Author: NTM

The winter and summer months in Alabama and the mid-Atlantic region can be extremely hot and humid, making it crucial to have a good air conditioning system running in the home. Not only do you have to keep your family safe, but you must keep the house cool. The right air conditioning can help everyone stay healthy and comfortable during the summer months and provide years of reliable service. If you’re looking to upgrade or replace уоur cooling system, there are many things you should keep in mind to ensure you’re getting the best heating system for your home.

Don’t Skimp on the AC

When deciding between a standard-sized AC unit or an undersized unit, you should always invest in the bigger unit. The installation costs for an oversized system will be the same, so there’s no reason to have a unit that does not keep the house at a comfortable temperature.

Take Care of the System

When properly maintained, an air conditioning unit can last for ten years or more. It’s important to follow the maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual. This will keep your air conditioner running efficiently and keep working when you need it most.

Units are Not All the Same

Do not choose the first AC unit that you come across at the store or online. You should always research the options and make sure the system you choose is the best one for your home. Most homes need a system with a SEER rating of at least 10. This will keep the уоur home cooler in the summer months and keep you from having to run the unit for very long.

Size Does Matter

The size of уоur AC unit matters more than you’d think. If a system is undersized, it won’t cool the home efficiently. Always choose a system that will cool the house while also maintaining a comfortable room temperature.

Get an Extended Warranty

There are many different manufacturers, so it’s crucial that уоu double-check the warranty when you buy a new system. Make sure the warranty is transferable between owners. This is the best way to ensure the warranty will still be in effect if you sell the house in the future.

Make Sure the Installer is Licensed

When you’re ready to install the AC unit, make sure you hire a licensed, reputable technician to do the work. Uncertified installers could mess up the installation and could соntribute to the system not working correctly. Make sure the technician will be available for repairs and maintenance if needed.

Have the Air Conditioning System Tested

The installation is only the first step in a process that will keep your family comfortable. Once the unit is installed, the technician should perform a thorough inspection and testing to ensure the unit will keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Have an AC Service Contract

Having a service contract will protect уоu from having to pay for repairs around the house. Contracts can be purchased at any time, but it’s best to have one from the beginning. This will give уоu piece of mind knowing the service technician will be available in the future.

Conclusion

Having a properly maintained AC unit will result in a better experience for your family and help you save money on your energy bill. When you are installing an air conditioning system, make sure you choose the right contractor and know the damage that can be done when hiring a less than reputable one.

It’s important to make sure that your heating and cooling system is always in good condition. That’s why Mainline Heating and Air is here to help. Our team is always on standby to serve you whenever you have problems with your heating and air conditioning units. If you need air conditioning service in Alabaster, AL, feel free to contact our technicians at (205) 664-4751.

It’s a question most of us have asked ourselves at one time or another. “How often do I really need to change my HVAC filter?” Like changing your car’s oil, it’s a task you probably hate doing but know it’s critically necessary to keep your system running smoothly. Here are some things you need to know.

The Right Frequency of Changing Your HVAC Filters

For less expensive fiberglass filters, a general rule of thumb is to change them every 30 days. On the other hand, for those high-pleated filters, they should be changed every six months.

Changing your filters prolong not only the life of your HVAC system but also extends its efficiency. Filters need to be changed because they accumulate dust and dirt, which causes more dust and dirt to be pulled into the system rather than being filtered out. After a while, the inside of your home’s heating and cooling system can become clogged, making it work much harder to keep the temperature at the right level.

If you want to prevent dust and other particles from clogging up the filter and making your HVAC system run less efficiently, filter replacement is excellent.

The Factors that Affect the Lifespan of Your HVAC Filters

There are several factors that affect the need to replace your HVAC filter, including:

• Usage Frequency

Those who use their HVAC equipment more frequently should change their filters. The longer you wait to change the filter, the more the dirt and dust have a chance to accumulate.  

• Home Size

The size of your home and the square footage will also affect the need to change the filter. Those with larger homes with many rooms will need to change the filters more often than smaller homes.  

• Indoor Air Quality

The indoor air quality will also dictate the time frame in which you will need to change the filter. If you suffer from allergies, a compromised immune system, or live in a home with a family member who smokes, you will want to change your filter more often. This is because the filter will become clogged with the particles within the air of specific allergens.  

How to Know If It’s Time to Change Your Filters

If you’re unsure if you should replace your filters, there are a couple of ways to tell.

• Pets

Pets often come into contact with allergens, fleas, and other things which can be sucked directly into your HVAC system by the filter, and then released into your home’s air. Additionally, hair and pet dander, collected by the filter, can be stirred up by the fan and become airborne.

If you have a pet, you should change your HVAC filter every 30 days, or more often if it’s a dirtier season or you have pets that shed a lot of fur.

• Children

When you have young children in your home, you want your house to have healthy air quality. Young children with underdeveloped immune systems and respiratory systems are more susceptible to airborne bacteria and viruses.

Keeping your air filter clean helps to prevent these things from becoming airborne. We recommend changing your HVAC filter every 30 days if you have children in your home.

• Odors

If you notice your indoor air is smelling bad and you’re not sure why it could be that your HVAC filter needs to be changed. Change the filter, and see if the odor is still noticeable. 

The Bottomline

Now that you know how often you should change your HVAC filter, you’ll be able to keep your home’s air clean and comfortable. Not only will you be able to breathe easier, but your HVAC system will also be working more efficiently.

Get quality heating and AC service in Alabaster, AL here at Mainline Heating & Air. We have been in the industry since 1989. Since then, we have provided reliable heating and AC service and quality products to Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby county areas. Get in touch with us today!

One of your main worries is probably extending the life of your HVAC system. And it should be because this is one of the most significant investments you’ll make for your home. Here are some of the top pointers on how to make your HVAC system last longer and where to find heating and AC service in Alabama: 

Schedule Preventive Maintenance

The best method to extend the life of your HVAC unit is to schedule annual or bi-annual maintenance. Your service professional will clean, inspect, and tune up your system.

Internal cleanliness is just as vital as external cleaning. It entails looking for trash, dampness, or shavings that should not be there. Your item’s connections, cables, and mechanisms will be thoroughly examined. A new filter, lubrication, condenser cleaning, and a check of the electrical system are all part of the tune-up phase of the maintenance.

If you don’t maintain your HVAC system properly, it’s more likely to break down due to little difficulties that grow into major problems. If the engine burns out due to a blocked filter that prevents air from flowing into the unit, you may need an immediate HVAC repair, or you’ll have to replace the entire system.

Make Use Of The Auto-Selection Feature

Your HVAC unit’s fan will likely have an “auto” and an “on” setting. The fan is only started when the system is actively heating or cooling the house when the “auto” option is selected. The “on” setting keeps the fan running, consuming more energy and putting more strain on your system. As a result, you should strive to save money by using the auto setting as much as possible.

Make The Switch To A Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats let you control your house’s temperature at specific times. You can set it to save energy or use it to access it from your phone or tablet. Changing the temperature depending on the number of people in the room will save energy and money. Consequently, you’ll save money on your utility costs, and your unit’s lifespan will be extended.

Use Alternative Heating and Cooling Techniques

Use ceiling fans in hot weather to relieve your HVAC system and add reflecting shades to keep the heat from entering your home. Set the thermostat to a higher setting to make your system work less to cool your home.

Put on a sweatshirt and open the blinds when it’s cool outside. Allow the sun to assist in the heating of your home. Reduce the load on your HVAC system by lowering the thermostat, wrapping oneself in a blanket, and adding space heaters to chilly rooms.

Keep An Eye On The Condenser

The HVAC system’s condenser unit is located outside of your home. As a result, it is vulnerable to damage from extreme weather and windblown debris.

Check it regularly and clear away any weeds or garbage. Tree roots and plants grown too close together might cause problems for the unit. Keep an eye on the landscape for proper drainage and rust or other noticeable damage.

Examine The Insulation In Your Home

By minimizing the need for your HVAC system to run constantly, adequate insulation can help it last longer. The attic is the most likely place for heat and air to escape. As a result, improving the insulation in this area will aid in lowering the quantity of heat and air produced by your HVAC unit. This can be aided by insulating the basement and providing more insulation to the walls.

Regularly Replace The Air Filter

A 30-day or 90-day filter can be used in your HVAC system. Whichever option you choose, inspect it frequently and replace it as needed. Many on the market will filter out a significant amount of dirt, pollen, and bacteria in the air. 

Follow the filter change schedule provided by the manufacturer. If you have pets, you should replace your filter more frequently. As a result, you’ll avoid having their fur and dander bother you.

Conclusion

These precautions will ensure that your HVAC system lasts as long as possible. Call for heating and air conditioning services in Alabaster, AL, if your system is due for service. The professionals will help you keep your HVAC system in good working order to last for years.

Mainline Heating and Air provides dependable heating and air conditioning service and excellent products to consumers in Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby Counties. Our technicians are available to assist you starting at 7:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. till Monday through Friday are the days when you can get away. Call us for heating and air conditioning services in Alabaster, AL. 

The furnace is responsible for heating your home and making sure that it reaches a comfortable temperature for your family. The furnace circulates air throughout the house, brings cold air in from the outside, heats this air, and sends it to your vents.

Because a furnace is an integral part of your home, it is essential to stay on top of its monitoring and maintenance. It is not indestructible. Your furnace can need repair over the course of its lifetime, and these are some of the signs that you need professional help.

Here’s what you need to know:

Abnormal Smells From the Furnace

When you turn on the furnace, the air inside is circulating and takes the warm air from your vents and distributes it evenly throughout the house. But if you notice a strange smell coming from the vents, there could be an issue. You could have an accumulation of dust or debris, there may be a leak or a dirty filter causing the problem, or there could be a more significant problem such as a broken motor.

Gas Leaks

A gas leak from your furnace is dangerous, especially if it is a propane furnace. You can tell if there is a gas leak by smelling your vents. If you smell gas or notice a pink or smoky residue on your vents, it could be the warning sign of a serious malfunction. You should never ignore a gas leak; if you smell gas or see residue, shut off your furnace immediately and call a professional.

Excessive Noise

If you hear strange noises coming from your furnace, it could be a warning sign of something wrong. This might be a rocker switch or relay that needs to be replaced. Be alert to any strange noises coming from your furnace and call a professional immediately.

The Furnace is Not Heating Up

A furnace that is not heating your home to the desired temperature could signify a serious problem. If you notice that you are cold in your home and it is not the temperature outside, there could be a problem with your furnace. It is essential to keep your furnace regularly serviced to know if there is a problem.

If you are experiencing any of these issues with your furnace, you must call a professional to give it a check.

Trouble Starting the Unit

If you start your furnace and it is taking a long time to turn on, it could be an issue with your thermostat. This can be an easy fix that you can do yourself with some troubleshooting steps. If the furnace starts to turn on but then shuts off after a few seconds, you have an issue that could be a problem with your motor, relay, or transformer. If the unit does not start, you need to call a professional immediately.

Rough Running and Abrupt Shut-Off

When your furnace starts and then shuts off, there may be an issue with your blower motor. If the fan seems to run too loud, it could be a sign of a problem. You might also notice that your blower seems to be running too fast. If so, you might need to get a cleaning and inspection of your furnace to see if you have a problem with a blower or motor.

The Bottom Line

The furnace is an integral part of your home, and you need to make sure that it is working correctly at all times. While it is true that sometimes things just happen and the unexpected can occur, most of the time, it is a sign of a larger problem that could have been avoided if you had taken the time to have your unit serviced.

If you are looking for reliable air conditioning, we can help you. Mainline Heating and Air provide dependable and high-quality furnace repair services and more. We are uniquely qualified to help you select the comfort system that best fits your home and budget. Our technicians are at your service from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Contact us today to get started or request an estimate online. 

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system plays a large part in keeping your home comfortable. Maintaining it is essential, especially during Florida’s intense summer weather when it can keep the temperature from getting too hot. Here are five signs that your HVAC needs to be repaired so you can schedule service quickly and avoid major breakdowns.

1. Puddles and Condensation

One common sign of HVAC failure is the accumulation of puddles or condensation in areas not usually prone to it. Condensation is expected as your HVAC unit works to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. However, if you notice puddles forming in your kitchen or bathroom, you will want to schedule HVAC service as soon as possible.

2. Noise

One of the most common symptoms of a failing HVAC unit is loud noises from the unit itself or the ductwork. If you hear any strange noises that were not there previously, it is good to have your HVAC unit checked out by a professional.

3. Odors

Another sign of a future HVAC problem is the sudden onset of intense and unpleasant odors, such as ammonia or sewage. The longer you ignore these smells, the worse they are likely to become. If you can identify the source of the odor, it is important to schedule service as soon as possible before the problem gets worse.

4. Slow Air Movement

Your HVAC system should provide adequate airflow throughout your home, even during the hottest days of summer. But, if your system is struggling to keep up and is producing hot and stuffy air, it is time to schedule an HVAC service.

5. Uneven Temperature

Suppose you have an HVAC system designed to provide individualized temperature control. In that case, you will notice that your system will not distribute heat evenly throughout your entire home. But, if you notice that the temperature in one or more areas of your home is significantly different from the rest, it is a good idea to schedule an HVAC service.

6. Poor Air Quality

If you start noticing that air quality in your home has been worsening, it may indicate that your HVAC unit is beginning to fail. The presence of particles of dust and other pollutants in the air can make you feel sick, and it can be a sign that your HVAC needs repair.

7. Environmental Factors

Finally, if your HVAC system has suddenly started acting up, even though the only thing that has changed is the weather, you may need to schedule service. The weather can cause your HVAC unit to work harder than usual, which can cause your system to break down faster than it would at other times of the year.

8. Unexpected Shutdowns

If your HVAC system seems to be operating normally and then suddenly shuts down, the problem could likely be a simple one, such as a dirty air filter. If you think this is the case, you can try cleaning it on your own before scheduling an HVAC service. However, if the unit shuts off unexpectedly a second time, you will want to schedule service as soon as possible.

Conclusion

If you notice that your HVAC system starts struggling during one season, you may want to schedule service as soon as possible to avoid problems during the worst weather. If you notice any of these signs of a failing HVAC system, scheduling service with a professional from service experts is good.

Mainline Heating and Air has provided dependable heating and ac service and quality products to our Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby county area since 1989. We are uniquely qualified to help you select the comfort system that best fits your home and budget. Our technicians are at your service from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. For emergency heating and AC service on weekends or evenings, just call (205) 664-4751. 

If the air conditioner in your home is not working as well as it should, you may already be considering getting a new HVAC system. 

Naturally, you want to be able to save as much money as you can. DIYing may be one of the first things you might think of doing. Perhaps you have seen a video or two of someone installing their own air conditioner and thought it’s not that hard. 

However, you must know that it’s not recommended that you handle your air conditioner installation unless you’re an experienced HVAC pro. 

Here, Mainline Heating and Air some drawbacks of DIYing your air conditioner installation: 

1. You Can’t Ensure Safety

When you install your air conditioner, you are taking the risk of being electrocuted and putting yourself and your family at risk.

When you decide to DIY, you’ll deal with live electrical wires. An HVAC system is an electrical device. You’ll be handling gas lines, water lines, and refrigerant lines. If any of these lines are damaged as you install your HVAC, you and your family may be in danger. In fact, while installing your own air conditioner, you may damage the unit. The last thing you want is a malfunctioning air conditioner. 

2. It’s Not Worth the Savings

When you DIY and the job doesn’t turn out right, you’ll have to go through the trouble and expense of hiring someone to fix the problem. 

3. The Warranty May Be Voided

You might want to consider what your warranty will be like if you DIY. You may not even know about this, but many manufacturers will void the warranty if you install your own unit. 

Unless you’re an experienced HVAC pro, you are more likely to make mistakes and be the cause of the failed air conditioner. Even if you do everything right, you might not get the perfect seal. This may allow air to leak out and cause air conditioner failure.

Not only that, if you mess up a big section of your HVAC system, you may be responsible for paying for the damage. If a refrigerant leak occurs, you may be responsible for paying for a full replacement.

4. DIY Is too Time-Consuming

If you have never installed an HVAC before, it can be time-consuming and exhausting. 

You will have to spend time at the local hardware store looking for the right materials, dismantle the old air conditioner, reinstall it and be ready for the electrical wiring.

After all of that, when you turn on the air conditioner, you might find that there are problems that need to be fixed.

Having Your Air Conditioner Installed Professionally Eliminates All These Problems

In general, the installation of an air conditioner should be done by a professional. Hiring a professional HVAC installation company can get your air conditioner installed in a matter of hours. It’s convenient, it’s safe, and it’s the best way to make sure that you have a functioning air conditioner without any problems.

Conclusion

When you hire a professional to install your air conditioner or to perform any air conditioning service, you can be sure that the job will be done right and that it will be working as soon as possible. Hiring a professional can save you time and money.

Professional contractors have the materials they need to have the same quality of work. They have the training and equipment to do the job quickly and efficiently.

In the end, you’ll have a clean, working air conditioner and you won’t be risking your home and your family’s safety.

Mainline Heating and Air offers air conditioning services, including AC installation in Alabaster, AL. Contact us today for all your HVAC needs!

If you think about it, there’s no such thing as a furnace problem that you’re glad to have. All of them are stressful, so your best bet is to get them fixed as soon as possible. Regardless of the season or the weather, you need to have your furnace looked at by a technician to assess what’s the source of the issue. Here are some signs that could help you catch your furnace’s problem before it escalates.

1. Yellow Flames in Your Furnace

The pilot light is one of the most important sources of heat in a furnace. It heats up the burner, which in turn heats up the air that’s then circulated inside your home via the ducts. Even when the furnace is turned off, the pilot light should be on. It should always produce blue or bright yellow flames.

However, if the pilot light produces yellow flames with an orange tint, that’s a sign that the fuel is dirty. If the flame is too small, it’s a sign that the furnace is not receiving enough oxygen. This usually happens when the furnace is not being used regularly.

These are actually signs of a larger issue, so you should have a furnace repair company look at the system right away.

2. A Loud Humming Sound

If the furnace makes a loud hum, even when it has just been turned on, there’s possibly a problem with the motor. Usually, this hum is caused by an accumulation of dirt and dust inside the motor.

The good news is that it could be fixed with a simple cleaning of the motor. To do this, you need to first unplug the furnace’s power cord and let it cool down. After that, you have to take a vacuum cleaner and clean out all the particles from the motor.

3. You’re Having Trouble Getting the Furnace Started

For a lot of homeowners, the furnace is a big question mark. They’re usually not sure how to get it started. The problem is that many furnaces have different functions and you need to know about them to be able to operate them properly.

For instance, you should avoid starting the furnace in the ‘auto’ mode during the summer. This is because the furnace in auto mode tries to match the temperature inside your house with the outside temperature, which is not the best setting if you’re not home.

4. Unbearable Odor

There’s no denying that an odor from the furnace is one sign that it’s not running properly. However, knowing the source of the smell is also helpful.

If the furnace is making a burning smell, it’s possible that it’s burning off dust or other deposits that have accumulated on the exhaust pipe. If the smell is like gas, it’s a sure sign that the gas valve is dirty or cracked. This can cause several issues.

5. The Fan Won’t Shut Off

If the fan won’t shut off, it means that it’s stuck in the ‘on’ mode. This is a serious issue, especially if it’s been left on for several hours. The fan continues to blow hot air, and it will not stop until you manually shut it off.

The problem is that you need to set the temperature of the furnace before you turn it on. Otherwise, the furnace will try to match the temperature in the house, and it could reach extremely high temperatures, which is dangerous.

Conclusion

To help you get the most out of your HVAC system, it’s important to understand how the furnace works. If you’re not sure about any of the signs mentioned in this article, you should immediately contact a furnace repair technician.

For any HVAC or furnace-related problems, Mainline Heating and Air is always on standby to serve you. Our team is uniquely qualified to help you repair any broken HVAC components as well as find the right system that fits your needs and your budget. For emergency furnace repair, call our technicians at (205) 664-4751.

A small air conditioner will struggle to keep a space at appropriate temperatures. A model that is too large can chill a room too rapidly without removing enough humidity, leaving you uncomfortable and clammy.

Finding the proper air conditioner size is critical since each home is unique, and the size of your central air conditioner will be determined by variables other than the size of your house. These elements include the kind of roof, the height of the ceiling, the number of windows, the type of insulation, the heat transmission of the walls, etc. Typically, the size indicated in the manufacturer’s specifications does not take these aspects into account and may thus be wrong.

Choose wisely, and you’ll feel great—and save money, too. Consumer Reports puts air conditioners through their paces in rooms the same size as the ones they’re supposed to cool. This makes it easy to choose the ideal model for your requirements.

What Size Air Conditioner Do You Need?

Every room in the house has a distinct purpose. This means that the temperature in each room varies. Furthermore, persons who use those rooms have varying expectations of how cool the space should be.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms tend to be small, usually no more than 100 to 200 square feet. This reduces cooling needs. At the same time, people sleeping in the room need a reliable cooling system for better sleep.

For small- or medium-size bedrooms, use a window unit A/C in the 5,000, 6,000, or 7,500 BTU category.

Home Offices

Home offices are typically small, but they use more air conditioning than a typical bedroom. A typical home office is 100 to 200 square feet. While you don’t want to be cold, you also don’t want to wake up the whole house with the blower running. A unit in the 5,000 to 7,500 BTU category is ideal.

Living Rooms

Living rooms are the hubs of activity in the home. This is where we watch TV, hang out with friends, and play games. They are typically 400 to 600 square feet. If you have guests over, crank it up and go with a larger model. Otherwise, a 7,500 to 12,000 BTU unit will work well.

Kitchen and Dining Room

Kitchens and dining rooms are typically larger than living rooms at 600 to 700 square feet. Many people enjoy spending time here, but it can get hot when the stove is on. Large windows and ceiling fans help make this room comfortable. A window unit AC in the 5,000 to 9,000 BTU category is ideal.

AC Money-Saving Tips

Newer versions are less expensive to operate due to stricter government energy regulations for window air conditioners. Look for a unit with an Energy Star designation and an EER of 10 or above. Your operational expenses will be lower if your EER is greater. Every model in CR’s air conditioner ratings has an EER of 10 or above.

Keeping your air conditioner in good working order might also help you save money. Look for a model with an easy-to-remove filter for frequent cleaning. An air conditioner that has a filthy filter has to work harder.

Many air conditioners include a timer that may be set to chill a room before you arrive home. Some even offer a smartphone app that you may use if you forget to do it before you leave the house.

Conclusion

Window air conditioners have come a long way over the years, and many people find them to be a good fit for their home cooling needs. After all, they are the most affordable option.

With the information above, you should find the best window air conditioner for your needs. Just follow our simple buying guide, and you’ll be cool in no time.

Mainline Heating and Air has been providing reliable heating and AC service in Alabaster, AL, and surrounding areas since 1989. We offer top-notch HVAC products like air conditioners and handlers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, heat pumps and gas furnaces, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, and filtering systems. Call us now to request an estimate. 

The gas furnace plays an integral part in your home. It provides you with heat during the colder seasons, all while helping you save money on heating bills. 

With that said, gas furnaces are not infallible. They experience wear and tear and even age with time. It’s best if you keep a close eye on your gas furnace to ensure it operates efficiently at all times.

Here are three signs to help you determine if your gas furnace needs repairs or maintenance. 

1. The Gas Furnace Makes Weird Noises

Many people have this misconception that if they hear weird noises coming from their furnace, it’s likely a sign of problems. In reality, that’s not always the case.

You see, your gas furnace will emit sounds as it operates. It’s completely common for your gas furnace to make various noises, including hissing, clicking, and more. As long as it’s not excessively loud, you don’t have to worry about it.

However, if you hear a strange, loud noise coming from your furnace, that’s a sign that it may need repairs. These sounds include a humming sound, a grinding noise, a clicking sound, etc. 

As a general rule of thumb, if the noise coming from your gas furnace is an extreme deviation from the sounds that it usually makes, it’s likely a sign of a problem.

2. Your Home has a Musty Smell

When it comes to gas furnaces, you may notice a strong, musty smell in your home.

In fact, some people refer to it as the smell of a rotten egg. If you notice this stench, you might want to take a look at your gas furnace.

In most cases, the smell results from the buildup of corrosion inside the heating unit. In other words, the odor comes from the breakdown of the metal components inside your furnace. 

It may lead to compromised safety. The next time you smell it, you should contact a professional to look at it and provide furnace repair. 

3. There Are Frequent Gas Shut-Offs

Another sign that may prove that you need to schedule furnace repair or maintenance is frequent gas shut-offs.

When your furnace needs repairs, it may shut off unexpectedly. This event can result in not having enough heat or hot water for long periods.

When this happens, it’s a clear sign that your gas furnace needs some TLC. You can take a look at it yourself, but it’s much better to rely on a professional in this case.

An expert can diagnose your gas furnace and perform the repairs needed. If you notice frequent gas shut-offs, encourage your family to stay warm with clothing and blankets until the repairs reach completion. 

Conclusion

As you can see, there are various signs that can help you determine if the gas furnace in your home needs repairs or maintenance. If you notice that your furnace is emitting weird sounds, you smell a musty odor coming from the unit, or you experience frequent gas shut-offs, call an expert right away.

The professionals at Mainline Heating & Air can provide furnace repair in Alabaster and surrounding areas. Our team has years of experience in the field, working to ensure that your furnace is always running efficiently. If you think you need furnace repairs, contact us right away.

A heat pump is an efficient way to warm up the home in the cold weather months. It uses electricity to exchange heat from one location to another. Heat pumps are used to replace or supplement conventional heating or cooling equipment such as furnaces and air conditioners. If you have one at home or in your commercial place, you should know that they should be serviced and maintained regularly.

Here are the things you should do:

• Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

As with all other products, you must follow the included manufacturer’s instructions when purchasing a heat pump. Doing so helps in many ways, including extending the unit’s life, reducing the risk of the unit failing, and increasing the unit’s efficiency.

• Keep the Inside and Outside Coils Clean

The outside coil is the one in direct contact with the air. Because of this, it should be kept clean and free of dirt and debris such as leaves and grass clippings. The outside coil should also be kept clean regularly to help avoid a buildup of dirt.

The same is true for the inside coil. The inside coil is the one that is sealed and can’t be cleaned. Because of this, it should be kept free of dirt, debris, and moisture. Also, ensure that the unit is vented correctly and unobstructed to help prevent the inside coil from becoming blocked by excess moisture.

• Turn Off and Clean Your Fan

The fan motor is in charge of moving the air through the heat pump. It should be turned off and thoroughly cleaned regularly as well. The fan motor should also be cleaned before the start of the heating or cooling session.

Why Get Annual Professional Cleaning?

Heat pumps don’t require much maintenance, but they must be properly and regularly assessed to keep them in good running condition. The annual professional cleaning is the most crucial part of ensuring your heat pump works properly.

Different types of heat pumps have different types of maintenance procedures as well. You have to consult the manufacturer’s manual to know what heat pump you have and how to care for it.

Keeping your heat pump in excellent condition is necessary for your comfort and safety. If you feel uncomfortable with your heat pump, you should contact a professional HVAC professional for assistance.

Here are some of the things they usually do in their visit:

• Test Your Pump’s Refrigerant: They will test your refrigerator’s parts and will check if they’re in good shape, in good condition, and that they work correctly. The professional will also measure the refrigerant level to ensure they’re in the proper range.
• Provide General Maintenance: Securing loose fittings and ensuring the unit is airtight. The HVAC professional will also inspect the outdoor and indoor coils for dust, blockage, leaks, obstructions, and any malfunctioning according to the manufacturer’s specifications. When they believe that there is a leak or the unit is malfunctioning, they will service the unit and make sure it is working properly.
• Inspect the Evaporator Coil: The professional will check the inside part of your unit to see if there is any blockage, debris, or moisture. They will check the fan motor, blower, and blower wheel. They will also check the wiring and electrical connection.
• Confirm the Thermostat’s Operation – The HVAC professional will check your thermostat and make sure it’s in good condition and working correctly according to your settings.

Conclusion

Heat pumps have many benefits that can help you save money, but to enjoy these benefits, you have to take care of your heat pump on a regular basis. The more you take care of your heat pump, the longer you’ll be able to enjoy using it, and the more savings you’ll make in the long run.

If you need a heating and air conditioning service in Alabaster, AL, Mainline Heating and Air is here to serve you. We have been providing dependable heating and AC services in the area since 1989. We also offer emergency services. Contact us today to schedule a booking.