How to Find the Right Heating Technician This Winter

3 Things to Look for In a Heating Company

Dealing with a broken heater in the winter is bad enough by itself. Unfortunately, finding a trustworthy heating contractor can be equally as difficult. Instead of taking a risk by calling the first HVAC technician, learn a few tips from the pros. Here is a quick guide from a local Daytona heating service to help customers select the right contractor. 

Positive Reviews for Several Sources

reviewsReviews can be very helpful when it comes to selecting a heating contractor. Positive and negative reviews can help a customer identify the strengths and weaknesses of their contractors. Additionally, by looking at both positive and negative reviews in full, customers can determine which reviews are valid and which ones are simply left by cantankerous customers out for revenge. 

Reviews should be sourced from different places on the internet. Google is a good place to start. From Google, look for a Facebook page that will likely have more reviews. Finally, reading a company’s BBB profile can give the customer a robust understanding of what to expect from a heating technician. 

Ask About Licensure and Insurance

When looking for a heating technician, always take the time to make sure potential contractors are licensed and carry insurance. Contractors that don’t provide this information promptly are operating outside of the laws and shouldn’t be trusted. When contractors work without licenses or insurance, homeowners are on the line for any problems that may come along. 

For example, if a worker is injured on the job, the homeowner may be liable if the contractor does not carry workers’ compensation insurance. As another example, if the contractor isn’t insured or properly licensed, homeowners insurance won’t cover damages that result from their work. 

To check for proper licensing, each state has a website that one can use to verify the validity of a HVAC license. Most often, it is as easy as getting online and providing the contractor's name. By searching the state database, customers can verify that the contractor’s license is in good standing. Homeowners can also verify insurance by calling the company that the contractor provides before a project begins. 

Check for Maintenance Programsmaintenance

The best thing that a person can do for their heaters is to ensure they are properly maintained. Well-maintained heaters always last longer and perform better than a machine that is neglected. Yearly maintenance is the best way to accomplish this and, to take the headache out of trying to remember to schedule maintenance, most heater services offer a maintenance plan. 

Maintenance or membership plans usually involve a small monthly fee that entitles the owner to a free tune-up visit per year, one for the AC and the heater. During a maintenance visit, a heating technician will perform tasks like: 

  • Change the filter
  • Check gas valves
  • Verify electrical connections
  • Clean the burner
  • Check the blower

By scheduling maintenance, homeowners can rely on their equipment not to break down and to operate more cheaply. 

About Jerry Brittingham A/C & Heat, Inc.

Jerry Brittingham A/C & Heat, Inc. is a local heating service with the highest service ratings in the area. Their maintenance program takes the hassle out of seasonal maintenance and prolongs the life of heating equipment. Call today for superior heating service in Daytona, FL. 

How to Save Money on Heating Costs This Holiday Season

Three Ways Homeowners Can Save Money on Heating Costs

Homeowners looking for ways to make the most of holiday savings this year can cut back on their heating costs with the following tips from HVAC experts. 

  1. Upgrade to a smart thermostat: Smart thermostats use the latest technology to keep energy bills low. 
  2. Change the air filter: Furnace and central air systems need to change their air filters every 1-3 months.
  3. Keep a maintenance log: Making a schedule for maintenance and sticking to it will keep the unit running efficiently for longer. 

Installing a Programmable Thermostatthermostat

Calling an HVAC technician for smart thermostat installation can help homeowners maximize their heating and cooling savings. Smart thermostats, also called WiFi thermostats, use the latest technological advancements in heating and cooling technology to detect the temperature and climate and make the most accurate adjustments to save energy. 

This reduces the environmental impact of the heating system and saves the homeowner money. Because thermostats control the function of the HVAC unit, replacing outdated models can have a huge impact on reducing heating costs.

 

Replace Air Filter a Minimum of Every Three Months filter

Most central air systems use air filters to remove particles from the air. Furnace heating systems 

with draft work can get dust and animal hair in the ductwork, making the system run inefficiently. Using the right size and type of filter is essential for keeping the air system in good working order. 

The filter usually needs to be replaced every three months, but in homes with many people, large homes, and ones with pets or smokers, the frequency may increase to monthly. Not only does replacing the air filter regularly help keep the heating system running efficiently for cost-effectiveness and longevity, but it also helps prevent the spread of airborne allergens. Pet dander, dust, and other allergens can be circulated in the air without filtration if the air filter is not installed properly or changed frequently enough. 

Keeping a Log of Maintenance 

Doing regular HVAC maintenance saves homeowners money by preventing small problems from getting worse and ensuring that the system runs efficiently. To keep track of maintenance, homeowners should keep a written or digital log of maintenance appointments. Adding maintenance reminders to calendars can help with scheduling. 

When the heating system is running properly, it will use the least amount of energy. Broken, outdated, and dirty components can affect the efficiency of the system. Doing regular maintenance is a powerful tool in preventing avoidable HVAC disasters in time for the holidays. Some homeowners like to schedule maintenance far in advance, such as cold-weather maintenance while it is still hot outside. 

Benefits of Regular HVAC Maintenance Services:

  1. Lowers utility bills
  2. Keeps repairs less expensive and less frequent 
  3. Increases the longevity of the unit 
  4. Talk to an experienced HVAC specialist for tips 

About Jerry Brittingham A/C & Heat, Inc. 

Jerry Brittingham A/C & Heat, Inc. is dedicated to serving the health, safety, and comfort of the community of Daytona Beach, FL with affordable HVAC services. Their dependable, experienced repairmen and installers are available for appointments now. Call today for HVAC services