Author: DeniseB

5 Ways To Save Money On Your Heating Costs This Winter

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As cold weather continues to approach, the winter chill may not be the only thing homeowners worry about. Instead you may feel a hole in your pocket from the rising energy bills. What many of us don’t understand is that there are ways to save on heating costs that are relatively inexpensive. So are you ready to save? Follow these 5 steps below to get started!

  1. Update your insulation. Insulation is a shield that protects your home from heat transfers during the winter and summer seasons. This may seem costly at first, but you can potentially save up to 20-30% off your monthly heating bill, which in return is a great investment!
  2. Replace the weather-stripping. Torn weather-stripping around doors and windows can let a cold draft into your home ultimately making your furnace work harder. Weather-stripping should be replaced every few years to ensure protection from the cold.
  3. Plug holes. The holes which are used to connect the pipeline, electrical cables, and so forth often have large space around them which allows cold air to enter your home. You should consider plugging these with caulk.
  4. Adjust your thermostat. During the time you are at work, you should adjust the thermostat down to 10 degrees lower. In doing so, you can potentially save up to 20% of your heating bill.
  5. Adjust your water heater. Most water heaters are set to 140 degrees. The department of energy says we can live comfortable with the water heater set to 120 degrees. Every 10 degrees you lower the water heat, you can potentially save up to 5%.

If you would like more information on ways to save, contact the experts in Maryland at Mr. Comfort!

Preparing Your HVAC System For Winter

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HVAC Contractor Maryland

As winter starts to approach and temperatures begin to decrease, you may find an increase in your utility bill. This may be due from the heating throughout your home in order to survive the winter. However, if you prepare your HVAC system prior to the seasonal change you may reduce the cost of your utility bill while at the same expanding the life of your HVAC system.

So how can you prepare your HVAC system? Follow the steps below to get started!

  1. Examine the HVAC System. You should always thoroughly examine your HVAC unit long before the winter months approach to ensure that everything is working properly. If you discover a problem you should contact your local HVAC professional in order to replace the unit prior to colder months.
  2. Change the filter. Many people forget about the filter, but sometimes all it takes is a simple fix to get your HVAC system running properly. You should replace or clean the filter at least every month for the highest efficiency.
  3. Upgrade your thermostat. The older models use mercury which can very inaccurate in terms of measuring temperature. If your home has the older version, you should consider replacing it with a digital thermostat, ensuring accurate temperature within your home. Digital thermostats are also beneficial to have because you can program them to automatically turn off when you leave the house.
  4. Clean the ducts. In order to ensure efficient air flow throughout your home you should clean the air ducts often and inspect to make certain that there is no damage. Damaged air ducts results in blowing waster warm air that ultimately will increase your utility bill.
  5. Call the professionals. There are some things that only the professionals should handle. Heat pumps and oil-fired furnaces require tune ups at least once a year and this should be done by a trained professional within the industry. HVAC technicians are also trained to detect any damage that your HVAC system may acquire, so it’s important to schedule their service annually in order to protect your family from the winter months.

If you need help with your HVAC system, contact the professionals at MR Comfort MD | 410-620-0000

Tips to Repair The Furnace in Your Maryland Home

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Tips to Repair The Furnace in Your Maryland Home

 

As the seasons begin to change, it’s time to get ready for the colder months. Don’t wait until it’s too late and you’re stuck out in the cold. It can be extremely frustrating to discover there is no heat coming through your vents. As an expert, we know that this can be caused from a number of problems, whether it is a simple fix or a complex repair, we are here to help.

So what can you do to resolve the issue before calling the experts? Follow these tips below to get started.

  1. Confirm that the thermostat is set to heat. Sounds too obvious right? However, many thermostats must be manually switched to heat, and this switch can be easily moved when performing basic home cleaning, making you unaware that the heat setting was actually changed.
  2. Check your filter. This is one of the most common problems within the furnace, mainly because most people forget about the filters. A dirty filter can cause a blockage in the airflow, so it’s important to replace your filter frequently, at least once or twice a month.
  3. Check the circuit breaker in your home. Look for the circuit that controls the furnace. It is on the “on” position of the “off” position?
  4. Adjust the temperature setting. Set the temperature at a point that will turn the furnace on. We suggest setting the temperature 5 degrees higher than the actual room temperature.
  5. Look for blocked ducts. If you notice that a few of your rooms are still called even thought your furnace is on, now would be the time to check the air ducts within each room.

If these simple tips still do not work, give the experts a call at Mr Comfort. We can help with all of your furnace needs!

10 Ways to Improve Your Maryland Home’s Indoor Air Quality

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10 Ways to Improve Your Maryland Home’s Indoor Air Quality

 

Do you have concerns about the indoor air quality of your Maryland home?

Most homeowners don’t grasp the fact that the indoor air quality is worse than the outdoor air quality. This is due to homeowners NOT opening windows due to energy costs, security, and noise. Studies from the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) have proven that indoor levels of pollutants can be two to five times higher than outdoor levels. Preserving good indoor air quality inside your home starts with a well-designed HVAC system that successfully ventilates and helps to decrease sources of indoor air pollution. Regularly a good particle filter can help to eliminate a majority of indoor air pollutants. There are also air filtration systems that are helpful in helping to eliminate the three classes of indoor air contaminants-particles; mold & mildew, bacteria & odors, chemical vapors. A dehumidifier can help to keep your air quality at a proper humidity level to eliminate mold and mildew.

Follow these 10 Helpful Ways Maryland Homeowners can ensure Good Indoor Air Quality:

From the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers

Improve Indoor Air Quality Maryland

Mr. Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning LLC of Maryland can help improve your indoor air quality, get in touch with us today! 410-620-0000 | www.MrComfortMD.com

5 Indicators that Your Air Conditioning Is Inefficient

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5 Indicators that Your Air Conditioning Is Inefficient from your friendly HVAC Contractor Maryland

 

Inefficient HVAC Systems can make it difficult to stay cool during the hot times without over paying on energy bills. To make sure you get the most bang for your energy bucks schedule regular maintenance on your unit.

Air Conditioners are a big investment and over time, issues can arise that can cause them to lose their efficiency. The infamous Maryland heat and humidity have arrived. If your air conditioning system seems to be losing the ability to keep your home or office cool, consider upgrading your system or schedule a checkup with Mr. Comfort of Elkton, Maryland.

Here are 5 Signs That Your Air Conditioner is Not Performing Efficiently:

  1. The most obvious is an increase in your energy bill. This could mean that your air conditioner system is overworking to meet the set temperature.
  2. Ice Formations on coils inside and outside of your home or office indicates a costly leakage.
  3. The air conditioner’s breaker tripping can signal that you need a repair or replacement.
  4. An obvious reduction in air flow could indicate clogged ducts or dusty parts.
  5. If your system always seems to be running, but the temperature and humidity inside is high is a sign that you are facing a need for replacement.

The average lifespan of an air conditioner is 10-15 years and proper maintenance will help prolong it. An air conditioner will lose efficiency if the evaporator coils are dirty, inadequate refrigerant levels, leaking ducts and lack of maintenance.

It is best practice to have your air conditioning system checked and maintained at the start of the season to ensure that it is working a full capacity. Mr. Comfort of Maryland can help tune up your unit to keep you cool all summer long!

Get in touch today | 443.907.4782

Energy Saving Tips for Your Maryland Home

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Energy Saving Tips for Your Maryland Home

During the cooler summer days, utilizing the mild temperatures can save you money on your energy bills.

Take advantage of the milder night temperatures by turning off your AC and opening the windows. The longer days of summer reduce the need for indoor lighting. Also, proper maintenance can make appliances run more efficiently. Another great way to reduce your energy consumption.

Here is a List of Energy Saving Tips:

  • Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (safer for children too!)
  • Operate your thermostat efficiently. Turn off your thermostat when possible, take off your storm windows, put in screens and open up the windows to get your house to a comfortable temperature.
  • Use windows to your advantage – Open to capture either hot or cool air at optimal time and close to trap in the air.
  • Use natural lighting as much as possible. Adjust any lights on a timer to spring lighting needs.
  • Dust or wipe light bulbs. Clean bulbs provide more light. Replace incandescent bulbs with compact florescent light bulbs. They can pay for themselves in a little over a year.
  • Use fans and ventilation. Check ceiling fans to be sure they are clean and in working order. For warmer months, draw air upward, cooling the room and ensuring constant airflow.
  • Keep your cooling system running efficiently. Schedule regular maintenance and read our last article.
  • Wash or replace furnace and air conditioner filters.
  • Clean the tracts on your sliding glass door as this will make sure your door’s seal is tight.
  • Clean your refrigerator condenser coils so that air can circulate freely.
  • Vacuum registers to remove any dust buildup.
  • Seal Cracks in your home by caulking or weather stripping to prevent air leakage.

These are just a few of the things you can do to reduce your energy bills, check out ENERGY.GOV form more energy saving ideas.

Mr. Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning LLC of Maryland can help get you’re air conditioning system ready for the heat, get in touch with us today!

 443-907-4782 | www.MrComfortMD.com

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5 Tips To Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for Summer

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5 Tips To Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for Summer

 The heat of the season is here … time to get your Air Conditioner in Tip Top Shape.

Get your air conditioner ready to meet the challenge to the hot humid Maryland summer. There are a few DIY things you can do to maintain your A/C system and avoid a malfunction at the most inopportune time; a hot humid day.

Here are 5 Maintenance Tips to Get Your A/C System Ready for the Summer Months:

  1. Do a thorough visual inspection of your outdoor air conditioning unit. Check for and remove any debris that might have made its way into or around the unit. This is essential, as you want to ensure the airflow around the unit is not inhibited, as well as the mechanical parts, such as the fan can move freely.
  2. Check the fan belts on the condenser and the fan. If they look a bit worn, consider replacing them.
  3. Change or Clean your filter every 1-2 months. This helps to prevent unwanted dust and pollens from entering your home. Also, pet dander and hair buildup can inhibit the cold air flow, lowering your system’s efficiency. Be sure to turn off the power first to avoid blowing dust everywhere.
  4. Vacuum the compartment, as it also collects dust and pollen. A clean A/C System will work much more efficiently, keeping you comfortable this summer.
  5.  Once you’ve performed all the tasks above, it’s time to test out the system to confirm that your air conditioner is in prime condition to get you through this upcoming season. Set your thermostat to a cool temperature to ensure that it is working properly.

 

Of course, a scheduled maintenance with a qualified professional is a fail-safe way to truly verify that you’re A/C is ready to take on the summer months.

Mr. Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning serves the Elkton, Maryland and surrounding community with all their heating and cooling needs.

443.907.4782

Call or Contact Us today :

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Energy Saver 101 |Everything You Need to Know About Home Heating

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Energy Saver 101 |Everything You Need to Know About Home Heating

Heating your home is a major expense and the more you know, the better you can figure ways to save on your heating expenditures. For example, did you know that space heating can be the largest energy expense? It can be about 45% of your average energy bill!

Our last blog was full of energy saving tips to save you money on heating your home.

This infographic by the U.S. Department of Energy does a terrific job explaining the different types of heating systems and how they work, along with some great tips on how to save big bucks on your energy bills.

Enjoy!

homeHeating_FINAL_long

Mr. Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning serves the Elkton, Maryland and surrounding community with all their heating and cooling needs.