The Importance of Spring HVAC Servicing: Keeping Your Cool When It Counts

As the cold of winter fades away and the warmth of spring emerges, it’s easy to get caught up in the Daffodil and Tulip Festivals: longer days, blooming flowers, and the promise of summer adventures. However, amidst the excitement, there’s an essential task that often goes overlooked but shouldn’t be ignored: servicing your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems.

Spring is the perfect time to ensure that your HVAC systems are in optimal condition. While it might seem like an unnecessary chore, regular maintenance can save you from unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and even potential health hazards. Let’s delve into why servicing your HVAC systems in the spring is crucial.

  1. Efficiency Boost: After working hard to keep you warm throughout the winter months, your HVAC system may have accumulated dust, debris, and worn-out components. A spring servicing can address these issues, ensuring that your system operates at maximum efficiency. By cleaning filters, coils, and ducts, your HVAC technician can help your system run smoothly, which ultimately translates to lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.
  2. Preventing Breakdowns: Imagine the discomfort of a warm day, only to find that your air conditioning system has stopped working. HVAC breakdowns often occur when systems are pushed to their limits during the hottest days of summer. By servicing your HVAC system in the spring, you can identify and address potential problems before they escalate into major issues. This proactive approach not only saves you from the inconvenience of a malfunctioning system but also prevents emergency repair costs and downtime when you need your HVAC the most.
  3. Improved Indoor Air Quality: Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality by circulating and filtering the air you breathe. Over time, dust, allergens, and pollutants can accumulate within the system, leading to poor air quality and potential health problems. Spring servicing involves cleaning and replacing filters, removing debris, and inspecting ductwork to ensure that your indoor air remains clean and healthy. This is particularly important for individuals with allergies, asthma, or respiratory conditions, as well as for creating a comfortable living environment for everyone in your home.
  4. Prolonged Lifespan: Like any mechanical system, regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your HVAC equipment. By addressing minor issues early on and performing routine tune-ups, you can prevent premature wear and tear, corrosion, and other damage that could shorten the lifespan of your system. Investing in spring servicing not only protects your HVAC system but also safeguards your investment in home comfort for years to come.
  5. Peace of Mind: Finally, scheduling spring servicing for your HVAC system provides peace of mind knowing that your home’s heating and cooling needs are taken care of. With regular maintenance, you can rest assured that your system is operating efficiently, safely, and reliably, regardless of the weather outside. Whether it’s a sudden heatwave or an unexpected cold snap, you can trust that your HVAC system is up to the task.

Spring HVAC servicing is not just another item on your to-do list—it’s a critical aspect of home maintenance that shouldn’t be overlooked. By investing in routine maintenance, you can enjoy improved efficiency, reliability, and indoor air quality while extending the lifespan of your HVAC system. So, before you get swept up in the excitement of spring, take the time to schedule a professional servicing for your HVAC system. Your future self will thank you for it.

Embrace the Cozy Comforts of Fall with Our Expert HVAC Services

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As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisper in Skagit Valley, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of coziness that autumn brings. While you may be busy decorating your home, sipping on pumpkin spice lattes, and planning your next hayride in the Valley, it’s crucial not to forget about your HVAC system. As temperatures start to drop, ensuring your heating system is in top-notch condition with expert HVAC technicians becomes paramount.

Preparing for the Chill

Fall is the perfect time to give your HVAC system the attention it deserves. Our expert technicians are equipped to perform comprehensive maintenance checks, ensuring your system runs efficiently and effectively. From inspecting the ductwork to cleaning or replacing air filters, we leave no stone unturned.

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Maximizing Energy Efficiency

As the days get shorter and the nights longer, your HVAC system will work overtime to keep you comfortable. Our professional services can help optimize your system’s energy efficiency, saving you money on your energy bills while reducing your environmental footprint.

Furnace Installation and Upgrades

If your existing furnace shows signs of wear and tear, it might be time for an upgrade. Our seasoned technicians can guide you through selecting a new, energy-efficient furnace that suits your comfort needs and budget.

Safety First

With the onset of cooler weather, ensuring that your heating system is safe to use is crucial. Our technicians are trained to detect and address potential safety hazards, such as gas leaks or faulty electrical connections, providing you with peace of mind.

Smart Thermostat Installation

Embrace the latest technology this fall by installing a smart thermostat. These innovative devices allow you to remotely control your home’s temperature, ensuring you return to a warm and inviting environment, even on the chilliest of evenings.

At Alpine Heating and Cooling, our expert HVAC team is dedicated to keeping your home cozy and comfortable throughout the fall season. Our experienced technicians are here to provide you with top-tier HVAC services, from routine maintenance to full system installations. Don’t wait until the cold weather sets in – schedule your appointment today with our expert HVAC team and let us help you make this fall your coziest yet!

Home Maintenance Fall Checklist

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As the vibrant colors of summer begin to fade, it’s time to transition your home to embrace the coziness and warmth of fall. By taking some proactive steps now, you can ensure your space is not only comfortable but also ready to face the colder months ahead.  Make your home maintenance fall checklist, and contact us to help with servicing your heating system!

Inspect and Clean Gutters

Fallen leaves and debris can quickly clog up your gutters, potentially leading to water damage and leaks. Make sure to clean them out and ensure they’re in good condition before the rainy season arrives.

Check for Drafts

Inspect windows and doors for any gaps or cracks that may allow cold air to seep in. Seal these areas with weatherstripping or caulk to keep your home warm and energy-efficient.

Service Your Heating System

Before the temperatures drop significantly, have a professional service your heating system. This ensures it’s running efficiently and reduces the risk of any unexpected breakdowns during the colder months.

Clean and Inspect Your Fireplace or Heating Appliance

If you have a fireplace, wood stove, or any other heating appliance, ensure it’s clean and in good working order. Have the chimney inspected and cleaned to prevent potential fire hazards.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Fall is a great time to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace them if needed and ensure these life-saving devices are in working condition.

Switch to Heavy-Duty Bedding

Swap out lightweight summer bedding for warmer, cozier options. Consider adding extra blankets or a duvet to your bed for extra warmth during chilly nights.

Insulate Pipes

Prevent frozen pipes by insulating them in areas that are susceptible to cold, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. This simple step can save you from a major headache later on.

Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture

Protect your outdoor furniture from the elements by cleaning it thoroughly and storing it in a sheltered area, like a garage or shed. If you don’t have space, invest in high-quality covers.

Fertilize Your Lawn and Garden

Autumn is an important time to nourish your lawn and garden for healthy growth in the spring. Apply a balanced fertilizer to promote root development and prepare plants for the winter months.

Decorate for Fall

Embrace the spirit of the season by adding fall-themed decor to your home. Consider incorporating warm colors, cozy textiles, and seasonal accents like pumpkins, gourds, and wreaths.

By following this fall home maintenance checklist, you’ll create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home and ensure it’s well-prepared to face the challenges that fall may bring. Taking these proactive steps now will help you enjoy the beauty of autumn without any unexpected surprises. Happy fall decorating!

fall home maintenance checklist

Coronavirus and Other Contaminants: How Indoor Air Quality Can Affect Your Health

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While our attention is focused on the spread of Coronavirus, and we are thinking about the necessary precautions that are needed to reduce our chances of coming in contact with this virus, HVAC professionals know that Coronavirus is not the only disease, germ, virus, or pollutant we need to combat in our homes. We also need to consider the other viruses and germs that are spread through a central HVAC system. People spend about 90% of their lives indoors, and pollutant levels can be as high as 100 times the levels encountered Germs3.pngoutside. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ranks indoor air pollution among the top four environmental hazards in America. One-way people can be proactive and protect themselves from getting sick in general is by being educated on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).

There are four particular groups (although all people could benefit) that need the best possible air quality in the home:

  1. Infants to 16-years-old
  2. Adults, age 60 plus
  3. No age restriction – immune-compromised individuals, pregnant women, and persons with chronic respiratory disorders, and those recovering from surgical procedures or illness
  4. Pet owners with domestic animals – dogs, cats, and birds

Scientist believes the principal transmission mode of the Coronavirus is by respiratory droplets, which may travel several Germs2.pngfeet from someone who is coughing or sneezing. Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze is the first step to control the spread. However, residual contaminants can travel through your HVAC system, where all air in the home is circulated and can contribute to the spread of an airborne virus. The Coronavirus has the same traits as other viruses such as the common cold, the flu, and a sore throat, by how it is spread from person-to-person.

Source control is always the first step when dealing with IAQ concerns such as mold, dust, odor, and even viruses. There are many remedies when it comes to managing IAQ in a home. Some products range from a higher Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rated filter, electronic air cleaners, and ultra-violet sterilization systems. The HVAC system and duct system can contribute to spreading unwanted pathogens in the air, not because your system came contaminated from the factory, but because the air in your home became contaminated.

Tiny pathogens spread in the air can be fungi, bacteria, or viruses. The difference between a virus and bacteria is viruses are much smaller than bacteria, and viruses cannot survive without a host. According to the Mayo Clinic, fewer than 1% of bacteria cause disease in people.

In addition to spreading viruses through an HVAC system, another nemesis is mold, a biological growth. Mold is, in the Germs2.pngsimplest terms, part of the “dust to dust” program. Everything living will die, it will return to the food chain, whether it’s a mighty oak tree, your favorite leather shoes (once upon a time, a cow), or that forgotten orange in the back of the refrigerator.

Your HVAC system can provide biological growth the perfect opportunity to form and grow. There are three things needed to support biological growth. Food is the number one source of supporting biological growth. One example of food sources is skin cells that have flaked off and floated into the HVAC system. The next item to support organic growth is moisture. Once those skin cells made it through the system, they can become attached to the evaporator coil or blower motor. When the coil starts to produce condensation along with the food source, it becomes the perfect recipe for biological growth. The final item to contribute to organic growth is the absence of ultraviolet light. HVAC professionals and homeowners who manage these factors, reduce the risk of biological growth.

To set the record straight:

  1. Mold and viruses are not a factory option
  2. ​AC units do not create mold or viruses
  3. ​If you have mold or viruses, it is your mold and viruses
  4. An ultra-violet system will not keep your home mold or virus-free

When an ultra-violet system is used correctly and installed to the manufacture’s guidelines, it can prove to be a useful tool. Ultra-violet exists in natural sunlight (it’s why we wear sunscreen, and mold grows under a rock), it disassembles the DNA of organics. It reduces them to nitrogen and oxygen. Ultra-violet is most effective as surface irradiation (with a limited “kill zone”) and is used in many applications. It is used to sterilize medical instruments, clean reclaimed water in treatment plants, saltwater aquariums, and is used in food processing.

Contractors should educate customers on the value of IAQ and provide solutions and options to help the homeowner make educated decisions. An HVAC system should be inspected at a minimum, twice a year. Visit The National Air Duct Cleaners Association for recommendations on HVAC system cleaning. Be sure to ask your HVAC technician on products that can help you breath cleaner, fresher, healthier air.

In times like these, when emotions run high, and everyone is concerned about the unknown, HVAC professionals need to shine as a beacon of truth and good faith. Quality maintenance, good hygiene, and proven best practices such as; improved indoor air quality, source control for contamination, and keeping a clean house are the keys to successfully navigating current health issues.

By: Matt Akins, ACCA Manager of HVACR Education

ACCA is a non-profit association serving more than 60,000 professionals and 4,000 businesses in the indoor environment and energy services community. Our member firms are the nation’s most professional contracting businesses, serving residential and commercial customers in every state. With roots stretching back a century, ACCA was incorporated in its present form nearly 50 years ago. Today, ACCA sets the standards for quality comfort systems, provides leading-edge education for contractors and their employees, and fights for the interests of professional contractors throughout the nation. Learn more about ACCA here.

Reference Sources

https://www.epa.gov/report-environment/indoor-air-quality

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6908e1.htm

https://www.lung.org/

https://www.ashrae.org/

 

How to Maintain Your HVAC System

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Dirt and neglect are the top causes of heating and cooling system inefficiency and failure in Skagit Valley. To ensure an efficient system
operation, it’s essential to maintain your HVAC system.

Change your air filter regularly. A clean filter will prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system, which can lead to expensive maintenance and early system failure. Check your filter every month, especially during winter and summer months, when use tends to be heavier. Change your filter if it’s dirty—or at least every three months to maintain your HVAC system properly.

Tune up your HVAC equipment. Proper maintenance by an Alpine Heating and Cooling qualified technician is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent future problems. We get busy during the summer and winter months, so it is best to check the cooling system in spring and the heating system in the fall. Plan the checkups around the beginning and end of daylight-saving time each spring and fall.

Overall HVAC System Maintenance Checklist

  • Check thermostat settings to ensure the heating and cooling system turns
    on and off at the programmed temperatures.
  • Tighten all electrical connections and measure voltage and current on
    motors. Faulty electrical connections can cause your system to operate
    unsafely and reduce the life of major components.
  • Lubricate moving parts. Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors
    and increase the amount of electricity you use. Lack of lubrication can also
    cause equipment to wear out more quickly, requiring more frequent repairs
    or replacements.
  • Check and inspect the condensate drain in your central air conditioner,
    furnace, and heat pump (when in cooling mode). If plugged, the drain
    can cause water damage in the house, affect indoor humidity levels, and
    breed bacteria and mold.
  • Check system controls to ensure proper and safe operation. Check the starting
    cycle of the equipment to assure the system starts, operates, and shuts
    off properly.
  • Inspect, clean, or change the air filter in your central air conditioner, furnace,
    and heat pump. Your contractor can show you how to do this yourself.
    Depending on your system, your filter may be located in the duct system versus
    the heating and cooling equipment itself.

Additional HVAC System-Specific Maintenance Activities

For Heating Systems:

  • Inspect the flue piping for rusting and any disconnections or evidence of
    back drafting.
  • Check all gas (or oil) connections, gas pressure, burner combustion, and heat
    exchanger. Improper burner operation can be caused by a dirty burner or a
    cracked heat exchanger—either can cause the equipment to operate less safely
    and efficiently. Leaking gas (or oil) connections are also a fire hazard and can
    contribute to health problems.

For Cooling Systems:

  • Clean indoor and outdoor coils before warm weather starts. A dirty coil
    reduces the system’s ability to cool your home and causes the system to run
    longer, increasing your energy costs and shortening the life of your equipment.
  • Check your central air conditioner’s refrigerant charge and adjust it if
    necessary to make sure it meets manufacturer specifications. Too much or too
    little refrigerant charge can damage the compressor, reducing the life of your
    equipment and increasing costs.
  • Clean and adjust blower components to provide proper system airflow. Proper
    airflow over the indoor coil is necessary for efficient equipment operation
    and reliability.

Alpine Heating & Cooling services all of Skagit Valley including Anacortes, La Conner, Mount Vernon, Sedro-Woolley, and Burlington.  Contact us today to schedule maintenance for your HVAC system!

Emergency Air Conditioning and Furnace Repair Checklist

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Nothing is more frustrating than when your HVAC system stops working when you need it most, causing you to consider an emergency air conditioning and furnace repair or replacement. Not only is it stressful for you and your family to be without air conditioning or heat, but it can also be a financial strain. There are a few things you can do, however, before calling Alpine Heating & Cooling.

Emergency Air Conditioning and Furnace Repair Checklist

1:  Check your furnace’s air filter – if you have not replaced or cleaned it in a while, you may want to purchase a new one, since a dirty filter can restrict airflow through your home.

2:  Check your circuit breakers – the breaker switch may have tripped or shut off by accident. It is important to keep in mind that a tripped HVAC breaker may indicate a more serious issue, so schedule an inspection with us immediately.

3:  Make sure the vents in your home are not obstructed – Blocked or closed vents can limit the airflow through your home.

4:  Check the thermostat – if your thermostat uses a battery, it could need to be changed. You can also check to see if there is dust or dirt in the thermostat by removing the faceplate. If there is dust or dirt, use a can of compressed air to gently remove it. Also, frequently changing the temperature on the thermostat can cause the compressor in your system to overheat and shut down. To avoid this, be patient once you set your desired temperature.  The system could take up to five minutes for the HVAC system to turn on.

If after going through this emergency HVAC repair checklist and your unit is still not functioning properly, it may be time to call us.  A malfunctioning HVAC system could drive up your energy costs along with the expensive emergency furnace and air conditioning repairs.  Time is of an essence.  Alpine Heating & Cooling will travel to your home in our Skagit Valley service area to assess the HVAC system and create an estimate for the repair and complete the repair.

Daffodils Blooming = Time for Spring Maintenance

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Maintain your HVAC equipment to prevent future problems and unwanted costs. Keep your cooling and heating system at peak performance by having Alpine Heating and Cooling do annual pre-season check-ups. We get busy once summer and winter come, so it’s best to check the cooling system in the spring and the heating system in the fall. To remember, you might plan the check-ups and spring maintenance around the time the daffodils starting blooming for the La Conner Daffodil Festival and in the fall around the Festival of Family Farms.

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A Typical Spring Maintenance Check-up Should Include the Following

  • Check thermostat settings to ensure the cooling and heating system keeps you comfortable when you are home and saves energy while you are away.
  • Tighten all electrical connections and measure voltage and current on motors. Faulty electrical connections can cause unsafe operation of your system and reduce the life of major components.
  • Lubricate all moving parts. Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors and increases the amount of electricity you use.
  • Check and inspect the condensate drain in your central air conditioner, furnace and/or heat pump (when in cooling mode). A plugged drain can cause water damage in the house and affect indoor humidity levels.
  • Check controls of the system to ensure proper and safe operation. Check the starting cycle of the equipment to assure the system starts, operates, and shuts off properly.

Cooling Specific

  • Clean evaporator and condenser air conditioning coils. Dirty coils reduce the system’s ability to cool your home and cause the system to run longer, increasing energy costs and reducing the life of the equipment.
  • Check your central air conditioner’s refrigerant level and adjust if necessary. Too much or too little refrigerant will make your system less efficient increasing energy costs and reducing the life of the equipment.
  • Clean and adjust blower components to provide proper system airflow for greater comfort levels. Airflow problems can reduce your system’s efficiency by up to 15 percent.

Heating Specific

  • Check all gas (or oil) connections, gas pressure, burner combustion and heat ex-changer. Improperly operating gas (or oil) connections are a fire hazard and can contribute to health problems. A dirty burner or cracked heat ex-changer causes improper burner operation. Either can cause the equipment to operate less safely and efficiently.

Actions To Do Yourself

  • Inspect, clean, or change air filters once a month in your central air conditioner, furnace, and/or heat pump. Your contractor can show you how to do this. A dirty filter can increase energy costs and damage your equipment, leading to early failure.

Need Fast Help With HVAC During This Cold Weather? Call Us!

With all of the severe watches and warnings this winter in Skagit County, you may need help fast with your HVAC system!  The freezing temperatures are expected to stick around.  Skagit County has seen 2-6 inches of snowfall overnight Sunday and the snow will not be melting for several days. If you are having issues with your heating system, we can provide fast service.