Author: NTM

Homeowners typically don’t have to replace the coolant in their air conditioning units because most units incorporate a closed-loop system. If there are no major accidents or malfunctions, the coolant should last the life of the unit. However, sometimes your AC will break down. If your air conditioning system develops a leak or experiences some other system failure, you may need to replace the coolant. Now, you may be wondering what to do if you are ever in this situation. To help you out, here’s everything you need to know about AC coolant leaks.

What Are the Signs That Your AC May Have a Coolant Leak?

The most obvious sign that your AC isn’t cooling your home well is that it begins to leak coolant. If you notice that your HVAC unit stops cooling your home effectively, or that you can feel warm air blowing through your vents, you should inspect it for leaks. Other symptoms of a coolant leak are water seeping from the vents or excess moisture on the outside of the unit.

The HVAC system, which includes metal components such as the copper tube walls, is used to control the temperature. As the components become corroded, they begin to break down, causing holes and splitting along the seams. When this happens, the refrigerant that controls the air circulation leaks out.

What Should You Do Before You Call a Technician?

When your air conditioner is no longer cooling your home, especially when the weather is hot, you’ll have to have it fixed as soon as possible. Before you call a technician, you can try to address the issue on your own. Check whether your AC needs to be cleaned. An AC doesn’t work as well when it has a lot of dirt or leaves blocking the airflow.

When Should You Call a Technician?

If your air conditioner still isn’t cooling your home well, it’s time to call a professional technician to check the system. Problems with the air conditioner may just be easy to fix if you have the unit cleaned.

You can opt to clean the condenser unit yourself, but this is not a task to be taken lightly. The condenser uses metal blades or fins to push air around. It quickly picks up dead grass, dust, and dirt. Dirt blocks the flow of air and reduces the unit’s cooling ability. To clean it, you can use a vacuum with a soft brush to remove the dirt without damaging the fins.

If you’re uncomfortable cleaning this part of your air-conditioning unit, you can always pay for a professional to do it for you. Remember, if you clean a unit yourself, you could potentially do more damage than good. This is why it may be best to ask a technician to do it for you.

Conclusion

We hope this article proves to be useful when it comes to helping you deal with any AC coolant leak issues. While it may seem intimidating, you will be able to deal with this problem with ease as long as you know what you’re doing. Be sure to keep everything that we’ve discussed here in mind so that you can deal with AC coolant leaks effectively.

If you are looking for reliable AC repairs, Mainline Heating & Air has got you covered. Our high-quality products include air conditioners, heat pumps, gas furnaces, air handlers, package units, home generators, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, humidifiers, filtering systems, and dehumidifiers. For more information, check out the rest of our website!

Your heat pump is the throbbing heart of your heating system in your house or office. It performs so well that we take it for granted most of the time. We only think about it when something goes wrong. However, when this happens, it might result in a complicated and costly repair. 

Most of the time, we can call in professionals to handle minor issues before they become major and detrimental to your business or personal life.

Knowing the early warning signs that you may require heat pump repair can save you a lot of time, pain and money, and in the long run.

Here are the six ways to determine if your heat pump needs repair:

1. Using More Electricity Than Usual

If you notice that your unit is using more electricity than usual, this could signify that something’s not right. If this has happened a few times, it could be due to a problem with the system, and it would be advisable to seek the assistance of a professional.

2. Low Cooling

If your system fails to provide adequate cooling, it could be a sign of a problem with your unit. If this is the case, it’s worth noting that this isn’t an isolated incident. If it has happened very frequently, then it is possible that the unit hasn’t been adequately maintained and requires a full assessment by the manufacturer.

3. Not Hot Enough

If your heat pump is not hot enough, it might be due to many different things. There could be a problem with the thermostat. It is also possible that the pump is frozen due to the cold or the reversing valve is broken. It is always best to have your heat pump inspected when it’s not heating enough. 

4. Running at the Wrong Setting

If your heat pump is running at a higher or lower setting than it should, it may be indicative that there might be something wrong with your unit. While this may not necessarily require a full-blown repair, it could still mean a serious problem.

5. Not Turning on at the Correct Setting

Most heat pumps have several heat settings, each with a slightly different efficiency rating and running cost. If your heat pump isn’t turning on at the right setting, then you could be facing a severe problem.

6. Not Turning on at All

If your heat pump isn’t turning on at all, you’ll quickly know something is wrong. If this happens, it may be worth double-checking that there is power supply and testing for a blown fuse/circuit breaker. If everything looks all right, it might be time to call in the professionals to assess the situation.

Conclusion

Heat pumps are our primary source of heating in the colder months. However, if they stop working properly, it can be very disruptive. If you think your heat pump is running at full capacity, it’s worth checking for signs of malfunction. Catching these issues early can help you prevent them from becoming a bigger problem.

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. 

Pollution is bad for our health and even our skin. So, most of the time, we prefer to stay at home away from all the dust particles the road offers. However, how sure are you that your home air is safe?

The truth is, your home air can be just as polluted as it is outside. But, don’t worry! We have got you covered with our tips on reducing the pollution inside your home.

1. Regularly Change Air Filters in Appliances

The most important tip for your home is regularly changing the air filters in your appliances. For example, change the air filters in your air conditioners, fan, and heaters at the beginning of every season. If you notice the filters are clogged, change them immediately.

2. Clean Your Carpets

The carpets in your house continue to collect dust and other impurities, even if they are vacuumed. The best way to clean your carpets is to call a professional carpet cleaner. They have the right supplies and equipment to get rid of all the dust and grime accumulated inside your carpets.

3. Clean Your Furnace

Commonly, your furnace is the main culprit of indoor air pollution. This is because it houses all the furnace’s filth, which is hard to get rid of. Having your furnace cleaned regularly can lower your chances of contracting an airborne disease.

4. Use a Dehumidifier

Your home will become humid during the hot season, and the humidity can cause mold. With the use of a dehumidifier, you can easily control the moisture and get your home and your family healthy again.

5. Inspect Your Air Ducts

If you have HVAC systems in your home, you need to inspect your ducts. You can call a professional to do this task or do it yourself. This is a crucial step in either case, as regular duct inspection and maintenance can prevent you from breathing in many air impurities.

6. Install Kitchen Vents

The kitchen is one of the dirtiest areas in your house as you are cooking food all the time. Installing vents in your kitchen is a great way to get the impurities out of your home. However, you need to ensure that the vents are functioning correctly.

7. Buy Indoor Plants

Plants are one of the most efficient natural air filters. They are known to detoxify your house and stop dust mites. So, it will be a good idea if you buy some indoor plants and they can work to clean your home.

8. Avoid Scented Candles

Candles are a popular home décor item. However, scented candles are also a source of indoor air pollution. The scented candles release toxins that are not good for your health. So, even if you enjoy the ambiance that scented candles provide, it’s best to keep them out of your house.

Conclusion

With these tips, you can be assured that the air inside your home stays clean. So, you can easily enjoy your time at home without worrying about the indoor air quality. It’s your job to ensure that your home is clean and healthy.

Mainline Heating and Air is a heating and AC service company, providing quality products to Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby. We also offer HVAC repair services to ensure that you have the best air quality at home. Get in touch with us for more information.

A Daikin air conditioner is a high-efficiency air conditioning system that helps your home stay comfortable and provides a consistent temperature to match your individual needs and comfort. Depending on which Daikin system you choose, you will have energy efficiency and comfort for years to come.

Now, one thing that makes their ac systems so popular is their inverter technology. Today, let’s take a closer look at what makes it so special.

Here’s what you need to know:

What is Inverter Technology?

Inverter Technology is a great way to have the best of both worlds. It allows you to get the same excellent efficiency as their standard technology, but with the added benefit of more precise, reliable, and consistent temperature control. Moreover, because it’s designed to provide better control, inverter systems will help you stay comfortable more easily and effectively.

Daikin’s inverter technology is a little more efficient than regular air conditioners. The inverter technology uses a technology that changes input voltage to output voltage. This offers higher efficiency than other air conditioners, and it keeps your home cool with less energy—keeping your energy costs low.

How Does Daikin’s Inverter Technology Work?

Daikin’s inverter technology works without complicated computer systems or sensitive controls. Instead, the inverter easily knits together the different parts of the air conditioner to provide you with comfort without all of the noise or components.

The unit takes in outside air and cools it as it moves through the air conditioner’s coils. It uses this cooled air to remove heat from home through the vents. It then recirculates the cooled air through the house. That’s it! The inverter technology uses a very simple system, but it provides you with the cool, comfortable air you want while reducing energy use.

Other Benefits of a Good Inverter

Daikin’s inverter technology is a good option for those who want to save energy and money. But, it also has other benefits as well.

For example, you won’t hear the whir of the inverter technology. Instead, you’ll hear a gentle sound that’s easy on the ears. This is because inverter technology is a little quieter than traditional air conditioners. 

It’s also a little lighter, meaning the unit itself won’t take up as much space in your home. And the inverter technology uses a much simpler rotary compressor. This is one of the reasons it’s quieter and lighter. This also means that it has a better lifespan and fewer breakdowns.

Another benefit of the inverter technology is that it’s a little easier to install. This is because inverter technology works with a simple rotary compress instead of a normal scroll compressor. 

The Difference a Good Inverter Makes

You should do it whenever you can save energy and protect the environment. But, when you can save energy, protect the environment, AND stay comfortable, you can’t pass that up. With Daikin’s inverter technology, you can stay comfortable without a lot of noise or even extra power bills.

It’s important to note that inverter technology is not a new technology. It’s simply Daikin’s way of improving a classic and efficient air conditioner.

Conclusion

Inverter technology is one of the things that has made Daikin air conditioners so popular, reliable, and easy to install. If you want to learn about other things that make Daikin air conditioners so great, check out our other guide to their technology.

If you are looking for reliable air conditioning, we can help you. Mainline Heating and Air provide dependable and high-quality air conditioning services. 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. 

A furnace is a must-have for any home, primarily because it will be extensively used during the winter months. While it produces heat, it’s not always perfect because it can experience problems now and then. One such example is when it produces smells that it shouldn’t.

There are many reasons why a furnace would produce smells out of the ordinary. Sometimes the smell is simply a result of the heating system used in the home. More often than not, the scent results from a problem with the furnace that needs to be addressed. Regardless, it shouldn’t be producing any smell at all, and you should get it fixed as soon as possible.

This article lists some of the most common smells that a furnace shouldn’t produce and what you can do to fix them. Read on below to get started.

#1 – Smoke

There’s a good chance that you will be able to detect a small amount of smoke if it’s coming from your furnace. Smells like this are not something you should be looking for in any case.

Depending on the cause of the smoke, the problem may be easily fixed by changing the filters and ensuring that all soot is cleaned from the gas burner, flame tube, and heat exchanger. On the other hand, if the cause of the smoke is a result of a failed motor, you should call in a professional to fix it.

#2 – Burning Dust

If you’re smelling something that feels like burning dust, it’s usually a result of overheating. This can be because of a faulty motor or perhaps a clogged filter.

The easiest way to rectify this is to get the air filter cleaned. Still, you also need to check your furnace to ensure that dust is not being sucked into it.

#3 – Rotten Eggs

The smell of rotten eggs is usually a result of gases being released from the gas burner. This smell commonly happens when the gas valve is turned off, but it shouldn’t be a problem in the first place.

The smell can be fixed by checking the gas valve and burner assembly. If the problem persists, you should call a professional.

#4 – Foul Sewage

Many factors can cause a foul sewage smell or something similar to it. It can result from a blocked drain line, a problem with the pump, a broken gas safety shutoff, a clogged filter, and many more.

The smell can be fixed by cleaning the drain line in most cases. On the other hand, if the smell persists and the problem is not something as simple as a clogged drain, you should call a technician to fix the problem.

#5 – Your Pet’s Smell

If you have an animal at home that’s shedding hair, this can contribute to the smell of your home. Some people also keep pets in areas where the furnace is kept. If that’s the case, there may be a chance that the smell is coming from your pet.

If you have noticed your pet’s smell coming from your furnace, you should remove the pet from the area. You should also clean the filter and ensure that the motor is free of dust. You may also consider switching to an air purifier if the problem persists. The purifier will help remove the pet’s hair from the air.

#6 – Mold

Mold is a problem that needs to be addressed quickly. The smell it produces is one of the first signs of mold growth. Even though you may not see the mold, it’s a good idea to call a professional to inspect the heating system and make sure that mold isn’t growing anywhere in it.

The mold may be growing on the vent or in the ducts. More often than not, the mold results from the heating system being kept in an area that’s too moist. You should ensure that the area stays dry to avoid mold growth.

#7 – Scent of Metal

If there’s a scent of metal coming from your furnace, there’s likely a problem with your motor. A bad motor can cause this problem. If it’s not, it could be caused by something else.

The problem with a bad motor is that it can cause an overload and burn out. A refrigerant leak can cause this. The smell of the burning refrigerant can cause a burning smell. In this case, it’s recommended that you call a professional to fix the problem for you.

#8 – Chemicals

If you notice a chemical smell coming from your furnace, it can be caused by gas. The scent can be easily detected because cracks and pops usually accompany it. The scent can also be detected if you hear a knocking noise.

The smell is usually a result of a gas leak in the system or a clogged orifice. To fix the problem, you should open up the furnace. If there’s a leak, you should resolve the problem by replacing the faulty parts.

Conclusion

The smell coming from the heating system of your home can be quite off-putting, especially if it’s not something you’re used to. It’s recommended that you take care of the problem as soon as possible. If you’re not able to identify the source of the smell, you should call a professional.

Mainline Heating and Air provides top-quality services for heating and cooling repair in Alabaster, AL. Our team of experienced professionals can fix any problem your HVAC system could have, all for an affordable price. Contact us today to learn more!

Air conditioning units are designed to keep the air cool, clean, and circulating indoors. These units offer relief for many, but they can cause frequent sore throats in some individuals. 

While there are multiple causes of sore throat, including allergies and the flu, a poor-functioning AC unit is likely low on the list. Nevertheless, these complaints are common in allergy sufferers and chronic respiratory disorders.

Here are the possible reasons you’re getting a sore throat from your air conditioning:

1. The Air Filter Isn’t Working

One of the most common causes of a sore throat from AC is a dirty filter. The filter can collect dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne pollutants by not being cleaned. This can cause irritation, dryness, and soreness in the throat.

The filter should be cleaned and replaced at least every three months, and if you have any other respiratory conditions, you should do this more often.

2. The Air Conditioning Unit is Dirty

A dirty air conditioning unit can cause many illnesses, and sore throats are one. The unit should be cleaned and maintained every three to six months. If you have frequent sore throats, it might be worth considering a new AC unit.

3. You’re Allergic to the Cooling Unit

A few different materials are used to make air conditioning units, including metal, plastic, and fiberglass. If you’re allergy sensitive, you may be allergic to one of these materials. Not all air conditioning units will have this in the same place, but metal’s most common culprit.

If you know you’re allergic to metal, consider choosing a plastic or fiberglass AC unit. If you’re not sure, consider switching to an air filtration system that can filter these allergens out of the air.

4. The Air Conditioner is Too Close to Your Bedroom

If you are suffering from frequent sore throats, consider moving your AC unit to another room. The AC is pumping out cool air that can lower temperatures in the room, and this air must travel through the ducts to reach your room. 

If the AC is placed too near your bed, this can cause the cold air to make its way into your room and make your throat sore.

5. There’s Something in Your HVAC System

If you’ve recently gotten a new pet or if you’re a smoker, you may have something in your HVAC system that’s aggravating your throat. The filters may be dirty, and the system may need to be cleaned and replaced to keep the itching and the sore throat away.

6. You’re Using a Fan

While fans can be an excellent steaming tool, they can also be an annoying sore throat sufferer. You can quickly get a sore throat from a fan if it’s blowing directly on your throat, causing irritation and soreness.

7. The Temperature is Too Cold

One of the most common complaints of people with a sore throat is the need for the room to be warmer. You may be getting a sore throat from the air conditioning if your room is too cold. Turn the temperature up and see if that helps.

Conclusion

So, you’re getting a sore throat from your air conditioning. Before you call the company to complain, consider these possibilities to help you determine why your throat is getting sore. Once you know the cause and how you can fix it, you’ll be able to enjoy your AC without getting a sore throat.

Mainline Heating and Air provides dependable heating and AC service and quality products to Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby county area. Our quality products include air conditioners, heat pumps, gas furnaces, air handlers, package units, home generators, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, humidifiers, filtering systems, and dehumidifiers. For emergency heating and AC service in Alabaster, AL, just call (205) 664-4751. 

Heat pumps are very popular, especially where winters are mild. With heat pumps, homeowners can save significantly on their bills. Unlike furnaces, which burn fuel to generate warmth, heat pumps move heat around the home. 

Because the unit runs quietly, it can be easy to forget that it needs regular attention. These systems operate quietly, but they need attention every once in a while. Here’s how to tell if you need to call for HVAC repair in Alabaster for your heat pump:

Your Heat Pump Freezes Up in Winter

A heat pump forces refrigerant into a small heating coil, which moves heat. Heat pumps must cycle between heating and cooling. They do this by forcing refrigerant through the coil and then a small vent. When the system is at its warmest, it changes over to cooling mode, and the refrigerant flows through the vent. During cooling, the refrigerant goes through a larger tube and into the vent, where it can be blown out of the house.

If the system switches over to cooling during winter, but the vent doesn’t work, cold refrigerant stays in the fine coil. Condensation forms, the unit freezes and stops working. The best way to tell if your heat pump is frozen is to listen for a buzzing noise. If you hear one, call for HVAC repair in Alabaster.

Your Heat Pump Ices Up in Summer

Just as a heat pump freezes up during winter, it can ices up during summer. This occurs when the unit is in cooling mode and the air blowing out of the vent is getting too cold. The unit then switches over to heating mode and heats the air, making it too warm. Cold air circulates back into the vent and freezes inside.

If you hear a buzzing sound, it could be that your heat pump is icing up and needs repair. 

It Often Cycles On and Off

Your heat pump cycles on and off to maintain a set temperature. In winter, it runs until the temperature is warm enough, and then it turns off. In summer, it cycles on and off as needed to keep the temperature comfortable.

A constant buzzing means the unit is cycling on and off frequently. It could be that the thermostat is not reading correctly, or the unit itself is not working to the best of its ability.

The Blower Stopped Working

If the blower stops working, the outside unit is not pushing air into the vent. In some cases, the blower stopped because a piece of ice fell into it. It could also be that the blower wheel is not turning properly.

The Unit Makes Noises

If the unit is making noises, it could be that parts are moving around and rubbing against things. If this happens frequently, it could mean the parts are wearing out. The unit could be getting ready to fail.

The Heat Pump Doesn’t Perform Well

The best way to tell if your heat pump isn’t working well is to watch your bills. If you have a heat pump, you’re going to save money on your heating bills. If you find that you’re spending significantly more money on heating bills, it could mean the system is not working correctly.

You Have Weak Airflow

An air conditioner’s fan is essential for air circulation. If you have weak airflow, you might have a cooling coil that needs to be taken care of because it’s dirty from dust and debris. If there’s dirt on the cooling coil, the unit will have to work harder to provide the same level of cooling. This can cause the unit to wear out sooner. And, of course, you’ll have a more challenging time breathing inside the home. The air handler indoors will pull air from the dirty cooling coil, which removes dust and debris into your home, causing you to breathe it in.

Conclusion

The good news is that there’s no reason to live with an air conditioning system that doesn’t work. A system that doesn’t blow cool air or provide enough heat is a hassle. It means you’ll have to put up with hot or cold days. It means you’ll have to buy additional fans to create airflow. It also means you’ll have to spend more money on your heating and cooling bills.

If your AC unit isn’t working as well as it should, call for HVAC repair in Alabaster to make sure the problem doesn’t worsen.

Mainline Heating and Air offers heating and AC service in Alabaster that can help ensure your system is working properly. Contact us today to know more about our services!

An average home in the United States goes through quite a number of temperature changes every year. Your home’s HVAC system works continuously all year round to keep your household comfortable throughout these changes. With constant usage, it’s not uncommon for these systems to eventually wear out and fail.

Help Your HVAC System Live a Long and Useful Life

Extending the lifespan of a household’s HVAC system is a common concern for US citizens. That’s because the inevitable replacement of a malfunctioning one can be one of the more expensive home maintenance tasks. 

Below, we’ve prepared a list of advice to help you ensure your HVAC system remains functioning and in good condition for a long time.

Service Your HVAC System Regularly

Regular maintenance on your HVAC system will help you catch small problems before they become serious issues. You can usually pay a technician to come by once a year to clean and inspect your system. 

It’s also a good idea to have it checked out before the heating and cooling season starts, especially if you have a gas system. That way, you can ensure it remains in good working condition and avoid any interruptions in your home’s heating or cooling.

Monitor Your System for Warning Signs

Like any other machine, HVAC systems can show signs of failing before they break down completely. Look out for any unusual sounds or smells from your system, especially if you have a gas HVAC system. 

You may also want to monitor your system’s temperature and airflow. Usual telltale signs are when your system is operating too hot or cold or is blowing air that feels weak or seems to ripple.

Clean and Change Filters Often

HVAC filters catch dust, pollen, pet dander, and other contaminants in the air. Over time, they will block filters entirely, causing the HVAC system to work harder to circulate air through your home. This can cause your system to generate more heat and run louder. Over time, it can be a source of discomfort in your home.

Be Careful of Outside Influences

Avoid sources of extreme heat or humidity because they can decrease the lifespan of your HVAC system. At the same time, don’t let your system sit out in the cold without any protection from the elements that could damage it.

Focus on Proper Insulation

Proper insulation is the best way to extend the life of your HVAC system. The quality of your home’s insulation can make a big difference in how much your system has to run. This is a great way to lower your energy usage while keeping your system working at peak performance.

A Healthy HVAC System for a Comfortable Home

The lifespan of an HVAC system is mainly dependent on how well you maintain it. A home with a well-functioning heating and cooling system is an asset to the owner because it helps maintain a pleasant living environment and protects their investment in their home. The tips above will help you take care of and maintain your HVAC system properly, ensuring it lasts for a long time without needing replacement anytime soon.

Maintain a comfortable home by taking care of your HVAC system. Mainline Heating Air can help you keep your system in good working condition. Hire a professional air conditioning service in Alabaster today!

As winter grips your city, it’s probably safe to assume that you’ll be spending a lot more time in your home. Keeping your home as cozy and comfortable as possible is essential for health. Spending too much time in the cold can lead to life-threatening health problems, but if you keep your heating system up to date, this shouldn’t be an issue.

So relax, close the door, and keep reading for the most common winter heating problems and how to prevent them.

1. Busted Heating System

The most common problem with heating systems can be summed up in one word: broken. Broken heating systems need to be fixed immediately. This can be quite the task, so if you’re unsure how to handle it, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

It’s important to realize that your heating system might not always be broken. Something is wrong if you can’t get a fire started in the fireplace or your home remains colder than usual when it’s cold outside.

2. Frozen Pipes

When it’s cold outside, water in your pipes can freeze, which is a problem. The water that’s frozen in your pipes can’t move and deliver heat to your home. Since it’s frozen, it needs to be removed.

Sometimes, a cold feeling in your home is more vivid than the temperature reading. This is how cold pipes feel. But how do you know if there’s a problem with your pipes?

3. Uneven Air Flow and Falling Temperatures

If your home feels drafty and your furnace struggles to maintain even temperature throughout the room, the problem may be in the ducts. The heating system may not be able to move the cold air in the room properly, which can create a lot of problems.

The cold air stays on the lower floors, and the warm air stays on the upper floors. Try to spot leaks in the ducts and call a heating repair professional if you find any.

4. Dirty and Clogged Filters

It’s essential to clean and replace the filters on your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at least once a month. This prevents excessive wear and tear on your system and keeps it running smoothly. This can help make your heating system more efficient, often saving you money.

If you’re unsure how to clean your filters or whether your filters need to be replaced, search for an HVAC technician nearby.

5. Thermostat Issues

The thermostat is the control system that monitors your home’s temperature. When the HVAC system is working correctly, the thermostat is, too. But when the thermostat is not working correctly, the system can’t function properly.

If your heat is not working, check your thermostat. Is it set to the correct temperature? If the thermostat isn’t set correctly, your HVAC system may not be functioning correctly.

Conclusion

If your home is getting colder or warmer than usual, or you notice a strange smell from your heating vents, you may have a problem with your hands. If you see any of these issues, a professional will determine whether your heating system needs repair or just a tune-up, and they can do the work to get your system working correctly.

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. 

While furnaces may seem like they last forever, it’s important to remember that they will eventually give out. Knowing about this will be beneficial to any homeowner as it allows you to prepare for any furnace complications. This is why we thought it would be useful to put together an article about this topic. If this is something that you want to learn more about, read on as we break down everything you need to know about how long furnaces actually last.

How Long Do Furnaces Last?

While this seems like a straightforward question, there are a slew of different things you have to consider. The main thing you have to keep in mind when it comes to the lifespan of your furnace is how well-maintained the furnace is. A well-maintained furnace, if maintained properly, can last at least 15 to 20 years. If a homeowner keeps up with the annual maintenance and repairs it promptly when needed, the furnace can last even longer.  When your furnace is about 15 years old, you should prepare for the day that you need to replace it.

What Factors Shorten the Lifespan of Your Furnace?

You also want to be aware of the factors that shorten the lifespan of your furnace. To help simplify things, here are the most common factors that shorten the overall lifespan of furnaces:

• There are several types of furnaces; some are better than others, or there wouldn’t be competition between brands. Be sure to be meticulous when selecting a furnace to ensure that you get the best possible one for your home.
• The age of your unit plays an important role in determining the lifespan of your furnace. While this might seem like a given, it bears repeating. Older units, especially gravity furnaces (the kind that hangs on your wall), were built to last and can often reach the estimated upper limit. Not to be outdone, newer furnace models are usually more efficient and can also last pretty long when properly maintained.
• Many of you may not know this but the location of your furnace directly affects how long it will last. Be sure to check for proper clearance and ventilation for the unit. If there is too much moisture or not enough airflow, damage to the heat exchanger will occur, and the lifespan of your unit will be reduced.

Should You Replace Your Furnace?

Only you can decide whether it is worth it to replace your furnace. Just make sure to consider a few things before you do. Each year that goes by, your unit loses a little of its efficiency. While it may seem costly to replace your furnace, the money you’ll save on your energy bill may offset these costs. It’s important to look at the entire situation when making these types of decisions so it’s best to be as thorough as you can be.

Conclusion

We hope this article proves to be useful when it comes to helping you maximize your furnace. If you find that it is time to replace it, be sure to work with professionals that can advise you on the best furnace choices possible. For those of you who are sticking with their furnaces, be sure to invest in proper maintenance to extend your furnace’s lifespan.

If you are looking to improve the lifespan of your furnace, Mainline Heating & Air has got you covered. Our high-quality products include air conditioners, heat pumps, gas furnaces, air handlers, package units, home generators, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, humidifiers, filtering systems, and dehumidifiers. For more information, check out the rest of our website!