Category: Heating

3 Different Types of North Shore Heating Options

Feb 24, 2021

3 Different Types of North Shore Heating Options

  • Heating
North Shore Heating

3 Different Types of North Shore Heating Options

For most American homeowners, keeping interior spaces comfortable is the single largest energy expense for their home. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for 48% of a typical home energy budget. With that much of your monthly budget at stake, it’s clear that the type of system your use for north shore heating in your homecan have a major impact on your home comfort levels as well as your overall energy costs.  If your present heating system is more than 20 years old, you are probably spending a significant amount just to keep it running – funds that could be better spent on a new, more energy-efficient system. Choosing a new heating system can really pay off in terms of both comfort and operating costs. 

Understanding Heating Systems

Can you remember the last “big” purchase you made? Maybe it was a car, your house, a surround sound system…whatever it was you probably did a lot of research comparing prices, durability, and the overall quality before you decided to take the plunge and finally purchase. As with any sizable purchase, selecting an appropriate heating system that is best-suited for your geographical location and needs requires a basic understanding of the differences between different heating systems. This includes their efficiency ratings as well as long-term operating costs. Installing the wrong system for your climate or heating requirements could end up costing more in the long run. Knowing the difference between furnaces, ductless heating, and heat pumps can help you avoid issues such as:

  • No heat
  • Reduced efficiency
  • Frequent system failures
  • Not enough space for proper installation
  • Increased repair and maintenance costs

On the other hand, choosing the best type of system is an investment that will pay for itself in benefits and bring you peace of mind due to:

  • Reduced energy costs
  • A long-lasting, durable system
  • Reliable heating
  • Increased home value
  • Reduced carbon footprint

Types of North Shore Heating Systems

Knowing the differences between gas furnaces, ductless systems and heat pumps will help you determine which system is the perfect match for your family’s needs. When shopping for a new heating system, look for a high Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. This rating measures how efficiently your heater utilizes its fuel. The more efficient your furnace is, the more heat it will return per unit of fuel.

Gas Furnaces

Gas furnaces are fueled by either propane or natural gas, and typically cost less to install than heat pumps. A new high efficiency furnace consumes more than 30% less fuel than less efficient, outdated furnaces. Due to rising oil and natural gas costs, it is important to select a system that helps you reduce your heating energy consumption.

Newer gas furnaces aren’t just more efficient – they are much quieter than older models, provide even heating, and maintain a more constant temperature level. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, high-efficiency gas furnaces feature a second heat exchange, sealed combustion and a 90% to 98.5% AFUE.  

Ductless systems

Ductless heating systems move air through different areas or ‘zones’ in your home. They are easy to install, but typically cost more to install than a furnace. Ductless systems, also called split-systems, multi-split systems, and split-ductless systems, offer highly flexible solutions for a range of home comfort issues. While heat pumps force heated and cooled air through ducts, a ductless system delivers air directly to a specific zone.

Ductless systems are smaller than comparable forced-air systems, meaning they operate on less power, and are more efficient, since the temperature-controlled air is delivered directly where desired. Ductless systems allow homeowners to only heat specific occupied rooms or zones within the home. Because they don’t have ducts that can attract dust and allergens ( and they offer multi-stage filtration) they can increase indoor air quality by reducing dust, pollen, bacteria and allergens in the home.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps operate by using electricity to heat and cool indoor spaces. They are the best option for temperate climates, though they typically cost more to install that furnaces. Electric heat pumps are one of the most efficient heating systems available. They operate as a furnace during chilly weather, absorbing warmth from the ground or atmosphere, multiplying it, and delivering it to the home. Conversely, they work as an air conditioner during the hotter months, transferring heat from the home. Heat pumps can be operated on gas or electricity.

Heat pumps don’t generate dry heat, so there’s no need to use a humidifier during operation. Heat pump systems are less expensive to use than systems fueled by natural gas, and don’t experience the fluctuations in temperature commonly seen in other types of systems. While the initial installation may cost more than other systems, and they require more maintenance, they are more environmentally friendly.

If you are considering purchasing a new heating system or replacing an existing one, scheduling an energy audit can help you make the right decision. An energy audit measures a variety of factors, including heat loss through doors and windows, the integrity of existing ductwork, the overall efficiency of your present heating system, and insulation levels. Also take into account any federal or state tax credits or utility rebates offered by Energy Star partners for installing a new, energy efficient heating system. 

Possible Results From Not Maintaining Your Heating System

As the weather turns colder, you’ll become best friends with your heating system faster than a child running to the ice cream truck. You’ll come to rely on your home being heated quickly and efficiently. Properly maintaining it now can ensure that you have heat all fall and winter and make it less likely that you’ll need to have your heating system repaired. An improperly maintained heating system results in a decrease in its energy efficiency, which means you’ll see an increase in your utility bills. In addition, you’ll have an increased chance of fire as well as a higher likelihood of exposure to carbon dioxide.

Benefits of Calling for Home Heating System Service Now

Calling a local company with experience in providing heating system inspections, tune-ups and repairs provides you with an extensive array of benefits. These begin when you make that call to schedule an appointment and last for long after the heating season is over. You’ll have peace of mind that you, your family and your belongings are protected. You will also increase the lifespan of your heating system and improve the safety and value of your home. Not only will you see a reduction in the cost of your utilities while still remaining cozy and comfortable, you will also leave behind less of a carbon footprint. 

A company that specializes in heating systems is the best source of information and service for your home. Contacting them now to schedule an appointment means that you can be proactive about the entire process. Schedule an appointment for them to come to your home and thoroughly inspect your heating system. Replacing worn or old parts now — before you need your heating system on a regular basis — helps reduce the likelihood that you will have issues with your heating system later in the season. Making that call now also means that you won’t find yourself in crisis mode due to lack of  heat or another repair issue. You can schedule a visit at your convenience around your work schedule and other activities. Just keep in mind, it is more likely that the heating company will be able to offer you a choice of days and times for the appointment now — before their busy season begins. 

Homeowner Tips for Your North Shore Heating System

There are simple and effective tips that homeowners can take advantage of to improve their heating system. 

  1. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on a monthly basis by following the testing method for each device. Put a reminder in your phone and have it repeat each month so you don’t forget. 
  2. change and replace your air filters on a regular basis to improve the efficiency of your heating system
  3. keep all your belongings at least three feet away from your heating system to reduce the chances of them catching on fire
  4. always turn off any portable heaters when you leave the room or go to bed for the night to prevent them from accidentally overheating or falling over and causing a fire
  5. install a metal or glass fire screen in front of your fireplace to reduce the chances of a stray spark catching your floor or the surrounding area on fire

While the above tips are ones that most homeowners can do themselves, the following tips are often best left to the professionals to perform:

  1. get your chimney inspected and cleaned on a yearly basis by a professional who is experienced, licensed and bonded to do so
  2. have your ventilation system cleaned to reduce the dust and allergens your heating system is putting into your living spaces
  3. call a reliable heating company to thoroughly inspect your heating system
  4. have the heating company test the gas connections that are used for any appliance that heats your home to ensure that they are in good repair
  5. call an electrician to test all electrical connections on a regular basis to reduce the likelihood of an electrical fire

Getting your heating system in good working order now can save you stress in the long run. 

What to Consider When purchasing a North Shore Heating System

You’re in the market for a new high-efficiency heating system. There’s pros and cons to most heating systems, and it will pay in the long run to choose a new system carefully. Before investing too much on the wrong system, it’s a good idea to consider the following question: What are the benefits of purchasing a higher quality system? You’ll get substantial money savings on both energy bills and repairs, and you’ll reduce your carbon footprint – every little bit helps to slow down climate change. You’ll appreciate quieter operation and better protection against the cold weather. A higher quality heating system will protect the finishes in your home. When air is too cold, too warm, too dry, or too humid, it affects wallpaper, wood, paint, and drywall, causing deterioration that reduces the value of your home. High efficiency heating systems can save you 30% or even more on monthly bills, which can add up to thousands during a 10 to 20 year timeframe, so buying a heating system that works efficiently AND effectively is the best way to go. Finally, you’ll benefit from more comprehensive and longer lasting warranties.

What are the cons of hastily purchasing a heating system that turns out to be wrong for your house? 

First, missed rebate opportunities. Better units frequently are eligible for rebates from the State or the manufacturer. Some States may even offer up to $1500 in rebates! Second, don’t ignore SEER. If your unit has a lower SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating, you’ll spend more money each month heating your home. You should purchase at the very minimum a heating unit with a 13 SEER rating. Third, going for the lowest price is frequently a recipe for disaster! You might pay about $800 more for a better quality heating system, but that system can also save you about $300 a year in energy costs. Finally, by buying a lower quality unit, you’ll be exposing your family to a higher risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, you’re certain to have increased spending on maintenance and repair, you’ll have a greater risk of having to replace the system earlier, and in the end, your heating requirements won’t be met.

What else should you consider before purchasing a north shore heating system?

First, what are your heating needs? If you live in a warmer environment buying a heat pump might be your best bet. Heat pumps are safe and quiet, and don’t burn fossil fuels, and that means that your pump won’t be producing any carbon monoxide or greenhouse gases inside your home. The newer heat pumps have a heating efficiency of almost 400%, and you can choose from an air-source heat pump, a ground-source, or geothermal heat pump. If you’re in the market for a furnace, you can choose between 3 options – oil furnaces, gas furnaces, or electric furnaces. An oil furnace uses oil delivered in bulk, and is stored in large tanks either inside or outside your home. These tanks must be monitored to make sure they don’t become depleted. Gas furnaces burn propane or natural gas to create heat. Natural gas is relatively economical, and is supplied by a local company via a utility hook-up that’s installed in your home. Electric furnaces utilizes heating coils powered by electricity, but are much more expensive than gas in most parts of the country.

Second, what size heating system do you need? It’s most important not to oversize, which raises the cost of initial installation, and provides inefficient operation. You’ll need to know the level of insulation in your home, the types, sizes, and location of your windows, what is the local climate, and how many people live in the house. DON’T buy a new heating system based on reading the nameplate alone! 

Third, what north shore heating system is best for your home? Carrier is rated first on most lists for a reason. They’re made of only the finest quality materials, and are built with stricter quality control than the majority of other manufacturers. It will cost more initially, but it will last longer. Our second choice is Goodman. All of their products have reliable warranty programs, they’re built solidly out of the best materials, and they’re more affordable. Our third choice is Lennox. Their company offers some heaters that have 98% efficiency levels. They also sell systems that use both gas and a heat pump. These systems cost more upfront, but they’ll pay for themselves over time in quality and efficiency. Finally you’ll need to consider getting a comprehensive maintenance schedule, and location in terms of where exactly to install the system so that you’ll reap the most benefits.

After considering all the options listed above, do yourself, your family, and the environment a favor by purchasing a higher quality heating system for your home!

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today!

Check Out Our Current Specials!

Read The Great Things That Your Neighbors Are Saying About NSHEC.

By nshec

You May Call for the Wrong Service: Do You Need Furnace Repair or Replacement?

Feb 15, 2021

You May Call for the Wrong Service: Do You Need Furnace Repair or Replacement?

  • Heating
Furnace Repair Or Replacement

You May Call for the Wrong Service: Do You Need Furnace Repair or Replacement?

When a furnace has begun struggling or shut down completely, most everyone would prefer to choose the simplest and least expensive option, and that depends on whether it is a furnace repair or replacement. A quick fix may not be that perfect solution, however. Heating professionals should never simply recommend a furnace replacement just to sell more equipment. To the homeowner, the question is a matter of weighing short-term costs, the life expectancy of the equipment, and the quality of heating and energy efficiency that you expect.

Before assuming that either furnace repair or replacement is right for you, let’s examine the issues at play and how to weigh your options.

When Repairing the Furnace Isn’t Enough

Between furnace repair or replacement, the wrong choice can hurt you in the long run. In some cases, you could notice setbacks just days later. The technician can probably get your broken furnace to turn on again by replacing some small parts. But what if the furnace is now running very inefficiently? You’re now paying spiked utility bills. 

Furnaces that need to be replaced will also perform poorly. This causes hot and cold spots around the house, poor indoor air quality, and odd noises or odors. An inadequately repaired furnace might even present a heightened risk of house fire or carbon monoxide exposure.

It’s also best to avoid jumping to the conclusion that replacement is the best option. While a new furnace will almost assuredly be more energy efficient, don’t expect the furnace to pay for itself anytime soon unless you are replacing older equipment.

The Benefits of Accurate Troubleshooting

By making all necessary repairs or determining that a full furnace replacement is the best option, you’ll be sure to enjoy better heating:

  • Maximum energy efficiency to save you money on fuel
  • Reliable heating for the rest of the fall and winter
  • Avoiding the extra costs of repeated repairs or unnecessary replacement
  • Better indoor air quality
  • Safety and peace of mind

When one thing goes wrong with your furnace, other problems may pop up. In older equipment, wear and tear can cause multiple parts to break down around the same time. If the furnace has been running with a worn out part, other parts may have been overtaxed and are now damaged, too. 

All of this makes it important to get advanced diagnostics. By finding the root issues and examining all of the many parts, the heating technician can add up everything that needs to be repaired or replaced. This way you avoid spending a small fortune on a new furnace you don’t need, and you won’t have another breakdown just a week later.

How to Decide Between Furnace Replacement or Repairs

After a heating expert has diagnosed the problem, the homeowner can look at a few options before deciding. You can anticipate what to expect based on the conditions described below.

Repairs will typically solve your heating trouble in these circumstances:

  • The system is less than 10 years old. Life expectancy for a furnace typically ranges from 12 to 25 years. The younger the furnace, the less likely a major breakdown has occurred and the more likely a repair will be most cost-effective.
  • There are no recent changes to system efficiency. Struggling furnaces are more likely to have massive systemwide problems calling for replacement. If the furnace has simply stopped turning on, you probably just have a broken part or connection.
  • You have clogged air filters. Cleaning the filters should get things working smoothly again. If the filters get clogged faster than they should, other changes may be needed but the furnace itself is not likely the culprit.
  • You are experiencing thermostat problems. Electrical problems and broken thermostats can make it seem like your furnace is broken. The thermostat may just need tightened connections or recalibration, or you might upgrade to a modern smart thermostat.
  • Ductwork needs professional cleaning. Are rooms getting heated unevenly? Does the vent let out dusty or lukewarm air? Furnace efficiency depends on clean ductwork.

Telltale signs that you should replace your furnace include:

  • The furnace is older than 15 years. Take the current problems as a sign. Old furnaces cost you with inefficiency and will likely need more repairs soon. Replacement may actually be your cheapest option when all is said and done.
  • You notice higher costs on energy bills. Compare your bills to the same months from previous years to see how much the costs have been spiking. At some point in a furnace’s life cycle, cleaning and tune-ups cannot restore the equipment’s maximum efficiency. Older furnaces can continue to work while gradually losing efficiency. The problem only gets worse until eventually the furnace fails completely. 
  • Your system is emitting carbon monoxide. Furnaces produce carbon monoxide as they burn fuel, but the lethal fumes are supposed to be safely escorted away through the flue. If the airways get clogged or the heat exchanger cracks, the carbon monoxide gas can leak out. The amount may be small at first, but no amount is safe. Replace it before this turns into a life-threatening problem.
  • Your furnace is improperly sized. Undersized furnaces have much shorter lifespans because they get overworked. Either the home will always be insufficiently heated or your energy bills will be much higher than they should be. Oversized furnaces can be problematic, too. They achieve the desired temperature very quickly, then cycle off. All that on-and-off cycling wears down the parts rapidly. 
  • Breakdowns and repairs have become frequent. Each repair may seem minor, but something is wrong if your furnace can’t make it through the rest of heating season without another repair.

Figuring out the best solution for a furnace problem requires some troubleshooting and advice by an HVAC professional. Before you invest in a new furnace or try to get by this winter with small repairs, make sure to have your heating equipment looked at by a friendly expert that you can trust.

For Furnace Repair Or Replacement Call The Experts At North Shore Home Energy

North Shore Home Energy LLC is a local and dedicated HVAC, Refrigeration, & Generator company in the North Shore providing excellent service to homes, businesses, and restaurants. We are a proud participating contractor with the Mass Save program. Our professionals are trained, certified and use only top-notch equipment and industry leading technology to ensure that our customers are satisfied.  With over 25 years in the industry, North Shore Home Energy is here to educate our customers on maintenance and strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our attention to detail, on-demand service, and fair pricing will keep your heating and cooling running smoothly year after year.

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today!

Check Out Our Current Specials!

Read The Great Things That Your Neighbors Are Saying About NSHEC.

By nshec

Furnace Replacement In Newburyport

Jan 04, 2021

Furnace Replacement In Newburyport

  • Heating

Furnace Replacement In Newburyport

Do you need a Furnace Replacement In Newburyport? North Shore Home Energy was recently hired to fix an HVAC issue with a local Newburyport home just like yours. This customer had a single stage HVAC system in their newly constructed home that was freezing in the summer and overheating in the winter. This would cause the homeowner to have to shut off the air conditioner in the middle of a heatwave because because of a freeze up and wait for it to thaw. In the winter when the weather was cold the furnace would cause a large imbalance of heat between the different rooms in the home even through they are in the same zone. Luckily North Shore home energy was there to help.

These problems where diagnosed as a result of the home itself needing two state equipment instead of single stage. Single stage equipment is cheaper but it runs at runs at 100% capacity all the time. Two stage systems run at 70-90% capacity most of the time and only runs at 100% when necessary. This home’s equipment was overworked and the zone needed to be upgraded to a two stage system to work in a way that kept the rooms at a comfortable temperature all year round.

Newburyport Carrier Furnace Dealer

Once the problem was identified, North Shore moved forward with installing a new Carrier 4-Way 80% 2-STAGE Gas Furnace. Carrier’s ComfortHeat® technology furnaces can provide reduced drafts, reduced sound levels, longer cycles, less temperature swings between cycles, and less temperature differences between rooms. Its exclusive, intelligent microprocessor control adapts to the heating needs of the home by automatically adjusting high and low heat times to maximize comfort. With this new system installed, the customer can enjoy a much more even temperature across all rooms in the furnace’s zone.

Newburyport Furnace Installation

When North Shore Home Energy first got to the customer’s home they spared no time getting the old single stage unit out of the home to start the new furnace replacement. Once the onld unit was expertly removed, they carefully brought the new Carrier unit into the home.

Once the new unit was in the home, they began to fit the home’s existing duct system to the unit and sealed off the connections to provide a strong airflow throughout the zone.

With the new system in place and the ducts connected snuggly, the team wired in the electricity and the controls to the unit taking care to make sure everything was connected properly. After a first run test was performed and the unit was confirmed to be working properly, the cover was put on the unit. The team cleaned up any mess that was made in the home and made sure the customer was happy and had no further questions before leaving the home.

Newburyport Heating Contractor Replaces Furnace

(Watch the video now)

Get A Free Furnace Replacement Estimate In Newburyport Today

North Shore Home Energy LLC is a local and dedicated HVAC & Refrigeration service company in the North Shore providing excellent service to homes, businesses, and restaurants. We are a proud participating contractor with the Mass Save program. Our professionals are trained, certified and use only top-notch equipment and industry leading technology to ensure that our customers are satisfied.  With over 25 years in the industry, North Shore Home Energy is here to educate our customers on maintenance and strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our attention to detail, on-demand service, and fair pricing will keep your heating and cooling running smoothly year after year.

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today!

Check Out Our Current Specials!

Read The Great Things That Your Neighbors Are Saying About NSHEC.

By nshec

6 Benefits of Forced Air Temperature Control

Dec 30, 2020

6 Benefits of Forced Air Temperature Control

  • Heating
Forced Air Temperature Control

6 Benefits of Forced Air Temperature Control

Forced air temperature control is one of the most popular forms of heating for smart homeowners. And that’s not surprising, because it offers considerable benefits. Before investing in this type of heating system, however, it’s advisable to understand how it works and exactly what its benefits are so you can make an informed decision. Here’s what you need to know. 

How a Forced Air Heating System Works

In a forced air heating system, cold air is drawn into the system and directed to a heat source, which is usually a heat pump or a furnace. The heat source heats the air, and then the warm air is guided into ducts that disperse it throughout the home. The entire system is controlled by a thermostat that activates and deactivates it as needed depending on the indoor air temperature. 

Benefits of a Forced Air Heating System

A well-maintained forced air heating system offers the following six advantages:

  • Improved comfort: You can control the indoor air temperature with a pre-programmed thermostat, which ensures that a comfortable temperature is maintained at all times. For example, if you’ve set the temperature at 67 and the air temperature drops below that, the thermostat will automatically switch on and start heating the air.
  • Relatively fast heating: These types of heating systems work much faster than, for example, radiant heating systems because they heat the air directly and deliver the warm air throughout the home. So, if you come home to a cold house and you turn the heating up, you’ll start feeling the warm air within minutes.
  • Improved indoor air quality: There are filters at the heat source that trap indoor air pollutants and dust to filter them out of the air. In addition, you can get forced air heating systems with humidifiers or dehumidifiers, which can further improve the air quality in your home. 
  • Low installment costs: Compared to other heating systems, these types of heating systems are relatively affordable to install. Moreover, a furnace or heat pump will last between 15 and 20 years, so if you maintain your system properly, the installment costs will deliver a good ROI.
  • Energy efficiency and lower energy bills: Modern forced air heating systems are extremely energy-efficient, which means they can heat more air with less input. That’s good for the environment, as they require less power to function. And because they require less power, they can significantly lower your energy bills — particularly when you choose a system that has an ENERGY STAR® furnace or heat pump.
  • Combined heating and cooling: You can choose a forced air system that combines both heating and cooling in one single system. This offers more convenience when it comes to maintenance and operation; plus, it can be a more affordable investment when compared to installing two separate systems. 

If you’re ready to invest in a forced air heating system, make sure to speak with a qualified HVAC technician about your options. And once your new heating is installed, you’ll enjoy a healthier, warmer home, as well as lower energy bills!

What makes North Shore Home Energy the best choice for forced air temperature control?

Our professionals are trained, certified and only top-notch equipment and industry leading technology to ensure that our customers are satisfied. North Shore Home Energy LLC is a local dedicated HVAC & Refrigeration service company in the North Shore providing excellent service to homes, businesses, and restaurants. With over 25 years in the industry, North Shore Home Energy is here to educate our customers on maintenance and strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our attention to detail, on-demand service, and fair pricing will keep you running smoothly year after year. We are a proud participating contractor with the Mass Save program.

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today!

Check Out Our Current Specials!

Read The Great Things That Your Neighbors Are Saying About NSHEC.

By nshec

Air Filtration: Common Holiday Items That Cause Mold Growth

Dec 15, 2020

Air Filtration: Common Holiday Items That Cause Mold Growth

  • Heating
air filtration

Air Filtration: Common Holiday Items That Cause Mold Growth

Everybody wants to be happy and healthy during the holidays. And if you or someone in your family suffers from allergies or respiratory disease, then you likely go to extra lengths to ensure that your home provides a healthy environment. However, did you know that there are some common holiday items that can bring mold spores into your home and cause mold growth? 

Christmas Trees

According to a recent study, live Christmas trees can bring a significant amount of mold indoors. In fact, the mold count that originated from a tree can rise as much as 500 percent of the normal level after 14 days of bringing the tree indoors. That leaves us vulnerable to mold, especially if a mold allergy is present. Green Decorations

Wreaths, garlands, and other decorations made from live trees come from the same areas as Christmas trees. That means they can also bring a lot of mold into the home. 

Decorations From Storage

If, like most of us, you keep your holiday decorations in storage, then it’s important to understand that they might have mold spores on them. This is especially true if the decorations are stored in cardboard boxes (not plastic) in a dark environment that’s not 100 percent dry.

How Mold Causes Mold Growth

So how exactly do mold spores cause mold growth? 

When an item, such as a wreath, has mold on it, it releases mold spores onto the surfaces of your home, as well as into the air. Those that are released onto the surfaces can start to grow, eventually creating mold colonies. These in turn release mold spores that become airborne. Airborne mold spores travel throughout the home, in addition to being breathed in by you and your family, and can settle on surfaces throughout the home — and this is precisely what makes mold so difficult to contain.

What You Can Do 

There are some precautions you can take to limit the number of mold spores released into your home, however:

  • If anyone in your family has allergies or a respiratory condition, then it’s always best to use plastic decorations, not live ones. Fortunately, there are many very realistic-looking trees and wreaths available — or you could just have fun with some bling artificial decorations! Plus, you can always have a live tree in your yard.
  • Carefully clean any items that have been in storage. Use a damp cloth and a household cleaner to remove dust and mold spores. Remember to allow at least 24 hours for any lights or other electricity-powered items to dry out.
  • If you do want to use live decorations, use an air purifier with a HEPA filter. This will remove the majority of mold spores from the air.
  • Remove green decorations after 10 days. This helps limit the number of mold spores they release.
  • Give your home a thorough cleaning after taking all the decorations down to remove any remaining mold spores.

If you keep these tips in mind, you can greatly limit the chances of mold growth and instead, have peace of mind that you and your family will have a healthy home for the holidays and into the New Year.

Clearly, having a good air filtration system in your home during the holidays can be a significant boost for you and your family’s health and well-being. Contact your local air filtration specialist to learn more about the available options and to find out what system is best for you.

What makes North Shore Home Energy the best choice for a indoor air quality & air filtration?

North Shore Home Energy should be your go-to company if you want to improve indoor air quality in the North Shore. In addition to equipping you with a working HVAC system, we also have a wide range of indoor air purification services including effective air cleaners and ventilation systems. We want to see you breathing comfortably in your home, especially if you or any members of your household suffer from asthma and allergies. Our solutions can keep your air clean, and the whole family happy!

Check Out Our Current Specials!

Our professionals are trained, certified and only top-notch equipment and industry leading technology to ensure that our customers are satisfied. North Shore Home Energy LLC is a local dedicated HVAC & Refrigeration service company in the North Shore providing excellent service to homes, businesses, and restaurants. With over 25 years in the industry, North Shore Home Energy is here to educate our customers on maintenance and strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our attention to detail, on-demand service, and fair pricing will keep you running smoothly year after year. We are a proud participating contractor with the Mass Save program.

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today!

Read The Great Things That Your Neighbors Are Saying About NSHEC.

By nshec

Ways That Air Filtration Can Help You and Your Family During the Holidays

Nov 30, 2020

Ways That Air Filtration Can Help You and Your Family During the Holidays

  • Heating
air filtration

Ways That Air Filtration Can Help You and Your Family During the Holidays

During the holidays, we decorate our homes, cook festive dinners, and host fun parties for friends and family. Yet when it’s cold outside, the indoor air quality can suffer more than during other times of the year. Read on to learn why — and to find out how air filtration can help you and your family breathe a sigh of relief.

Why Indoor Air Quality Suffers During the Winter

We already spend most of our time indoors, and when it’s cold out, we’re even less inclined to go outside. In fact, plenty of us don’t like to open a window to let some fresh air in during the winter. That means there’s no circulation of fresh air inside our homes during this time. 

However, indoor air is full of contaminants such as dust, paint particles, chemicals from cleaning products, and much more. During the summer, a steady supply of fresh air removes these contaminants from the home. During the winter, however, there’s no supply of fresh air. This means that the contaminants build up and the indoor air quality diminishes. This can cause or aggravate respiratory issues, worsen colds, and even impact your skin.

How an Air Filtration System Can Help During the Holidays

During the festive season, the indoor air quality can get even worse for several reasons. Trees, wreaths and other green decorations can bring mold into the home. Holiday decorations that are used only once a year are often covered in dust. And cooking smells can linger for a long time, creating an unpleasant living environment. Fortunately, an air filtration system can help with all of this by:

  • Removing regular air contaminants: An air filtration system — especially if it has a HEPA filter — is specially designed to remove airborne contaminants. 
  • Removing mold: When we bring trees and other green decorations into our home, we’re often also bringing mold spores with them. These get into the air and can aggravate our airways. An air filtration system filters them out.
  • Removing dust: An air filter eliminates any dust from ornaments, decorations or other items that are usually in storage.
  • Eliminating smoke: If you’re hosting a party and one or more smokers attend, the smell of smoke can linger for days. At the same time, passive smoke inhalation is unhealthy and can even make healthy people feel sick. A good air filtration system will remove smoke particles from the air.  
  • Eliminating cooking smells: Whether it’s fried onions or garlic pasta sauce, nobody wants to smell yesterday’s cooking when they wake up in the morning. An air filter can eliminate stubborn cooking smells so the only thing you smell when you get up is your morning coffee!

 

Clearly, having a good air filtration system in your home during the holidays can be a significant boost for you and your family’s health and well-being. Contact your local air filtration specialist to learn more about the available options and to find out what system is best for you.

What makes North Shore Home Energy the best choice for a indoor air quality?

North Shore Home Energy should be your go-to company if you want to improve indoor air quality in the North Shore. In addition to equipping you with a working HVAC system, we also have a wide range of indoor air purification services including effective air cleaners and ventilation systems. We want to see you breathing comfortably in your home, especially if you or any members of your household suffer from asthma and allergies. Our solutions can keep your air clean, and the whole family happy!

Check Out Our Current Specials!

Our professionals are trained, certified and only top-notch equipment and industry leading technology to ensure that our customers are satisfied. North Shore Home Energy LLC is a local dedicated HVAC & Refrigeration service company in the North Shore providing excellent service to homes, businesses, and restaurants. With over 25 years in the industry, North Shore Home Energy is here to educate our customers on maintenance and strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our attention to detail, on-demand service, and fair pricing will keep you running smoothly year after year. We are a proud participating contractor with the Mass Save program.

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today!

Read The Great Things That Your Neighbors Are Saying About NSHEC.

By nshec

10 Warning Signs That a Furnace Replacement Is Imminent

Nov 16, 2020

10 Warning Signs That a Furnace Replacement Is Imminent

  • Heating
furnace replacement

10 Warning Signs That a Furnace Replacement Is Imminent

The winter is fast approaching and when that happens we know what to expect – shorter days and cooler nights.  If you are a homeowner who lives in a snowy climate, chances are you will be checking your furnace for proper performance.  Now would be a good time to troubleshoot it or you may not have heat during the fall and winter. A furnace that hasn’t been tuned up will run you into high energy costs, not to mention the price you must pay for maintenance or repairs. Getting it done now will give you peace of mind, ensure that you have reliable heat for the winter and save you the risk of replacement later, or having to worry about repair costs.  Here are 10 signs that let you know if your furnace needs troubleshooting.

1. Your Furnace Sounds Like a Monster

No furnace is completely soundless, but if it is making noises like a hungry tiger on the prowl for food -groaning, whining, banging – repair may include replacing a loose belt, priming the ignition, or finding the correct component to replace it with.  Troubleshooting as soon as you hear those noises and you will be on your way to to quickly remedying the situation.

2. Turning Up the Thermostat Doesn’t Do the Job Anymore

Your natural reaction to feeling cold is to turn up your thermostat to a temperature where you feel comfortable again.  Lately, however, this just doesn’t work anymore. Now you won’t have the proper heat during the cold season months.  This suggests that the thermostat may be on the blink, or your ducts might be leaking.  For constant, reliable heat, call in a specialist to see if the problem is your thermostat and he will suggest a replacement.

3. Your Electric Bill Skyrocketed

When you’re paying more than you normally do for electricity it means your furnace isn’t working properly.  Rather than doing guesswork , it is best to call a specialist in so that they can remedy the problem.

4. Yellow Pilot Signal

If you notice that the pilot light on your furnace is glowing yellow you probably think everything is alright. This is just as big a warning as the yellow traffic signs on street corners.  A yellow light indicates that the gas balance of your furnace is not in good condition.  What you want is for the flame to be blue, which means that the gases are perfectly balanced.  Yellow means that carbon monoxide is being emitted, which is dangerous, and lethal to you and your family.

5. You Have Difficulty Starting and Keeping Your Furnace On

This is a sure sign that you need furnace repairs.  Problems can range from improper wiring, a broken fan motor or getting a new pilot light.  Most furnace repair companies will provide easy financing provided you catch the problem before it becomes too severe.

6. Your Family is Experiencing Respiratory Problems

When your furnace needs fixing you may notice that it is linked to frequent problems with breathing such as asthma and chest related illnesses.  A system that doesn’t work properly pours dust, mold and other pathogens in the air which circulate in your home. Diminished air quality is an incentive for getting your furnace fixed as soon as possible.

7. Hot and Cold Spots

If you constantly feel a draft while your furnace is on it means that it is no longer strong enough to heat your entire home.  If you find ice forming on your roof this may indicate that the heat from your house is escaping through the attic rather than keeping place in the living section where it is supposed to be.  Getting your furnace tuned-up will provide greater efficiency by getting rid of those cold and hot spots.

8. Air Condensation

You may not need furnace repairs for condensation, but if it keeps up it could mean you’ll be making constant calls for checkups that could lead to a higher risk of replacement. It is best to only allow two minor furnace issues occur in succession before you call for a maintenance person.  

9. Your Furnace is a Dinosaur

The average furnace last between 10 to 20 years with a good unit lasting into the upper level of that range. If you have had your furnace for over 15 years, now is a good time to begin looking for a new one.  A new furnace gives constant, reliable heat, eliminates repair costs and maintenance visits.

10. Your Furnace Gives Off an Unusual Odor

Your furnace is only supposed to have the scent of fresh gas or oil if you are using it for the first time of the season.  If after several consecutive uses, there is still a strange smell during your generator use, then something isn’t normal. Contact a specialist right away to diagnose the problem.  Strange odors are more serious than you might think.  Not only does it mean your unit is not functioning properly, but it also poses safety hazards to your environment.

 

What makes North Shore Home Energy the best choice for a furnace replacement?

At North Shore Home Energy, the experts in furnace replacement and maintenance, work to make the entire process as seamless as possible for your home. Our professionals are trained, certified and only top-notch equipment and industry leading technology to ensure that our customers are satisfied.  Contact North Shore Home Energy today to learn more about how we can equip your home with a new furnace. North Shore Home Energy LLC is a small local dedicated HVAC & Refrigeration service company in the North Shore providing excellent service to homes, businesses, and restaurants. With over 25 years in the industry, North Shore Home Energy is here to educate our customers on maintenance and strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our attention to detail, on-demand service, and fair pricing will keep you running smoothly year after year. We are a proud participating contractor with the Mass Save program.

Contact North Shore Home Energy Today!

Read The Great Things That Your Neighbors Are Saying About NSHEC.

By nshec

8 Signs You Need A Ductless Heating System Repair

Oct 30, 2020

8 Signs You Need A Ductless Heating System Repair

  • Heating
Ductless Heating Repair

8 Signs You Need A Ductless Heating System Repair

The winter season is almost here, which means we’re all thinking about the same thing… our ductless heating systems. Well, maybe you’re thinking about holiday treats, family time, and gift-giving, but don’t forget that this is the best time to prep your heating too. Your heating appliances are used the most during the holidays so it’s crucial to tune up and repair any damages. Ductless heating systems can be a popular choice for homeowners because of their energy efficiency and low maintenance, but they can still be prone to damages. Nothing makes for a miserable winter than a busted heater, which is why it’s crucial to check for potential damages and schedule a ductless heating system repair.

When A Ductless Heating System Repair Is Needed

Just like any major appliance, your ductless heating system is prone to a variety of problems. The average lifespan of a ductless heating system is usually up to 20 years with proper maintenance. Over time, your heater breaks down from use and damages. You may also be dealing with more problems if your ductless heating system is nearing the end of its lifespan. It’s best to catch and repair the problems early, as that ensures your heater will work effectively this winter. To stay warm this winter, here are a few problems to watch out for.

  • Leaking fluids. Your ductless heating should never leak any fluids, but if it is, your heater could be leaking refrigerant. In order to transfer heat throughout your home, your ductless heating system is equipped with refrigerant. Refrigerant is toxic for your health and a heater empty of refrigerant is nothing more than a fan. If your ductless heating system is leaking fluids, it’s time for a repair.
  • Ice buildup. Whether it’s in the middle of the summer or in the dead of winter, your ductless system can experience problems. If something is wrong with the air conditioning portion of your ductless system, it will affect your heating. Ice buildup on a ductless system might seem harmless when you’re using the air conditioning, but it’s usually a sign that there’s something wrong with the evaporator coil. A dirty coil prevents your ductless system from functioning properly.
  • Lack of efficiency. Starting from day one, your ductless heating system’s efficiency gradually starts to decline. If you start to notice that you’re ductless heating system is cycling more often to keep up with your heating demands, it could be time for a repair.
  • Higher utility bills. As your ductless heating system ages, it wears down and loses its efficiency. A ductless heater usually lasts for 20 years with the proper care, but it’s full of components that can break apart from use and needs repair. The older the heater, the longer it runs to keep your house warm which results in higher utility bills.
  • Unusual sounds. If you start hearing loud or unusual sounds coming out of your ductless heating system, it could be time for a repair. Inside are several different moving parts, and if damaged, they’ll make noises. Squealing indicates that there could be a problem with the fan motor belt. A hissing sound could mean a refrigerant leak.
  • A lack of heat. It sounds obvious, but if you don’t feel any heat coming out of your ductless heating system, it’s in need of urgent repair. The problem could be a clogged air filter or an electrical malfunction. If your ductless system isn’t properly conditioning your home, it’s best to call an HVAC technician.
  • Foul smells. If you start to smell something funky coming out of your ductless heating system, the culprit could be somewhere inside the unit. Foul odors could be caused by the evaporator coil clogged with mold or bacteria. The condensate line could also be clogged, and the water in the pan has mildew. Mold is toxic to your health. If the ductless heating system starts to smell, you’ll want to repair it immediately.
  • The outdoor unit doesn’t work. Everything inside your house may be functioning fine, but your ductless heating system has an outdoor unit that can wear down as well. If you notice something is off with your outdoor unit, it’s time to call an HVAC technician.

What makes North Shore Home Energy the best choice for a Ductless Heating System Repair?

At North Shore Home Energy, the experts in split system heating unit installation and maintenance, work to make the entire process as seamless as possible for your home. Our professionals are trained, certified and only top-notch equipment and industry leading technology to ensure that our customers are satisfied.  Contact North Shore Home Energy today to learn more about how we can equip your home with a ductless-split system heating system. North Shore Home Energy LLC is a small local dedicated HVAC & Refrigeration service company in the North Shore providing excellent service to homes, businesses, and restaurants. With over 25 years in the industry, North Shore Home Energy is here to educate our customers on maintenance and strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our attention to detail, on-demand service, and fair pricing will keep you running smoothly year after year. We are a proud participating contractor with the Mass Save program.

By nshec

5 Reasons to Call For a Furnace Inspection

Oct 15, 2020

5 Reasons to Call For a Furnace Inspection

  • Heating
furnace inspection in Kingston by North Shore Home Energy

With your AC properly shut down, it’s time to consider how you’ll stay warm this winter. You might have a furnace, but there’s a good chance you haven’t been using it and it has built up a bunch of dust. If you worry it might not work its best, you can always call us to perform a furnace inspection. By calling North Shore Home Energy for an inspection, you’ll be sure that your furnace will run through the winter!

Here are five reasons you should call us for a furnace inspection:

 

Extend your furnace’s life

We all know that ignoring the needs of your appliances and systems never leads to any good. Not getting regular maintenance for your furnace will hurt its energy efficiency and overall lifespan. Also, poorly-maintained furnaces are much more prone to breaking down.

 

Cheaper than full repairs

Furnace inspections cost money, but they’re a lot cheaper than repairing a broken furnace. If you call us for an inspection and we find any small problems, we’ll fix it up right then and there. This will protect your furnace from problems that could break your furnace in the future.

 

Ensure your furnace’s health

Sometimes you may not be sure whether your furnace needs to be replaced. When you get your furnace inspected, you’ll get a good idea of whether you need a replacement. If you’ve scheduled your inspection early in the season, you’ll have plenty of time to find a replacement.

 

Avoid dangerous gas leaks

Gas furnaces that aren’t properly cared for can be serious dangers for your family and home. They’re capable of creating carbon monoxide, a gas which is deadly to people and most animals. Also, damaged gas furnaces can leak flammable gasses that can ignite and cause a house fire.

 

Better energy efficiency

Running a furnace can take up a good part of your energy bill – about half of it annually, in most cases. Fortunately, regular inspections can reduce this percentage. Many mechanical problems can hurt your furnace’s efficiency, but they can be fixed or prevented with regular maintenance. Well-tuned furnaces can use about 30% less energy than usual.

 

What makes North Shore Home Energy the best choice for checking on my furnace?

North Shore Home Energy LLC is a small local dedicated HVAC & Refrigeration service company in the North Shore providing excellent service to homes, businesses, and restaurants. With over 25 years in the industry, North Shore Home Energy is here to educate our customers on maintenance and strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our attention to detail, on-demand service, and fair pricing will keep you running smoothly year after year. We are a proud participating contractor with the Mass Save program. Ask us about rebates up to $3,500 and 0% financing for 7 years. Call North Shore Home Energy today to learn more about keeping your furnace working well!

By nshec

7 Common Causes of Home Heating Loss

Sep 14, 2020

7 Common Causes of Home Heating Loss

  • Heating
home heating service by North Shore Home Energy

With the cooler months quickly arriving, maintaining heat in your home is essential to cut down on costs and energy waste. It’s also vital to avoid becoming a human popsicle.  Feel as though you are turning up the heat too often? There are quite a few common causes of home heating loss that quickly lead to significantly higher bills and energy waste. Even small drafts of cold air from an open window can have a major effect on upcoming bills. It’s also likely to cause long-term poor furnace efficiency, increased chance of illness exposure, and discomfort in cooler weather. 

Open Doors and Windows

Leaving doors and windows open is a quick way to deplete heat from the home, accounting for a surprising 10-11% of all heating loss each year. Be sure you caulk and repair spaces in the home prior to the winter and check for weather-stripping to patch up windows and doors before kicking on the heat. Check door window glass and screens, replacing them if they are not fully intact or secure. Additionally, check for dents or other possible openings of exterior doors in your house.

Electrical Outlets

In some homes, cold air is able to seep through electrical sockets, causing a 2% heating loss. Not all electrical outlets are easy to spot, so be sure to check more than once when entering each room in your house. Ensure you check all outlets in your home for unwanted cool air coming in and install foam gaskets as a solution for those that are causing a draft. 

Basements

Checking your entire basement for potential leaks within vents and fans can save you up to 4% of household heat loss during the wintertime. Because basements are sometimes neglected (and may even going unused for periods of time), it’s highly advisable to conduct a thorough inspection before you begin running your heat. If you are unable to check vents and fans yourself in your basement, professional companies are available to review and repair any leaks prior to winter.

Recessed Lighting

One of the lesser-known causes of heat loss includes recessed lighting, which can take a massive 13% of your total heat. Having recessed lighting installed in your ceiling can be detrimental to budgeting if you have a plan in place, and can be resolved with effective weather stripping to properly prepare. 

Air Conditioners

At times it seems the winter arrives just as summer is ending. Even so, it is important to remove current window air conditioning units swiftly to keep cold air from freely flowing into the home, especially when running your heat. Some homeowners prefer keeping window air conditioning units in place throughout an entire year, which, over time, is likely to cause cool air drafts from surrounding areas of the unit. Properly store your air conditioner away in its original box or in a safe, dry space to keep your windows closed at all times. This will help you to save as much energy as possible while cutting back on overspending on heat.

Ceiling Openings

If you have any ceiling openings, leaks, or cracks in your walls and floors, you run the risk of losing up to a whopping 31% of heat when you are running your heat regularly to keep warm. Sealing leaks and cracks, replacing ceiling tiles, and properly insulating all rooms in your home will cut down on energy waste and heat usage. Checking your roof prior to cooler months is another way to spot any potential openings that you may have been previously unaware of in past years. It is also recommended to check on attic insulation if you have not done so in a few years.

Fireplaces

Although fireplaces can be wonderful to cozy up to on bitter and freezing nights, it’s important to inspect them in order to avoid potentially costly mistakes. If you have a fireplace in the home, be sure to check the unit out itself before running your heat this year. When you have missing or improperly installed fireplace dampers you allow cold air to move up and out of the chimney freely, costing you more in heating bills while not sufficiently heating your home enough, especially on extremely cold nights.

Doing a thorough sweep of your home and checking all potential areas of energy loss is a great way to gain greater peace of mind during cold months. Taking the time to properly prepare your home for the colder months of the year is beneficial not only to help cut back on heating bills but also to better avoid potential illness by allowing more cold air in when unnecessary. By taking care of potential risks of home heating loss in your home this winter, you can relax by saving money on your heating bills, extending the life of your furnace, and enjoying a healthier atmosphere indoors.

By nshec