Winter is the season of the furnace in some homes. Even if the snow has melted, things can get pretty cold in BC’s Lower Mainland until the spring months roll in for the year.

Have you ever looked at your furnace and thought to yourself, “I have questions but don’t know where to turn”? Starting here in this online article might be a good place to start if so! Even if you’ve owned a furnace for years, it’s a good idea to refresh your memory about this sort of knowledge. And if you’re new to owning a furnace in your home, then this is all the more reason to read further.

With all of that in mind, here are our answers to five frequently asked questions about furnaces, whether they’re electric or gas.

1. Why does my furnace need regular maintenance?

All machines need to be maintained regularly, and that’s pretty much what a furnace is! It’s a machine built to heat up a home’s space. Much like cars, furnaces need to be serviced every so often so that early wear and tear problems can be detected sooner than later. Plus, it prevents your energy bills from skyrocketing to unaffordable levels, and instead of facing catastrophic failures (which go hand in hand with expenses), you keep the unit operating at a normal level.

For best results, always refer to the furnace’s manufacturer manual and specifications during your own maintenance tasks to ensure your furnace has a long and safe lifespan.

2. How many BTUs does my home need?

There are two ways to determine the number of British Thermal Units (BTUs) needed to heat your home. A rough way to do it is to divide your home’s square footage by 0.28. However, a more accurate calculation can be made; determine the amount of heat loss your home experiences. Then, choose a furnace to compensate for that loss.

3. What’s the best type of furnace to buy?

This one’s a tougher question, because there are so many variables that need to be considered before you go ahead and make a purchasing decision. The most common furnaces you’ll find in British Columbia are natural gas and electric ones, and as of today a natural gas furnace is less expensive to run. However, the real answer is that the best furnace is the one that’s right for your home. This has to mean that your furnace should produce the right amount of BTUs, and it’s capable of circulating the warm air throughout your home.

Anytime you need a new furnace, or you’re looking to buy, you should always consult with an expert. That way, you don’t overbuy or under-buy the furnace and you find something that’s truly based on your needs.

4. When do I need to replace my furnace?

The average furnace can last between 15-20 years, assuming you are providing it proper and regular maintenance. A high-efficiency furnace can last for 12-14 years on average. If your home is over 10 years old, however, you may need to do your due diligence on your furnace and how it’s operating. Carefully monitor it daily when it’s running, and take note of any signs it’s wearing down.

5. What are some signs that my furnace needs to be replaced?

Every furnace model is different, but in most cases these are the most telling signs to be aware of:

• Little/no heat being produced
• Odd smells, like sulfur or rotten eggs
• Consistent pilot light failures
• Severely delayed ignition
• A significant amount of corrosion

Any one of these means a replacement is in order rather than repairs (the latter will end up being more expensive than it’s worth!).

Still have questions?

Our HVAC technicians are available to answer all of your most burning questions about furnaces (pun intended). You can reach out to us on social media or e-mail and send us a message, or give us a call. Let us know if you’d like to book an appointment in the meantime! At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

Whether you’re in the high or low season at your business, it’s guaranteed that any commercial refrigeration being used daily will have an urgent need to tend to. You can prevent major breakdowns from occurring with regular maintenance before and during the busiest months, and make sure both your customers and staff are happy too.

Here are seven good maintenance tips for commercial refrigeration to keep in mind. You can add these to your schedule if needed to stay organized and keep an eye on potential problems that may build up over time.

1. Clean both the inside and outside

One of the biggest reasons we get calls in to help fix commercial fridges and coolers, etc. is because the business or staff in question forgot that like the floors and everything else, the cooling units need to be cleaned too. Clean out any spills or stains inside of the units, and clean the outside to prevent exterior spills from making their way to the parts needed for a fridge to function properly. Keep an eye out for excess moisture, which also needs to be wiped up.

You will have to clean the floor underneath the refrigeration too. Doing so will prevent bacteria and other things like mold from contaminating your food. It will also help you control dirt and dust while maintaining the condenser coils, which is the next task you have to do.

2. Clean up condenser coils regularly

Ideally you should clean this component in your commercial refrigeration at least once every six months. You may be wondering how often this needs to be done, but really the answer is when they’re dirty—that’s it. Once every six months is only the standard recommendation as well; the number may change to more frequently depending on your circumstances.

This is why you need to check on your business’s refrigeration regularly and clean the freezer coils to ensure there is no debris clogging things up. Build-up will force the evaporator to work harder than it should and thus it’ll take longer to cool the inside. It could even lead to calling in a technician for service on reducing strain from the evaporator’s motor.

3. Clean up tubing and drain pans

Larger commercial refrigeration units and freezers tend to attract bigger amounts of slime and sludge formation, which can cause units to freeze up and stop working properly. This sludge tends to form the most frequently inside of tubing and the drain pans. If these pans overflow with sludge and moisture, it’ll create a nasty and pungent smell throughout the kitchen. Clogging in the tubing is also a problem, because it will cause an overflow in the defrost system and that will leak onto the floor.

To prevent these problems, clean the tubing and drain pans. You can clean out the pan using a vinegar solution or warm water and soap at least once a month. Check on the tubing every few months to avoid significant blockages from occurring. Water spots or calcium on the exterior of the hoses may build up, so if you notice these you can prevent future wear and tear by cleaning them with soap and water.

4. Inspect the refrigeration’s door gaskets (seals)

Torn or split door gaskets, or seals, happen over time the more frequently the refrigeration unit is used. It works hard enough to cool down the conditioned space. Gaskets that become torn or split can lead to warm air seeping into the fridge and spoiling food in the process. Food debris in these worn out gaskets can also lead to bacteria and mold build-up.

Every so often it’s a good idea to inspect all four sides of the commercial refrigeration unit’s door gaskets. Check to see if rips or tears are occurring, and make sure these actually seal well on all four sides of the door. Gasket cleaning should be very gentle, using mild soapy water; this will help remove any food debris.

5. Inspect the evaporator coil

The evaporator coil, just like the condenser coil, is a vital part of your commercial refrigeration units. This part is located by the evaporator fan and helps absorb heat as the warm air passes through the system, which then helps cool down the interior.

This part needs to be kept clean too. Keep this coil clear and clean consistently and avoid cramming the interior of the fridge or freezer, with a lot of items, especially if they’re hot. Blocking airflow to the evaporator coil will cause it to freeze up, which then leads to both a rise in cabinet temperature and water leakage.

6. Keep the ice maker clean

If your commercial refrigeration comes with an ice maker, this system will also need to be kept clean. Leaving it alone for too long will result in greater bacteria and mold accumulation, which leads to health problems for everyone (especially your customers!). No one wants to find dirty ice in their drinks, so take the time to clean it out.

There are a lot of steps to be taken for this part, which we’ve outlined in a previous blog post. If you still find you’re having difficulty with this step, there’s no harm in calling in a professional technician to clean this part for you instead.

7. Replace the air filter

Yes, just like an air conditioner or furnace, commercial refrigeration comes with air filters. This is why we keep insisting on keeping everything clean, because a large buildup can prevent air from ventilating the fridge or freezer properly. How does buildup develop, you ask? Simple: the grease and dust from fryers and griddles.

To take care of the air filter for your fridge, remove any dust or loose debris with a powerful shop vacuum. Clean up any thick grease buildup with a degreasing solution. You may want to refer to the unit’s manual for more tips on how to properly degrease the filter without causing damage.

Speaking of damage, that’s another thing that too much grease and buildup can cause. If you’re degreasing and notice any splits in the air filter from the debris, then replace the filter immediately.

Still experiencing problems?

There are some issues that these DIY fixes cannot correct and will require the aid of a professional HVAC-R technician:

• Troubles with electrical connections
• The unit isn’t cold enough, or there’s no air flow
• There’s no power to the commercial refrigeration
• The compressor is not running, or it’s short cycling
• The fan motor is out
• The evaporator coil is iced up
• The refrigerant charge needs to be checked up on
• A scheduled maintenance check-up and cleaning for specific components, such as the ice maker

We service commercial fridges, walk-in coolers, walk-in freezers, and ice machines in addition to HVAC systems, so get in touch with us if any of the above list applies to your situation. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

You may be thinking we’re crazy for suggesting you check your air conditioning in winter, but in reality it’s not that bad of an idea. We get a lot of calls regarding air conditioners that break down on the hottest days of summer, and a lot of the problems that arise from them could have easily been avoided in the first place.

We want our customers to stay cool when it’s hot out, and stay warm when it’s freezing out. Following these DIY inspection tips for your A/C even when and if it’s snowing out can help you detect potential problems that may arise, and even give yourself something to do if you’re snowed in.

Step 1: Check the Air Filter

The air filter is the part of an air conditioner that can suffocate it when it gets dirty. The dirt layers that can build up if left uncleaned will limit the amount of air that your A/C unit breathes in. Without adequate airflow, there are a whole bunch of problems that can arise and eventually lead to a total system failure.

If this sounds like the state of your air filter, clean it up yourself (you can use a vacuum cleaner) or replace it if needed. Don’t forget to place the filter back correctly when you’re finished.

Step 2: Investigate the Thermostat’s Settings

It’s very easy to forget that a thermostat on an A/C unit can typically be switched from ‘Heat’ to ‘Cool’ quite easily. Be sure to switch to this setting once you’re ready to test the airflow quality, power, and sounds of your air conditioner before turning it onto full blast for the hotter season. (More on testing later.)

If your thermostat has to be set to exact degrees rather than ‘Heat’ or ‘Cold’, then set it to the typical temperature in summer which is 25 degrees Celsius (78 degrees Fahrenheit). That way you won’t be putting too much pressure on your unit when you’re trying to cool off. Turning the thermostat down full blast will only cause more problems as opposed to keeping you cool.

Step 3: Check the Outdoor Unit (If Applicable)

This step will depend on where you live and what kind of air conditioner you own. For this example, we’re going to use central A/C which does often require an outdoor unit and/or heat pump to function properly. It’s easy to forget that you have to take care of this part of your air conditioning even in winter, because of the weather. Ice can form on the outside and when it melts, make its way into the interior of the unit. So you need to ensure that if this unit isn’t already being protected, you get rid of the ice covering the outside.

Other objects that can interfere with the efficiency of an outdoor unit are basically any outside things that can intrude on its space. There needs to be about 3 feet of space surrounding your unit outside to ensure no debris interferes with the air quality your unit produces. Make sure there are no objects such as branches hanging out within that perimeter, and brush off all the dirt on the unit’s exterior. If there’s a thicker layer of dirt, you may need to call a professional technician over for a deep cleaning.

Step 4: Inspect the Circuit Breaker

Sometimes the circuit breaker is the reason why an air conditioner won’t run or switch on. This fix is a simple one. Find your home’s main electrical panel (usually kept in the basement). Look for any circuit breakers that are not in the On position. Do you have any breakers that are clearly labeled? If so, look for one that specifically reads A/C or air conditioner. If the A/C’s circuit breakers have tripped, then push that breaker firmly into the On position. Try running your air conditioner again once that’s finished.

If for any reason the circuit breakers trip again upon switching your A/C on however, don’t try to switch the circuit breaks on again. This is a sign of an electrical problem that only your HVAC technician should look into and fix. Call yours if you make this discovery.

Step 5: Test, test, test

It’s a good idea to give your air conditioner a test run before you use it for the summer months. Once it’s switched on, walk your way through the entire house. Why? Because you’re going to be checking for any spots where the following is taking place:

• All supply air vents—both the return and supply kinds—are not being blocked or covered. Not even in unused rooms.
• No funny noises are coming from your A/C while it’s running, even when you’re not in the same room.
• The circuit breakers aren’t being tripped as soon as the A/C is switched on (see our previous point).

It’s also a good idea to run some tests after the aforementioned tasks, such as cleaning the filter, have taken place. This will ensure the test is a success and your air conditioner is ready to go when you need it!

Still having problems?

If you’ve performed all of these tasks in our article but then discover you still have an underlying problem with your air conditioner, it could be one of the following:

• Electrical problems
• Dirty or clogged air condenser
• No or minimal coolant in the unit
• Compressor problems

For all of these problems and more, give us a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

It’s a new year and a whole new decade! 2020 is full of expectation all around. There are new technologies being developed for homeowners and HVAC technicians alike, and new trends emerging within the industry. With this in mind, how about we have a little fun this time? Here are a few predictions we’re making for 2020 that involve the HVAC industry and where it’s headed.

More Green Homes

Energy efficiency has been the name of the game since the last two decades took place. Our environment and caring for it has never been more important than right now. To accommodate this lifestyle and approach, more homes are being developed as green—meaning greener technology will be the forefront of the HVAC industry. Gone will be the days of relying on non-renewable resources; we’re heading in that direction, but in certain areas than others, we’ve got a long way to go.

This year will be when we really up the ante on going green and taking more responsibility on ourselves to ensure we’re not harming the environment while also trying to stay warm or cool. New homes will be built with this sense of urgency in mind, and use only the highest developed and energy efficient HVAC systems during construction.

More Mobile Usage = More New Technology to Learn About

We all use our mobile phones these days to access information, buy products, and even control things when we’re absent from our homes—and yes, that does include our HVAC! With this increased reliance on mobile usage, it means there will be more new HVAC technology and controls to learn about. These new developments will make controlling your heat and cooling easier than ever, while ensuring you’re living at a comfortable temperature year-round.

There are already digital thermostats installed on phones that enable you to turn up or down the heat or air conditioning without your having to be at home to do so. We predict that this will be applied to every home that has one; after all, it goes hand in hand with the prediction on more green homes, because with this kind of technology, it’s guaranteed that no heating or cooling energy resource is going to waste.

Training and HVAC Careers Will Boom

All of this new technology means there will be new training too. According to one source, the demand for HVAC equipment is predicted to increase by 6% throughout 2020. With that kind of growth, the demand for skills across companies will grow too. This means that more HVAC companies will be looking to invest in more training and HVAC skill programs while they adapt to the changes technology is bringing to us all. In addition, since there will always be a place for HVAC in our homes and lives, we’ll be seeing a lot more students enrolling in such programs and accepting it as a long-term career choice—again, thanks to the new technology being introduced.

HVAC Companies Will Still be People-centric

“What do you mean by that?” you’re probably wondering. Simply put, we are not going to stop putting aside our customers’ needs because of the latest trend in tech or upswing in metrics. If you need financing to better afford your heating and cooling solutions, we have a solution. If you need great customer service and a properly installed HVAC system, we’ve got the licenses and skills in place for the job. New technology will be introduced, but our dedication to our customers will never be replaced by it. You can expect that great sense of customer service from us in 2020 and beyond—that’s a prediction that’s going to come true!

Let’s see whether the other predictions come true as the year goes on. In the meantime, we’re available for all of your heating and cooling needs, so go ahead and give us a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

If you’re looking to get a natural gas fireplace installed in your Abbotsford home either now or next year, you’re not the only one. Gas fireplaces create ambiance and warmth with a simple button press on the remote control or a flip of the switch. They are both beautiful and convenient to homeowners.

We typically offer gas fitting as opposed to installation for fireplaces, but regardless it matters that you be safe about them because not knowing can result in some big mistakes! Whether you’re looking to buy a new fireplace and have some questions, or you want to know if you should switch to a different resource, here are some tips before you go get a new gas fireplace.

1. Location

Where do you want to install the fireplace? If you have an existing one, it may be best to look at getting an insert fireplace. These allow you to fit the new fireplace into the existing space. If, however, you want to have a new fireplace built into an exterior wall, only look for linear built-in fireplaces. These ones are best for homes that don’t have an existing fireplace or chimney.

2. Size

Does your home already have natural gas space heating? If so, your gas fireplace doesn’t need to be a powerful one. A professional can give you some advice on the BTU (British thermal unit) necessary to complement your existing heating system.

You also need to think on something very hard: are you really wanting a fireplace for the heat? Or are you going about it for looks alone? You need to consider whether the appearance of a fireplace matters more to you than heating performance. If you want to go with a fireplace purely for aesthetics, an appropriate choice would include a lower heating capacity. If, however, you want to use your fireplace for heating up your home’s space, a greater heating output is needed.

Once the former decision has been made, measure the space you are planning to fill in. Decide on which physical dimensions are going to be right for the room’s layout and size.

3. Style

Every homeowner has their own idea of style, and a fireplace is no exception. If your home doesn’t have an existing fireplace to fill, you can choose any corner or wall where you want to have the new gas fireplace installed.

Many styles are available such as rustic, traditional, grand, classical, and modern. However, the style of the fireplace matter because you don’t want it to clash with the rest of your home either. Other choices you will have to consider include colour and trim that best works with the room décor where you want it installed. At the end of the day your goal should be to find a fireplace that consists of the exact combination of performance, energy efficiency, style, and price that best suits your budget and design.

4. Features

As if there wasn’t enough to consider, here is some more! Each gas fireplace comes with its own special lineup of features. Clear-faced glass panels are still quite popular and can give the appearance of a real wood-burning fire. Ceramic glass is used in the higher-end models (i.e. expensive). This is because ceramic is tougher than tempered glass, it can radiate more heat, and it can withstand higher temperatures.

If you’re looking to heat up the room, how much heat do you want to circulate? Note that a built-in fan or blower, which comes in certain models, can sometimes be noisy. If this doesn’t sound appealing, a ceiling fan can actually work better for heat distribution in your specified room.

There are also a variety of choices on controls. Some of the more high-end fireplaces can be remote controlled on or off, and include their own timer and temperature settings. Others can have an automatic thermostat temperature control to ensure the room will never get too hot. By having such a range of control, you can both moderate your fuel usage and also improve your home’s energy efficiency in the process.

You’re ready to get your new gas fireplace! We are happy to help ensure your new appliance is installed by a licensed contractor. Give our team of professional technicians a call for all of your gas fitting needs. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

It’s almost time for the holiday season, meaning restaurants have to go all-in with offering the best food and drinks while keeping their atmosphere pleasant and their establishment clean and safe. With so many customers booking reservations and hosting parties this time of the year, it can be all too easy for you and your staff to forget about your restaurant’s HVAC as you swing into the holiday season.

This article will help you prepare before things get too crazy and hectic.

1: Be Prepared Now, for Later

Get an inspection on your restaurant’s HVAC and refrigeration now as opposed to later. Early detection can prevent the following emergencies from happening at the worst possible time:

• Sudden breakdown during rush hours
• Clogged ice machines
• Power fluctuations
• Constant restarts and then shutdowns
• Weak airflow from ventilation
• Spoiling food and food products

Your technician team will be able to diagnose potential problem areas and then perform maintenance where required.

2: Programmable Thermostats

These are not just for residential use! Most commercial HVAC now comes with built-in programmable thermostats so that restaurants can customize the temperature in different zones. You may want to keep one in the kitchen to keep things cool, while another keeps the customers warm while they’re staying out of the cold outside. When the restaurant is closed for the night, you can ensure the thermostat is programmed to bring the temperature to a proper level—one that won’t compromise your monthly expenses.

3: Don’t Forget the Restroom

Some restaurants forget that the restroom, like the kitchen, needs to be properly ventilated (there’s a reason for the V in HVAC, after all!). Typically ventilation in the restroom tends to run all of the time, so saving energy in that regard matters. Consider the make-up air that flows from outside in, and keep the bathrooms clean to prevent lowering the air quality.

4: If It’s Not Used, Shut it Down

This may not apply to refrigeration, since you need to keep the cool air going to prevent food from spoiling. However, you don’t need HVAC turned on 24/7 because this will prove costly in the long-term. This is especially true if there are heating components in the kitchen being used when they don’t have to be. These will only generate heat that your commercial HVAC will have to neutralize. This is why it’s smarter to have a start-up and shutdown program on your thermostat (or thermostats, if you use more than one) to make sure your most valuable equipment doesn’t work overtime.

You need the money for a lot of things in your restaurant—don’t waste the energy it needs if there’s no one to use it.

5: Don’t Skip the Refrigerator Inspection

We’ve already mentioned that a lack of inspection for HVAC can result in things like food spoilage, but those can also contribute to some very unpleasant consequences of their own. If you have less product to sell, you’re going to see some very unhappy customers and thus a loss of business as a result.

Another reason to not skip a fridge inspection is that you can get service done on worn parts during the inspection. This costs less than it would to repair the part after major damage has been done. Again, sudden breakdowns are not something you want to deal with when you’ve got hungry customers present at the time it happens.

A dirty fridge will work harder to sustain the set temperature as well, which can also add up (especially if there’s more than one dirty fridge!) This is why we always recommend regular cleaning and maintenance long before any holiday rush kicks in. You don’t want to pay extra for such negligence.

Take action now on these HVAC tips! If you need an inspection service for your restaurant, call us now before the holiday rush kicks in. Doing so can prevent fridge breakdowns and other HVAC emergencies at the worst moment from happening. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

It’s already nearing winter, meaning it’s that time of year when it’s worth taking a look at your HVAC and plan ahead for the future. You don’t want to spend next summer discovering your air conditioner is a little worse for wear, nor do we want you to get cold feet (literally!) this winter.

Nowadays a lot of air conditioners double as heaters too. It’s always wise to really look at your comfort against the elements, regardless of the season. The next question is, which option for HVAC can offer the best result for a low price? Enter mini splits, which is the main subject of our article today.

What is a Mini Split?

A mini split is a system that uses both air conditioning and heating, as opposed to simply one or the other. Mini splits are also referred to as ductless systems because they don’t require a vent or duct in order to begin functioning once installed.

There are two major components that a mini split consists of. Typically a compressor or a condenser is situated outside the house, while there is an air-handling unit situated indoors. These are linked via a conduit, consisting of suction tubing and refrigerant, a condensate drain, and a power cable. If there is more than one air-handling unit, then each contains its own associated thermostat to help regulate the temperature in each room where the unit is placed.

Mini splits are worth considering installing in your home if you already rely on ductless heating. There are quite a few reasons as to why you should consider installing one.

1: Pricing

The thing about central air conditioning is when you pay for one, you’re not only paying for the main unit—you’re paying for the extra parts that come alongside it as well. This includes the central unit, an extensive duct system, vents, and an outdoor condenser. To install central A/C is also a more expensive endeavour.

In comparison, a mini split only requires an indoor air handler and an exterior condenser in order to work. This cuts down greatly on the cost since you don’t need to pay for so many extras. Installation also cuts down on costs because it doesn’t require extensive duct placement, like you would have to with a central system.

2: Versatility

Mini splits not only offer air conditioning but also heating. Most mini splits are also placed high on a wall, but not all of them need to be. Many homeowners prefer ceiling-mounted units, which is also doable if you’ve got a mini split.

There are also custom features you can use with a mini split that will give you greater control of when and how you want to heat your home. Most systems now come with timers and built-in sleep functions, which you can adjust accordingly. In comparison, traditional heating systems don’t allow customization, which can lead to less efficient use of energy as well as unnecessary costs. Both the ability to place your mini split in areas other than traditional ones and the custom features that come along with it are what make mini splits so versatile and desirable to most homeowners.

3: Energy Efficiency

If you intend to only heat up a specific room or individual rooms as opposed to the entire house, mini splits are an excellent system to do so. You save energy by only heating up the rooms that are used the most daily, as opposed to wasting it in rooms that no one uses. In contrast, a central system sends cold or hot air throughout the entire home, into places where it’s not necessary.

Because mini splits don’t require ducts to disperse heat, they aren’t subject to the same sense of energy loss as ducts are. They also use less electricity than central air systems, meaning they both create less of a negative impact on the environment and on your energy bill. If you’re interested in limiting your energy impact, mini splits represent the best choice for anyone interested in helping the environment.

If the mini split sounds more and more like a system you need for your home, then give our technicians a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

Everyone should be able to live comfortably in their Abbotsford homes no matter how warm or cold it is outside. However, that doesn’t mean you should throw all of your money away on a furnace that’s costing you more than it’s worth. It also doesn’t mean you should settle on a furnace in your home if it’s not heating as efficiently as it could be.

If you’re considering getting a new installation in the future, or you’re looking at different options for your home, then perhaps this article can help. Here are some major benefits to settle on owning a natural gas furnace for heating as opposed to the other kinds.

1: It’s more cost and energy-efficient

The thing about electric furnaces is, it takes a lot longer for the resistance coils to heat up and then heat an entire room. This is depending on how big the room is plus how old your current furnace is. The older the model, the less efficient it will be.

Natural gas furnaces in comparison heat up a room faster than traditional ones, using less resources and thus saving you money as a result. And, according to FortisBC, compared to other fuel resources natural gas is the least expensive kind, about one third of the cost of electricity in comparison. For homeowners who want to save money on heating in the future, natural gas is the most cost-efficient and the most energy-efficient choice combined.

2: Easy to maintain and fix

A natural gas furnace works well in any home since the ones built nowadays are made to be high-quality heating systems. These furnaces can also work well with hot water heaters, central home heating systems, or anything that requires heat to work.

Compared to electric furnaces, natural gas ones rarely break down. If it’s cold out, you don’t want to wait for repairs to be completed; in the event you need to get an HVAC technician to come in for inspections and repairs, it’s less likely to happen if your furnace uses natural gas.

Another perk is that compared to an electric furnace, the natural gas kind is very easy to maintain yourself including the air filter. Whereas if there is an electrical problem, you’ll need a technician ASAP (we don’t recommend you DIY your electric furnace!).

3: Safer for families

Natural gas is both a healthier and safer heating option for you and your family. Burning natural gas produces a minimal amount of airborne particles, dissolved solids, and sulfur dioxide, all of which can negatively impact your health as well as your pets and loved ones.

Natural gas generates almost no carbon monoxide whatsoever, provided your furnace is well-maintained and properly operating. This reason is what makes this type of furnace so desirable for most homeowners.

4: Cleanliness

Natural gas, unlike propane, is a natural fossil fuel that has less of a harsh environmental impact when used. The heat is produces is greater than the other resources as well. Electricity, in comparison, is usually produced by burning fossil fuels which produces just as much waste as it would to heat via burning fossil fuels directly. If you’re interested in lowering the amount of carbon and greenhouse gases emitted by your household, natural gas is the way to go because it generates less carbon dioxide compared to oil, propane, and electricity.

You can’t go wrong with upgrading to a natural gas furnace if you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and safety. If you would like to replace your old furnace with a new natural gas one, give our professional team a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

Now that it’s autumn, the temperature has dropped enough that some people may find their homes a little too cold for their comfort. If this sounds like you, your first thought may have been to go to your furnace and switch it on, no questions asked.

Don’t touch that thermostat dial just yet though! Especially if it’s been a while since your furnace was turned on. Before you make yourself comfortable this season and then winter, here are five big mistakes you should avoid when it’s time to turn on the heat.

1. Windows

Your windows are the biggest asset when it comes to storing heat and using it in your home. Closing them only after heat has escaped or leaving the curtains closed on sunny days are no-nos because this will only in turn let your heating out instead of keeping it inside where you want it to stay.

Another big mistake to avoid that involves your windows is failing to check for leaks and drafts. Check around the doors too; some doors have a gap wide enough in the framework that hot air can escape more easily. In either event in which a leak or draft is discovered, you’ll have to caulk and seal those gaps and weaknesses in the framework to prevent that warm air from escaping.

2. Leaving exhaust fans on all the time

Did you know that leaving this type of fan on all the time can be a drag on your heating? It’s a great resource for removing unpleasant smells and preventing mould and mildew buildup. However, leaving it on all of the time, even when you’re through with using it, can suck up all that needed warm air and send it out of the house. Only leave an exhaust fan on when you really need it, and switch it off when you’re done.

3. Turning the thermostat way up, or way down

Either extreme direction of up or down for the thermostat is hard on your furnace and yourself. It’s tempting to turn the heat up as soon as you walk into a cold room or down as soon as you go to bed. What this does though is it forces your heating system to work overtime, especially if you turn it down all the way at night.

Something homeowners tend to forget is that a thermostat is not remotely the same thing as a car’s accelerator. Turning up the heat in either extremity is not going to hasten the heating process and warm up your home faster. Either way, you’re looking at a hefty heating bill when the time comes thanks to your insistence to have a hot home 24/7.

4. Heating an empty house

Another scenario that sounds tempting is to walk into a warm home the minute you get home from a cold, blustery day. Heating an empty home, however, is the most wasteful practice of both heat and your money. That’s why we insist your home’s heating system includes a programmable thermostat. That way, you can adjust the temperature remotely and keep an eye out in case of problems. For more info on thermostats, see our previous blog post on the subject.

5. Neglecting maintenance and upkeep

It’s a fact that regular maintenance will help your furnace last for a good, long while. That’s why it boggles our minds to see so many people who still don’t take care of their heating systems!

Some serious no-nos when it comes to your heating and its upkeep include the following:

• Not changing the air filter
• Switching the furnace on without examining it first
• Not cleaning the exterior for some time before switching it on
• Ignoring the state of your home’s insulation until there’s a problem
• Ignoring its age; furnaces made 10 or even 20 years ago may be showing signs of failure, such as a pilot light that refuses to stay lit

Do you need assistance with your furnace? Have you made any of these mistakes or want to prevent them from happening? Our technicians are ready to help, so give us a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

A fireplace in the colder seasons can feel like a good friend: they’re warm and comforting to have around. However, they can also be dangerous if you don’t treat them with respect.

If you’ve been thinking about getting a natural gas fireplace installed in your home, or you simply want to revisit some facts about your existing one, then read on. Here are some things you need to know about your home’s gas fireplace.

Not every fireplace is the same

Overall gas fireplaces are the most clean and energy efficient option when it comes to installing a new one. Carbon monoxide, smoke, and other emissions are produced less than the traditional wood-burning ones.

However, not all gas fireplaces are created equally. Some gas fireplaces are heaters by design, while other are actually classified as purely decorative. The best way to tell the difference is to compare the efficiency ratings.

Bigger does not mean it’s better

A fire in the home when it’s freezing cold out can be a great source of comfort and heat. A huge roaring fire, on the other hand, can actually cause more discomfort than anything else. This is especially true if the fireplace is small while the output is massive.

Much like HVAC, there are many factors that apply to the size of a gas fireplace and how effective it will be in warming you up. There’s your home’s layout, airtightness, other heat sources, and insulation that all need to be considered. When you take these into account, a gas fireplace that’s properly sized and well-located can meet up to half of a home’s heat demand.

More than one vent option is available

In fact, four options are available when it comes to proper ventilation for your gas fireplace:

1. This is the safest, most versatile, and most energy efficient vent option, as it sends the smoke and pollutants in the air away through the chimney. Homeowners who have new or airtight houses or who want security with their gas fireplace will most definitely benefit from a direct vent.
2. Natural vent fireplaces take and then release combustible air through a pipe venting system or a brick chimney. While inexpensive to use, it’s less versatile given its issues with air flow in homes.
3. Vent-free. These hearths are one of the most efficient in terms of energy and heating. You don’t need a chimney with these to keep smoke away, and they can be placed anywhere. However, if you’re looking for quality air as well, the vent-free system comes designed with a sensor that will automatically turn it off if lower oxygen levels in the room are detected.
4. This is the least common type, coming with a fan-powered accessory to enhance air exchange. Because of this, extensive vent runs are allowed, plus it can be installed in more uncommon areas in homes such as freestanding walls.

Each option will depend on, again, your heating needs as well as your budget. The size of your home, how old it is, and how big it is are all factors to consider also. Consult with a professional before you decide on one vent system (it may not be the best fit for your home or gas fireplace at all).

Year-round care goes a long way…

Even though gas fireplaces don’t get as messy or ash-covered like wood-burning ones, they still need to be kept clean for maximum efficiency. You will have to wipe down the fake logs to remove soot, use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust, and clean all the glass parts such as the doors and the flame protector.

Avoid using chemicals to clean at all costs. Instead of that, use a product specifically made for cleaning fireplaces, or use warm soapy water. You can ask your fireplace’s installation expert for recommendations on cleaning and cleaning products. It’s also a good idea to set a reminder on your calendar for complete inspections, once per year.

…So does a tune-up

Overall, a gas fireplace is a safe and energy-efficient means of heating. However, much like any HVAC system, an annual tune-up is required so that it will perform at its best when you need it to. Scheduling an inspection with one of our professionals will help guarantee that your fireplace will be clean, safe, and at peak efficiency. The ceramic logs can be replaced and the fans cleaned for better circulation.

Maintaining gas fireplaces is one of our services, so if that’s what you need, give us a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!