Benefits of Variable Speed Air Conditioners

Basics of single stage air conditioning Most American homes with central air conditioning use a single stage compressor. These compressors were standard for decades, and they continue to represent the majority of AC units we service in South Jersey. A single stage compressor turns on when indoor temperatures exceed the temperature setting on your thermostat. For example, if you set the thermostat to 75 degrees, the air conditioner will run anytime indoor temperatures hit 76 degrees. After the AC cools the house back to 75 degrees, it will turn off again. Single stage compressors always operate at 100% capacity. They turn themselves on and off continuously throughout the day. Basics of variable speed air conditioning Variable speed compressors work differently. In order to maintain an indoor temperature that matches the setting on your thermostat, they operate continuously at less than 100% capacity – often as low as 25% or 30% capacity. As a result, they run for much longer cycles than single stage AC units. In summertime, they might run for all or most of the day! Here’s one way to get your head around the difference: Single stage compressors blast your home with cold air and turn themselves off when when the desired temperature is reached. Variable speed compressors blow a smooth, steady stream of cold air into your home to maintain the desired indoor temperature, rarely turning themselves off. What about a two stage compressor? Good question! A two stage or dual stage compressor sits somewhere between single stage and variable speed systems in terms of how it functions. While it doesn’t operate at a wide range of capacities like a variable speed unit, it does vary its output somewhat. A single stage AC offers one level: high. A two stage AC offers two levels: high and low. It runs at full capacity when you need it to and at a lower level when you don’t. Two stage units don’t run as continuously as a variable speed AC, but they do cycle on and off less frequently than single stage systems. How variable speed compressors improve comfort and efficiency At this point, you’re probably thinking, “It’s hot out there! Why would I want an air conditioner that runs longer and cools my home more slowly?” For one thing, a variable speed compressor’s longer run times dehumidify your home more effectively than the relatively brief cycles of a single stage unit. One of the biggest problems with single stage compressors is that they’re not running continuously. Relative humidity increases whenever the AC isn’t on, making you feel hotter and more uncomfortable. This is especially acute when an air conditioner is oversized, as they often are. Most people deal with this problem by lowering the temperature on their thermostat, which brings us to the other benefit of variable speed compressors: cost. A single stage compressor blasts your home with cold air before it turns itself off. Then it turns on again when the indoor temperature increases. Most of your air conditioner’s electricity draw occurs when it turns on, not while it’s running. In the summer, a single stage compressor turns on and off a lot, a process known as “short cycling.” Do you see where this is going? Since single stage compressors tend to short cycle, they usually draw a lot more electricity than a variable speed unit that turns on and stays on for hours. As a result, the single stage AC is much more expensive to operate! When it comes to comfort and efficiency: Single stage air conditioners don’t dehumidify indoor air very well, forcing you to lower the temperature setting on your thermostat. They also turn on and off a lot, which increases your energy bill. Two stage compressors don’t turn on and off nearly as much. They’re more efficient than single stage units, but not as efficient as variable speed compressors. Variable speed air conditioners run continuously, effectively dehumidifying the air inside your home. As a result, you feel comfortable at higher temperatures and don’t have to set your thermostat to a low temperature. And since they don’t turn on as often, variable speed AC units lower your utility costs. There are fringe benefits, too. Believe it or not, more effective cooling and greater efficiency aren’t the only benefits of a variable speed compressor. If you’re concerned about indoor air quality, opting for a two stage or variable speed unit can help purify the air circulating around your home, resulting in healthier conditions for you and your family. Since they dehumidify indoor air more effectively than a single stage unit, a more efficient system helps you: Eliminate mold growth in bathrooms and kitchens Prevent the proliferation of dust mites Create conditions that are inhospitable to insect intruders And since variable speed units run more frequently, they also filter your indoor air more effectively. More air is cycled through your return ducts – and your air filters – resulting in a lower volume of air contaminants. They’re also quieter than single stage compressors. If you’re used to cool air exploding into your home like a sudden gust of wind, you’ll probably be surprised by the variable speed unit’s more subdued, consistent air flow.

Stay Allergy-Free: Managing Indoor Allergens During the Summer Months

While summer brings warm weather and outdoor adventures, it also heralds the arrival of allergens that can wreak havoc on allergy sufferers. Contrary to popular belief, indoor allergens are not limited to the winter months. In fact, the summer season can introduce a whole new set of triggers that can affect your indoor air quality and overall well-being. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through effective strategies to manage indoor allergens and create a sanctuary of allergy relief within your home during the vibrant summer months. Keep Windows Closed: As inviting as a gentle summer breeze may seem, it can also carry pollen and outdoor allergens into your living spaces. To minimize their entry, make an effort to keep windows and doors closed, especially during peak pollen times. Consider using air conditioning with a clean and well-maintained filter to circulate and cool your indoor air. Regular Cleaning: Maintaining a clean and allergen-free home environment is crucial for allergy relief. Regular dusting, vacuuming, and mopping can help remove dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens that may have settled on surfaces. Pay special attention to areas like carpets, rugs, upholstery, and curtains. Air Purification: Investing in high-quality air purifiers can significantly improve indoor air quality by effectively filtering out allergens. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are especially beneficial, capturing even the tiniest airborne particles that can trigger allergies. Place air purifiers strategically in common areas and bedrooms for maximum effectiveness. Pet Care: For pet owners, managing indoor allergens becomes a priority year-round. Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing your furry companions, can help minimize shedding and dander. Designate pet-free zones in your home, such as bedrooms, to create allergy-free retreats. Maintain HVAC System: Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in controlling indoor allergens. Regularly changing your HVAC filters can prevent the buildup of dust, pollen, and other particles. Consider using allergen-specific filters designed to capture even the smallest irritants. Schedule professional HVAC maintenance to ensure optimal system performance and cleanliness. While summer may bring its share of allergens, you don’t have to surrender to their discomfort. By implementing these indoor allergen management strategies, you can create a haven of allergy relief within your home, allowing you and your family to enjoy the season to the fullest. From keeping windows closed to investing in air purifiers and practicing consistent cleaning routines, you have the power to minimize indoor allergens and breathe easy during the vibrant summer months. Embrace these proactive measures and make your home a sanctuary where allergies have no place.

Top Things that could be wrong with your air conditioner

My Air Conditioner isn’t working, what could be wrong? Is your air conditioner not working properly? It can be frustrating when your AC isn’t keeping you cool during the hot summer months. There are several common issues that can occur with air conditioning systems. Here are some signs to watch out for and the potential problems they may indicate: Warm or Cool Air Blowing Out of Vents, Unit Won’t Keep Up: If your air conditioner is blowing air that is not cold enough or struggling to keep up with the desired temperature, it could be due to a low refrigerant level. Low refrigerant can result in poor cooling performance and increased energy consumption. Water or Ice Leaking Near the Heater Area: Water or ice leaks near the heater area could indicate a plugged condensate drain. When the drain is clogged, the system may shut off to prevent flooding or damage. It’s important to address this issue promptly to avoid further complications. Thermostat Set to 70 but Won’t Keep Up: If you’ve set your thermostat to a specific temperature but the AC fails to reach it, there might be a problem with the thermostat itself. It could be malfunctioning or require recalibration. Poor or No Airflow Out of Your Vents: Insufficient airflow from the vents could be a result of a clogged air filter, blocked ductwork, or a malfunctioning blower motor. Restricted airflow can decrease cooling efficiency and comfort levels. Thermostat Isn’t Working Properly or Screen Is Black: A malfunctioning thermostat can cause inaccurate temperature readings or a non-responsive screen. This issue may require recalibration, battery replacement, or even a thermostat replacement. Air Conditioner Running Outside, but No Air Coming Out of Vents: If the outdoor unit is running, but there is no airflow from the vents, there could be an issue with the blower motor or a blockage in the ductwork. A professional inspection is necessary to diagnose and resolve the problem. Buzzing Sound Coming from Outside Unit: A buzzing sound coming from the outdoor unit could indicate a faulty electrical connection or a failing component. It’s important to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage. Loud Noises, Rattling Noises Near Furnace or Outside AC Area: Unusual noises, such as rattling or banging sounds, may indicate loose or damaged components. These noises should be investigated by an HVAC professional to prevent potential system breakdowns. Tripping Electric Breaker: If your air conditioner repeatedly trips the electric breaker, it could be due to an electrical issue, such as a short circuit or overload. This problem should be addressed by a licensed professional to ensure safety and prevent electrical hazards. While it may be tempting to attempt air conditioner repairs yourself, it’s important to consider the potential risks and drawbacks. Here are a few reasons why it’s generally best to leave AC repairs to licensed HVAC professionals: Safety: Air conditioning systems involve high voltage electrical components and potentially hazardous refrigerants. Without proper knowledge and training, DIY repairs can pose risks of electric shock, burns, or exposure to harmful chemicals. Warranty Concerns: Many air conditioner manufacturers require repairs to be performed by licensed HVAC professionals to maintain the system’s warranty. DIY repairs may void the warranty and leave you responsible for future repairs or replacements. Costly Mistakes: Air conditioning systems are complex, and attempting repairs without proper expertise can lead to costly mistakes. Misdiagnosing the problem, using incorrect parts or tools, or causing further damage to the system can result in additional expenses. Code Violations: HVAC professionals are trained to follow local building codes and safety regulations when working on air conditioning systems. DIY repairs can potentially violate these codes, leading to fines or penalties. In conclusion, it’s best to entrust air conditioner repairs to licensed HVAC professionals who have the knowledge, training, and tools necessary to diagnose and fix issues safely and effectively. This ensures that your system is repaired correctly, operates efficiently, and provides the cooling comfort you need during the hot South Jersey summers.

Navigating Winter Plumbing Woes in South Jersey: Tips for Homeowners

Navigating Winter Plumbing Woes in South Jersey: Tips for Homeowners As winter blankets South Jersey with its chilly embrace, homeowners must prepare for the unique plumbing challenges that the season brings. From frozen pipes to cold-weather emergencies, understanding how to navigate winter plumbing issues is essential for maintaining a functional and secure home. In this blog, we’ll explore common winter plumbing woes in South Jersey, offer preventive maintenance tips, and provide guidance on handling plumbing emergencies during the coldest months. The Freeze Threat: Understanding South Jersey’s Winter Plumbing Woes: South Jersey’s winter can be unforgiving, with freezing temperatures that pose a threat to plumbing systems. Frozen Pipes: The risk of frozen pipes is a primary concern during winter. Explore the common areas where pipes are vulnerable to freezing and understand the potential consequences. Burst Pipes: Frozen pipes can lead to burst pipes, causing extensive damage to your home. Learn about the signs of burst pipes and the immediate actions to take when they occur. Preventive Measures for Winter Plumbing Woes: Arm yourself against winter plumbing issues by implementing preventive measures to protect your home. Insulation is Key: Ensure that pipes, especially those in unheated areas, are well-insulated. Insulation can be a game-changer in preventing freezing. Drip Faucets: Allow faucets to drip slowly during extremely cold nights. This continuous flow of water helps prevent pipes from freezing. Seal Drafts: Seal any drafts or openings in your home to keep cold air out. This not only helps with energy efficiency but also protects your plumbing. Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Winter Plumbing Resilience: Adopting a proactive approach to seasonal maintenance is crucial for winter plumbing resilience. Heating System Check: Ensure that your heating system is in top-notch condition. Regular maintenance will not only keep you warm but also prevent freezing issues. Gutter Clean-Up: Clear gutters of debris to prevent ice dams. Proper drainage is essential for avoiding water backups that can impact your plumbing. What to Do in Case of Winter Plumbing Emergencies: Despite best efforts, emergencies can still occur. Knowing how to respond is key to minimizing damage. Shut Off Water: In the event of a burst pipe or significant leak, locate and shut off the main water valve immediately to prevent further damage. Call a Professional: Have the contact information of a reliable plumbing professional on hand. Winter emergencies may require prompt attention from an expert. Conclusion Winter in South Jersey can be a picturesque wonderland, but it comes with its own set of plumbing challenges. By understanding the risks, implementing preventive measures, and knowing how to respond to emergencies, homeowners can navigate winter plumbing woes with confidence. Protect your home, ensure the comfort of your family, and embrace the beauty of winter without fearing its impact on your plumbing. Stay warm, stay informed, and let your home be a haven even in the coldest of seasons.

The Importance of Backflow Prevention in South Jersey: What You Need to Know

The Importance of Backflow Prevention in South Jersey: What You Need to Know In the world of plumbing, one topic that deserves attention, especially for South Jersey residents, is backflow prevention. Ensuring the safety of your home’s water supply is paramount, and understanding the importance of backflow prevention is a crucial step. In this blog, we’ll delve into why backflow prevention matters in South Jersey, exploring local regulations, real-life examples, and the potential consequences of neglecting this vital aspect of plumbing safety. Understanding Backflow and Its Significance: Backflow occurs when the flow of water reverses direction, bringing contaminated water back into the clean water supply. This can happen due to changes in water pressure, posing a serious threat to the quality of the water we use every day. Significance in South Jersey: With varying weather conditions and potential pressure fluctuations, South Jersey homes are susceptible to backflow incidents. Understanding and preventing backflow is crucial for maintaining a safe water supply. Local Regulations and Guidelines: South Jersey, like many regions, has specific regulations and guidelines in place to ensure the prevention of backflow incidents. South Jersey Backflow Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local regulations governing backflow prevention. Many municipalities require backflow prevention devices to be installed and regularly tested to comply with safety standards. Mandatory Inspections: Some areas in South Jersey may mandate annual inspections of backflow prevention devices. Adhering to these regulations is not only a legal requirement but also a responsibility to the community. Real-Life Examples and Consequences: llustrating the real-life implications of neglecting backflow prevention can drive home the importance of this essential plumbing measure. Health Risks: Backflow can introduce contaminants such as bacteria, fertilizers, and chemicals into the water supply. This poses severe health risks to residents and can lead to waterborne illnesses. Infrastructure Damage: Neglecting backflow prevention can result in damage to plumbing infrastructure. The reversal of water flow can cause corrosion, leaks, and deterioration of pipes and fixtures. Backflow Prevention Tips for South Jersey Homes: Offering practical tips for homeowners to prevent backflow incidents is crucial for maintaining a safe water supply. Install Backflow Prevention Devices: Consider installing backflow prevention devices, such as backflow preventer valves, to safeguard your water supply. Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections and testing of backflow prevention devices to ensure they are functioning correctly and in compliance with local regulations. Conclusion In South Jersey, where the charm of the region is complemented by unique challenges, prioritizing backflow prevention is a responsibility shared by homeowners and the community alike. By understanding the significance of backflow prevention, complying with local regulations, and taking proactive measures, residents can ensure a safe and reliable water supply for their homes. Let’s work together to make South Jersey’s water infrastructure resilient and secure for generations to come.

Top Things That Can Go Wrong With Your Gas Heater or Furnace

My Heater isn’t working, what could be wrong? We get this question, often. Because there are so many components that work together, troubleshooting can be complex and requires training and experience. You may notice some things like these: Furnace coming on, then turning off after a brief time Poor or no airflow out of your vents Thermostat isn’t working properly, or screen is black Furnace won’t shut off Working, but high utility bills Motor is rattling or squealing Loud noises, smells or possible gas leaks Here are some common items that go wrong with your gas heater / furnace Failing to ignite: The most common type of failure. Older systems use a standing pilot. Newer systems use electronic ignition and flame sensor technology. Pilot went out – If you have this older style system and pilot went out, it happened for a reason, possibly to a failed thermocouple, gas valve or related parts. Most systems made in the last 20 years use electronic ignition. Flame Sensor – A flame sensor is a safety device in a gas furnace or boiler that detects the presence of a flame. It’s typically a small, metallic rod located near the burner assembly that extends into the flame. The purpose of a flame sensor is to confirm that the gas is being burned properly and continuously. When the gas is ignited, the flame sensor detects the heat and electrical current generated by the flame. If the sensor doesn’t detect a flame or detects an intermittent flame, it signals the furnace control board to shut off the gas valve, stopping the flow of gas to the burner. This safety feature is critical because it prevents the buildup of unburned gas, which can be dangerous and lead to a potential gas explosion. A malfunctioning or dirty flame sensor can cause the furnace to shut down prematurely. The flame sensor gets dirty over time and eventually fails. We don’t recommend that homeowners replace this item on their own. It needs to be replaced with the correct part with the correct resistance and set in the correct position. Remember, this is the part that shuts off the flow of gas if it’s not igniting properly. Gas Valve Failure: The gas valve controls the flow of gas to the burners. If there is no ignition, it may be because it’s not getting enough gas to light, because the valve isn’t opening and closing properly. Control board failure: The control board is the brain of the heater, and it regulates all its functions. If the control board fails, the heater may not turn on or may not function properly Blower motor failure: The blower motor moves air through the heater and distributes heat throughout your home. If this fails, you won’t be getting any air flow out of the vents in your home. Blocked air intake or exhaust flue: If the air intake or exhaust vent is blocked. We’ve seen things like a bird’s nest or even ice buildup causes these issues. Exhaust needs to exit the home, if it can’t the system should trip safety limits to turn off the system. Clogged or dirty burners: Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the burners and orifices, preventing them from producing heat or causing the flame to burn unevenly. Something as simple as a spider’s web can cause failure. Thermostat isn’t working: The thermostat communicates directly with your heater and determines when it will turn on and off. When this fails, you may get a black screen, you may have issues like your heater will constantly run or not run at all. Gas leaks A gas leak is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. If you smell gas, turn off the heater and contact a professional to inspect it. Because these parts all work together, the symptoms can seem like they are caused by one another and therefore, the parts need to be tested properly to determine the actual failure so you can operate your heater safely. We will send out experienced technicians, qualified to repair these systems, with fully stocked & insured vehicles to give you the peace of mind and comfort you deserve.

Stay Cool and Save: Energy-Efficient Tips for a Comfortable Summer

As the sun’s rays intensify and temperatures rise, staying cool and comfortable indoors becomes a top priority for many. While air conditioning is a lifesaver during the scorching summer months, it can often lead to dreaded energy bills. The good news is that you don’t have to choose between comfort and cost. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a series of practical and energy-efficient tips to keep your home comfortably cool while reducing your energy expenses. Adjustable Thermostat Settings: When you’re away from home or enjoying a good night’s sleep, consider adjusting your thermostat a few degrees higher. While it might sound counterintuitive, even a small change can make a significant difference in energy consumption. Smart thermostats make this task even easier by allowing you to program temperature adjustments according to your daily routine. Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans are a cost-effective way to enhance comfort and improve air circulation. By utilizing ceiling fans, you can create a gentle breeze that makes the room feel cooler, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave the room to conserve energy. Block Sunlight: During the hottest part of the day, sunlight streaming through windows can quickly heat up your home. Keep blinds and curtains closed to block out the sun’s heat and prevent your living spaces from turning into ovens. Consider investing in heat-reflective window coverings for even more effective temperature control. Cook and Grill Outdoors: Cooking can generate a significant amount of heat indoors, causing your air conditioner to work overtime. Embrace outdoor cooking alternatives like grilling or utilizing a microwave for meals. By minimizing indoor heat sources, you’ll reduce the strain on your cooling system and save energy. Seal and Insulate: Proper insulation and sealing are vital for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. Inspect your windows and doors for drafts and seal any gaps or cracks. Additionally, ensure your home is adequately insulated to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering. Proper insulation not only keeps your home cooler but also contributes to long-term energy savings. As the summer sun continues to shine, you can keep your home comfortably cool while cutting down on energy expenses. By following these energy-efficient tips, you’ll not only enjoy a refreshing indoor environment but also contribute to a more sustainable and budget-friendly lifestyle. So, as you embark on your summer adventures, remember that a few simple changes can make a world of difference for your comfort and your wallet. Stay cool and save while making the most of this vibrant season!

Heater & Furnace Maintenance Tips

Before the cold and chill of the New Jersey winter arrives, you need to ensure your heater/furnace is working efficiently. That’s why it’s crucial to have your annual furnace maintenance tune-up from certified and experienced technicians. There are many benefits to getting heater or furnace maintenance done, such as: Ensures top efficiency of your furnace Saves heating costs Decreases the risk of furnace/heater failure Extends the system’s lifespan through Helps maintain the unit’s product warranty Keeps your family comfortable and safe during the winter months Here are some tips to follow to keep your heater and furnace system functioning well this winter: Replace Air Filter Air filters in heaters and furnaces will need replacement at least a couple of times each year, but this is not a thumb rule. The frequency of replacement will also depend on the level of use the system sees. Some systems have air filters that only need cleaning and not a replacement, and you need to check the type that your system has before you replace them. It’s also essential that you purchase the right kind of air filter for your specific furnace or heating model when replacing it. Check Blower Motor The blower motor needs to be in peak condition for the rest of the components to function well. Check whether it is working without a glitch. Signs that there is an issue with this component include: Poor Airflow from Air Vents No airflow from vents Excessively high energy bills Strange sounds when you switch on the furnace or heater Weird smells Overheating blower Clean Exhaust Flue An exhaust flue that doesn’t vent properly can become clogged with dangerous, sometimes even deadly, vapors. These vapors will ultimately leak back into your indoor areas. Therefore, you must get the exhaust flue cleaned thoroughly at least once a year. Clean Vents and Ductwork If there are blockages or debris, dirt, and dust buildups in the vents and ductwork, it will prevent the proper flow of air into your home. In turn, this will stress your furnace or heater, causing it to become overworked, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. It’s a good idea to check the ductwork and vents at least twice each year. Clean them well, ensuring there is no lingering buildup, so you also have fresh and clean air to breathe in. Expert Maintenance Check If you have noticed any issues with your heater or furnace, do not ignore them. Leaving them unaddressed for too long can cause permanent damage to the unit. If you are not comfortable with handling the basic checks yourself, contact a professional for an expert maintenance check of the system. All these checks are crucial to keeping your heater or furnace always working in peak condition. With winter fast- approaching, now is the time to conduct these checks, so you have peace of mind that the system is working well. These steps also help reduce the chances of a breakdown of the system. Experienced repair technicians will carefully examine the appliance to understand the problem and recommend repairs or replacements of specific components if necessary. They will explain everything you need to know about these systems and immediately handle the maintenance or repair work. For additional information about how we can help with your furnace and heater repairs and maintenance, call Professor Gatsby’s Heating and Cooling at 856-885-2231. We provide professional and cost-effective heating services. You can also send us your queries via our online form, and we will respond soon.

Why you should maintain your Heating & Cooling system

When’s the last time you had your unit serviced? We ask this question when a new customer calls in. Most of the time the answer is, “I can’t remember when or the last time the unit broke down, we had it fixed.” Like cars and other major types of equipment, your Heating & Cooling system needs to be maintained regularly. You’re heating and cooling system is one of the most sophisticated and most expensive systems in your home so you will want to service and make sure your equipment is in factory condition. For heating and cooling equipment, we recommend once before cooling and once before heating seasons. The ultimate goal of maintaining equipment is to prevent breakdowns during freezing temps or extreme heat situations. Some common misconceptions customers have: “But I have a warranty, I don’t need a maintenance yet” A: We get this a lot. Warranties are very important. The HVAC maintenance plans are designed to keep equipment in as close to factory condition as possible so that your warranty is intact. A common example of this is with your car, you need oil changes even though your car is under warranty. If you don’t maintain your system, the warranty manufacturer may have an issue with a claim. The maintenance plan gives you the peace of mind. “I don’t want an additional payment” A: We understand that it may seem like you are paying more for your system, but studies have proven that maintaining your equipment over its life leads to lower costs of ownership. HVAC contractors cannot performance maintenance profitably. We do it so we can keep homeowners cost of ownerships lower and maintain a rapport with our customers. “I can do the maintenance myself” A: Many homeowners are very skilled and could possibly do this type of maintenance, but performing maintenance on this complex equipment requires the use of very expensive tools to inspect proper operation. The most valuable resource is the experienced technician that has years of experience identifying issues that someone less qualified wouldn’t have learned yet. Money isn’t actually being saved by doing it yourself. “I’m going to sell my home soon” A: When selling a house, potential buyers want to see that the equipment has been maintained by a professional with records. We get calls daily to “certify” a system for a selling party. The unit must be 100% safe and working properly for us to certify the condition. Think about it, if you were buying a home, wouldn’t you want to verify the condition of one of the homes most expensive systems before you bought? “My system is running “fine” now, why do I need maintenance?” A: Only a qualified technician could actually verify that the system is operating properly. The system could be running longer than it needs to or you could be minutes or days from your preventable breakdown, saving you hundreds/thousands on an expensive HVAC repair. What do I get with your maintenance plan? One Complete maintenance before summer and winter seasons 15% discount on any part replacement No additional emergency charges for breakdowns during after hours 5% discount on new system replacement Most of our Smart Plan members decide to pay just $26.86 monthly to protect themselves and give them the peace of mind of having us reach out to them to schedule their maintenances. You can also pay annually or quarterly as well. Read more about our Maintenance Plans

10 Tips for Cooling Your Home

Proper home cooling has health benefits that family members can enjoy, plus the fact that a cool interior not only makes one comfortable but also productive. Additionally, cooling the home can dramatically cut down your monthly energy consumption and help you save huge dollars in the long run. Simply put, there are far too many great benefits of proper home cooling for you to ignore. If you want to enjoy these benefits, you have to adopt a sensible maintenance plan or follow these proven 10 tips for cooling your home. 10 Home Cooling Tips You Should Follow Who doesn’t want a home that’s really cool during the summer? The good news: it’s perfectly achievable. However, there are certain things you must do to have a cool temperature inside of your home. Some of them are DIY-tasks so you can easily perform them without any professional help. For other alternatives that require technical knowledge and expertise, you have to find an experienced service provider to get positive results. Take a look at these 10 tips for cooling your home to enjoy a comfortable indoor all year-round: Install home insulation. Insulating the home interiors is a proven way to slash energy bills by as much as 50%. Just remember to go for insulation materials with a high R-value since they are indicative that the materials have a high insulation effectiveness. Home insulation is best installed by a professional. Use energy efficient windows and doors. They may seem like an awful expensive investment, but choosing energy efficient windows and doors will pay for themselves in the long run. They help keep outdoor heat out of the interiors and contain the air conditioning and heat inside. Mind the location of your furniture and curtains. If your furniture and curtains block the vents of your air conditioning units, you are doing yourself a disfavor since you’re not fully enjoying the cold air from the A/C units. This is easily resolved by simply removing or relocating whatever is blocking the A/C vents so you can fully benefit from the cold air that they produce. Among the 10 tips for cooling your home, you will surely enjoy doing this task since it is the easiest to implement. Use window films. For those who want a cost-efficient way of cooling their homes, they should try using window films. These materials effectively block heat and UV rays that don’t just make the interiors hotter but also cause potential damage to interior furniture pieces. Go for LEDs or CFLs. These days, a great majority of homeowners are shifting from incandescent bulbs into light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). These types of lighting emit as much as 50% less heat and consume lower amount of electricity. This makes them truly energy-saving alternatives to the power-guzzling incandescent bulbs. Install a cold air return unit. Basements are naturally colder than most parts of any home, which is why a lot of property owners with basements install cold air return units. What these things do is recycle the cold air from the basement and take it to strategic areas inside the house. It’s better to ask the help of professionals when installing this unit since they have the knowledge and the required tools for the installation job. Go for light-colored roofing. It’s basic science: light-colored roofing take in much lower amount of heat than dark-colored ones. You can specifically benefit from light-colored roofing during the summer, when the heat outside can seep into the roof especially if they happen to have a dark color. Create shade. Having a sort of natural or artificial source of shade close to your home will greatly help maintain a relatively cool indoor temperature during summer months. You can install man-made structures such as pergolas, awnings, and porches, or go for natural shade-giving elements like trees. These shade structures will improve the functionality and appeal of your home. Trees are also great additions to your landscaping. Use dehumidifiers. HVAC experts generally recommend installing dehumidifiers inside homes since they greatly aid in toning down the level of humidity. This results in considerably cooler indoor spaces that offer exceptional comfort to occupants. Choose trusted brands to get top-quality dehumidifiers. Get your cooling system regularly checked and maintained by experts. Most property owners forget that their A/C systems should be maintained on a regular basis. Over time, your home’s air conditioning units could encounter problems and perform below normal. This could spell a disaster especially if it happens during the summer when outside temperatures greatly affect the temperatures inside homes. You can avoid such negative scenario by having your home cooling system checked and maintained by HVAC experts. Get the Best Heating and Cooling Services You can easily improve your cooling system’s efficiency by following our 10 tips for cooling your home. And don’t forget to consult professionals when it comes to technical issues and maintenance tasks. At Professor Gatsby’s Heating & Cooling Services, we make homes comfortable and highly energy-efficient with our professional services. We provide affordable installation, maintenance, and repairs of various heating and cooling systems. We can handle air conditioning units, furnaces, and heating systems. Best of all, we provide our services on a 24/7 basis, so you can call someone quickly when your cooling system suddenly bogs down. Our client base covers owners of residential properties across Turnersville, NJ and nearby cities such as Sewell, Cherry Hill, Marlton, and Glassboro. Call us today at 856-885-2231 to know more about our cooling and heating services. We look forward to hearing from you and proving to you first-hand why we are one of the state’s finest cooling service providers.