Posted by admin on May 04, 2015

When your gas fireplace stops working the way it should, you might think that you must immediately call a repair person and watch your money disappear. However, this isn’t necessarily the case. Many of the issues that arise when your gas fireplace not working are not overly complicated, and many times you can isolate the problem on your own.  Here are some excellent troubleshooting tips from the pros when your gas fireplace not working. Keep in mind that these troubleshooting tips require that you follow all of the safety guidelines for your fireplace, and that you exercise extreme caution.

Your fireplace won’t ignite.

There are two quick and easy troubleshooting answers to try before you call the gas fireplace repair pros.

Check the fuel supply. Is there sufficient gas? Is the gas valve open? Ensure that your gas supply is okay before you go on to check out the pilot light.

For fireplaces that are switch operated, or ones that have an electronic ignition, check your fuse breaker. In modern homes, the fireplace has its own fuse. Check the fuse. If the fuse is in fine condition, attempt to turn the breaker off and back on. Afterwards, find the fireplace manual, it should give instructions on how to light the pilot light.

Pilot light won’t go on

When the pilot light is out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely to relight it. Once the light is on and the problem still continues, check the fireplace vent cap and make sure that it does not have holes or gaps causing a downdraft. Also investigate if the chimney needs cleaning, as this could be an issue.

A second area to check is the wiring for loose, unconnected, melted or damaged wires. Fix loose wiring but leave any other wiring problems to professional gas fireplace technicians.

Fireplace burner is a problem

When the fireplace is not burning correctly, check that the thermostat is set to a high enough temperature. Any other problems with the fireplace burner will require the advice of pros.

Odd odors 

Any odd odor from your gas fireplace could be the result of dust and dirt on the burner. Turn off the fireplace and clean it according to the instruction manual, as it may be a simple fix. If the odor is coming from the natural gas, which should be odorless, shut off the gas, open the windows and call your gas company immediately.

When to call in the gas fireplace repair experts

1. If you do your inspection and you find damaged wires in any part of the gas fireplace not working, or you smell burning wires, do not try to fix the wires yourself. Burnt or damaged wires indicate a deeper underlying problem with your fireplace. The diagnosis and repair is best left to the professionals. 

2. You have followed the troubleshooting steps and your pilot light keeps going out. This could be a problem with the thermopile, which needs replacing at some point in the product life of your gas fireplace. This repair requires professional expertise.

3. The area where the flame comes through isn’t working properly. You will need a technician to clean your system when the gas fireplace is not working. Or you need a technician to check your thermocoupler since they also wear out and need to be replaced. A technician can test to see what the problem is.

As you learn more about your gas fireplace, troubleshooting will become less complicated and you will recognize when to call in the professionals. 

Posted by admin on December 22, 2014

Gas fireplaces have become quite popular; not only due to their modern look and feel, but also because they provide consistent heat. This means an added level of comfort, as you will be enjoying a consistent level of heat throughout your home. But as effective as these fireplaces can be, you might need gas fireplace repair services from time to time, to ensure that your fireplace works as it should.

What is a Gas Fireplace?

A gas fireplace is a great alternative to traditional wood fireplaces and more and more home owners are considering replacing their fireplaces with modern gas versions. They provide the same effect as wooden fireplaces but much more efficiently and safely. They form part of your home’s heating system and can provide a safe, energy efficient heating solution that is available on-demand. 

The Benefits of a Gas Fireplace

As mentioned, they provide consistent heat throughout your home. A wooden fireplace will only provide heat as long as it’s burning and will require you to regularly check and add more wood if needed. A gas fireplace will also allow for a cleaner operation, as it runs as part of your home’s heating system. No need for cleaning your fireplace and dealing with thick residues.

Gas fireplaces can also be more energy efficient, as they provide efficient heat with no need for additional heating to be used. They are also easy to use; you can literally just flip a switch and enjoy the heat. Another great benefit of gas fireplaces is safety. There are no open flames and this drastically reduces the possibility of a fire. Gas is also safer as there are no fumes released into your home. 

Gas Fireplace Repair

Climate Expert has a team of experienced technicians that offer gas fireplace repair services to customers who require assistance with the maintenance and repair of their gas fireplaces. We are experienced in a large number of manufacturers, making us your number one gas fireplace repair specialist.

We can also assist you with fireplace maintenance to avoid unnecessary repairs and reduce your overall costs. We do not only clean your fireplace but we also go through a thorough checklist to ensure that everything is working as it should – safely and effectively.  We make sure that your controls are working properly and that we accurately measure the carbon monoxide levels in your home to ensure your family’s safety. 

Climate Experts specializes in gas fireplace repair services and serves the Durham region as well as surrounding areas. Contact us today to find out more about our fireplace services or to request a free estimate. 

Posted by admin on December 07, 2015

Gas fireplaces are a popular addition to any family room or den, giving homes a welcoming and comforting ambiance. They are also a fantastic source of heat during the winter, and the perfect place for Santa to fill stockings. If you’re considering purchasing and installing a gas fireplace however, it is a major consideration. It’s important that you know about gas fireplace installation, and the difficulties it may pose you. 

Style 

As interior design elements have changed, so too have fireplace designs. Gas fireplaces are typically designed in one of two ways, either modern or faux-traditional. Modern fireplaces are typically built into walls, and may be with or without classic brickwork. These fireplaces are very obvious in not needing wood logs, or other demands of real fireplaces. Gas fireplaces which attempt to look more traditional are also common. These faux-traditional fireplaces mimic the style of aged designs, with brickwork and a mantle.

Heating Efficiency

Gas fireplace installation has become increasingly commonplace because they help homeowners control their heating costs. Once installed, homes can be kept at a lower base temperature during winter months, as the fireplace will selectively heat the room or rooms it is exposed to. This is especially helpful if the fireplace is located in the main family room or living space, as heat can be added only where needed.

Beware of Vent Free Fireplaces

As you hunt for a fireplace online, it’s easy to be drawn to beautiful vent free fireplaces. These fireplaces are mountable on walls, don’t require vents to be built in or added to the home, and look similar to a moving image. But vent less or vent free gas fireplaces are actually banned outright in Ontario, however are still sold online to Ontario addresses. These fireplaces pose a serious carbon monoxide risk, and HVAC companies and home inspectors will request that you remove of them immediately.   

Return on Investment

Beyond benefiting you, your gas fireplace installation will immediate add value to your home. According to recent studies, a new gas fireplace can raise the value of a home by an average of $5,900. If you ever decide to sell, your gas fireplace will give you a fantastic advantage.

Professional Installation

When you have chosen the model you want, gas fireplace installation should be done by professionals. They will inspect your existing gas line and if necessary, do repairs and replacements so it’s working its best with the new addition. Thankfully, Climate Experts offer a 10-year warranty on parts and labor with annual maintenance. Give us a call today and have your gas fireplace installation taken care of by professionals, and enjoy the luxury of a new fireplace. 

Posted by admin on January 04, 2016

When it’s time to buy a new home air conditioner, you want to be certain you’re getting the best possible cooling solution for your home. Unfortunately there’s not a one-size-fits all solution, no ‘best home air conditioner’ to recommend to every homeowner, renter, and builder. There is however, an option out there for your unique circumstances, your home size, and your willingness to invest up front for long term efficiency. It’s important to understand your options, how your ideal home air conditioner is determined by your needs, and how to get the best possible installation. 

Your Options

Generally speaking, you have four options for your home air conditioner; some homes may benefit from a combination of these to maximize efficiency and comfort. 

Central Air
Your traditional whole-home cooling system, utilizing a condensing unit, an evaporative unit, and the same ductwork as your heating system. Sized properly, these can be very efficient for homeowners who need to keep every room of the house cool and comfortable during the hot months.

Window Air Conditioner
Window units or ‘unitary’ air conditioning systems are simple self-contained air conditioning systems placed in a window or wall opening. Heat is blasted out the back, cool air out the front. A properly sized window unit can keep individual rooms, even large ones, completely cool and comfortable, but they lack efficiency on a larger scale.

Portable Air Conditioner
A variation of the window unit, these unitary air conditioners work similarly, but instead of venting heat straight out of the back they vent through a hose you’ve run outside. These aren’t particularly efficient, quiet, or convenient, but they do offer versatility in cooling different rooms at different times as needed.

Ductless Mini Split
You may already be familiar with the commercial cousin of the ductless mini split, the units you see in hotels and motels. These systems don’t utilize ducts, instead attaching to both sides of an exterior wall. Usage-wise, think of this as a bigger, extremely-efficient cousin to the window unit as it keeps a single space cool. 

The Importance of Sizing

Few factors matter more when selecting your perfect air conditioning unit than sizing. Buy a window or central air unit too small for your home, and it simply won’t do the job. Buy a unit that’s too big however, and you’ll find inadequate dehumidifying leading to discomfort and moisture, short cycling driving up your power bills, and a host of other problems. In most cases, you’ll want to get a professional to look over your house and determine your ideal unit size, as the consequences of a poor decision here can be massive in the long term.

Investing in Efficiency

Generally speaking, more efficient units will cost you more on the front end. A window unit and a ductless mini split may offer similar usage and efficacy, but the mini split will be more expensive to install and cost far less to run. The same goes for high quality central air systems versus cheaper installations with inferior ductwork.

Do you need every room cool? Central air or multiple mini splits will be your best choice. Just need one cool at a time? Portables and window units may work best.

Finding Your Best Home Air Conditioner

Now that you know your options, maybe you’re ready to ask a few questions. Contact us today for answers!

Posted by admin on October 19, 2015

As a homeowner, you need to pay attention to the condition and efficiency of your air conditioner. Beyond simply keeping the air cool, air conditioners have an immediate impact on your health. The ventilation system in the air conditioner can quickly pollute the house when it’s not fully maintained, by circulating dust and debris into the air instead of removing them. Air conditioner maintenance is the easiest way to keep your air clean, and your lungs healthy.

Signs of Indoor Air Quality Problems

There are many signs that the air in your home is suffering due to a poor air conditioning system, and you need air conditioner maintenance. The most apparent is your discomfort in your own home, resulting from heavy, humid or damp air. If it’s easier to breathe outside in the middle of a humid summer day, there is a problem.

When the air temperature inside is similar to the temperature outside, even though your air conditioner is running, this is more than just a minor issue. Though you may be comfortable coming home to opening the windows and doors and letting the summer evening air run through your halls, this is not good for the items inside the home. A hot home encourages the house to become more humid, as moisture in the home begins to evaporate. This can lead to mold and mildew growth, paint peeling off walls, and air that’s harmful to breathe; all stemming from a poorly functioning air conditioner.

Another sign you may need air conditioner maintenance is an increasing visibility of dust in the home. Though small amounts of dust will always accumulate around the home, an increase of dust on your furniture or in the air may signal that the air conditioner has developed a buildup. The excess dust can cause the conditioner to overheat, overwork, and quickly break down; it is also harmful to breathe in and can be harmful to your lungs.

What Air Conditioner Maintenance Repairs

Air conditioner maintenance can help to repair a variety of different air quality problems. Maintenance will help to remove pollutants from the air, given there will be no build up or debris in the conditioner to move around. This also means that ventilation will be improved as clean air will be circulating, not air that is heavy with humidity or dusty. Depending on the specifics of your air conditioning system, high end filtration filters may be placed on your fans. This will get rid of up to 98% of contaminants in the air, without harming the actual machine or fans.

Ask an Expert

The most important part of air conditioner maintenance is to ensure you hire a professional to work on the machine itself. Whether you have a central air conditioner in the house, or a window mounted unit, only a professional HVAC technician should be the one overlooking the system. A professional will let you know exactly how well your system is running, what you need to invest in to ensure it works well in the future, and how much longer of a life you can expect out of it.

To learn more about our air conditioner maintenance techniques, and to book your appointment, contact us at Climate Experts. We’ll get your air conditioner working correctly, and have your air feel fresh again.

Posted by admin on January 18, 2016

The dark and cold winter months don’t have to be miserable, in fact it can be a great time of year just as long as you have a nice warm home to get back to. Your snug and cozy chamber can make the difference in winter, but if something goes wrong with your furnace, it’s a different story. Here are a few of the most common furnace problems in cold weather. 

Only Blowing Cold Air

Blocked or excessively dirty filters can be the root cause of some of the most common furnace problems in cold weather. Blocked filters impede the free flow of air and therefore your furnace has to work a lot harder. Not only is this bad economically, but it means your home will stay cold for longer. Make the sure the filters are inspected regularly. Ideally they should be cleaned or replaced every 1-3 months. If in doubt, consult one of our specialists who can show you how to clean and replace your filters. 

If your furnace is only blowing out cold air it could also be a problem with your air ducts. They may be inefficiently insulated leading to an uneven airflow and need sealing. 

Uneven Airflow

If some of the rooms in your home remain freezing cold while others are adequately heated, it is likely that an uneven airflow is occurring due to the wrong system having been installed for your home or the air ducts need attention. Inconsistencies in room temperatures could also indicate insulation and draft problems and that cold air is being allowed in rather than a fault with your furnace itself. On the other hand, if there are no insulation issues, then airflow may be the problem and the vents may need adjusting. Consult a specialist to locate the problem.

Excessive Cycling

If your furnace is switching itself on and off frequently, this could be an indicator of a blocked filter, impeded airflow, or an inappropriate thermostat setting. It could also be a sign your house is leaking air.

Carbon Monoxide

This is potentially a very serious issue. It is imperative you have a carbon monoxide detector fitted to safeguard against leakage. If you have an old furnace, it may have developed minute cracks from which this lethal gas can get into your living space. If there is such a leek then consult a professional.

Loss of Power & Heat

This one is easy to spot in the depths of winter. Possibly a loss of power to the furnace, faulty pilot light or ignition system could be the problem. Anything to do with broken pilot lights and ignition systems really need to the help of an expert. 

Furnace Won’t Turn On 

This could depend largely on the age of your unit and how well it has been maintained. Check the thermostat is set appropriately to “heat” and the fan to “auto”. Check your circuit breaker to see if the circuit has tripped.

These are just some common furnace problems in cold weather and some of the issues are more serious than others. Call Climate Experts today to make sure your furnace is in perfect working order this winter.

Posted by admin on March 02, 2015

1. Don’t blast the heat

It is easy to understand that people want to feel cozy during the winter, and in turn set your heating system on high. However, it is possible to maintain your indoor comfort without the temperature set to 75 or 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By lowering your thermostat to 68 or 70, your body’s natural heating system will maintain your desired temperature. This is one of the simplest energy saving tips, but can save you 10% to 15% on your electricity bill.

2. Seal your doors and windows.

Though you may be running your heating system on high to keep the house warm, unsealed doors and windows easily let this heat escape. Invest in additional weather stripping and plastic wrap for the windows. Not only is this a relatively easy fix, but you will stop paying to heat the great outdoors.

3. Insulate!

Without decent insulation, on average a quarter of the energy that your heating system produces can escape through the walls and the roof. By ensuring that the insulation in your house is not only existent but up to date, you can save a significant amount of money. Poor insulation is one of the leading reasons warm air escapes the house, and one of the easiest things to forget about!

4. Upgrade your lights

Incandescent lighting can waste up to 90% of the energy it demands as the bulbs produce and emit heat. Not only is this wasteful but it can be dangerous; bulbs that remain on for long periods during the dark winter can become incredibly hot and potentially explore. Upgrading to CFL’s or LED bulbs will cut both energy costs and dangerous hazards in your home.

5. Lay down a rug or two.

While hardwood, stone, and laminate floors are beautiful to look at, they are terrible at retaining heat. By adding a floor mat or rug to your room, floors will stay warmer and stop you from turning up the heat.

6. Close doors

This tip might seem too obvious, but it is easier said than done! Remember to check that the doors in the house stay closed, particularly ones connecting to the outdoors or rooms with grand windows. Doing a double check is not embarrassing, neither is the energy savings you get from it.

7. Invest in an automatic thermostat

Having the heat running all day can be incredibly costly if you are not there to benefit from it, but turning it off when you leave and arrive home every day sounds like an equally poor choice. Investing in an automatic thermostat can fix this issue for you. It will deactivate when the house is empty, and you can set it to activate just before arriving home, so that you can save money on your energy bill where possible.

8. Go on an air leak search and destroy mission

Air leaks can appear anywhere from the roof to the basement. To prevent them from increasing your energy costs, scour your entire home for air leaks. If you aren’t sure where to begin, hire a professional do it for you.

9. Upgrade your heating system

An inefficient heater will cause you to literally throw money away. By upgrading your heater to a modernized model, your energy bill can be shrunk down to almost half its size.

10. Make sure that your heating system undergoes regular maintenance

Your heater will be most efficient when it is properly cleaned and maintained. It is important that you have your heater professionally cleaned and maintained before and even during the wintertime when it gets the most use.

To learn more about how to save on your energy bill throughout the year Contact the Climate Experts Heating and Cooling team, Canada’s top indoor air quality experts! 

Posted by admin on October 14, 2014

Ideally, you will always have your furnace serviced periodically by a professional HVAC technician. However, there is no guarantee that your furnace will not unexpectedly break down, requiring an emergency furnace repair. If it breaks down at night or on the weekend, waiting for the next day or Monday morning could be too long a wait. 

One thing you can do to avoid a situation where you need emergency furnace repair is to keep an eye on it. There are five signs that your furnace needs to be checked immediately:

1. The burner flame is yellow and not blue.
2. You can hear odd noises when the furnace is on.
3. There is more dust and stuffiness in the home, possibly caused by a clogged air filter.
4. Your heating bill goes up significantly and heating is uneven throughout the home.
5. Your furnace has needed frequent or costly repairs. Generally speaking, a furnace that is more than 15 years old should be replaced.

It is important to take these signs seriously and call for emergency furnace repair for a number of reasons. Apart from the fact that you cannot survive without heating during the cold months, there are other reasons you should ensure your furnace is running well:

• A furnace that is in good condition runs quietly and will not disturb your sleep when it goes bump in the night as the furnace cycles.
• Heating takes up a big chunk of the energy bill. While energy efficiency comes down to the furnace model, any furnace that is in good condition uses less energy than one that is older and requires repair.
• Your home will have clean air when your furnace is in good operating condition. Poorly maintained furnaces raise safety issues like carbon monoxide leaks. A furnace that is running well will also filter germs and dust more efficiently than one that requires maintenance.
• Getting your furnace repaired when you spot an issue can save you some money. Extensive repairs will cost much more to fix if you wait too long.
• Finally, with a properly maintained furnace, you will have a more comfortable home with consistent humidity levels and even heating throughout the house.

Furnace inspection and maintenance that you can do yourself

When repairs are completed and the furnace is working efficiently, there are things you can do to avoid another a situation in which you need emergency furnace repair:

• Test your carbon monoxide detector and replace the battery while you are at it. If you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector, install one. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal.
• Ensure your furnace is clear. There shouldn’t be anything blocking airflow to it. Additionally, there shouldn’t be anything flammable in the space surrounding it.
• Change the furnace filter regularly. A clogged filter will compromise airflow to the furnace which can in turn compromise its efficiency. Disposable air filters should be changed once a month. This is one of the most inexpensive ways to keep your furnace running with maximum efficiency.

Climate Experts is on call to quickly respond to emergency furnace repairs. All calls are responded to by licensed technicians who can handle repairs to all of the major brands and models of furnaces. Whenever you call Climate Experts Heating and Cooling, you can be sure that you’ll never be left in the cold!

Posted by admin on September 22, 2014

When it comes to your heating and cooling system, having the right products available is essential, not only to ensure that your system works properly but also to reduce your ongoing expenses. Most home owners have a tank-based water heater and although it can be effective, there are other alternatives available that will reduce the space required in your basement and reduce your utility bill every month. 

What is a Tankless Hot Water Heater? 

A tankless hot water heater is also known as an instantaneous water heating system, and they are popular due to their small size. However, they offer a lot more than simply space saving in your home; they offer continuous running water, they cost much less to operate and they are also environmentally friendly. These tankless systems work on an entirely different concept than traditional water heaters. With a regular storage water heater, your water will be stored in a storage tank that is heated with a boiler. A tankless system instead heats the water on demand. Since the water is only heated when you need it, less energy is required to keep it hot. A tank water heater uses more energy to maintain its supply of hot water.

Tankless hot water heater systems offer numerous benefits over traditional tank-based water systems and they are becoming increasingly popular across the world. Here are some of the most popular benefits of tankless systems:

• Continuous water. Since you won’t have a tank, you will have water available as-needed, on-demand. You will never have a shortage of heated water, making these units very practical.
   
• Eco-friendly. Tankless heaters are very energy efficient so they can help to reduce air pollution. They are also smaller in size, so that will take up less space in your home and on landfills eventually.
   
• No stored water. The system is tankless you only use heated water as needed and this will in turn reduce lime scale build-up, meaning less maintenance too. 
   
• Durable. Tankless systems are very durable and have an average lifespan of around 20 years. The system is fuel efficient and they last longer as they won’t have any sediment build-up. 

It’s a good idea to replace your traditional water heating system in your home with a tankless hot water heater. With the right equipment and reliable workmanship, you can benefit from significant cost savings and an energy efficient heating system in your home. 

Climate Experts specializes in tankless hot water heater systems and serves the Durham region as well as surrounding areas. Contact us today to find out more about our furnace and air conditioner repair and maintenance services. 

Posted by admin on March 16, 2015

The demise of your household water heater should not be seen as a tragic loss, but rather the chance for you to invest in something new. As you begin to look at possible replacements, the new option of an on demand hot water heater will appear. Naturally, one of the first questions you may want answered is if they are really worth investing your time and money. The fact is, these kinds of water heaters are excellent investments, for several reasons.

No More Reheating a Tank of Water

Traditional water heaters work by continuously reheating a tank of water, which reoccurs throughout the day. This process takes place regardless if anyone is home, or anyone is using the water. This results in you paying for energy that is being used regardless of its necessity. With an on demand water heater, there is no water tank that is constantly being heated, so no extra energy is wasted.

Life Expectancy

A key benefit in the purchase of an on demand water heater is that they are built to last much longer than their traditional counterparts. The life of a conventional water heater is somewhere in the area of 10 to 15 years; in contrast, a tankless water heater has an average life of 20 years. This means that not only will you be saving money by not constantly reheating water, but you will also save money by not having to replace your water heater as frequently.

Repair and Maintenance

Like all hard working machines, your on demand water heater will eventually require some minimal repairs throughout its lifespan. It is important to remember that an on demand water heater is designed so that these repairs will happen far less than with conventional water heaters. Given the repairs will not happen as often, and the maintenance is easy to manage, this will lead to more money saved in the long term.

Hot Water When You Want It

How often have you had to put off tasks around the house so that somebody could take a shower? With a conventional water heater, there is a limited amount of hot water available at any given time. Running the dishwasher at 8pm means that no one can take a hot shower until at least 9pm, and considering doing the laundry while these chores are being done is nearly impossible.

These issues disappear with an on demand hot water heater. The water is heated as you need it, and supply cannot run out. This means that dishes, showering, and laundry can be done at the same time without forfeiting hot water.

When looking into purchasing a new hot water heater, do not overlook your tankless options. Though this machine may cost you more immediately, you will see a great amount of savings over its lifespan. With its lower energy consumption, infrequent repairs and immediate hot water convince, the initial price tag is worth every cent. Talk to a plumbing professional today and begin to look into this option. This change will be the one of the best, and warmest, choices you make all year.