Category: Uncategorized

A well-functioning furnace not only keeps you warm and cozy but also ensures energy efficiency and safety within your home. Furnaces require regular maintenance and occasional repairs to perform optimally, which is why it is crucial to check that your furnace is heating your home effectively and regularly.

Let’s break down some easy methods to test the efficiency of your furnace for optimal coziness.

1. Check the Airflow: Proper airflow is essential for efficient heating. Place your hand over the vents throughout your home. You should feel a steady stream of warm air. If the airflow feels weak or inconsistent, your furnace could be experiencing issues with its blower motor or air ducts. A furnace tune-up may be necessary to fix these problems.
2. Monitor the Temperature: Use a thermometer to measure the temperature in different rooms of your home. Compare these readings with your thermostat’s set temperature. If there’s a significant difference between the two, it could signal that your furnace is struggling to maintain heat output. This issue might result from a faulty thermostat, dirty air filters, or issues with the furnace’s heating elements.
3. Listen for Unusual Sounds: While your furnace will inevitably produce some noise during operation, loud or unusual sounds could indicate underlying problems. Sounds like banging, rattling, or squealing noises coming from your furnace raise a red flag. These sounds might point to issues such as loose components, worn-out belts, or malfunctioning motors. Consider getting your furnace repaired quickly to prevent further damage and insufficient heating.
4. Inspect the Pilot Light or Ignition System: For gas furnaces, a properly functioning pilot light or ignition system is crucial for ignition and heat production. Check to see if the pilot light is burning steadily and has a blue flame. If it’s flickering or has a different color, it could indicate a problem with the gas supply or the burner assembly. If you have an electronic ignition system, ensure that it’s igniting the burners consistently.
5. Assess Energy Bills: Keep an eye on your energy bills, especially during the winter months. A sudden increase in heating costs without a corresponding increase in usage could be a sign that your furnace is operating inefficiently. Clogged air filters, worn-out components, or improper airflow can cause your furnace to work harder than necessary, increasing energy expenses. Investing in regular furnace maintenance can help optimize energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.
6. Schedule Professional Maintenance: While DIY inspections can provide valuable insights, nothing beats professional expertise when it comes to furnace maintenance. Scheduling an annual furnace tune-up with a qualified HVAC technician for a proper inspection. The technician will inspect, clean, and lubricate various components of your furnace, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. They can also pinpoint potential issues before they escalate into expensive repairs.

Ensuring that your furnace is heating your home effectively is essential for comfort, energy efficiency, and safety. By following these simple testing methods and prioritizing regular furnace maintenance and tune-ups, you can enjoy reliable warmth while minimizing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

Are you in need of a furnace tune-up or installation? We’re your go-to for heating maintenance and repair. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment.

Terms like “positive pressure” and “negative pressure” are frequently used in the context of air conditioning systems, leaving householders perplexed as to what they mean. For the best possible operation of a heating and cooling system, it is especially important to comprehend the notion of negative pressure. Here at Stonebridge Heating and Air, we aim to clarify the meaning of negative pressure in air conditioning, as well as its consequences and relationship to cooling repair and upkeep.

Understanding Negative Pressure:

When there is less pressure inside a space than there is outside, it is referred to as negative pressure. Negative pressure in the context of air conditioning systems can happen when there is less airflow entering a room or building than leaving it. This mismatch can cause many problems that impact comfort and energy efficiency.

Implications of Negative Pressure:

Decreased Indoor Air Quality: Unintentional breaches, cracks, or openings may allow outside air to enter a structure due to negative pressure. This inflow of unfiltered air has the potential to worsen indoor air quality and pose a health risk by introducing pollutants, allergens, and toxins.

Strain on Heating and Cooling System: Negative pressure can put undue stress on the heating and cooling system, especially the air conditioner. The system may have to work more to maintain the proper temperature when there is inadequate ventilation, which could result in more wear and tear. This pressure may lead to more frequent malfunctions and the requirement for cooling maintenance.

Uneven Cooling: The home may experience inconsistent cooling as a result of negative pressure. The areas that are most remote from the return air vents may not receive enough airflow, which leads to inadequate cooling. This inconsistency can create discomfort and dissatisfaction among occupants.

Identifying Negative Pressure:

Several signs indicate the presence of negative pressure in a building:

1. Cold drafts near doors and windows.
2. Difficulty closing doors due to pressure differentials.
3. Excessive dust accumulation in certain areas.
4. Inconsistent cooling performance, with some rooms feeling warmer than others.
5. Unusual odors, indicating infiltration of outdoor air.

The energy efficiency, comfort, and quality of indoor air can all be significantly impacted by negative pressure in air conditioning systems. Maintaining a pleasant and healthy interior environment requires an understanding of the sources and effects of negative pressure. In Tyler, Texas, we at Stonebridge Heating and Air provide thorough cooling repair and maintenance services to take care of negative pressure problems and guarantee peak system efficiency. Make an appointment for a service with us right now to see the impact of our knowledge on maintaining balanced airflow and effective cooling.

When cold weather hits, having a reliable furnace is essential for the comfort of your Tyler, TX home.

When cold weather hits, having a reliable furnace is essential for the comfort of your Tyler, TX home. However, when a furnace malfunction happens, it can put you in an emergency that needs attention immediately. At StoneBridge Heating and Air, we understand the urgency of such situations, which is why we offer Emergency Furnace Repair services tailored to swiftly address your heating needs.

Emergency Furnace Repair:

A malfunctioning furnace can quickly turn into an emergency, especially during the peak of cold weather. Stonebridge Heating and Air’s Emergency Furnace Repair services are designed to respond promptly to your urgent heating needs. Whether your furnace is blowing cold air, making strange noises, or failing to turn on altogether, our experienced technicians are ready to diagnose the issue and implement immediate solutions to restore warmth to your home.

Comprehensive Heater Repair Solutions:

Our team of skilled technicians is equipped to handle a wide range of furnace issues, from minor repairs to complex malfunctions. Whether it’s a faulty ignition system, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a clogged air filter, we have the expertise and resources to diagnose and repair your furnace efficiently. Our goal is to get your heating system back up and running with minimal downtime, ensuring your home remains comfortable and warm.

Preventive Maintenance for Long-Term Reliability:

While emergency furnace repair is crucial for addressing immediate issues, preventive maintenance plays a vital role in preventing future breakdowns. StoneBridge Heating and Air offers comprehensive furnace tune-up services to keep your heating system in optimal condition throughout the year. Regular maintenance not only improves the efficiency and reliability of your furnace but also extends its lifespan, saving you money on costly repairs in the long run.

24/7 Availability for Your Heating Emergencies:

HVAC emergencies don’t adhere to a schedule, which is why StoneBridge Heating and Air is available 24/7 to respond to your heating emergencies. Whether it’s the middle of the night or a weekend, you can count on us to provide swift and reliable furnace repair services when you need them most. Our dedicated team understands the importance of a warm and comfortable home during the winter months, and we prioritize your comfort and safety above all else.

When your furnace malfunctions unexpectedly, don’t let the cold temperatures leave you shivering. With our experienced technicians, comprehensive solutions, and 24/7 availability, you can trust us to restore warmth to your home quickly and efficiently. Contact StoneBridge today for all your emergency furnace repair needs and experience the difference our expertise makes. For more information or to schedule a service, visit our website at Stonebridge Emergency Furnace Repair.

 

 

As a homeowner in Tyler, TX, maintaining the indoor air quality of your residence is a top priority. One essential aspect of achieving this goal is regular air duct cleaning. Over time, air ducts can accumulate dust, allergens, pet dander, and other contaminants. Regular cleaning removes these particles, preventing them from circulating throughout your home and potentially causing respiratory issues or aggravating allergies. Additionally, clean air ducts promote energy efficiency.

At Stonebridge Heating and Air, we understand the importance of clean air ducts in enhancing indoor air quality. What does air duct cleaning consist of and how does it contribute to a healthier home environment?

The Basics of Air Duct Cleaning:

1. Initial Inspection: The process typically begins with a thorough inspection of your air duct system. Our certified technicians assess the level of contamination, identify any potential issues, and determine the best approach for cleaning.
2. Access Point Setup: To access the entire ductwork system, technicians will create access points. This is a crucial step as it allows for a comprehensive cleaning of the entire network, including the hard-to-reach areas.
3. Dust and Debris Removal: Specialized equipment, such as high-powered vacuums and brushes, is used to dislodge and remove accumulated dust, debris, and contaminants from the duct walls and components. This step is crucial for improving the overall air quality of your home.
4. Sanitization and Disinfection (Optional): For an extra layer of cleanliness, optional sanitization and disinfection procedures may be performed. This step is particularly beneficial for eliminating bacteria, mold, and other microbes that could affect the indoor air quality.
5. Filter Replacement: As part of the air duct cleaning process, it’s common to replace or clean the air filters. This ensures that the cleaned ducts are supported by efficient filtration, preventing contaminants from re-entering the system.

The Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning:

1. Improved Indoor Air Quality: By removing dust, allergens, and contaminants from the air ducts, the overall indoor air quality of your home is significantly enhanced. This is particularly important for individuals with respiratory conditions or allergies.
2. Energy Efficiency: Clean air ducts contribute to the efficiency of your HVAC system. When the system doesn’t have to work harder to push air through clogged ducts, it operates more efficiently, potentially leading to energy savings.
3. Extended System Lifespan: Regular air duct cleaning can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. Reduced strain on the system means less wear and tear, resulting in fewer breakdowns and a longer-lasting heating and cooling system.

Air duct cleaning is a comprehensive process designed to enhance indoor air quality, improve energy efficiency, and contribute to the longevity of your HVAC system. At Stonebridge Heating and Air, we prioritize the well-being of your home environment. Contact us to schedule a consultation and experience the benefits of professional air duct cleaning tailored to the unique needs of your home.

How to Know AC Replacement May Be Needed to Beat the Summer Heat

Summers in Texas are no joke. Being without an air conditioner can be detrimental to health and well-being when temperatures reach triple digits. Homeowners must ensure that their AC systems are reliable for the coming months. If a home has an older unit or one starting to show some warning signs it’s on its last legs, it may be time to consider an air conditioner replacement.

How Old is the AC?

How long an air conditioner lasts depends on several factors, such as the type of AC, frequency of use, and maintenance. But typically, air conditioning units last around 10 to 20 years with the proper care. If a home’s air conditioning is in that age range or older, it may be beneficial to get a replacement. Even ACs from 10 years ago are much less efficient and are more at risk of breaking down and running inefficiently than newer ones. 

Some other difficulties that can come with maintaining and repairing an older system include the following:

• Some parts and components are harder to find as new AC units are released, which can make them more expensive.
• More frequent repairs may be necessary when getting a new AC could be more cost-effective.
• Waiting to replace an older AC until it breaks down can be dangerous in high temperatures.

AC Isn’t Energy Efficient Anymore

There are several reasons why lost energy efficiency and high energy bills could indicate the need for an AC replacement. For starters, air conditioning units that have been in use for several years tend to become less efficient over time due to normal wear and tear. As a result, these units require more energy to cool the same amount of space than when they were new, raising energy bills.

The lost efficiency could also be from faulty components such as worn-out belts and bearings, a malfunctioning thermostat sensor, or maintenance-related issues such as dirty air filters and evaporator and condenser coils. These problems can cause the unit to overwork, leading to increased energy consumption and higher cooling costs.

Lost energy efficiency and high energy bills indicate that an AC unit is no longer performing at optimal levels or has reached the end of its useful life. HVAC contractors can inspect the system to determine whether to replace the air conditioner. Replacing an AC unit with a modern, energy-efficient model can yield significant energy savings and improve indoor comfort.

The House Isn’t Getting Cool Enough

What if the house doesn’t seem to reach the correct temperature? Again, this indicates that an air conditioning replacement may be necessary. When a home is not getting cool enough, there are many potential reasons, such as a malfunctioning compressor, leakage in the ductwork, or a lack of refrigerant due to a leak. Additionally, if the AC unit is the wrong size for the space, this could result in inefficient cooling and a lack of comfort.

If a house is consistently not getting cool enough, it is essential to seek expert advice. An HVAC technician can diagnose the issue and recommend appropriate solutions, which may include replacing the AC unit. By investing in a new, energy-efficient AC unit, homeowners can ensure they are comfortable in their homes while saving money on their energy bills over the long term.

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of experience serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding communities. They provide straightforward pricing, financing, and the latest technology. Call them today for AC installation and replacement in Tyler, TX. 

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”187694″][/press_release_distributions]

The Importance of Air Conditioning Maintenance in the Spring

Spring is the best time for AC maintenance. Having the air conditioning system serviced in the spring helps ensure that it will run efficiently when the warmer weather arrives and keeps households cool when needed the most. This blog will share the benefits of air conditioning maintenance, how duct cleaning can help, and how homeowners can help maintain the benefits after their AC tune-up.

Air Conditioner Maintenance

Proper maintenance of an air conditioner is essential for both its efficiency and longevity. Neglecting regular maintenance can cause many problems, including reduced energy efficiency, higher energy bills, a shorter life expectancy of the system, and poor indoor air quality. However, routine maintenance improves efficiency, lowers cooling costs, extends the unit’s lifespan, and improves indoor air quality.

By scheduling professional AC maintenance visits at least once annually, homeowners can help ensure their system runs as optimally as possible. During a maintenance visit, an HVAC technician will clean and inspect all major AC components, including the evaporator coil and condenser. The technician will also perform tasks like checking refrigerant levels, testing safety controls, and replacing or cleaning the air filter.

Clean Ductwork Helps Too

Air duct cleaning is another important step to ensure a clean, healthy environment in any home. Not only does air duct cleaning help improve the indoor air quality inside a home, but it can also significantly reduce allergic reactions and symptoms of respiratory illnesses by removing dust, debris, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens from the ventilation system. This makes the indoor air cleaner and helps keep families healthier. 

Furthermore, regular air duct cleaning also helps improve the efficiency of an HVAC system, helps increase its lifespan, and saves money on energy bills by improving airflow and reducing unnecessary wear and tear from inefficiency. Overall, air duct cleaning is essential to any home maintenance plan and should be done regularly to ensure optimal air quality and efficiency.

How Homeowners Can Help

In addition to scheduling professional AC maintenance and duct cleaning, homeowners can do a few other things to help their indoor air and HVAC systems. Keeping the home clean through regular dusting, vacuuming, mopping, etc., can reduce the contaminants and allergens in the house that can end up in the HVAC system or air ducts and help keep them clean between professional visits. 

Homeowners can also perform an essential part of air conditioning maintenance themselves, replacing or cleaning their air filters typically every three months. Changing the air filters on time can lead to the same benefits of maintenance, such as improved energy efficiency, lifespans, indoor air quality, and lower cooling costs. 

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning 

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has more than two decades of experience serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour service, and industry-leading technology. Call them today for air duct cleaning or AC maintenance in Tyler, TX.

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”184852″][/press_release_distributions]

Heating Your Home the Green Way for St. Patrick’s Day!

Many homeowners seek ways to stay warm and comfortable without breaking the bank on their energy bills. This St. Patrick’s Day, consider going green with the home’s heating system by making simple changes and upgrades. This article will explore three ways to save energy when heating the house, from utilizing ceiling fans to installing a smart thermostat. Keep reading to learn more about saving money and reducing a home’s carbon footprint with the heating and cooling system.

Maximizing Home Comfort and Efficiency With Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans aren’t just for the summer months. In fact, utilizing ceiling fans during the colder months can help keep a home warm and save money on the energy bill. The direction of the fan blades can affect a home’s temperature, so be sure they’re rotating clockwise during the cooler months to circulate warm air throughout the room and help the heater not have to work as hard.

However, the ceiling fan blades should rotate counterclockwise during warmer months when air conditioning is used to help keep the home cool and comfortable while using less energy. With ceiling fans correctly utilized, homeowners can find that they don’t need to rely on their central cooling or heating systems as much, resulting in energy savings.

The Importance of Clean Air Filters for the Heating System

Replacing air filters is a simple but essential step in making a home heating system more energy-efficient. Dirty air filters can significantly increase the amount of energy a heater or air conditioner uses because the dirty filter restricts the flow of air passing through, causing the motor to work harder and use more power.

Clean air filters help to remove dust and debris from the air, allowing the heating system to function correctly without straining or working harder than necessary. This conserves energy and helps improve the home’s overall indoor air quality. Check and change air filters regularly to keep a heating system running smoothly and efficiently, typically at least every three months for a replacement.

Improve Your Heating System With a Smart Thermostat

Installing a smart thermostat can be a game-changer for making the home heating system more energy-efficient. These high-tech thermostats can learn schedules and preferences, adjusting the temperature accordingly and saving energy when people are away or asleep. 

They can also be controlled remotely through a smartphone app, so homeowners can adjust the temperature even when they’re not home. Some models also offer features like energy usage reports and automatic air filter replacement reminders. By upgrading to a smart thermostat, homeowners can enjoy more precise temperature control and lower energy bills.

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of experience serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding communities. They provide straightforward pricing, emergency services, and industry-leading technology. Call them today for filter replacement or smart home thermostat services in Tyler, TX. 

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”182159″][/press_release_distributions]

How Humidifiers Can Benefit Homes This Winter

During the winter season, many households experience dry air and discomfort. Installing a central humidifier can provide numerous benefits for indoor air quality and comfort. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can help alleviate symptoms of dry skin, eyes, throat, and sinuses.

Humidifiers can also reduce static electricity and protect wooden furniture and musical instruments from cracking. With the right humidity level, a home can feel warmer at lower temperatures, helping save on energy bills. This blog will share three additional benefits of installing a whole-home humidifier. 

Improved Respiratory Health

Humidity in the air has a significant impact on respiratory health. A well-moisturized environment can lower the chances of respiratory difficulties such as dry throat, nosebleeds, and asthma. Respiratory problems such as asthma, allergies, and sinus infections can be exacerbated by dry air. 

Humidifiers work to add moisture back into the air, making the air easier to breathe and reducing the risk of respiratory problems. They can be used in the home to help alleviate symptoms caused by dry air. This is especially important during winter when indoor heating can increase the dryness in the air. Humidifiers help to maintain a comfortable and moisturized atmosphere, supporting good respiratory health.

Moisturizing Effects on Skin From Humidifiers

Dry air can also negatively affect the skin, leading to dryness, itching, and irritation. This can be exacerbated by indoor heating during the winter months. Some of the negative effects of not having a humidifier to add moisture to the air include the following:

• Dry, flaky, and itchy skin
• Increased risk of skin infections and irritations
• Wrinkles and fine lines appear more prominent
• Loss of skin elasticity and hydration
• Increased skin sensitivity and irritation from environmental factors
• Dull and lifeless-looking skin

Adding moisture to the air with a central humidifier helps to reduce these negative effects and promotes healthy, hydrated skin. Humidity can help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier, preventing dryness and promoting a more youthful, glowing appearance.

Nurture Indoor Greenery

Indoor plants are not only aesthetically pleasing but also help improve indoor air quality and purify the air in a home by removing toxins and pollutants from the air. However, for plants to thrive, they need moisture in the air. Dry air can cause plants to wilt, dry, and eventually die. 

Humidifiers provide a solution to this problem by increasing the moisture levels in the air, allowing indoor plants to receive the hydration they need to grow and flourish. This extra humidity also helps protect them from diseases caused by dry air. So, if homeowners want to keep their indoor plants healthy, consider investing in a humidifier! It’s the perfect way to help protect houseplants and give them the environment they need to thrive.

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has more than 20 years of experience serving Tyler, TX, residents and the surrounding areas. They offer straightforward pricing, 24-hour emergency services, and financing. Call them today for humidifier services in Tyler, TX.

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”179088″][/press_release_distributions]

What the Inflation Reduction Act Means for Homeowners 

If homeowners are looking for a way to reduce costs while also boosting their home’s value, then the Inflation Reduction Act may be precisely what they need. The new legislation encourages homeowners to make energy-efficient upgrades by providing tax deductions and other incentives that offset some initial costs associated with these improvements. By taking advantage of these opportunities, buyers can save money on their utility bills over time, increase the resale value of their homes, and reduce their overall impact on the environment. Keep reading to learn more about how the Inflation Reduction Act incentivizes energy-efficient upgrades!

About the Inflation Reduction Act

The Inflation Reduction Act is a federal law to help reduce inflation in the United States. The act offers tax credits and rebates on new energy-efficient air conditioners, heaters, and heat pumps. These incentive programs are designed to encourage consumers to purchase more energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment, which can reduce monthly energy bills and help the environment. The amount of credits or rebates available is based on the efficiency rating of the equipment purchased. This law: 

• Intends to make home improvements more affordable for low- and middle-income households 
• Offsets the cost of new appliances and various in-home improvements 
• Aims to reduce homeowner’s overall carbon footprint 

By investing in energy-saving appliances, homeowners can save money and make their homes more comfortable.

How to Qualify for the Inflation Reduction Act’s Incentives? 

For those looking to take advantage of the incentives, it is essential to note that for an HVAC system or heat pump to qualify, it must meet specific energy efficiency requirements. These requirements vary based on the type of HVAC system or heat pump that is being installed. For example, an air-source heat pump must have a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating of at least 14.5 and an energy efficiency ratio (EER) of at least 12.5. 

It is also important to note that these requirements only apply to installations starting in 2023, as the tax credits and rebates associated with this act are not retroactive. Therefore, anyone looking to take advantage of these tax credits and rebates should ensure they meet the appropriate efficiency requirements before purchasing or beginning any installation process. 

With the significant extension and expansion of the Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Credit (25C), qualified households can deduct up to 30% of the costs for buying and installing a qualified heat pump, with a maximum deduction of $2,000 annually by achieving the recommended efficiency ratings.  Additionally, they may be eligible to receive additional rebates or incentives from their state or local government. Therefore, it is important that households do their research and understand the efficiency requirements associated with their HVAC system and heat pumps so they can take full advantage of the incentives.

Benefits of Investing in a New HVAC System or Heat Pump

Installing a new HVAC system or heat pump can help homeowners save money in more ways than one. The Inflation Reduction Act provides tax credits and rebates for installing energy-efficient systems. This means that homeowners will not only get a break from Uncle Sam but also save money on their energy bills long-term. That’s because these efficient systems require less energy to run, so they’ll benefit from less wasted energy and lower costs. Additionally, with a new system, homeowners can decrease the chances of expensive repairs or replacements down the road. So when looking for ways to save, installing a new HVAC system or heat pump is worth considering.  

In addition to the potential financial savings, homeowners will enjoy improved air quality in their homes with an upgraded system. A modern HVAC unit can help reduce allergens and pollutants like dust, pollen, and pet dander swirling around a house. Homeowners will also experience better air circulation and temperature control, making it easier to keep the home comfortable all year round. Investing in a new HVAC system or heat pump can help save money while enjoying improved air quality and comfort.

About Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning 

Stonebridge Heating & Air Conditioning has over 20 years of expertise serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide straightforward pricing, 24-hour service, and the latest technology. Call them today for AC, heater, or heat pump installations in Tyler, TX.

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”175989″][/press_release_distributions]