Category: Blog

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!

When rooms are blocked off, and air movement throughout the house is disturbed, common central air conditioning problems emerge. If you have an air conditioner, you’ll need to know when to seek regular air conditioning service. 

And there’s a problem with the operation. Close your home’s windows and exterior doors as much as possible to isolate the room or a set of related rooms from the rest of your house. Read on to learn about home cooling for a list of typical air conditioner problems and what to look for.

When selecting an air conditioning service in Alabaster, AL, know what to ask for to maintain your air conditioner. Below are the reasons why you need the help of a professional:   

Insufficient Upkeep

The air conditioner ceases to work effectively if the filters and air conditioning coils become unclean, and the compressor or fans will possibly fail early.

Drainage Issues

Check the condensate drain when humid outdoors to ensure it’s not clogged and draining correctly. If your room air conditioner isn’t level, it cannot drain effectively.

Failure of Electric Controls

The compressor and fan controls can deteriorate, especially if the AC is turned on and off repeatedly. Electrical connections and contacts should be examined during a professional service call since corrosion of wire and terminals is an issue in many systems.

Leaks of Refrigerant

If your AC is short on refrigerant, it was installed incorrectly or leaks. If it leaks, merely adding more refrigerant will not solve the problem. 

A skilled technician should repair any leaks, then test the repair and charge the system with the proper quantity of refrigerant. 

Remember that your air conditioner’s performance and efficiency are optimal when the refrigerant charge meets the manufacturer’s specifications. Refrigerant leaks can also possibly be hazardous to the environment.

Sensor Issues

A thermostat sensor is situated beneath the control panel of room air conditioners and detects the air temperature entering the evaporator coil. The air conditioner may cycle continually or act erratically if the sensor is knocked out of place. Adjust the sensor’s location by carefully bending the wire that keeps it in place near the coil but not touching it.

The Air Conditioner Doesn’t Turn On

If your air conditioner isn’t turning on, check your thermostat batteries. If the batteries are dead, replace them. Look at the thermostat settings to determine if the cooling mode is on if the batteries are in good working order. 

Noises From the Air Conditioner

Depending on the failure, an air conditioner might emit various sounds. Below are some of the reasons why your air conditioner is making strange noises:

• A refrigerant leak creates a hissing sound.
• It might be a relay issue if you hear clicking sounds when turning on and off your air conditioner.
• Noises like hammering or pounding indicate a blower or motor assembly problem.
• The compressor or fan motor creates a screeching noise.
• Faulty electrical components cause a buzzing sound.

Conclusion 

Above are common air conditioning issues that homeowners may encounter before or during peak air conditioning. To avoid more severe air conditioner difficulties, you should look for an air conditioning repair in Alabaster, AL. 

Mainline Heating & Air provides dependable heating & air conditioning service and quality products to our Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby county area customers. For emergency heating and ac service, call (205) 664-4751.

We understand how important your heat pump is to operate at its greatest capacity. You depend on this system for comfort, whether you need to keep warm or cool down. Taking proper care of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is the best way to ensure it will function efficiently and reach its full-service life potential.

Here are some tips to help you achieve that:

1. Clean Your Filter

Keeping your air filter clean is one of the best ways to ensure that your heating and cooling system is operating at its best. A dirty air filter simply doesn’t allow enough air to pass through to cool down or heat your home.

Installing a new filter can cost as little as $10, which means you will be getting a lot of bang for your buck. Get in the habit of changing your filter every few months (or whenever your system tells you to), and you will experience improved performance and your heating, and cooling system will last longer.

2. Set Your Thermostat

Setting your thermostat to the right temperature is also a great way to ensure your system is working efficiently. If your home is too warm, your system will constantly be working to keep the temperature at a set level, which means you’re wasting money.

If your thermostat is set too high, it could cause your system to break down sooner. When the thermostat is set about five degrees higher than it needs to be, this can cause your system to work three times harder than it needs to be.

3. Change or Clean Your Filter Every Three Months

This tip is also related to your air filters. If you wait longer than three months to change or clean your filter, it could affect your system’s performance. You might not notice the decrease in performance since you’re used to your system working a certain way, and you might not be aware of how much money you are wasting on energy.

Do yourself a favor by making sure your air filter is clean and your system will work better. This is also a great way to save you money since you won’t ever realize how much money you save through efficiency.

4. Check Your Connections

Your HVAC system needs to be properly connected to work efficiently. If you have any loose connections, it could be the reason your heating and cooling system isn’t working as well as it could be.

When you notice that your system is blowing air that seems cooler than usual or your vents are blowing hot air, it’s a good idea to have your HVAC system checked out by one of our technicians. Inspections for our service area can be found on our website and heating and AC repair Cost.

Conclusion

Whether you need to change your filter or your system is not functioning correctly, you owe it to yourself to get the best heating and cooling system possible. It’s easy to forget how important these systems are to our comfort, but they will last longer and work more efficiently if you follow these tips.

Mainline Heating and Air provides dependable heating and ac service and quality products to our Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby county area customers. 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. We are uniquely qualified to help you select the comfort system that best fits your home and budget. If you need heating and AC service in Alabaster, AL, call us at (205) 664-4751 today!

An average air conditioning unit is expected to last ten years. We see households with air conditioners that are more than 30 years old because they have maintained them properly. They are, however, more prone to cooling issues and AC breakdowns caused by an aging air conditioner.

This article is for you if you’re unsure when to replace your air conditioner. We’ve compiled a list of compelling reasons to replace your air conditioner.

New Air Conditioner Models Saves More Electricity

Innovative air conditioning technology has resulted in more energy-efficient AC models. The rise of AC inverters has improved the units in terms of electricity consumption by varying the speed motors and temperature settings. Furthermore, using newer models has resulted in savings of up to 40 percent of the total cooling costs for an average household.

It is essential to recognize that previous technological standards may no longer be appropriate for today’s demands. As the world shifts to more eco-friendly technology, it is recommended that you upgrade to newer models to save the environment and your wallet.

Repairs May Cost More Than Buying a New Unit

If the cost of keeping your air conditioner running exceeds the price of a newer, more dependable unit, it’s time to replace it. Repairing an out-of-warranty air conditioner may add hundreds of dollars to your total repair cost.

When it comes to servicing an older air conditioner, there is also the possibility of additional fees. For a variety of reasons, your initial air conditioning repair bill may rise. An air conditioner may require hard-to-find or no-longer-manufactured parts, necessitating the use of custom-built or as-close-to-original-as-possible parts. Furthermore, multiple components may fail simultaneously, necessitating the purchase of additional parts and labor. In addition, diagnosing and repairing older air conditioning systems may take longer than diagnosing and repairing newer air conditioning systems.

Lets You Avoid Sudden Cooling Breakdowns

You don’t want your cooling system to fail in the middle of a hot day. However, air conditioners become overworked in scorching weather, and common breakdowns occur.

We already knew that everything gets worn out over time. If you need consistent cooling in your home, an old air conditioner may not be the best choice. As a result, it is preferable to replace it to avoid any unanticipated breakdowns. Replacing it can provide you with relief and peace of mind.

Have you ever thought about what would happen if your air conditioner broke down during the night? Feelings of anticipation can get so strong that they make it hard for you to do your daily chores and make you anxious about when things will break down. You and your family will have more faith in your home’s ability to keep you cool at all times if you replace an older air conditioner with a new one.

Conclusion

Despite your best efforts, there may come a time when it is more economical to replace your air conditioner than to fix it. When determining whether or not to replace your current air conditioner, three crucial elements to consider are its age, condition, and performance expectations. Therefore, if your air conditioner is not cooling your home effectively, it is time to contact an air conditioning contractor.

Do you have doubts about keeping or replacing your current air conditioner? Call us immediately, and one of our skilled HVAC technicians will analyze and recommend a replacement for your existing air conditioning equipment. This summer, avoid being trapped in the heat!

Mainline Heating and Air is a heating and AC service that has been providing high-quality products and dependable installation since 1989. We are highly qualified to assist you in determining which comfort system is best for your house and budget. Reach out to us today!

Maintaining your air conditioning unit should be one of your household priorities to ensure it will run smoothly for years to come. Experts recommend having your AC serviced at least once a year for maintenance, but the ideal frequency is twice a year.

When you’re hiring AC maintenance services, it’s best to do it right before the seasons change. Doing this ensures that your air conditioner is working properly by the time the weather becomes too hot. That being said, there are things you can do at home to keep up the maintenance of your AC unit. Taking up these practices will do a lot to ensure that it will provide the cold air you need even at the peak of summer.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Clean the Air Filters

Regularly cleaning or replacing your air filters is an excellent habit to take up if you want to extend the longevity of your AC unit. If your air filter is washable, you don’t have to replace it as long as you clean it every two or three months. 

If the air filter is too dirty, it could affect the performance of your air conditioner. If you feel like your unit isn’t cooling a room properly, you probably need to clean your air filters.

2. Keep the Area Around the Condenser Unit Clear

Your air conditioner’s condenser unit needs space to breathe, which is why you should keep that area clear. Avoid placing any plants or other belongings near the condenser unit and keep it clear of debris. 

Every once in a while, make sure nothing is blocking the air circulation. You can incorporate this habit into your regular yard work routine so that you don’t forget to do it.

3. Clean the Condenser Unit

The condenser unit also needs to be cleaned because it can be prone to collecting dryer lint, mold, mildew, or other harmful particles. If you’re not cleaning your condenser unit regularly, it could affect the lifespan of your air conditioner. 

Make sure to avoid using pressure washers because this could damage the condenser. Instead, use a hose that emits a gentle stream of water.

4. Check the Drain Lines

Your air conditioner’s drain lines also need maintenance, so it’s best to check them regularly. The drain lines are responsible for keeping your AC unit from flooding your home or causing a water backup. They also keep your air conditioner from spewing unclean air into your home. 

To make sure these are working correctly, clear all nearby debris, mold, algae, or even pests. If you live in a humid climate, you may need to get these checked regularly by hiring professional AC services.

Conclusion

Maintaining your air conditioner is essential if you want to avoid spending a lot of money on a new unit every other year. By following the tips mentioned above, you can significantly prolong your unit’s lifespan and improve its performance. You won’t even have to worry about whether or not your air conditioner is going to cool down a room properly. 

That being said, it’s essential to hire professional AC services at least once a year to ensure your unit is getting the proper care beyond what you can do at home.

Contact Mainline Heating and Air for professional air conditioning services in Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson county areas. Our team ensures only the best quality services for all our clients.

Your home can’t be without a gas furnace during a particularly cold day or those long winter nights. The furnace disperses heat throughout your house, keeping everyone warm and cozy. Though these well-built machines last from 15 to 30 years, they still need regular furnace repair, especially when you sense it doesn’t work as well as it once did.

Here are some sure-fire signs a gas furnace needs repairs this instant:

The Smell of Gas in the Air

You will smell gas every time you turn on a furnace during cold seasons. The scent of ethanol is entirely normal and is not a cause of alarm.

This is no longer normal when you continue smelling gas as the furnace continues to run or when the scent becomes more potent as you move closer to the furnace. These two signs mean your furnace is leaking gas.

Immediately contact a heating and AC service to fix the problem as gas leaks could lead to a fire or explosion when they come in contact with anything flammable.

Little to No Heat Dispersed

Another positive sign your gas furnace needs fixing is when the appliance does not distribute heat or disperses heat at a weaker level.

This problem could be caused by leaks, thermostat issues, cracks in the heat exchanger, or simply the inability to cope with extremely frigid weather.

Before contacting a repair crew, check if someone left the furnace temperature at a lower level or if the temperature is set at the usual levels. If it is the former, all you need to do is set it to the right heat. If it is the latter, call your heating and AC service to do regular maintenance.

Gas Alarms Going Off

If your carbon monoxide detector blares at home, that is an emergency. Immediately do the following:

• Close the gas furnace.
• Bring everyone outside of the house this instant. 
• Contact 911 from your smartphone. Do not remain inside the house.

While a regular furnace repair job can quickly fix gas leaks, a triggered home alarm means carbon monoxide has traveled from your basement to your home’s interior. This is caused by a fault heat exchanger, as the gas is not fully transformed into heat, hence the wide gas leakage and weaker heat distribution of the furnace.

Always contact a trusted heat and AC service in the event of a carbon monoxide alarm, as this is a severe appliance problem.

Weird Sounds

Much like a car engine that jumpstarts or a computer that powers on, gas furnaces make noises when ignited. However, hearing prolonged or intermittent noises such as rattling, popping, banging, or squealing causes concern.

• Banging could mean a furnace’s ignitor is malfunctioning.
• Squealing could signal a problem with the motor or fan, such as worn-out drive belts ready to break.
• Popping noises usually come from the ductwork and could mean a problem with the gas passageway. But if you have metal ducts, hearing this is completely normal, as it makes noises during expansion and contraction.

Call a heat and AC service for furnace repair if you hear any of these three sounds, plus others we may not have listed (rattling, whistling, and more).

It Looks and Sounds Old

Perhaps the main root of these problems is the fact your furnace is already past its prime. Signs of an old furnace include a worn-out or rusted exterior combined with one or more of the previous signs mentioned above. It might be better to purchase a new one instead of getting certain parts repaired, but always consult an expert before deciding.

Conclusion

Gas furnaces are sturdy machines that still require maintenance even if they last long. Getting the right repair team is paramount to keeping it in good working condition and your family safe from any furnace-related injuries.

For trusted heating and AC services, contact Mainline Heating and Air! We’ve got over three decades of experience doing furnace repair in Alabaster, AL, as well as offering quality products, including air conditioners, heat pumps, air handlers, and more! Set your appointment with us today!

Many of you may be considering buying a tankless water heater for your home. And while you can choose from a multitude of high-quality water heaters from Mainline Heating & Air, you may not know where to begin when it comes to choosing a water heater. To help you out, we thought it would be useful to prepare a brief article discussing this topic. If this is something that you want to learn more about, read on for four tips that will help you choose a tankless water heater for your home.

Pay Attention to the Warranties

While it may not be directly linked to how your water heater performs, you’ll want to pay extra attention to the warranties it comes with. Good quality heaters will come with an extended warranty that will have you covered in the case they break down. In the case that you’re choosing between two seemingly equal water heaters, the warranty they come with may just help you decide on which heater to get for your home.

Check the Water Heater Efficiency

When it comes to performance, there are very few things that are more important than water heater efficiency. Water heater efficiency is what will dictate how well the water heater can heat water as compared to other water heaters out on the market. While this may seem complicated, you’ll be glad to know that most heaters make use of an energy rating called Energy Factor (EF). You can use EF to compare heaters to see which one is the best when it comes to efficiency. The higher the EF rating, the more efficient the device will be.

Determine the Right Size That You Need for Your Home

You’ll need to determine the right size of a tankless water heater for your home. This can be rather tricky as the “right” size will depend on your specific situation. A good rule of thumb to follow would be to get a larger water heater if you have several people using hot water in your home.

Consider the Power Source

Lastly, you’ll want to consider the power source of the tankless water heater. When it comes to power sources, the most common types are propane and electric. Now, neither of these power sources are better than the others as they all come with unique advantages that can make them a good choice for your home.

Electric power tankless water heaters may be the most convenient. However, you have to be wary if your home is on the older side. Older homes come with weaker electric systems. This can cause problems as adding a water heater could potentially overload your system.

Propane heaters are usually more powerful than electric heaters. They’ll also allow you to save on your home’s electricity bill. The main downside to propane water heaters is they take a while to heat up. So much so that homeowners usually report inconsistent water temperatures when using propane tankless water heaters.

Conclusion

We hope these tips help you choose the best tankless water heater for your home. While it may seem like a lot of work to have to go through the different aspects of a water heater, taking the time to be thorough about your choice of water heater will prove to be beneficial for you and your home in the long run. Be sure to keep all of these tips in mind so that you can make the most informed decision about your choice of a tankless water heater.

If you are ever in need of a tankless water heater, Mainline Heating & Air has got you covered. 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 more information, check out the rest of our website!