- Only use them temporarily.

- Throw old, cracked cords away.

- Only buy approved cords.

- Do no overload extension cords.

Receptacles/Outlets

Receptacles are important to how we use electricity, but are often the first thing to go bad.

- They are inexpensive, replace them if they crack.

- If they feel hot, stop using them and call an electrician.

- If they spark when you plug something in, cut the power and contact us.

- Check that the ground is connected if you must use a grounded plug.

- Only replace like receptacles; don't install 20-amp circuits where 15's go.

- Use lockouts if you have small children.

GFCI Receptacles

A GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) receptacle is perfect for those looking to add extra safety to their home.

- Ideal for wet environments like kitchens, baths, laundry, and garages.

- They constantly monitor current levels, and switch off for imbalances.

- They prevent fires by detecting ground faults.

- Appliances that you plug into them are safe from damage.

Need more information on how we can help you with your home electric? Please don't hesitate to contact us any time.

How Efficient Is Your HVAC?

Your HVAC system is a major energy expenditure. Whether you're turning up the heat or cooling things down, you spend a significant amount of energy getting your indoor environment under control. When operating on a budget, you have two choices.

1) Endure the Distress of Shrinking Your Footprint

You hear it on the news. You see it on television. Turning your temperatures up or down by a few degrees can help you shrink your footprint. If you're comfortable at 70 degrees in winter, you can put on a sweater and turn it down to 67 degrees instead. If you're comfortable at 75 degrees in summer, you can wear shorts and turn it up to 78 degrees. Little adjustments can lower you energy bills and shrink your footprint. 

2) Enjoy Comfort with Energy Efficiency

The real reason you might need to reduce your comfort to reduce your environmental impact, not to mention lower your energy bills, is because you are probably using an older, inefficient HVAC system. Investing in a new, contemporary system can improve your comfort by reducing your footprint and your energy bills with increased efficiency.

Along with the benefits of improved efficiency, increased comfort, and lowered energy bills, a quality contemporary HVAC system can reduce illnesses and allergic reactions by improving the quality of the air in your home or business. Improved indoor air quality has a big impact on health, as well as comfort. See how efficient your HVAC could be with a free inspection. Contact us today to take the first step to better comfort.