Avoid Dangerous Heater Malfunctions with Maintenance

A heater technician adjusting a gauge on a boiler with the words "Heater Maintenance"

Taking care of your home’s HVAC system with regular maintenance and tune-ups is the best way to keep it running smoothly when you need it most. Specifically, caring for your gas or electric furnace is a must not just for keeping your home warm and cozy during the winter months, but for keeping your loved […]

Electric Furnace Troubleshooting: Common Problems and How to Fix Them

A man fixing an electric furnace with the words "Electric Furnace Troubleshooting"

When your electric furnace stops working in the dead of winter, it can be rather inconvenient. The issue may be major and costly, or it could be something simple that you may be able to fix yourself. Here are some troubleshooting tips that can help you figure out what’s wrong with your electric furnace: 1. […]

What Is Short Cycling and What Does It Mean for My Furnace?

A picture of an HVAC Technician with the words, "what is shortcylcing?"

Short cycling is an HVAC term that refers to a situation where a furnace or air conditioner turns on and off too frequently. This is a problem because the shorter the cycle, the harder your system has to work. To minimize the stress and wear to your HVAC system, it is important to catch short […]

Variable Speed Furnace vs Two-Stage Furnace

A picture of a green electric furnace beside the words "Variable Speed vs Two-Stage Furnace"

Furnaces provide comforting warmth on a cold Texas winter’s night. In the late seasons of fall, it becomes imperative to schedule maintenance for your furnace so that you can be prepared for extremely low temperatures, should they occur. Yet, it’s also important to be aware of your furnace options. Please read on to discover the […]

Why Is My Heat Pump Leaking?

A close up of a heat pump with the words, "Why Is My Heat Pump Leaking?"

These days, many homes are equipped with heat pumps instead of more “traditional” heating/cooling units. Especially in milder climates, a heat pump can be a great option for heating a residential home because this versatile HVAC unit combines the functions of both a heater and an air conditioner. Depending on the desired indoor temperature a […]

How Does a Furnace Work?

A man checking a furnace with the words, "How Does a Furnace Work?"

The most common type of furnace is a gas-powered central air system. With this type of system, air is heated in one area of the home and then distributed throughout the house using ductwork and vents. The main parts of the furnace that allow it to work are the thermostat, gas valve, burners, heat exchangers, […]

Why Does My Furnace Have a Burnt Smell When I Turn It On?

An old furnace with the words, "Why Does My Furnace Have a Burnt Smell?"

With chilly weather around the corner, many are getting ready to turn on their furnace for the first time. But, if you switch it on and smell something burning, don’t be alarmed — it’s normal and dissipates within an hour or two. Curious as to what is causing this smell and when you should be […]

How Long Can I Expect My Furnace to Last?

A picture of a furnace with the words, "Furnace Life Expectancy."

Furnaces are often out of sight and out of mind until they malfunction. To avoid an unexpected huddle under a pile of blankets, conduct routine maintenance on your furnace during its 15- to 30-year lifespan. What Affects the Lifespan of the Furnace? Make and Model You can’t expect older models to keep up with all […]

Single vs. Two-Stage Furnaces

A furnace in the basement with the words, single vs, two stage furnace.

Considering buying a new furnace? There are many different brands and types on the market. Single-stage and two-stage furnaces are two options for homeowners to consider when choosing a new furnace. What are the differences between a single-stage and a two-stage furnace and how do you decide which one is right for you? This article […]

AFUE vs. Thermal Efficiency

A hvac technician working on a air conditioning unit with the words, AFUE vs. thermal efficiency.

When you are investing in a brand new heater, you may hear the terms AFUE and Thermal Efficiency Rating being thrown around quite a bit. What does AFUE stand for? What is Thermal Efficiency Rating? Is one more important than the other? Why do they even matter?  Not to worry, when you have questions, the […]