You’ve probably heard of condensing furnaces, but aren’t entirely sure how they work. First, though, here’s a refresher on how a conventional old-style gas furnace works: airflow is drawn in through the cold air return and air filter, and then into the circulating fan. Heat from the gas burner flows into the heat exchanger, heating the surrounding air before it’s circulated throughout the house via the ductwork. Combustion gases generated by the burner are vented out of the home through the flue.
Donald P. Dick Air Conditioning Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Fresno’
Do You See Ice On Your Heat Pump’s Coils? Here’s What To Do
Thursday, April 4th, 2013
If you notice ice on your heat pump’s coils, it’s cause for concern. In most cases, homeowners require expert help when coils develop an unusual amount of frost or ice. However, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem before you call in the pros.
Planning On Retrofitting Your Home For Solar? Here’s How To Start
Tuesday, April 2nd, 2013
You’ve done the research. You know that solar energy is a smart energy alternative, especially in the semi-arid area of greater Fresno. It’s clean, green and highly effective when it comes to fighting high heating and cooling costs. If you’re considering retrofitting your home for solar, work with a professional to find answers to the following questions and more.
Improving Water Heater Efficiency: Troubleshooting Tips That Help
Thursday, March 28th, 2013
Considering that water heating accounts for a hefty slice of the energy bills in the average home, improving water heater efficiency should be underlined twice on any homeowner’s efficiency-upgrade checklist. With a little TLC and these troubleshooting tips, your water heater will respond with hotter water at lower water-heating costs.
How To Handle A Red-Tagged Furnace
Tuesday, March 26th, 2013
Homeowners who hear that they have a red-tagged furnace may not like the news, but at least they can avoid the serious consequences that the condition may create if left untended. A furnace that receives the red tag, or a document meaning the same thing, usually has a cracked heat exchanger that may emit carbon monoxide (CO) into the home, an odorless and colorless gas that is deadly in sufficient quantities.
Averting Potential Furnace Problems
Thursday, March 21st, 2013
While the Fresno area is not known for particularly rough winters, furnace problems can make cool winter nights uncomfortable for your family. Learning how to spot problems early can help you fix them before they become a huge issue and in so doing, allow you to avoid expensive repairs. Here are some signs to look for when troubleshooting furnace problems:
Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure Proper Selection And Installation
Tuesday, March 19th, 2013
The State of California has a law that requires carbon monoxide detectors in all residential dwellings that use any kind of combustible fuel or that have attached garages. The law requires a carbon monoxide (CO) detector on all floors of the home. If you haven’t installed yours yet, use this as a guide to choosing and installing CO detectors so they give you the protection you need against carbon monoxide poisoning.
Air-Source Heat Pump Performance Depends On The Proper Balance Point
Thursday, March 14th, 2013
Fresno area homeowners enjoy relatively moderate winter temperatures, which, for many, makes high heating bills quite confounding. If you’re baffled by high heating bills, remember that air-source heat pump performance depends on an optimal balance point. Lower the heat pump’s balance point, and you’ll lower your heating bills.
Learn These Solar Basics Before Upgrading
Tuesday, March 12th, 2013
It’s time for you to start taking energy savings into your own hands. No more depending on the power company for all of your electric needs. But before you jump in and buy the first system that strikes your fancy, here are some common solar basics you need to know to make the best decision.
Choosing The Right Type Of Insulation For The Attic
Thursday, March 7th, 2013
Adding more insulation for the attic is a great way to lower your heating and cooling bills for decades to come. One of the easiest and most affordable ways to increase the thermal protection in the attic is to blow in insulation using loose fill. It’s a reasonably easy and affordable project that will last for decades, as long as you choose the right insulation for our climate.