How Summer Weather Affects Your HVAC System
We’ll soon be working our HVAC systems extra hard to keep us cool during the Dog Days of Summer. The “Dog Days” is actually an ancient reference tied to the coincidental sunrise rising of Sirius, the Dog Star. While the star doesn’t have an actual effect on our temperature, its appearance in our morning skies […]
Should You Keep Your Oil Tank Full in the Summer?
There’s a lot of uncertainty out there lately regarding the prices of a great number of things. With increasing inflation, prices going up at the pump, and rising energy costs, homeowners are looking for ways to save what they can, especially on Long Island, where things are already pretty expensive. In fact, this year, heating […]
What Is a Prime and Start?
Anyone using oil furnaces for heat has been feeling the pinch as oil and gas prices rocket recently – almost doubling in the past two years. The average person can’t be blamed for trying to be frugal and squeeze every drop of use out of their heating oil. Unfortunately, this can lead to letting the […]
How Much Clearance Should You Keep Around Your HVAC Equipment and Why
Your HVAC unit is not just a crucial part of your home’s infrastructure – it’s also a pricey one. Keeping it operating correctly can maximize its lifespan. Fortunately, some simple steps can help, including maintaining proper space around it.
Carbon Monoxide Safety Reminders
A stealthy threat, carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, and many are unaware of its presence in their home until it’s too late. Nearly 50,000 people in the U.S. visit the ER due to carbon monoxide exposure, and more than 400 do not survive. The good news is that you can take steps to protect […]
How Does Water Get Into An Oil Tank?
A heating oil tank can last up to 20 years if properly maintained. One of the quickest ways to shorten a tank’s lifespan is to allow water to enter and remain inside. Checking for and removing moisture in your tank can lengthen your tank’s years and prevent heat loss when you need it the most.
Heating Seasonal Performance Factor Ratings — What to Know
When considering an HVAC system replacement or upgrade, Heating Seasonal Performance Ratings (HSPF) is a critical number to understand. HSPF is a rating that measures the energy efficiency of a heat pump during cool and cold months, with higher-rated units between 9 and 10 providing significant energy efficiency. How is HSPF calculated, how does it […]
Heat Pumps Vs. Hydronic Coils – Which Heat Source Is Better?
Whether you are upgrading a current system, looking for a replacement, or considering a new home purchase, understanding the home heating system and what provides the best heat can be confusing. When choosing the best heat source for your home, consider many factors, including initial costs, cost and efficiency of operations, and even aesthetics.
Baseboard Heating vs. Forced Hot Air Systems – Which is Better?
When choosing the system to heat your home, many options are available, which can be confusing. Depending on where you live, some help may narrow down your options based on resource availability (i.e., natural gas vs. oil heat), but that doesn’t mean that you are forced into a choice that doesn’t suit your home’s needs. […]
Three Last-Minute, Money-Saving Heating System Upgrades
The fall season is officially here, and the temperatures have already begun to cool off. Winter is three months away, but that doesn’t mean that you should wait to upgrade your heating system. Some heating equipment upgrades can pay for themselves on the day that they are complete. If you’ve been putting off investing in […]