As a homeowner, you know that there are a lot of things you need to keep up with in order to keep your home in tip-top shape. One of those things is your furnace. In order to keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently, there are a few things you need to do on a regular basis. Here are the ins and outs of furnace maintenance that you need to know.

Why Is Furnace Maintenance Important?

If you’re not used to working on any of your home’s systems yourself, you might be wondering why it’s so important to maintain your furnace. The answer is simple: you need to keep your furnace well-maintained in order to keep it working properly. Like any other mechanical system, your furnace needs regular tune-ups to ensure that it’s functioning correctly.

If you don’t properly maintain your furnace, it could cause a number of problems down the line. First of all, it could end up breaking down completely. A well-maintained furnace is less likely to break down than one that is not. In addition, if you don’t properly maintain your furnace, it could end up costing you a lot of money in repairs. These repairs could be much more expensive than regular maintenance, so it’s important to make sure your furnace is running smoothly.

DIY Furnace Maintenance Checklist

If you want to do some of the furnace maintenance yourself, there are a few things you can do. Here is a DIY furnace maintenance checklist:

1. Make sure all air filters are replaced on a regular basis, and if needed, replace the filter cartridges as well.
2. Clean the firebox and flue regularly with an approved cleaning agent.
3. Inspect the chimney for any problems or signs of wear, and fix them if necessary.
4. Check the insulation in your furnace room regularly, and replace any damaged insulation as needed.

Furnace Maintenance You Should Leave to the Professionals

While some furnace maintenance tasks can be done by homeowners, there are certain tasks that should be left to the professionals. Here are a few of those tasks:

1. Replacing furnace filters – This is a task that can easily be done by homeowners, but it’s important to make sure you replace the filters on a regular basis.
2. Cleaning the firebox and flue – This is also a task that can be done by homeowners, but it’s important to use an approved cleaning agent.
3. Replacing insulation – Homeowners should not attempt to replace insulation on their own, as this is a job for professionals only.
4. Tightening of loose electrical components – Homeowners should not attempt to tighten loose electrical components on their own. Improper tightening can result in electric shock or fire.
5. Lubrication of all moving parts – Homeowners should not attempt to lubricate moving parts on their own, as this could cause injury if done incorrectly. You could also put lubricant in the wrong places, which could damage your furnace.

When Should You Schedule Furnace Maintenance?

In order to keep your furnace running smoothly, you should schedule maintenance at least once a year. Many homeowners choose to schedule maintenance before the winter begins, so they know that their furnace will be ready to go when the cold weather hits.

During the maintenance visit, the technician will thoroughly inspect your furnace and clean it out. They will also oil your furnace, so it runs more smoothly. After the tune-up is complete, you should notice a difference in the way your furnace runs.

Conclusion

Furnace maintenance is important to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient. By following the proper steps and precautions, you can ensure that your furnace runs smoothly all winter long.

If you’re having problems with your furnace or you just want to make sure that it’s properly maintained, it’s best to call in the reliable technicians at Climate Experts. We are a Canadian-owned and operated company serving the Durham region, GTA, and surrounding areas. Whenever you need repair and maintenance work on your cooling and home heating systems, our team will be there. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Many people start cranking up the air conditioning to stay cool and comfortable as the weather gets hotter. But did you notice that your air conditioner can harbour nasty things that may impact your health? For example, you can develop headaches, respiratory problems, and even Legionnaires’ disease if you’re not careful.

Here are a few things you should remove from your air conditioner to keep you and your family healthy.

1. Bacteria and Viruses

You probably understand the dangers of being contaminated with bacteria and viruses in your home, which leads to various diseases. As with all appliances in your home, your AC unit can contain dirt over time. Moreover, keeping your AC filter dirty can lead to excessively dry air, which can cause respiratory problems.

Hiring professionals to keep your AC unit clean is the best way to avoid these problems. You can do this by constantly adjusting the filter and cleaning the coils. Once the filter is removed, you must rinse it under running water. Make sure you remove all the dirt and debris from the filter before putting it back in place.

2. Mould

Mould is a fungus that can build on any surface, including fabrics, food, and walls, and it comes in various colours. If you have any water damage in your home, you may have mould, which can be extremely harmful to your health. 

Aside from being dangerous to your health, there are various news stories about mould ruining people’s homes. Additionally, the worst part about mould is that it’s challenging to remove, and you may not know that you have it until it’s too late.

3. Dust Mites

Dust mites are tiny arthropods that are often difficult to see with the naked eye. Even though they’re small, they’re still a considerable health hazard, as they often cause respiratory problems, such as asthma. 

Dust mites are usually found in mattresses, couches, and other pieces of furniture, and they love to feed on the dead skin cells we shed daily. If you have dust mites in your home, you may experience allergic reactions and other problems.

4. Pet Dander

If you have a pet, you must be aware of the dangers of pet dander. Pet dander is tiny particles of skin that animals shed, which can lead to various allergies and other respiratory problems. You may not think your pet’s fur is a danger to your health, but you must be aware of what’s happening. After all, your AC unit gets these particles a lot.

Pet dander can cause sneezing, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. It can also provoke asthma attacks and make existing respiratory problems worse. If you have allergies, exposure to pet dander can cause itching, redness, and swelling. It can even lead to anaphylaxis—a potentially life-threatening reaction in severe cases.

5. Chemical Residue

Chemical residue in your air conditioner is often caused by unfiltered water. This makes your chemicals not work correctly and result in your filter clogging. Moreover, it can also cause your air conditioner’s coils to freeze, making it less effective at cooling your home.

Final Thoughts

It is essential to periodically clean your air conditioner to prevent the build-up of nasty things like mould, dust, and bacteria. By removing these things from your air conditioner, you can improve the air quality in your home and prevent health problems.

Climate Experts is a company you can trust for your AC repair needs. In addition, we do thermostat setting for summer and furnace repair services in Canada. Contact us today for more information!

Furnaces are essential in keeping you comfortable at home, especially in the cooler months. If you’ve noticed that your furnace isn’t putting out as much heat as it used to, there could be several reasons.

In this article, you’ll learn some of the most common causes of this problem to get your furnace back up and running as soon as possible.

1. Blocked Air Filters

One of the most common causes of a furnace not igniting is that the air filters are blocked. When the air filters are blocked, it prevents air from flowing properly through the furnace, which can cause a number of problems.

If your furnace isn’t igniting, one of the first things you should check is whether or not the air filters are clean. If they’re dirty, simply replace them and see if that solves the problem.

2. Faulty Thermostat 

If your furnace isn’t igniting, one of the first things you should check is whether or not the thermostat is set to “heat.” If it’s not, simply adjust it and see if that solves the problem.

It’s also possible that the thermostat itself is faulty. If adjusting the setting doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to replace the thermostat entirely.

3. Clogged Furnace Lines

Clogged furnace lines are a common problem during the winter. The best way to prevent this is to have your furnace serviced before the start of the heating season. However, if you find yourself with clogged furnace lines, there are a few things you can do to try and clear them.

One thing you can do is check to see if the clog is in the main line or one of the branch lines. You can try using a plunger or snake to clear it if it is in a branch line. If the clog is in the main line, you need to call a professional to remove it.

4. Low Gas Supply

If you notice that your furnace isn’t working as well as it used to, one possibility is that you have a low gas supply. This can happen for several reasons, including a gas line leak or a gas meter problem. If you think you might have a low gas supply, the best thing to do is call your utility company and have them come out to check it.

5. Dirty Flame Sensor

Another common cause of furnaces not igniting is a dirty flame sensor. The flame sensor is a small probe near the burner assembly that detects whether or not a flame is present. If it gets dirty, it can prevent the furnace from igniting correctly.

Use a wire brush to remove any dirt or debris to clean your flame sensor. Once it’s clean, try restarting your furnace and see if that solves the problem.

Final Thoughts

While these are the most common furnace problems, they aren’t the only ones you may face. If you’re having any issues with your furnace, it’s best to call a professional to take a look.

For issues like furnace overheating or producing cool air, contact us at Climate Experts today. We offer 24/7 emergency services related to furnaces—installations, repairs, and other maintenance needs. Give us a call for more information.

A furnace is absolutely necessary for any home heating system, mainly because it will be utilized extensively during the winter months. While it generates heat, it might malfunction from time to time. One example is when it emits odours that it shouldn’t.

There are several reasons why a furnace may emit unusual odours. Sometimes, the smell is merely caused by the home’s heating system. It’s usually the consequence of a furnace problem that has to be rectified. Regardless, it should not emit odours and should be repaired as soon as possible.

This article discusses some of the most prevalent scents a furnace should not emit and how to remedy them. 

Smoke from a Failed Motor

If the smoke comes from your furnace, you will almost certainly be able to identify it. A smoky odour is not something you should be seeking from a furnace.

Depending on the origin of the smoke, cleaning the filters and ensuring that all soot is cleared from the gas burner, flame tube, and heat exchanger may be simple solutions. If the reason for the smoke is a faulty motor, you should get it repaired by a specialist.

Burning Dust Odours from Overheating

Furnace overheating is frequently the cause of an odour that smells like burning dust. This might be due to a malfunctioning motor or a blocked filter.

The simplest solution is to get the air filter cleaned. It would be best if you still inspected your furnace to verify that no dust is being drawn into it.

The Smell of Rotten Eggs from Your Gas Burner

Fumes emitted by the gas burner mainly cause the stench of rotting eggs. This scent is typical after turning off the gas valve, although it should not be an issue in the first place.

The odour can be eliminated by inspecting the gas valve and burner assembly. If the condition persists, you should seek expert assistance.

Foul Sewage from a Blocked Drain Line

Various circumstances might cause a nasty sewage stench or anything similar. It can occur due to a clogged drain line, a pump malfunction, a broken gas safety shutoff, a clogged filter, and other factors.

In most situations, cleaning the drain pipe will eliminate the odour. If, on the other hand, the stench remains and the case is not as simple as a clogged drain, you should contact a specialist to resolve the issue.

Mould in the Vents

Mould is a serious issue that must be treated immediately. One of the first symptoms of mould growth is the odour it emits. Even if you can’t see the mould, it’s a good idea to have a professional examine the heating system to ensure no mould is forming.

Mould might form on the vent or in the ductwork. The fungus can grow due to the heating system being kept in an overly damp environment. To avoid mould formation, make sure the environment is dry.

Metallic Smells from a Bad Motor

If your furnace emits a metallic odour, there is most certainly an issue with the engine. A faulty motor might cause this issue. If it isn’t, it might be the result of something else.

The issue with a defective motor is that it might overheat and burn out. A refrigerant leak can cause this. The burning refrigerant might provide a burning odour. In this scenario, it is advised that you contact a specialist to resolve the issue for you.

Conclusion

There are a few smells that can indicate problems with your furnace. A burning smell could mean an oil or gas leak, while a musty smell could tell that the furnace is not venting correctly. If you notice any of these smells, it is essential to have your furnace checked by a professional as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

Are you looking for gas furnace prices in Canada? Climate Experts installs, services, and maintains all major brands of furnaces and air conditioners. Request a free estimate today!

You may not think much about your home’s indoor air quality. Consider for a moment how much dust is collecting throughout it. If it’s summer, there is likely to be allergens like pollen coming into the home. You could even have mold growing in areas you have no idea about just yet. While there are numerous ways to improve your home’s air quality, one way to improve conditions quickly is to ensure your air conditioner is operating at its best. If you need repairs on your air conditioner, Whitby residents should know not to put them off because of these reasons.

Humidity Control Is a Big Deal

One of the most important ways your air conditioner can help with home comfort and health is to focus on humidity control. Humidity is moisture that is in the air. On hot summer days, you may feel it the most. It can be high at any time of the year, but the summer months tend to be the most common, along with any really rainy days.

Humidity is not a bad thing. You need some moisture in the air to keep your skin comfortable and not dry. However, too much humidity leads to mold buildup. The moisture in the air can saturate the softer surfaces in your home, such as carpeting or drywall. In areas where it is warm, dark, and consistently wet, mold is likely to grow quickly.

By running your air conditioner, you can pull out a lot of that moisture, minimizing the risk that mold is present. Removing that moisture can help to reduce the risk of mold and mildew spreading throughout your home, which can be dangerous for anyone’s respiratory health.

Removing Allergens

Most air conditioners are not air cleaners. That is, they are not going to remove all of the dirt and debris from your home. However, if you keep the air filter clean, they will help pull out a lot of the allergens that are present. Just by running your AC, you could reduce at least some of the buildup of particles in your home (like dust and pollen). This can help your home to have a bit better quality of air, which is important for anyone that has a loved one with allergies.

Your air conditioner can also work alongside an air cleaner. If you have people in your home with serious allergies, pollen-related allergies, or asthma, it may be beneficial to add an air cleaner to your home. That is something a professional can help you with.

Let Our Team Provide You With Air Conditioner Guidance

If you have not had your air conditioner inspected in the last year, now is the time to schedule it. Have maintenance performed on it to help ensure that all components are working at their best. Your air filter may need to be changed as well. Keep your air conditioner in Whitby working its best.

When you call Climate Experts Heating & Cooling, our team will ensure your air conditioner is working at its very best, ensuring your air is as clean as possible. Ask us about indoor air quality, too.

A ductless air conditioner or ductless mini split system may be just what you need to finally enjoy cool air in your home with consistency. These are affordable air conditioning solutions ideally suited for many types of homes. You can use them throughout your home or for specific areas of the home that may not have a ducted system accessible. If you are thinking about ductless installation, Ajax property owners may want to consider the benefits it can offer.

#1: Affordability

When considering all options for heating and cooling your home (many ductless systems do both), you may be looking for something that is truly affordable. Though costs differ based on the model selected and your home’s specific layout, many people will find that it is far less expensive to add this solution than to seek out a central air system for the home. It is also more affordable to run, in most cases than placing window units in numerous areas of the home.

#2: Non-Invasive Installation

If the thought of installing ductwork into your home sounds scary, the good news is ductless installation does not require this type of invasive work. Rather, the system allows you to install a reliable air conditioner without having to open up numerous walls and do a lot of repairs. Also, if you decide that you do not need it or you move to a whole home air conditioner, the ductless installation is highly reversible and even easy to do.

#3: Better for Allergy Sufferers

A simplified installation process is one way that a ductless system can prove to be better for those who have allergies. Additionally, without any ducts running through the home, there are fewer ways for dirt and debris to spread through the home. That means that you have less dust throughout your home and better breathing quality as well.

#4: Lower Energy Bills

Depending on what you have now, a new ductless system is going to be far more inexpensive to operate than other models that are running inefficiently right now. These systems have a notable amount of energy efficiency. The cooled air does not have to travel through numerous ducts. Your home benefits from cleaner air and lower bills.

#5: It’s Easy to Maintain

There are not a lot of things you have to do to maintain the ductless system. Just follow the maintenance requirements set by the manufacturer. You may find that you still have to have an annual inspection to ensure it is running properly. It is also wise to have your system’s air filter cleaned routinely. Yet, most people find it is easy to put this type of system in place and then use it reliably.

Let Our Team Offer a Custom Consultation

When it comes to ductless installation, Ajax residents can count on us to provide exceptional solutions that fit your home. At Climate Experts Heating & Cooling, we have ample experience with ductless air conditioner installation, repair, and maintenance for most makes and models. Call us for an appointment.

Your home’s HVAC system is one of the biggest and most valuable components of your home. It operates in the background where you do not think much about it. Yet, over time, it may become more obvious that there is a problem, and you may be wondering if it is easier to just replace the HVAC system or if you should continue to make repairs. If you need repairs for your HVAC, Durham Region property owners can always call a technician to inquire about your options and the pros and cons of replacement.

Common Indications It Is Time to Replace Your HVAC

There are a few common instances in which replacing your HVAC may be the best decision for you. It is always worth considering the cost of a new system based on the cost of repairs and upkeep of the current model. Keeping that in mind, consider a few reasons why you may wish to replace it now.

It’s Older

If the home’s heat pump or air conditioner is over 10 years old, it may no longer be efficient. There are likely other options on the market that can operate at a much lower energy level. Sometimes, those savings can be 20 percent or more. If your furnace is more than 15 years old, that may also indicate that it is time to replace it. Some newer models may be as much as 15 percent more efficient than older models.

Frequency of Repairs

If you are making repairs to your heating and cooling system on a consistent basis, that is also an indication that you may wish to make repairs. These costs are likely to continue unless your technician can find an underlying problem beyond normal wear and tear causing the problem.

You Have Humidity Problems

The air conditioner should work to remove most of the excess moisture in the area, such as on hot, humid days. If that is not happening, your home could be at risk for mold. It could be a good time to replace your air conditioner if it is no longer running properly or efficiently.

The System Isn’t Keeping Your Home Comfortable

Another common problem occurs when the air conditioner does not provide reliable air quality throughout the home. You may have some areas that are too hot or too cold. If that is occurring, it could be because your current equipment simply does not have the power it needs to properly cool or heat your home. A new system may mean higher BTUs but also better efficiency as well.

Your System Isn’t Working the Way You Need

When it comes to your HVAC, Durham Region property owners need to keep a close eye on it to ensure it is properly maintained. It plays a role in the health and comfort of your home. If you suspect a problem, do not wait to have those concerns inspected. This may be a good time to ask your technician if it is time for a replacement.

At Climate Experts Heating & Cooling, our team can work with you today to ensure your new system is in place as needed. Contact us for an appointment.

 

 

Would an air conditioner maintenance checklist help you? No matter what time of the year it is, your air conditioner (and often your furnace, too) are large systems that require careful consideration and maintenance to keep them operating properly. If you are unsure what steps you need to take to maintain your system, this checklist is sure to help you. Keep in mind that when it comes to air conditioner maintenance, Pickering homeowners can turn to a trusted technician to handle the entire process.

Before the Season

In the early part of spring and heading into summer, it is important to create a plan for maintaining your air conditioner. During this type, you need to consider the following steps:

• Be sure your thermostat is working, replace batteries if needed, and set the temperatures. Do this now to help ensure that your system is ready for high heat.
• Inspect all electrical connections. It is not safe for homeowners to do their own electrical work. However, you should inspect all electrical components now so that you can schedule repairs to any damaged or faulty electrical components. This could be a fire risk.
• Check the condensate drain. This drain can become clogged, which can lead to water backup. That can also impact the amount of humidity present.
• Lubricate all parts. All moving parts of the air conditioner need lubrication, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This helps minimize friction in the motor that can cause damage.
• Control system inspections are needed. Your goal here is to ensure they are operating reliably and safely.

Monthly Tasks

Each month when you are using your air conditioner, it is helpful to engage in routine maintenance. A few simple things to do include:

• Change or clean the air filters in the system. This can help to significantly improve your overall air quality while also reducing efficiency costs.
• Listen to the system run. If it is making strange sounds or not operating the way it should, it may be time to make some changes.
• Keep the evaporator and condenser coils clean. Monitor them throughout the year to ensure nothing gets caught within them.
• Check your heating and cooling bills. If your costs continue to rise because you are using more energy, that could indicate that it is time to have a professional out to do the repairs.

Have a Professional Inspection Annually

Many of these tasks you can do as a homeowner. However, a professional inspection from a licensed professional is critical to have completed at least one time a year. This way, you may be able to minimize the need for repair calls and potentially extend the life of the system by catching problems early on.

Call to Schedule Maintenance with Our team

You do not have to do all of this work yourself. You can get air conditioner maintenance in Pickering to help you get your system back to working at its best in no time. Let us set up a time to come to your home for an annual maintenance appointment, or we can tackle the problems you’re having. Call us to set up a time.

 

 

If your home does not have central air, and you are thinking about making the investment in an air conditioner, there are a number of things to keep in mind. Most importantly, you want to make sure you are buying the right air conditioner and having a professional install it according to the manufacturer’s requirements. As you think about the installation of an air conditioner, Durham Region residents need to consider the overall goals they have for a new system.

Buying the Right Air Conditioner

The easiest way to ensure you are getting the right air conditioner is to allow a technician to make recommendations for you. Without a doubt, you want their insight and wisdom to help you choose the best air conditioner for your home based on its size and overall features.

A technician understands what your home needs. They also have a working knowledge of various types and brands of air conditioners. If you want to know which brand to consider, one of the easiest things to do is simply ask the technician which is most reliable and least likely to need repair.

Upgrades to Your Home

Your technician can also talk to you about any upgrades necessary to your home for your new air conditioner. You can go with a ductless model if your home does not have ductwork. It is often too expensive to add ductwork to the home unless you are currently doing significant renovations at this point.

Still, your existing system may need repairs to the existing ductwork before the new system is put into place. Other times, you may need to upgrade your electrical system to manage the higher demand for power.

Get Your Warranty in Place

If you just buy an air conditioner and plan to install it, keep in mind that your warranty may be limited. Some air conditioners require a licensed technician to install the system.

In all cases, you want to know what the warranty is and what it covers. It may not cover all aspects of making repairs to your system. Some manufacturers also require you to document the annual maintenance on your system to ensure the warranty remains in place.

Get Smart

While you are installing a new air conditioner, now may be a good time to add a smart thermostat to help control it. Often, the addition of a thermostat is necessary to ensure proper control over the system. A smart thermostat allows you to control your system from a distance, giving you the ability to turn it on and off, update the temperature, or check the current temp in the home even if you are across town.

Investing in a New Air Conditioner in Durham

If you need an air conditioner, Durham Region property owners can trust Climate Experts Heating & Cooling to provide comprehensive care and attention to your needs. Let us offer recommendations on the best brands as well as the overall features best suited for your home.

Many times, a mini split system is going to provide years of good function and reliability, keeping your home comfortable while it does so. It is not uncommon for there to be a need for repairs, though. Oftentimes, these systems, which do not have ductwork, need a bit of consistent care to ensure they are running at their best. When they fail to work or they begin to develop problems, it is helpful to have a repair technician out to inspect and troubleshoot the problem. If you need mini split repair in Toronto, don’t put it off.

Common Problems

The following are some of the most common reasons for mini split repair. If you are experiencing these problems, schedule repair.

#1: New, louder sounds

You may notice that the system seems to be running louder than it used to. Most of these systems are very quiet when operating at their best. If you hear a clicking sound, that could be the plastic housing expanding, which isn’t a problem. However, if you hear gurgling or a cracking sound, that could be due to ice buildup. Pay attention to these sounds. If they sound different, that’s a reason to get repairs.

#2: Water dripping

If your system is not draining water properly or is dripping, that could be an indication there is a problem with the condensate drain. Other times, the drain line itself could be clogged. It could be clogged with debris, but it is somewhat common for mold buildup in this area to occur as well. This causes the water to backup into the system. Don’t put off this need for repair.

#3: Not blowing cold air

When you use your mini split system, it should blow consistent, cool air. If it is not doing that, it may have a refrigerant leak. In some situations, it may be due to a clogged filter. However, if there is no cool air, that typically means there is no refrigerant present.

#4: Smells and odors developing

Another potential concern is the development of strong odors coming from the system. If there is a musty or mildew smell, that could be due to mold development in the system. You may also experience a sweet smell. That could be an indication that the refrigerant is leaking at some point. If you smell a stronger, burning scent, that could be related to your electrical system.

#5: It does not turn on

It is not common for a mini split system to just not turn on or to turn off and on several times. If that is occurring, it could be due to a more significant level of damage to the system or the electrical system. You will need a repair technician in this situation.

Calling a Technician Can Ease Your Mind

Getting mini split repair in Toronto is easy to do. With the help of the team at Climate Experts Heating & Cooling, you can rest assured your system can be back up and running in the most efficient manner possible. You do not need to put off these repairs. Call us instead.