Heating and Cooling Services in St. Louis

12 Tips To Prepare Your HVAC System for Fall

Chances are you spent the summer sweltering and looking forward
to getting home to your air conditioning, but things are about to change. Winter
weather is just around the corner, and with colder temperatures comes the need
to use your furnace more often. Ideally, you have spent the last year keeping
up with your HVAC unit’s routine maintenance needs, but if you haven’t, now is
the time. Check out these tips for preparing your HVAC system for fall and
winter to ensure your needs for heating and cooling in St. Louis, including
saving money on your utility bills, are met.

3. Clean the Vents and Registers

Before the colder weather hits and you need to heat your
home, you need to be sure all the vents, airducts, and registers in your home
are unblocked and in good working order. This means walking through the system
room by room to ensure the vents aren’t covered by rugs, furniture, toys, or
other items that tend to go unnoticed during summer months. This is also a good
time to remove any dust or debris that has gathered on the registers since last
time you used your furnace. If you aren’t sure whether your vents need to be
cleaned, consider the smell. You’ll often notice a slight smell of burning dust
when turning on the unit for the first time if cleaning is necessary.

4. Inspect the Belts on the System

The inside of your HVAC unit has a belt that must be in good
working order to keep the blower powered. The blower is what moves the air
through the system and into the outdoor compressor to ensure proper ventilation
of the system and to keep it blowing warm air consistently. It is especially
important to check the belt after long, hot summers that caused you to run your
heating and cooling in St. Louis more often than usual. They wear down more
easily during these times. Ensuring they work properly means energy savings and
the proper warm temperatures during cold months.

5. Update the Thermostat

Did you know an older thermostat could cause your furnace to
use more energy in the winter? Programmable thermostats allow you to ensure
your home is always as warm as you need it to be when you’re at home, without
needlessly wasting energy when you’re not. A programmable thermostat allows you
to set the temperature to a lower degree when you aren’t home or when you’re
sleeping (and therefore, under blankets) but will raise it again just in time
for you to start your day or arrive home from work. However, keep in mind that
it is important not to set the temperature too low when you’re not at home.
Setting it any lower than 65 degrees Fahrenheit could cause your system to
overwork itself as it tries to get back to your optimal settings when you’re at
home. The result could be higher energy bills or a system that needs to be
replaced more quickly.

6. Check for Signs of Moisture

If your HVAC system is causing moisture, it might be because
it isn’t operating properly. When performing routine checks of your heating and
cooling in St. Louis before the cold weather hits, check for signs of moisture
around your windows, which might indicate temperature issues. The vent pipe may
also show signs of moisture in the form of dew or even rust. Keep in mind that
moisture could mean a more serious issue and may require a professional to
diagnose and repair it.

7. Look For and Seal Leaks

When it comes to leaks, you should not only focus on the
HVAC system but also on the rest of your home. First, check the HVAC unit for
leaks in the ductwork. If you find any, you can use aluminum tape or mastic to
seal them up. Once you’re sure your furnace ducts aren’t leaking air, you can
check the rest of your home. Use caulk or weather strips to decrease drafts in
doorways and windows. If you have an attic, it is important to check this area
as well. Insulating your attic will ensure you aren’t losing too much heat
through the roof when your furnace is running. The lack of cold air making it
inside will help your HVAC system to work more efficiently and keep your bills
from skyrocketing.

8. Clean the Outside of the Unit

Taking care of the outside portion of your HVAC system is
just as important as taking care of the inside. During the fall months, leaves,
twigs, and other debris can easily clog the outside of the system. Once every
week or two, it is important to take a few moments to remove the debris and
keep the coils clean. This helps to ensure your heating and cooling in St.
Louis works properly when even colder temperatures hit.

9. Perform a Visual Inspection of the Furnace

Your HVAC unit has an indoor portion that houses your
furnace and is likely located in your garage, attic, basement, or even a
closet. It is important to perform visual inspections on the indoor unit before
the cold weather hits and periodically throughout winter. During the
inspection, ensure there is nothing situated within three feet of the unit.
When a furnace has a lot of stuff around it, it can’t “breathe”
properly and has a harder time keeping your home warm. In addition, some items,
especially if they are touching the furnace, can be a fire hazard.

10. Ask a Professional for Help

While there are plenty of things you can do to ensure your
heating and cooling in St. Louis is working properly, professional maintenance
is still important. You should have an HVAC technician perform routine
maintenance on your system each fall. HVAC professionals are trained to notice
noises or other issues that you might not have realized could be problematic.
The technician often already has tools on hand to fix minor issues and can tell
you whether there is anything major you’ll need to fix before temperatures
become colder. Research shows that routine, professional maintenance on your
HVAC unit ensures you don’t need to replace it prematurely and saves you money
in the long run.

11. Decide if It’s Time to Replace the System

Depending on how old your HVAC system is, it could be time
to replace it. If your system is 10 years old or older, it is probably only
half as efficient as it used to be and likely takes more money to repair than
it used to as well. In situations such as this, consider the cost of the
repair. If it will be at least 50% of the cost of replacing the entire unit, it
is probably a sounder financial decision to replace it.

12. Ensure Your Home Is Protected From Fires

Even though fire prevention isn’t specifically related to
your HVAC unit, it is still important. In fact, nearly 60,000 fires per year
happen because of equipment used for heating and cooling in St. Louis. In
addition to keeping anything flammable at least three feet away from the
furnace and its vents, it is important to install smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors in the kitchen and outside of the bedrooms. Avoid using anything with
damaged cords, and if your furnace uses gas and you smell gas, turn everything
off and leave the home immediately. Of course, it is also important to have a
fire safety plan in place in case the unthinkable happens.

When it comes to heating and cooling in St. Louis, you can
never be too prepared. After all, summers are hot, but winters are often very
cold. Doing what you can to handle your own maintenance needs is important, but
never attempt to do a professional’s job on your own. It’s not only dangerous
but often illegal. Instead, seek our experienced HVAC technicians who are
licensed, insured, and well-respected within the community.

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Why Heating and Cooling Maintenance is So Important

Whether it’s the dog days of summer or a frigid February
night, your home’s heating and cooling unit is an essential component of living
a happy life. When the HVAC unit stops working it’s cause for immediate concern
and an emergency service call. While prompt service from a reliable provider is
nice, it’s better to avoid those situations altogether whenever possible.
That’s where regular HVAC maintenance comes into play. If you have been
neglecting your heating and cooling maintenance, here’re the best reasons you
should reconsider.

It’s a Safety Issue

Your heating and cooling system is an incredible asset for
your home, but when something is working as hard as your HVAC unit, that comes
with a trade-off of increased risk of something going wrong. When you don’t
keep your heating and cooling system properly maintained and cared for it can
become a hazard in your home. When your unit is dirty and dusty there is an
increased risk of potential fires.

Dirty vents and filters can also result in polluted air in
your home which is hazardous if any particles that are not safe for breathing
get put into the air in higher quantities as a result. Finally, it’s possible
for your HVAC unit to develop a leak, which results in gases being emitted into
your home that can be hazardous to breathe or even flammable. When you have a
technician out to perform regular maintenance you can rest easy knowing that
any potential safety issues are identified and addressed before they can become
a problem.

Avoid Damage While You’re Away

One of the biggest fears, when leaving for a vacation or heading to a second home for an extended spell, is that something will go wrong while you are away, resulting in damage to your home. Your home’s HVAC units are one of the biggest potential culprits for this, as an improperly functioning unit has several ways it can cause problems for your unoccupied home.

If you’ve left your home in a cold-weather climate and
haven’t fully winterized it, then you could fall victim to a burst pipe. When
the temperature drops low, water in the pipes freezes, and with nowhere to go,
the expansion leads to pressure in the pipes until they burst, resulting in
flooding in your home. Keeping your heater running properly prevents this.

A unit that is running well can pose it’s own problems, as a
heating or cooling unit developing a leak or triggering a small fire when the
home is abandoned can result in the concern quickly spreading out of control.
When you get regular service on your heating and cooling unit, and a check-up
before leaving if you ever intend to go away for a full season, you can
minimize the risk of disaster striking.

Cleaner Air is Better

One of the major benefits of a heating and cooling
professional servicing your HVAC unit is the improvement of the air being blown.
There are many ways that your heating and cooling system can get dirty,
including clogged filters, obstructed ducts, and dirty vents. When your system
is overrun by dirt and debris like this, it results in some of that particulate
being thrown into the air when your unit is blowing. On a best-case scenario,
this creates reduced air quality and makes your home less pleasant to be in. In
other scenarios, potentially dangerous substances that should not be ingested
into the lungs can be blown airborne by a dirty unit and lead to potential
health problems.

Better Dispersal of Hot and Cold Air

What good is your home’s heating and cooling unit if it’s
not heating and cooling your entire home? Unfortunately, when your unit is not
operating at its best it’s all too common for homes to develop hot and cold
spots that make living in your home less pleasant than it should be.

When you perform regular maintenance on your HVAC unit you
allow it to perform at its best, which means strong air current throughout your
entire duct system. This keeps your home as warm or as cool as you want it, no
matter what the temperature is outside your home.

A Well Maintained Unit Lowers Your Bills

While it may seem counterintuitive to think that spending
money having a professional heating and cooling specialist come out to your
home is a great way to save money, that is actually the case. When your HVAC
unit is not operating at its best, it can have a big impact on your heating
costs. By forcing your unit to run more to do the same job you end up paying
more every month to keep your home at the temperature you like it to be. A
trained heating and cooling professional will assess your unit, identify any
problems that are harming its productivity and work on the unit to get it
performing efficiently so that you save money every month when your bill comes
in.

Avoid Major Repair

The savings caused by keeping your heating and cooling unit
properly maintained don’t stop at the bills you pay, however. When you put off
getting a small problem with your unit checked you give it the opportunity to
develop into a major issue, and even if you call a technician whenever you hear
a strange noise or notice reduced airflow if you haven’t gotten an annual
service you may be missing less-obviously-presenting problems. Repairs for
major problems with a heating and cooling unit are often significantly more
expensive than the cost of annual check-ups and basic tune-up procedures. By
staying ahead of any problems you spend money more often, but you spend less of
it.

Delay Replacement

The final major financial benefit to keeping your HVAC unit
properly maintained is also the biggest. Neglecting your unit and allowing
small problems to grow results in a shorter lifespan for your heating and
cooling unit. No repairs or servicing of your unit are more expensive than the
costs of having an entirely new unit delivered and installed. By extending the
life of your heating and cooling system with regular maintenance and prompt
service you reduce the number of times you need to have a new unit installed in
your home which is a massive saving.

Don’t make the mistake of saving a few dollars today only to
have to spend thousands of dollars on a new unit that you otherwise wouldn’t
have had to purchase. When you combine the benefits of lower bills, fewer big
repairs and a longer lifespan for your heating and cooling system, then it’s
clear that having routine, regular maintenance done is the financially
responsible way to care for your unit.

It Lowers Your Carbon Footprint

If you’re concerned about the ongoing effects of climate
change around the globe and interested in finding ways to reduce your carbon
footprint, then regular maintenance of your HVAC system is a great way to live
an eco-friendly life. Not only does servicing give your system save you money
and provide all the excellent benefits above, but it also makes it more
efficient.

Because your unit is running less often than it would be if
you neglected your maintenance routines, the overall impact your heating and
cooling system has in contributing to emissions is significantly reduced. By
simply taking preventative measures to keep it clean and calling in the
professionals when needed to perform regular check-ups or HVAC repairs, you
make your lifestyle greener even if you don’t change anything else about it.

Maintain Warranty

If your unit is still within warranty, you should make sure that you understand your warranty in its entirety. Some warranty agreements will have rules about not only what is covered under the warranty, but also what you need to do in regards to regular maintenance in order to maintain your warranty in good standing. If you are covered by a warranty and not getting regular maintenance this means you could suffer two negative effects. First, you may be allowing a problem to sit in order to avoid paying for repairs when, in reality, it is covered under your warranty and could be serviced free of charge. Second, if your warranty requires regular check-ups to remain valid and you neglect those check-ups when the unit unexpectedly fails and you try to call in your warranty you may be turned down because the failure is attributed to your error, as opposed to a manufacturing flaw. Regular service keeps you confident your warranty is in good standing. When you consider all the benefits of maintaining your heating and cooling unit with regular service and minor repair work, it’s clear that it’s the right way forward. If you’re in need of a reliable service company to handle your HVAC needs, look no further than Inman Air. The reliable technicians working for Inman Air have earned their reputation as reliable and trustworthy professionals by always leaving their clients satisfied with the work done on their heating and cooling systems. Whether you need a service or a repair, they’re ready to work on all makes and models.

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A New Homeowner’s Guide to HVAC Servicing

When it comes to taking care of the system responsible for your heating and cooling in St. Louis, you need to take a proactive approach. Preventative maintenance is the best way that you can avoid a lack of energy efficiency or any sudden breakdowns. Not only is your system extremely important to your home, but it is also a complicated system. When you’re dealing with a crucial system and one with a lot of different components, you also have to recognize that there are a lot of ways that the machine can break down. If you don’t pay attention to regular maintenance, you could be in for high repair bills.

To maintain your system, you need to invest in regular
servicing. Start with a checklist for yourself and then invest in an annual
maintenance plan for your heating and cooling system. While regular maintenance
may seem like an additional cost, it is far less than what you would be
spending if you were to ignore it. Replacements and repairs can devastate your
wallet if you aren’t careful. Here is everything you need to know about
regular HVAC maintenance.

Do You Know the
Necessary HVAC Maintenance?

If you’re new to working with an HVAC system, then you
probably don’t know what maintenance tasks you can perform and what you need a
technician to perform. There are certain tasks that you will have to perform
more often than others. Some checks are only necessary about once a year.

One task that you should always perform is to make sure that
there is no debris around the visible components of your HVAC system. This
means removing any plants, leaves, furniture and other items from around the
units. Perform this check regularly. This is especially important after a large
storm that may have thrown debris against your unit. You should have at least
two feet of clear space around the components.

Likewise, you can check the filters regularly. If you have a
high-efficiency filter, this can help reduce how often you check your filter or
how often you have to replace it. Generally, you need to replace filters about
once every three months.

About once every month, you should inspect the refrigerant
lines. These are the copper lines that connect your AC to the evaporator coil.
Leaks are common but important to fix as soon as possible.

In addition to regular checks, you also have seasonal tasks
that you can perform. One of these tasks includes turning off the water to the
furnace humidifier when the temperatures warm up. You should also be replacing
the humidifier filter in the fall when you turn the water back on.

Now, for the maintenance that you need to perform once a
year, if you are not familiar with HVAC systems, then you may want to hire a
servicing technician to perform the maintenance for you. About once a year, you
will need to lubricate the motor and replace the fan belt and clean the AC
condensation drain.

When you pay attention to regular maintenance, your heating
and cooling system could last you up to 25 years. This is about double what you
can expect if you slack on your maintenance plan.

Do You Know the
Typical HVAC Problems?

Your heating and cooling system has a lot of different
components. Given the number of components, it is no surprise that there are a
lot of problems that can spring up. Fortunately, no matter your problem,
Heating and AC repair are possible. The following are typical issues that your
system may need.

Build-up of dirt and debris is one of the most common
problems that your HVAC faces. The electric panels and filters have to remain
clean of any dirt or debris. Not only is this crucial to keep your HVAC working
properly, but a clogged and dirty filter can spread allergens throughout your
home and reduce your air quality.

HVAC systems can also develop leaks. The connector and drain
lines are often the culprits when it comes to leaks. A leak will cause your
heating and cooling system to work harder than it should. This is going to make
your bills skyrocket and you may not even be able to control the temperature of
your home. Look out for any leaks in the refrigerant lines.

Services for heating and cooling in St. Louis also warn of corrosion. Whenever you have electrical components like wiring and moisture, there is a potential to develop corrosion. Corrosion may occur in the terminals or wiring of the system. This often leads to the system turning itself on and off. If left alone, this can lead to your entire system breaking down eventually.

Do You Need a
Technician?

HVAC systems aren’t uncomplicated. Hence, many homeowners
choose to invest in HVAC services. There are some maintenance tasks that you
can perform on your own, but there are also issues that the untrained eye won’t
notice. If you can’t pinpoint the problem, you won’t be able to fix those
issues either. Instead, a technician can perform more in-depth checks. Ductwork
and electrical components need a more knowledgeable and experienced hand.

Don’t worry about the maintenance costs. Preventative
maintenance is a lot more cost-effective than repair work. Some companies even
offer annual discounts to perform regular maintenance. In general, you can
probably have someone check on your system once a year. If you have an older system,
you may want to try for twice a year instead.

Do You Need a New
HVAC System?

While maintenance will help preserve the longevity of your
HVAC system, you may still need to replace the components after a while. You
simply buy yourself a longer lifecycle for the system that you wouldn’t
otherwise have. If you live in your home for a long time, however, you are
going to see some issues spring up that may require complete replacements. A
lot of the time, when you have regular maintenance on your heating and cooling
in ST Louis, you’ll be able to predict which parts are going to need
replacements.

In some instances, it might come as a complete surprise. You
can’t always predict every problem that is going to spring up. However, if you
want to know some warning signs that you may need components or the system
replaced, here are some of the issues you might run into:

• Your energy bill keeps going up without reason
• Your system doesn’t have reliable air flow
• Your AC blows out warm air
• Your HVAC turns on and off without reason
• Your HVAC makes loud noises or operates loudly
• Your home has a mix of different temperatures

Most of these signs indicate that you need furnace repairs
as soon as possible. These could be indicators of larger problems. Whenever
your indoor air quality changes or your air conditioner begins acting
unusually, a quick call to a technician can help you solve the problem. The
sooner that you discover a problem, the more likely you are to be able to save
the system. When you let problems go on for too long, it becomes more of a risk
that you’re going to have to completely replace the system.

Homeownership can be an extremely freeing experience. You
finally have the freedom to do whatever you like to your home and to make it
your own. Now that you’ve found your dream home, however, it is important that
you keep it functioning properly. Part of this is to invest in regular heating
and cooling service. Your HVAC is a crucial component to your home. It provided
your family with comfort against extreme temperatures. When it isn’t running
properly, however, it can lead to skyrocketing bills and expensive repairs.

Trusted technicians in heating and cooling in St. Louis can provide you with a maintenance plan that can increase the longevity of your HVAC system. If you are like most homeowners, you probably never had to deal with the maintenance of your heating and cooling system before. If something was wrong with your heat pumps or if you needed furnace repairs, then you relied on the landlord to call for HVAC services. Now that you own your own home, you have to do that yourself. It doesn’t have to be that difficult, however. As long as you keep up with the maintenance, you won’t likely have a lot of expensive repairs.

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The Top HVAC Care Misconceptions

Never underestimate the importance of temperature control in
your home. The fresh air is good for you and your entire family. St louis MO
has high temperatures throughout the summer and frigid winters. Without a
working HVAC system, not only will your home feel miserable, but it could also
wind up costing you a lot of money throughout the year.

When it comes to heating and cooling in St. Louis, there are
several myths that you have probably heard. Some of these myths may promise to
save you money, when they could end up doing the exact opposite. Here are some
of the most common HVAC myths and the truth behind them. If you know the truth
behind the myths, you can save more money throughout the year.

Only Change Your
Filters Once a Year

When you hear that you only must change your filters once a
year, you might be thinking about the money that you can save on filters. The
problem with this is that when you don’t change the filters, airborne particles
and debris begin to build up in the filters. If you wait to clean your filter,
then the dirt is going to reduce your airflow and your system will have to work
even harder to control the temperature of your home.

By the time that you replace your filters, you’re going to
have extremely dirty filters. If you want to keep your HVAC system clean and if
you want to ensure that you aren’t wasting money on hard working system, then
you should clean your filters or change them every few months.

Turn the Temperature
Lower for Faster Cooling

In the heat of the summer, it can be difficult to not want
to push your air conditioner to work faster and harder to cool down your home.
A lot of people believe that if you turn the temperature down below where you
want it, then it will work faster. This is not true. Your air conditioning unit
does not have a speed. It cools your home to a specified temperature and it
does so by being turned on. If you set the temperature to a much lower setting,
then you are not going to cool your home faster. Instead, it is going to work
harder and longer to cool your home to a lower level than you initially wanted.

Likewise, do not try to turn your system on and off to
reduce the energy consumption. It might make sense to you, to turn off the HVAC
system when the temperature is where you want it. The problem is that it uses
more energy when you turn the unit on and off. Your HVAC unit should heat or
cool your home to a specific temperature and then power itself down until it
needs to run again. It does not reduce the consumption to turn it off and on.
While you can change the temperature when you are not home to reduce energy
consumption, you do not want to constantly power the unit on and off.

Cover Your AC in the
Winter

There is this misconception that if you cover your AC in the
winter, then it will protect the system and save you money when it comes to
your electricity bill. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Your heating
and cooling system is designed to withstand the outdoor elements. It is
supposed to be outside. There is absolutely no reason to cover it in the
winter.

In fact, if you cover your AC unit in the winter, it may
make matters worse. In the winter, rodents are looking for a warm shelter. If
you have a covered unit, then you risk rodents making their nest under the
cover and in your HVAC unit. Rodents cause a lot of problems when it comes to
HVAC units. They can chew through the wires and destroy your system.

Additionally, when you cover your HVAC unit, you are
trapping moisture inside of the system. Moisture needs to go somewhere. When it
doesn’t, you can wind up with serious mold growth. Mold growth in your HVAC can
lead to mold spores spreading inside of your home. If you want to protect your
HVAC from falling leaves and other debris, then you are better off using a
heavy board over top of the system.

Invest in Bigger
Systems for Better Results

A bigger system is not always better. If your system is too
large for your home, then it will cycle on and off regularly. You do not want
your system cycling on and off too quickly. Not only does this cost you money
on electricity but it can wear out your system. If you invest in a bigger HVAC
system, then you will most likely have to replace it quickly. If you want your
heating and cooling units to last for a long time, then you want to install a
system that is the right size for your home.

If you aren’t sure about what size you should choose, you
can always consult a heating and cooling service on what will work best in your
home. The company will consider the age of your home, the climate that you live
in and how many people live in your house, all in addition to the square
footage of your home. These factors will tell them what system will work best
to suit your particular needs.

Close Vents in Rooms
You Don’t Use

Most people see a lot of reason in the myth that you should
close vents in any unused rooms. The idea behind this myth is that if you close
the vents, then you won’t pay for the energy to heat or cool down that room.
What happens is that you may spend more money on your energy bill than you
otherwise would have if you left the vents open. When you shut the vents, you
wind up interfering with the air flow in your home.

Newer HVAC systems are designed to run based on your square
footage. If you block the vents, then your system is going to work harder to
try to distribute the air through your home. In addition, the closed vents
could cause any air to leak through the ducts if they are not sealed properly.
Your system is not designed to work with some of your vents closed.

Close Doors You Don’t
Use

This misconception is similar to closing your vents. Most
assume that if they close the doors to unused rooms that they won’t be heating
or cooling the other rooms. This can save your energy because the air only
flows in rooms that you need. Unfortunately, this is not generally how it
works. If you close the doors, you block the air flow in your home. This leads
to your system working even harder to control the temperature of your home. If
you want to save energy, then you should consider a zoning system. This will
let you choose the temperatures that you want in different areas of your home.
When you have a zoning system, it can save you money since your system isn’t
designed to heat or cool the entire house.

Don’t Hire a
Professional for Maintenance

If there is nothing wrong with the heating and cooling
system, then why bother hiring a professional? Wouldn’t that waste money in the
long run? This is an extremely common misconception. Most people won’t call a
professional until something breaks down. Unfortunately, by the time it’s
broken down, it might already be too late. When you hire a professional in
heating and cooling in St Louis, the contractor can ensure that your HVAC
system isn’t headed for a breakdown.

Every year, your unit has to work hard to keep your
temperature controlled. There are a number of different components to your
system. This includes the belts, motors, coils and other pieces. If any part of
your HVAC is not working properly, it can cause the entire system to shut down.
If you don’t keep up with regular maintenance, then you could end up having to
pay for an expensive repair. In a worst case scenario, you may have to replace
the entire system. It is better to pay a professional to conduct regular
maintenance than to worry about a larger bill in the future.

It’s easy to trust some of the myths floating around about heating and cooling systems. After all, when you hear that you might save money, why not try it out? The problem with most of the myths is that they may end up costing you more money than you would have spent in the first place. Forget all of the myths that you heard about HVAC systems. Instead, put your trust in a person who specializes in heating and cooling in St Louis. A professional can give you tips and tricks to save energy throughout the year. When you can see past all of the different misconceptions, then you will have a system that lasts for a long time and that is ultimately more cost-efficient.

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How a Clean Home Protects You From Illness

Springtime means many things (including biting the ears off
of chocolate bunnies, a high pollen count and pranking people on a certain
day), but for some people, it means only one thing: Spring cleaning. Although
flu season is coming to an end, there are other illnesses that it’s better to
be protected against this season. Make disinfecting and deep cleaning part of
your spring cleaning routine this year to do your part to prevent viruses.

Heating and Cooling Service

It’s been a long, cold winter and you’ve probably been
running your heater during the worst of the weather. After several months of
the same recirculated air, what is the indoor air quality like? To freshen the
system for the new season and to ensure your air conditioning is in good
working order for the warm months, consider hiring a specialist to give your
HVAC unit a clean bill of health.

To ensure the longest life of your system, HVAC services
should be performed once a year by a trained professional. These technicians
ensure that the unit is clean and dust-free as well as giving it any tune-ups
or minor furnance repairs that it might need, whether you’re in Seattle or are
looking for heating and cooling in St Louis. Regular check-ups are less
expensive than replacing an entire neglected system, so ensure that you’re
taking care of your heater and your air conditioner. This keeps it working for
longer and greatly improves the air quality inside of your home. Easier
breathing means healthier lungs.

Disinfect Commonly Touched Items

One of the most effective ways to avoid getting sick is to
always be conscientious of what you’re touching and how often you’re washing
your hands. To prevent cross-contamination of virus-causing germs, thoroughly
clean items that are regularly touched by lots of different hands.

Remote Controls and
Game Remotes

Think of all the grimy hands that touch these items every
day. On the other hand, maybe don’t. Using a Lysol wipe or other disinfecting
cloth, wipe down each item and ensure you’re getting in between the buttons and
on the top and bottom too. If it’s
been a minute since you’ve done this, consider using a Q-tip or a bent paper
clip to get any buildup you can’t reach. (Gross, but it’s the way of the
world.)

Doorknobs, Switches
and Handles

It’s an instant habit to flick a light on or off when you’re
entering and leaving a room, and in order to leave that room you must first
open the door. Before going to bed at night, wipe off all doorknobs and light
switches in your house. Be sure to get both sides and on the locks as well, and
you might think about running a wipe over your keys too.

If you’re especially ambitious, remove all switch plate
covers and run them through the dishwasher. You can also hand-wash them with
hot, soapy water, but it’s a great way to ensure that they’re disinfected and
free from germs.

Buttons and Knobs

The kitchen and bathroom are two spots that germs love to
hide thanks to the combination of moisture, access to food and dark, damp spots
like under the sink — and all the people who use them so many times every day.
Using a cloth and disinfecting solution, scrub items like:

• Toilet flushing knobs and seats
• Sink and bathtub faucets
• Buttons and handles on the microwave and stove
• Refrigerator and cabinet door handles

Change Sheets

As much as we don’t like to think about it, our beds are a
breeding ground for things like dust mites and allergens. Gross! These
microscopic bacteria are unseen to the naked eye, but rest assured that they’re
lurking in your bed and are waiting to create nastiness that can make you sick.
It’s suggested that you change your sheets once a week, but it’s generally
accepted that every two weeks is fine too.

When you wash your sheets, wash them in the hottest water
that the fabric can stand. If you can, toss in a cup of bleach to kill any
bacteria or germs. If the colors can’t handle bleach, a cup of vinegar and half
a cup to a full cup of baking soda will disinfect as well when added to your
regular laundry detergent. If you’ve got greasy sweat stains on your sheets, a
tablespoon of Dawn added to your laundry helps to fight grease and release
stains.

Wash All Toys

Kiddos, God bless them, are some of the germiest people on
the planet. Doesn’t it seem like they’ve always got a runny nose, the sniffles
or are coughing all over the place? While you teach them the concept of
coughing into their elbow (or into their armpit, as the Center for Disease
Control has been advising lately), go through the toys that they play with the
most often and give them the wash-rinse-sanitize treatment.

Your Dishwasher Can
Help

Did you know that many hard toys can go right in your
dishwasher? Run a load consisting only of Junior’s toys (heaviest on the
bottom, lightest on the top) and use regular dishwashing detergent with a cup
of vinegar added to the rinse aid section. It’s probably a good idea to not run
the heated dry cycle in case the plastic is prone to melting, but let the
dishwasher do the bulk of the hard work for you.

So Can Your Washing
Machine

After you’ve washed all the sheets and you’ve gotten your
washing machine back, run the plushy, soft toys through the wash. Use the
hottest cycle you can; you want to kill germs here. Regular laundry soap and
vinegar will do a fantastic job getting things clean and lifting stains,
although you can use bleach if you’ve properly diluted it.

And So Can Your Kids

Finally, get your littles involved. Part of teaching them
good hygiene habits is to also teach them how to clean their toys, so fill up a
basin or sensory table with warm, soapy water and ask them to give the toys a
bath. A variety of rags and brushes gets them even more excited, so encourage
them to do the best job they can do because it’s a very important one. (Emphasize its importance; this hits home!)
Once they’ve washed their toys, help them to rinse and set the toys on a towel.
Spray them with a bleach solution and let them air dry.

Use Common Sense Methods

Mama always said that the thing about common sense is that
it isn’t so common, but you’re smarter than the average bear. Use added
precautions as you go about your cleaning routine to really keep nasty germs out.

Swap Out
Toothbrushes

Our mouths are dirty, and during sick season especially the
bacteria love to cling to our toothbrushes. If your toothbrush is relatively
new, run it through the dishwasher (along with your toothbrush cup) to
disinfect it. If you’d rather be safe than sorry, buy a new toothbrush
entirely. Be sure to do this for every member of the family.

Wear Gloves and Wash
Your Hands Often

Considering the kitchen is the room that houses raw meat,
the trash can and is incidentally also the place where you store your food, any
precaution you can take is a good one. It’s worth buying a box of disposable
latex gloves to keep handy so that when you handle anything potentially
hazardous, your gloves serve as an added layer of protection. Remember that
gloves are not a replacement for
hand-washing, so wash your hands after you’ve removed your gloves as well.

Don’t forget also that hand-washing is the most effective
way to beat viruses. Wash your hands:

• After using the bathroom, blowing your nose/sneezing
  or touching trash (this includes helping a child go potty or changing a
  diaper).
• Anytime you’ve been involved with animals:
  Handling them, feeding them (including treats) or picking up feces.
• Whenever you come into contact with food, which
  means before, during and after preparation and before eating.
• If you’ve been taking care of someone who is
  sick, especially with diarrhea/vomiting or caring for a bloody wound.

Clean Surfaces,
Especially Cooking Surfaces

Cleaning up as you go helps you to not only stay organized
as you cook but also keeps your area sanitary. Once you’ve cleared off your
counters and cooking surfaces, follow the three-step process to properly clean
them:

• Wash
  the surface with an all-purpose cleaner to remove debris or grime
• Rinsewith plain water to get rid of
  any remaining trace of the cleaner
• Sanitize with
  a bleach solution or another food-safe disinfectant and let air dry

Be Safe and Smart, But Don’t Panic

Safeguarding yourself against illness takes many forms, and
deciding to deep clean your home is one such precaution. Maintaining a regular
cleaning routine and following the three-step process to ensure everything is
properly cleaned is essential to preventing the spread of germs. Keep a level
head; there’s nothing to be gained by panicking, and if you have young children
then seeing you worked up could frighten them. Do what you can to take measures
against illness in your own way — but don’t forget that handwashing is the
number one way to defend yourself and others.

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Professional Heating and Cooling Services in St. Louis, Missouri

Stay comfortable in your home with year-round heating and cooling in St. Louis. At Bart Inman Air, we are proud to offer leading HVAC services as part of a family-owned and -operated business. Whether you need emergency repair services, yearly maintenance or a new appliance installed, we’ll work with you to offer the services you need at a price you can afford. Explore our services and the benefits of working with skilled technicians today.

Comprehensive HVAC Services

HVAC, or heating, ventilation and air conditioning, systems are designed to keep your home safe and comfortable. It may be uncomfortable in the spring or fall without a furnace and air conditioner, but it can lead to frozen pipes in the winter and dangerous temperatures in both the winter and summer.

Explore our professional services to find out why we’re a leader in AC repair, heat pump installation, furnace maintenance and more. There’s a reason we’re a leader in local HVAC installation and repair services. Here are a few areas we can assist you to improve your indoor experience:

• Furnace maintenance and repair
• AC maintenance and repair
• Ductwork cleaning and filter replacement
• Carbon monoxide leak inspection and repair
• New appliance installation

These are just the most common services we offer. If you have an issue with your ductwork, heating or cooling systems, don’t hesitate to contact our professionals. At Bart Inman Air, we can handle all makes and models of furnaces, boilers, air conditioners, heat pumps and other systems.

Yearly Maintenance Services

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make with their HVAC system is to overlook yearly maintenance and wait until there is a serious issue. By avoiding preventative maintenance, you could be increasing the cost of repairs. Don’t wait until you need an emergency service call in the middle of the night, but invest in the safety and efficiency of your system by working with our maintenance team.

Maintenance services are essential for improving your indoor air quality and avoiding costly repairs. Ask a technician about the ideal maintenance schedule for your particular home and HVAC system. We typically suggest yearly inspections, but this can vary depending on the size of your system and the amount of use.

Yearly maintenance inspections check for signs of damaged components, mold growth, clogged filters or other signs of wear. An inspection is a great time to discuss any unusual sounds or experiences with your system, as well as to explore options for reducing your energy use.

Both your furnace and air conditioner should be inspected yearly to prevent a sudden breakdown. Emergency service calls can be more costly than preventative maintenance, so schedule a furnace inspection in the fall and an air conditioner inspection in the spring to check up on your HVAC system.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious threat to homeowners. This odorless, colorless gas can leak from your furnace and lead to serious illness or even death. We treat carbon monoxide leaks seriously and are equipped to test and repair any issues in your fuel system. Work with our team to identify any risks of carbon monoxide in your home and to test your alarm systems to protect you and your family.

Signs of a Damaged Furnace

Furnaces combine fuel and electricity to heat air, which is forced throughout your home using a blower, ductwork and vents. This system has many complex parts that are hazardous if improperly maintained. Here are some common signs that you need our team to repair your furnace:

• Carbon-monoxide detector signaling
• Frequent cycling
• Unusual smells or sounds
• Reduced heat or cool air blowing
• Extreme change in utility bills

Don’t wait until your furnace stops working altogether to receive the repairs you need. A prompt service call can prevent minor damage leading to a major repair bill. We offer free in-house inspections and estimates for any furnace repair issues, so give us a risk-free call if you’re experiencing any of these signs.

Signs You Need AC Repairs

Similarly, an air conditioner should be maintained and immediately repaired if you experience any unusual signs. Here are signs to look for when your AC is operating:

• Warm air
• Buzzing, rattling or other unusual sounds
• Odd or unpleasant odors
• Pooling water
• Increased utility bills

An air conditioner uses freon, high-voltage electricity and moving parts to force cool air through your home. Both AC units and furnaces should be inspected immediately if you suspect any issue. When you wait and allow a damaged air conditioner to continue running you risk causing further damage to the unit, which will require more costly repairs.

Hazards of DIY Furnace and AC Repair

Unless you’re equipped to work with propane or natural gas, electricity and freon, DIY solutions may put you at risk. There are some maintenance steps you can take on your own, like replacing your air filter, but most AC and furnace repairs require experienced tools and technicians.

Avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, electrocution and damaging your system by allowing an expert to repair your HVAC system. There are many DIY home improvement projects around your home, but HVAC repair isn’t one of them. Ask a technician at Bart Inman Air for information on practical DIY maintenance tasks.

New Installation Benefits

Consider a new furnace or air conditioner installation service by Bart Inman Air. If your home in St. Louis has an old, outdated appliance, you may be spending more than you need on your monthly utility bills. Find out how a new system can reduce your bills and improve the value of your home.

New furnaces have an increased AFUE rating to reduce your monthly spending. AFUE stands for annual fuel utilization efficiency and is expressed as a percentage. A furnace with an AFUE of 80 to 80% is a reasonable option, but the latest furnaces have a rating above 90%. There are many different sizes and designs of furnaces, so compare options with our team to find the best solution for your home’s size and our local climate.

Air conditioners use a similar rating system called a SEER rating, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio. The current minimum SEER is 13. A great rating to consider for newer units is 22, while some of the most efficient options have a SEER of 22 or more. The energy efficiency of your system depends on the type of system. A central air conditioner is typically more efficiency than window units, but some homes use ductless air conditioners to efficiently cool specific rooms.

A new system can improve the quality of your indoor air. Ask about filtration options for homes with pets, dander or other allergens. HEPA filtration can be a great benefit for homeowners with allergies or asthma. Whether you need your system cleaned, your filter replaced or an upgraded furnace or air conditioner, we’ll work with you to improve your air quality.

Our team performs free home inspections and new installation estimates. We’ll send a trained technician to check your current system and your home to find the ideal option. Air conditioners and furnaces need to be matched to the design and square footage of your home, so you need to work with a professional to enjoy comfortable temperatures and low monthly prices. Ask about deals and seasonal specials for new furnaces and air conditioners.

Emergency Service Calls

If your system suddenly stops working, it’s essential that you receive prompt servicing. A fuel or freon leak is a serious issue that can affect your health and safety, so contact our team immediately if you suspect an issue or if your HVAC system suddenly stops. Our 24-hour services are available to protect you and your home.

Financing Options

A new furnace or air conditioner is an investment in your home. While these investments can reduce your monthly bills, the upfront cost can be an obstacle for many homeowners. Thankfully, we offer competitive financing options for individuals who are unable to invest in a new system, a scheduled repair or an emergency service.

Apply for financing to receive a revolving line of credit and special financing options for participating investments. Our financing allows you to make monthly payments designed for your budget. Start saving immediately and don’t wait to enjoy comfortable indoor temperatures.

Discuss your financing options with our team before you apply. Because we offer free inspections and estimates with all of our services, you can schedule an inspection with no risk or expense. Once we discuss any necessary or recommended repairs, we’ll work with you to receive financing or other assistance to keep your home safe and comfortable.

Choose a Leader in Heating and Cooling in St. Louis

As your full-service provider of heating and cooling in St. Louis, our team at Bart Inman Air is here for you. Contact us to learn more about maintenance, repair and installation services in your area or schedule a service today. Don’t wait for your air conditioner to break or your monthly bills to continue to climb, but invest in your home and your comfort with the leading heating and air conditioning service provider near you.

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The At-a-Glance Guide to Your Heating and Cooling System

How is your indoor air quality this summer? How was it during the winter months? If your home isn’t staying as warm or as cool as you need it to, it is likely something to do with your HVAC system. Proper maintenance before turning on your AC or furnace can help to prolong the life of your system, but eventually, you’ll need to replace it. This quick guide to heating and cooling in St Louis will help you determine what you can do now and how to replace your unit when the time does come.

Understanding Important Terms

Before you can fully understand this guide to your HVAC unit, you need to know what some of the most associated terms mean. For example, did you know that HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning? Moreover, when you are simply talking about the air conditioner portion of your unit, you’ll likely see it abbreviated as AC. There are several other terms you should know as well:

• BTU – An abbreviation for British thermal units. This heat measurement determines how fast or slow the heating, cooling, or dehumidifying components of your system begin to work. One BTU creates enough energy to heat one pound of water by one degree (Fahrenheit) at a time.
• Coil – Coils are mounted inside the unit to implement the transfer of the heat to the air.
• Ductwork – Your HVAC system’s ductwork is the maze of pipes and air vents that allow your heat or air conditioning to move within your home.
• Fresh Air Intake – The fresh air intake draws in the outside air to replace the air inside. This helps to keep the air within your home fresh.
• Heat Pump – Your system’s heat pump absorbs heat from cold spaces and moves thermal energy throughout your home using cycles of hot and cold air.
• SEER – An abbreviation for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. It measures how energy-efficient your system is to determine your savings.
• Thermostat – The thermostat monitors your home’s temperature and allows you to adjust it. These days, many thermostats come with smart home features.

Types of HVAC Systems

Before purchasing a new HVAC system or maintaining your current one, know there are several different types: separate units, mini-split units, and all-in-one units. Separate units, also known as heating and cooling split systems, are the most common type of HVAC unit. One-half of the system is for cooling your home and the other half is for heating it. They usually have one indoor unit and one outdoor one. If you have a furnace inside and a central air system outside, you have separate units. Hybrid split systems are a similar option. These units are more energy-efficient and allow you to choose between using a gas or electric system. The systems are most common in climates where colder months are common and uses forced air and a thermostat to help you decrease your energy bills.

A mini-split system unit is a ductless HVAC system that is useful when the home needs different units for different rooms in the home. These systems are good for spaces where you don’t use all the rooms all the time or in families where one member is often much colder or hotter than another. Mini-split units cost more upfront but are easier to install than traditional systems. Finally, there are packaged heating and cooling systems known as all-in-one units. These combination units are best used when installed on the top floor of a multi-story home. They are highly energy-efficient, but maybe not produce as much heat as other systems.

Preparing Your Unit for Summer Heat

Before you turn on your air conditioner for the first time this summer, you need to follow the proper steps to ensure it’s working properly. First, clean the unit by removing any leaves, branches, or other debris that have landed on it during the colder months. Remember to turn off the power first, and to remove plant growth in a three-feet radius of the unit before reconnecting it.

Next, you’ll need to take care of several other basic maintenance tips. Replace the unit’s filters to prepare it for the new season, comb down the air conditioner’s aluminum fins to ensure proper air flow, and check its drain for any clogs that could prevent cold air from getting through. You’ll also need to ensure the AC pad isn’t sinking into the ground and inspect any insulation for rot or other damage. If you notice any major issues, you’ll need to call about professional HVAC services.

Getting Your Unit Ready for Winter Weather

Preparing the furnace portion of your HVAC unit for the winter months is just as important and works much the same way as preparing the air conditioning for summer months. First, you’ll need to either clean or replace your furnace’s air filter to ensure it doesn’t become a fire hazard. Next, you’ll want to ensure there is nothing flammable within three feet of your indoor air handler. Vents and registers in every room should also be clean and maintain three feet of space around them. Outside of basic cleaning, your furnace may have other winter preparation requirement. Consult the owner’s manual or hire a heating and cooling service to ensure you’re prepared for cold weather.

What To Do if You Need To Replace Your HVAC Unit

Furnace repairs and AC repairs aren’t always enough. If you are spending more on repair than you would on a new unit, replacement may be the best option. There are several steps to the process. First, you’ll need to estimate how much replacement will cost you. Speak to several different contractors to get quotes, keeping in mind that they should be within a few hundreds dollars of each other if they are reputable. Remember, the square footage of your unit, the size of your property, and the type of unit you choose will all factor into the replacement cost. Don’t forget to consider the ductwork, resealing of doors and windows, and other work your HVAC professional may need to put into the final cost.

Next, you’ll need to find the right HVAC contractor for you in St Louis. Look for a company that is licensed, insured, and bonded, and willing to provide proof of all three. When you get a written estimate, be sure it includes the start and finish dates of the job, a list of the related tasks, which system is being replaced, a price list, and warranty information.

Once you choose an HVAC company, the professional does most of the rest of the work. The technician will help you decide which size unit you’ll need. Units range for 1.5 tons, which heats and cools up to 1,100 square feet, to 5 tons, which is useful for up to 3,300 square feet. If you have a larger property, you’ll likely need to purchase more than one unit. Another factor to consider when choosing a unit is the energy efficiency. Energy Star-certified HVAC systems are usually the most efficient and can save you money on your energy bills throughout the year. Depending on some other factors, you may even get a tax break if you purchase one.

After you choose and purchase your new unit, your technician will begin preparing the area for the replacement job. If there are any expensive items in the areas where the contractor needs to work, you’ll need to move them yourself for liability reasons. Keep in mind that most jobs take just one day, and even more complicated ones usually don’t last more than two. Typically, your contractor will arrive with one or two other people to help them complete the job. First, the crew will use protective tarps or drop cloths to protect the floor of the work area, then they’ll begin the replacement process. Keep in mind that the crew will likely need access to basements, attics, or other crawlspaces to do its job efficiently.

Before the crew can complete the installation, the technicians may need to repair or modify your ductwork. If this is necessary, part of the crew will start working on the ducts while the other part of the team begins assembling your new system. If you need a major ductwork overhaul, expect the job to take longer than a day or two. Regardless of how long it takes, once the ductwork is ready and the new system is assembled, the team can pull out the old system to replace it. Keep in mind that the technicians may come across unforeseen circumstances that prolong the process or boost the cost during the job. This could include finding rotten wall studs, performing upgrades to the electrical system, or needing to repair drywall. Once the job is complete, the crew will test the new system before cleaning up, closing out the job, and moving on.

Do you need a professional and reliable HVAC technician to help you get your home’s temperature back into the comfort zone? Let Bart Inman Air help you. We provide a wide variety of residential and light commercial HVAC services, including repair and replacement. In addition, we can check your home for carbon monoxide leaks and even inspect your water heater. If you are in the St Louis area, including all of St Charles County, contact us today to schedule your consultation appointment.

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Heating and Cooling Services in St. Louis

HVAC refers to heating, ventilation and air conditioning. HVAC systems are used to heat and cool homes and commercial buildings. HVAC units use mechanical engineering systems that provide thermal comfort, cooling services and acceptable indoor air quality for homeowners. Ventilation is one of the most important components of the system. Ventilation is the process of replacing or exchanging air within the room of a house to provide better air quality. This process involves providing temperature control as well as removing dirt, smoke, dust, heat and odors from the air.

St. Louis has four distinct seasons and temperatures vary widely depending on the time of year. Because of the consistent temperature changes, it is important that all St. Louis area residents regularly maintain their HVAC system to ensure comfort throughout the year. Read below for more information on heating and cooling in St. Louis and how you can maintain your HVAC system:

How Does an HVAC System Work?

The main functions of an HVAC system are interconnected. The heating, ventilation and air conditioning parts work together to ensure your St. Louis is comfortable. There are many different components of an HVAC system and all work together to ensure the entire unit is running optimally. Read below to learn more about the critical HVAC system components:

• Thermostat: A thermostat is one of the main components of an HVAC system. The thermostat monitors the indoor temperature and adjusts the temperature of your heating and cooling system to the optimal level. Some thermostats adjust automatically, while some need to be adjusted manually.
• Evaporator coil: Located inside the air handler, an evaporator coil is an essential component of any HVAC system. The coil is the part of the heat pump or air conditioner that absorbs the heat from the inside of your house.
• Furnace: The furnace, or water heater, is one of the most important parts of any HVAC system. The furnace heats the air in your home and evenly distributes it to various rooms through pipes or ductwork. Furnaces derive heat from a variety of sources including combustion, heat pumps, electric resistance and solar energy.
• Vents: Vents help distribute heated and cooled air into your home from your HVAC unit’s duct system. Vents are usually located with angle slats near the ceiling. Because the vents are the main air source in any HVAC system it is important to ensure they are cleaned regularly and do not become blocked.
• Condensing unit: The condenser unit of an HVAC system has a heat exchanger section that condenses and cools refrigerant vapor into liquid. When the refrigerator is cooled, the condenser pumps this liquid to the evaporator coil where it is then turned into gas for the HVAC system to utilize.
• Blower motor: A blower motor recycles warm hair through the system’s vents when it is in use. Also, some motors blow cool air when the air conditioner is being used.

Types of HVAC Systems

Understanding the different types of HVAC systems can help you know your options if you are planning to buy a new system or repair your existing unit. Read the list below to better understand your choices so you can make the best decision possible for your home or business:

Zoned systems: Zoned HVAC systems are designed to cool or heat individual rooms of your home or business. It manages airflow by controlling the zone valves inside the vents, blocking the flow of air to certain areas of the house. Zoned systems are a good choice if you have a large home or if you want to save money on your utility bills.

Humidity control: Humidity control systems allow you to automatically adjust the humidity levels in your home as you use the cooling or heating systems. A humidity control system is a great option for St. Louis, MO residents who want to combat the long, humid summers. These systems keep that humidity level at less than 50% relative humidity, a level considered optimal. If you decide to purchase a humidity control unit, keep in mind you cannot control the humidity levels in your home if the system is not switched on. However, you have the option of adding a separate system that will allow you to do this.

Duct-free system: As its name implies, these systems function without ductwork. A ductless air conditioner or heat pump usually consists of an indoor unit combined with an outdoor compressor. This can be a great option if you have an older home with non-ducted heating systems.

Choosing the right HVAC system for your St. Louis home requires research and planning. Bigger units do not necessarily function better than smaller units. In fact, if the system you choose is too big for your home, the temperature inside the home can be compromised and excess moisture can accumulate inside the unit. Excess moisture can lead to significant problems such as mold. Always ask your contractor which unit size is best for you.

HVAC Maintenance

Whether you have a new system or an older model, regular maintenance is required to keep it running optimally. Generally, you should hire a professional to inspect and clean your HVAC system once a year. However, you can perform maintenance on your system throughout the year to keep it running efficiently. Read below for some general HVAC maintenance tips:

Replace filters: Filters get dirty quickly, especially if you live in a St. Louis neighborhood that is prone to dust. HVAC systems trap all types of materials including dust, participles and other harmful debris. Because filters are responsible for maintaining the air quality in your home, they can stop performing suddenly if not replaced and cleaned regularly. Air filters should be cleaned six times a year, or more routinely if needed. Changing the air filter once a year is acceptable, replacing it twice a year will ensure the air quality inside your home is optimal.

Schedule an inspection: Hire a contractor to perform a thorough inspection once a year. If you fail to schedule this inspection, you may not realize that something is amiss until it is too late. The last thing you want to deal with is calling an HVAC repairman in the middle of the night because your heater or air conditioner is not functioning. Regular maintenance can also help prolong the life of your system.

Remove debris: Dust can settle in blowers, condensing units and filters. Even a light layer of dust can prevent your system from running efficiently. The next time you have your HVAC system inspected, watch the technician remove dirt from different parts of the system. You can then replicate these steps on your own in the future.

Check the condensate drain: The drain in your heat pump and air conditioner can become clogged with debris over time. Clogs can decrease the flow of water in the system, causing moisture to accumulate. Excess moisture can cause a multitude of problems including water damage, mold and a high amount of humidity in your home. Ask a friend who is familiar with home appliances to help you check the drain to ensure everything is working correctly.

Check the thermostat settings: Many homeowners set their HVAC unit’s settings right after they purchase the unit and never think about it again. However, checking your thermostat settings and making a few adjustments now and then can keep the interior of your home comfortable and help you save money on utility bills as well. Have a professional technician ensure the temperature inside your home and the temperature on the thermostat match. If there are any discrepancies, ask the technician to check the entire system for any abnormalities.

Inspect exhaust outlets: If the exhaust outlets in your HVAC system become clogged, the safety of your home can be compromised as dangerous gases including carbon monoxide can buildup. During your next annual inspection, ask your technician to check the exhaust outlets, the vent stack and the chimney flue. A qualified technician will know how to look for leaks or corrosion and can repair the issue if needed.

Inspect electrical cords and connections: A heating and cooling system has a lot of electrical components and systems that can become compromised over time. If cords become loose or broken, it can cause damage to your system. While a trained technician will carefully examine the system during your yearly inspection, you should inspect the system yourself for frayed or damaged wires every few months. Inspecting the system can help prevent costly repairs in the future and minimize the risk of electrical fires or unit failure.

Contact Bart Inman Today

If you are looking for a professional company in St. Louis to service or replace your HVAC system, contact Bart Inman Air today. We offer a multitude of HVAC services to residential clients including heating, cooling and carbon monoxide leak repairs. We also offer an array of services for commercial clients if you own a St. Louis area business. Our technicians are friendly, knowledgeable and prompt. Call us today to schedule your annual inspection, discuss your financing options or to receive a free quote.

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How to Prepare Your Heating and System This Fall

As summer draws to a close and fall begins, home maintenance should be a number one priority before winter. While your air conditioning system has kept you cool all summer long, you have to rely on your heating system when winter comes. Is your system ready for winter weather?

It might be time to call on professionals in heating and cooling St Louis homeowners count on every year. Here are some fall tips to prepare for winter.

Replace Your Air Filters

A dirty air filter is one of the most common reasons that people have trouble with their air conditioner or heating system. Luckily, anyone can replace the air filter. When your filters are dirty, not only does the system suffer, but it can reduce the indoor air quality. Your air filter should be replaced at least once per season. As summer ends and fall begins is a perfect time to check your air filter and to replace it if necessary.

Clean the Outdoor Unit

If the outdoor unit suffers damage, it can affect your HVAC unit’s performance. Dirt and debris can build up in the grate and fan. Blockages in the air conditioner can force your fan to work harder. The harder that your unit works, the more electricity it will have to use to heat your home throughout the winter months. During the fall, you are more likely to have leaves and other debris in your unit. Check it regularly to ensure that there isn’t any blockage. If you find that your fan is dented or if there is any damage to the unit, then furnace repairs may be necessary before the temperatures drop further.

Install HVAC Zones

When the colder temperatures finally settle in, you’ll want your home to be cozy. If you have a larger home, you may have noticed that different rooms heat up differently than others. Two-story homes are renowned for this happening. Your downstairs may be chillier than the upstairs. This is often due to heat rising and the thermostat might be located in one area. For instance, your upstairs may be a few degrees higher than what your thermostat says that it is.

This can make it difficult to know what to set the thermostat to. Consulting with HVAC services in the St Louis area can provide you with solutions to your problem. One of these solutions is to create zones. You can have a zone upstairs and a zone downstairs so that you can control the temperatures separately.

Have Routine Maintenance Performed

Every year, you should have a heating and cooling service professional look at your system. Whether you have an HVAC system with a furnace or heat pumps, you should have a professional inspect the system before the winter season. It may also be time to have someone perform an inspection on a water heater and other systems. The last thing any homeowner wants is to fire up the heater in the winter and find that it doesn’t work. Not only will you need a fix as soon as possible, but the contractors may be busy and it could take longer for you to receive service.

This is especially true when you have problems over the holiday season. It is better to have someone look for problems in advance. Also, when you have routine maintenance, the contractors can perform any fixes before the colder months settle in. This gives you time to pinpoint any serious problems before they become worse.

Check Insulation and Seals

Sometimes homeowners fear their heating bill in the winter. To avoid higher than normal bills, you need to make sure there are no air leaks in your home. For homeowners in the St Charles county area including the St Louis, winter bills can be extremely high when you have cold air getting underneath the doors or through the windows. Check the insulation in your home. You should have insulation in the crawlspaces, attic, seals around the doors and windows to ensure that the heat stays in.

To discover more about how to prepare for winter, you may benefit from professionals in heating and cooling St Louis residents use. It is better to focus on heating and AC repair in the fall, before you need to use your heating system heavily.

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Leading Heating and Cooling Services in St. Louis

Restore your indoor air quality and enjoy affordable heating and cooling in St. Louis. At Bart Inman Air, we provide expert services to homeowners in St. Louis and the surrounding area. Whether you need to update your appliances or receive a yearly inspection, find out how we can help you keep your home safe and comfortable.

Quality Furnace Replacement and Other Appliance Services

Most furnaces need to be replaced after 15 to 20 years of use. If your furnace is reaching the end of its life, it’s time to schedule a replacement. Work with an installation team that helps you understand the pros and cons of various furnace options so you can select the best model for your home.

Modern furnaces are surprisingly energy efficient and tailored to your specific home square footage. Choose an installation team that can measure the ideal system for your home and make the right recommendations to keep you warm all winter long.

A furnace installation is only one of the many HVAC services provided by our team at Bart Inman Air. Here are some other appliances we can help you update:

• Air conditioner
• Water heater
• Heat pump
• Gas stove

It’s particularly important to have your gas appliances reviewed. A carbon monoxide leak is an issue that can be fatal, so work with an expert team to have your detectors tested and your gas system inspected. Both natural gas and propane can cause carbon monoxide to build up in your home, so be sure your appliances are working properly to keep your home safe.

Upgraded Air Conditioner Options

After a warm, safe winter, it’s time to consider your air conditioner. Whether you use a window unit, mini split or central air system, keeping your home cool in St. Louis can be a major expense. Ask our local team to inspect your current system and make a recommendation for an upgraded air conditioning strategy.

A modern appliance can improve your indoor air quality, cool your home and reduce your energy usage. Cost-effective cooling is an excellent investment in your home, so check out the best options today. Replacing your air conditioner can pay for itself with reduced energy usage and improved temperature control from room to room.

Consider replacing your thermostat to better control your climate control and costs. A smart thermostat allows you to adjust your heating and cooling to match your needs. Turn them down in the evening and while you’re away at work to dramatically lower your monthly and yearly heating and cooling expenses.

Affordable HVAC Maintenance

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems can be affected any time of year. If you’re concerned with an odd sound, experiencing higher-than-normal energy bills or are unsatisfied with the temperature in your home, don’t hesitate to work with a local HVAC technician.

Maintenance services start with a thorough inspection. If a local technician finds an issue with your system, you’ll receive a service recommendation and an estimate. The process will help increase the lifespan of your air conditioner and/or heater and prevent a sudden breakdown.

Don’t attempt to handle maintenance issues on your own. Replacing an air filter is a task you can take on by yourself, but more complex maintenance tasks can be dangerous to take on without the necessary training and experience.

Emergency Repairs

Air conditioners, furnaces and thermostats never seem to break down during business hours. If you need emergency furnace or AC repair services, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team can help you with a furnace failure, gas leak or other crisis that can’t wait for business hours.

Routine Inspections

One of the most affordable HVAC services we offer is an annual inspection. Inspections are the secret to long-lasting, affordable HVAC ownership. Your furnace, water heater and air conditioner all display small signs of equipment breakdown. Instead of waiting until the system fails completely, our technicians can spot early warning signs and offer the repairs you need.

Enjoy Comfortable Temperatures in St. Louis

Discover how we can help you enjoy year-round climate control in St. Louis. At Bart Inman Air, we’re proud to serve the area including St. Louis and Metro East Illinois. Contact us to learn more about our dynamic services and to schedule an inspection for your home.

The HVAC Service Guarantee for the St. Louis Area

When you are facing the heat of summer or the freezing temperatures of a winter night, you need confidence that your heating and cooling system isn’t going to fail you. For many people, having a number on speed-dial for a service company that works on heating and cooling in St. Louis is that way to keep from panicking when the unit doesn’t work right. At any given time, the weather of St. Louis MO means thousands of people may be calling the same number for help. At Bart Inman Air, we can handle the demand as we specialize in working on heat pumps, furnace repairs, and all things air conditioning.

When the Weather Demands, We Respond

Whether you live in St. Charles county or around the St. Louis area, we are a heating and cooling service that responds to the demands of nature. The summers are muggy and hot, requiring an efficient air conditioning system if you want to be comfortable indoors. You don’t want your unit shutting down or slowing down when the heat of July is over 80 degrees.

You want the same comfort and assurance when the chill starts to move in during November. With the daily high hardly reaching above 50 degrees but the average low being around 25 degrees, the demands on the units of homes around the area are great. With our technicians always standing by to take your service call, you don’t have to worry about freezing. Fast and dependable are the guarantees of our company.

When Your Home Needs Help, We Deliver

Even though we are the number one heating and ac repair service in St. Louis, we do much more than just make sure you have heat or air conditioning. Our licensed and trained technicians are able to check your HVAC system or furnace for carbon monoxide leaks. This dangerous gas creates a toxic indoor air quality that can threaten the safety of you and your loved ones. Because this threat is so serious, you should consider having any appliance in the house that burns fuel inspected for leaks. This includes the water heater, the furnace, or any other heating system.

When You Ask, We Answer

Our team is committed to helping preserve the life and efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Though we can do the heavy lifting and take care of the technical needs, you can do your part to maintain the unit. Here are some easy ways to keep your unit in good shape.

1. Leave two feet of clearance around your outdoor HVAC unit, making sure to keep the weeds and grass low. This helps our repair professionals but also keep debris from clogging the fans.
2. Use a high-quality pleated indoor air filter for better intake. Change the filter at least once a month during the summer and once every two months during the winter.
3. Schedule professional maintenance with our technicians at least twice a year, preferably before each seasonal change between air or heat services.

When You Need Us, We’re Here

For a unit that isn’t working right or to make sure you have an all-clear for the new few months, reach out to our team at Bart Inman Air at 314-293-2600. We are standing by and ready to help.

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Bart Inman Air: Unmatched Furnace Repair Services in St. Louis, MO

In the heart of St. Louis, MO, where temperatures can swing dramatically with the seasons, having a reliable furnace is a necessity for comfort and well-being. Bart Inman Air, a leader in furnace repair services, offers unparalleled expertise and service to the residents of St. Louis, ensuring your home remains warm throughout the chilly months. Our skilled technicians are equipped to handle a wide range of furnace issues, backed by years of experience and a commitment to excellence.

Recognizing the Signs You Need a New Furnace

Understanding when it’s time to repair or replace your furnace is crucial for maintaining your home’s heating efficiency and safety. Some key signs indicating the need for a new furnace include:

Increased Repair Frequency: If your furnace requires frequent repairs, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new, more reliable system.

Rising Energy Bills: An inefficient furnace can significantly increase your energy bills as it struggles to provide the same level of warmth.

Uneven Heating: If some rooms in your house are too hot while others remain cold, your furnace may not be distributing air properly.

Strange Noises: Unusual sounds, such as banging, popping, or rattling, can indicate serious problems within your furnace that require immediate attention.

Age of the Furnace: The average lifespan of a furnace is between 15 to 20 years. If yours is within this age range or older, it may be time to consider replacement.

The Importance of Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is the key to extending the lifespan of your furnace and ensuring it runs efficiently. Bart Inman Air offers comprehensive maintenance services designed to identify potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Regular maintenance checks include inspecting and cleaning components, testing system functions, and replacing worn parts. This proactive approach not only saves you money in the long run but also ensures your furnace operates safely and effectively.

Expert Furnace Repair Services in St. Louis, MO

When it comes to furnace repair, St. Louis residents trust Bart Inman Air for prompt, professional service. Our technicians are adept at diagnosing and fixing a wide array of furnace problems, from simple ignitor issues to more complex repairs like heat exchanger or blower motor replacements. We pride ourselves on our ability to quickly restore warmth and comfort to your home, using only the highest quality parts and equipment for every repair.

Why Choose Bart Inman Air for Your Furnace Needs?

Local Expertise: As a St. Louis-based company, we have a deep understanding of the local climate and the unique heating needs of its residents.

Quality and Reliability: Our commitment to quality service means that we stand behind our work, ensuring that every repair is done right the first time.

Customer Satisfaction: At Bart Inman Air, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We strive to exceed your expectations with every service call, offering transparent pricing and expert advice.

Comprehensive Services: Beyond repair, we offer a full suite of heating services, including new furnace installation and routine maintenance, to keep your system running smoothly year after year.

For St. Louis residents facing furnace issues, Bart Inman Air is your go-to source for expert furnace repair and maintenance services. With our experienced team, commitment to customer satisfaction, and comprehensive approach to heating solutions, we ensure that your home remains a cozy haven, no matter the weather outside. Don’t wait for the cold to bite; contact Bart Inman Air today to schedule your furnace service and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.

Bart Inman Air: Your Trusted Furnace Repair Service in St. Louis, MO

As the colder months approach in St. Louis, MO, the reliability of your furnace becomes increasingly crucial. Bart Inman Air, a leader in HVAC services, understands the importance of a well-functioning heating system. Specializing in furnace repair and maintenance, our team ensures that your home remains warm and comfortable throughout the winter season. With extensive experience in HVAC systems, we are dedicated to providing high-quality service and furnace solutions to the residents of St. Louis.

Comprehensive Furnace Maintenance for Optimal Performance

Regular furnace maintenance is key to ensuring the efficiency and longevity of your HVAC system. At Bart Inman Air, we offer comprehensive maintenance services designed to keep your furnace running smoothly. From inspecting air filters to testing system controls, our thorough maintenance checks cover every aspect of your furnace. Regular maintenance not only prevents unexpected breakdowns but also ensures that your furnace operates at peak efficiency, saving you money on energy bills.

Expert Diagnosis and Repair of Common Furnace Issues

Our skilled technicians are adept at diagnosing and repairing common furnace problems. Whether it’s a malfunctioning thermostat, a faulty ignition system, or issues with the blower motor, Bart Inman Air has the expertise to quickly identify and resolve the problem. We understand the discomfort and inconvenience a broken furnace can cause, which is why we strive to provide fast and effective repair services to restore heated air circulation in your home.

Recognizing Signs You Need HVAC Repair

Being aware of the signs that indicate your furnace requires professional attention can prevent more significant issues down the line. Some common signs include unusual noises during operation, frequent cycling on and off, a noticeable decrease in heating efficiency, or an unexpected increase in energy bills. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact Bart Inman Air for a comprehensive evaluation. Addressing these issues promptly can save you from the discomfort of a cold home and potentially costly repairs in the future.

Why Choose Bart Inman Air for Your Furnace Repair Needs?

Choosing Bart Inman Air for your furnace repair needs in St. Louis, MO, means selecting a service provider committed to excellence and customer satisfaction. Here are a few reasons why we stand out:

Experienced Technicians: Our team consists of highly skilled and trained professionals who are knowledgeable in all aspects of HVAC systems, ensuring quality repairs and maintenance.

Prompt and Reliable Service: We understand the urgency of furnace issues, especially during cold weather. Our responsive team works efficiently to address your heating concerns promptly.

Transparent Pricing: We believe in honest and transparent communication regarding service costs. Our upfront pricing ensures there are no surprises when it comes to billing.

Customer Satisfaction: Our commitment to customer service is unparalleled. We prioritize your comfort and satisfaction, aiming to exceed expectations with every service call.

Bart Inman Air is your go-to solution for all furnace repair and maintenance needs in St. Louis, MO. Our expertise in HVAC services, combined with our dedication to customer satisfaction, makes us the preferred choice for homeowners seeking reliable and efficient heating solutions. Don’t let furnace problems leave you in the cold; contact Bart Inman Air today to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable throughout the winter season.