Posted by admin on February 16, 2016

Hot water in floor heating, also known as hydronic or liquid floor heating, is an innovative home-heating method that warms your house from the floor up rather than from the ceiling down, using hot water that circulates in plastic pipes that are built right into the structure of your floor. 

How Does Hot Water In Floor Heating Work?

Hot water in floor heating uses heated water sent into a room from your home’s water heater and through pipes running through the wall and then underneath the flooring. These pipes will typically be made of PEX, a flexible plastic tubing that is both durable an effective at radiating heat. In fact, PEX has an expected lifespan of over 100 years, making it unlikely you will ever need to replace it.

The tubing is built into sub-floor tiles and is arranged in a circulation pattern that both covers the full floor so that heat rises evenly instead of entering the room at one point only. The heat radiates into the surrounding materials and then into the lower-level air in the room. Since the upper-level air need not be heated, the room can be kept quite comfortable while using less energy than top-down methods.

How Is Hot Water In Floor Heating Installed?

On the ground-floor level of a home, the typical installation method begins by excavating the floor and preparing the work-surface. A layer of insulation is then laid down, and the room’s dimensions are measured to calculate the number and dimensions of tiles needed. Next, the panels are cut to size and arranged, and pipes are inserted into the tile-channels with a rubber mallet. A 1/8th-inch gap is left between panels to allow for expansion, adhesive is applied to hold each piece in place, and the panels are securely screwed down. A sensor will be installed in a central position and connected to the thermostat, and two water pipes will be run through the wall to the water heater.

With concrete floors, re-bar is installed before pouring, and the PEX tubes are tied to the re-bar for extras support. On upper stories of a building, the PEX tubing is often suspended underneath the sub-floor between the joists rather than being built into the sub-floor.

What Are the Benefits of Hot Water In Floor Heating?

In Canada especially, where cold winters and high home heating costs are routine, hot water in floor heating has gained great popularity. Some of the benefits it offers that explain why it is frequently opted for over other methods are as follows:

• The number one reason is higher energy efficiency rates, typically besting both gas and electric. Relatively quick, even, and strategically located heat distribution translates into superior cost-effectiveness.
• The inconspicuous and space-saving nature of having your heating device hidden below your floor is another benefit, as is the elimination of unsightly heating pumps/vents.
• Marble, slate, and other natural stone flooring is highly decorative but ice-cold at times on your bare feet, but a heated floor means pleasantly warmed-up feet.
• Because heat slowly radiates upward, drafts are virtually eliminated. This means that allergens and particles affecting asthmatics are left on the floor instead of being lifted up into the air.

Hot water in floor heating is one of the most effective and efficient ways to heat your home, particularly during the cold winter months. It has many benefits that have made it an extremely popular option, and expert installation is available year-round through Climate Experts. You can get a free estimate today online or by calling us at 855-241-7171.

Posted by admin on October 06, 2014

Many do it yourself home repair projects are easy on your time, wallet and your skills. Changing your home’s furnace filter is one project that you can do on your own, and won’t even take up an entire Saturday morning.  

Since the changing the filter is critical to furnace maintenance because it keeps it running efficiently and adds to the life of the furnace, it is worth learning how to install a furnace filter. Here are the steps you need to install yours. 

1. Choose a new filter

Before you think about how to install your furnace filter, decide on the type of new filter that you want. The purpose of the filter is to protect the motor from dirt, so a disposable fibreglass filter with pleats will do. But there are other options to consider. 

You can choose filters that remove even more dust, pollen, and other particles from the air. These filters are electrostatically charged. Or you can select thicker filters that are more durable, remove even more particles and are more expensive. You can discuss the best options for your furnace with your furnace repair and replacement company.

If you are unsure of the size of filters required, there should be a sticker either on the furnace or in the filter casing that gives you the measurements. 

2. Find and remove the filter

Take a minute and familiarize yourself with your furnace and find the filter. The filter is located in the filter air box in the cold air return duct. The cold air return duct should be toward the bottom of the furnace.

Once you find the cold air return, look for the filter casing. How you install a furnace filter will depend in part on how the filter is attached. The filter will be either behind a small door, or it will be visible because it slides into a slot.

Turn your furnace off as a safety precaution, then remove the old filter. 

3. Switch out the filters

Once you find the filter, either open the door and take it out, or slide it out of the area holding it. 

When putting in the new filter, it will have arrows on one side that line up with the air flow. To make it simple, the arrows should be pointed toward the furnace. So slide or place the filter, arrows facing the furnace, into place. 

Follow these steps to ensure that your filter change was done correctly. A filter incorrectly put in can restrict the flow of air and force the furnace to work too hard. Check your filters monthly and replace them when dirty.

4. Turn on the furnace

Once the new filter is in place, turn the furnace back on and you’re finished!

If you have any questions about how to install a furnace filter, or you would like an appointment for furnace repair or replacement, please contact Climate Experts.

Posted by admin on April 20, 2015

Making sure that you have the right home heating system installed is essential to ensuring that your home is as comfortable in the winter as it is every other season. Having the right home heating system installed will keep your home heated without spending vast amounts on your electrical bill in the process. Utilities can easily go far over their allotted budget, and this can stem from poorly running equipment.

Of course, the investment into a new house heating system is an obvious concern. You can always go back on your investment if you realize you have made the wrong choice, but this chance will be both expensive and time consuming. Unless you are willing to run up the costs by making a mistake and realizing it too late, it is important that you make sure that your first choice is also the right choice for you and your family.

Factors Used to Evaluate Your Heating Options

Here are some of the most important factors that should be considered when choosing between home heating options:

• Your home heating system must be capable of heating the space. To come up with the heat requirement for your home, you should speak with a HVAC expert, who will have the tools needed to calculate exact numbers.  Using factors such as; local climate, insulation value, the amount of ventilation, and the number of square feet that needs to be heated, the exact number of space you need heated can be confirmed.
• You need to consider all of the costs associated with your home heating options. In other words, this means considering the combined total of sale price and installation cost, plus the costs needed to use it over time. These costs should take into account factors such as the home heating system’s fuel costs, maintenance needs, and length of useful lifespan. If you fail to take such factors into account, you will misjudge the real cost of the home heating options available.
• You need to examine the kinds of home heating systems that are available for your home. This means examining based on their fuel and their heat distribution systems, both of which will have enormous impact on their performance, relative to their costs. Be warned that some home heating systems run on fuels that are not available for some houses. For example, some homes have no gas lines, meaning that natural gas home heating options must be eliminated from consideration for them.

How These Factors Can Be Used to Evaluate Your Heating Options

You could look into your home heating options on your own, however it will be both easier and less time-consuming if you take the time to speak with an expert.

This will you both time and money, as they will be able to examine exactly what type of system will work best for your home, and eliminate uneducated mistakes. This ensures that you will be able to find the right home heating system for your home, and be comfortable again much sooner.

Posted by admin on September 02, 2014

After the scorching temperatures of the summer months pass, most people simply forget about their A/C. However, in order for the unit to perform properly the next warm season, you should perform fall air conditioner maintenance.

Having air conditioner maintenance performed will save you money by preventing smaller problems from becoming more expensive problems in the future. At the same time, fall A/C maintenance will increase the efficiency of your unit. When you have the maintenance performed in the fall, you will circumvent the higher prices and long waits associated with scheduling maintenance during the peak seasons. After you have been running the air conditioner system all summer long, the following maintenance services will prepare your system for the upcoming months:

Thermostat Settings Check

To make sure your heating and cooling system is operating effectively, your technician should check your thermostat and ensure it is functioning properly. In particular, checking the thermostat will ensure the system saves energy and money when you are away and keeps your home cooled when you are occupying it. 

Electrical Connection 

As a safety precaution, your electrical connections should be checked and tightened during the fall air conditioner maintenance. In addition, the voltage and current should be measured on each motor in your unit. When your air conditioner has faulty electrical connections, it can cause your system to operate in an unsafe manner. In addition, it can greatly reduce the life of your vital components of the unit. 

Moving Parts

It’s important to ensure all of the moving parts of your air conditioner are properly lubricated. When parts are not lubricated properly, they cause more friction and increases the amount of energy consumed. 

The Condensate Drain

To ensure your home has the proper humidity levels and to prevent water damage, the condensate drain in your air conditioner should be checked and inspected. 

System Controls 

The system controls of the unit should be checked to ensure it starts, operates, and shuts off as it should. 

Evaporator and Condenser Coils

After your air conditioner has run all summer, you should have air conditioner maintenance that includes the cleaning of your evaporator and condenser coils. When the coils are dirty, it greatly reduces the unit’s ability to cool your home. As a result, your system will run much longer, which reduces the life of your equipment and increases the cost of operation. 

The Refrigerant Level 

To ensure the efficiency of your unit, the refrigerant levels must be checked and adjusted as needed. In addition, this practice will ensure the longevity of your air conditioner. 

Blower Components 

The blower components of your air conditioner are responsible for the proper airflow, which leads to optimum comfort levels. When you have your fall A/C maintenance, it is essential the blower components are cleaned and adjusted. If your unit is operating with dirty blower components, the efficiency of your air conditioner unit could be reduced by as much as 15%. 

Since purchasing an air conditioner is considered a significant investment, you should take every precaution to protect your investment. Simply put, having fall air conditioner maintenance is an essential step toward protecting your investment, saving money, and for optimal comfort next summer. To learn more about air conditioner maintenance, contact the team at Climate Experts and ask for your free estimate. 

 

Posted by admin on September 03, 2014

Before it gets cold, it is a good idea to reference a fall furnace maintenance checklist to make sure your furnace can handle the winter months to come. In doing so, it’s important to hire a professional to actually perform any necessary maintenance before the heating season starts. Below is a fall furnace maintenance checklist which should be performed yearly:

1. Contact HVAC Techs for an Annual Check-Up

It is very important that you start off your thorough inspection of your furnace with the help of a qualified and professional technician. A lot of different HVAC service providers offer programs for preventative maintenance, including a complete fall furnace maintenance checklist. Get tips from your service provider, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about what type of maintenance you should be performing on a regular basis.

2. Check Your Thermostat

Most likely, you last adjusted your thermostat to keep your home cool in the summer; therefore, it’s important to check your settings and assure proper functionality to start heating for the fall. Inquire with your tech about how to keep your home warm. Ask about the most cost effective settings so you can keep your utility bill from skyrocketing. Also, consider investing in a programmable thermostat that adjusts the temperature automatically depending the time of day. You can save up to 10% on your utility costs by using a programmable thermostat.

3. Perform Required Maintenance

Most likely, your HVAC tech will give you a furnace maintenance checklist marked with action items, and you want to complete maintenance items before the winter hits. Try and make sure all moving parts in your furnace are operating properly to avoid excess costs due to energy consumption, as well as faster break down and wear of the parts. Don’t forget to switch out your air filters, but consult with a professional about how often this should be done. Make sure you tell the technician if anyone in your home has allergies because they may recommend that your filters to be changed more often.

4. Get Energy Lines Inspected

Get in touch with your energy provider – gas or electric – and have them check your propane, electric, natural gas, or heating oil lines. Also, remember to check if they have any maintenance programs to save you money on your inspections. A worn out or faulty fuel connection can be very dangerous in many different ways, including posing health and fire risks.

5. Sign Up for Automatic Delivery

The last thing you want is to be without heating oil or propane in the winter. If your furnace runs on these fuel sources, make a point to find a provider for automatic delivery. This very convenient service will make sure you are always able to heat your home by providing the fuel or source needed on demand. Many providers will also offer external data and weather information with their automatic delivery programs. Ask your HVAC technician for suggestions or references he/she may have for reliable services.

6. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

Don’t wait to reference a fall furnace maintenance checklist before calling a professional to assist with the following issues:

Short Cycling – Get help when your furnace runs for short bursts at a time.

Irregular flame – For gas, propane, or oil furnaces, if the flames are uneven or lean toward the back end of the furnace unit, call your service technician.

Odd noises or rumbling – Forced air heating furnaces shouldn’t make popping noises; any strange should be checked.

Chronic illness – Flu symptoms or headaches are serious signs of a possible leak.

When it’s time to get your furnace in shape for the winter, don’t take matters into your own hands. Trust Climate Experts as your experienced source for HVAC assistance and to perform a full furnace maintenance checklist.

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.