As the leaves change color and the weather starts to get a little cooler, it’s important to remember to take some time to prepare your home HVAC system for fall. Proper preparation can help keep you and your family safe and comfortable all season long! In this blog post, we will discuss seven simple HVAC safety tips that you can use to protect your home and wallet this fall. Follow these tips, and you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that your HVAC system is prepared for whatever the season throws at it—and if you need help, the experts from Elevated Comfort are available anytime!

HVAC Safety Tips Are Mostly Maintenance Related

You might be surprised to know that the majority of HVAC safety tips are actually related to maintenance. Regular HVAC maintenance is important all year round, but it becomes even more crucial in the fall as your system will be working overtime to keep your home comfortable. Follow these maintenance tips, and you’ll help ensure that your HVAC system runs safely and efficiently all season long.

6 HVAC Safety Tips for Fall

Without further ado, here are seven HVAC safety tips to help you enjoy a safe and comfortable fall and to keep your system running at peak efficiency year-round.

1. Inspect your HVAC system regularly.

You should inspect your HVAC system at least once a year to make sure that it is in good working condition. If you notice any problems, such as strange noises or leaks, you should contact a professional for help.

2. Change your air filter regularly.

One of the most important things you can do to keep your HVAC system running efficiently is to change the air filter regularly. Depending on your system type, you may need to change the filter every month or two. A furnace, for example, will require a different type of air filter than a boiler or a heat pump.

3. Clean your vents and registers.

Another important maintenance task is to clean your vents and registers. Over time, dust and dirt can build up on these surfaces, which can impede airflow and reduce efficiency. You should clean them with a vacuum attachment or a brush on a regular basis.

4. Keep flammable materials away from your HVAC unit.

Because HVAC units contain electrical components, it is important to keep flammable materials away from them. This includes things like gasoline, cleaning supplies, and paper products. If you must store these items near your unit, be sure to keep them in a safe place where they cannot come into contact with the unit itself.

5. Do not attempt repairs yourself.

If you notice any problems with your HVAC system, do not attempt to repair it yourself. This is a job for a trained professional, as attempting repairs yourself could void your warranty or cause further damage to the unit.

6. Schedule annual maintenance appointments.

In addition to inspecting your HVAC system regularly, you should also schedule an annual maintenance appointment with a qualified technician. This will help to ensure that your system is running efficiently and that any potential problems are caught early on.

HVAC Safety FAQ

When putting this list together, we wanted to get out ahead of the most common questions we receive about HVAC safety. If you have any additional questions that aren’t answered here, feel free to reach out to our team, and we’ll be happy to help.

Is it safe to use my HVAC system if it’s been damaged in a storm?

If your HVAC system has been damaged in a storm, it’s best to err on the side of caution and have it inspected by a professional before using it again. Even if the damage doesn’t appear to be severe, there could be underlying issues that could cause further damage or even pose a safety hazard if the system is used without proper repair.

What are some common HVAC safety hazards?

There are several potential HVAC safety hazards that homeowners should be aware of, including:

• Carbon monoxide poisoning: This can occur if there is a gas leak in the HVAC system. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the premises immediately and call your gas company.
• Electrical shock: This can happen if you attempt to repair your HVAC system without disconnecting it from the power source first. Always make sure to shut off power to the unit before attempting any repairs.
• Fire: An HVAC system can start a fire if it’s not properly maintained. Regularly check for dust and debris build-up, and make sure all electrical connections are secure.
• Falling objects: HVAC units are typically installed on rooftops or other high places. If the unit isn’t properly secured, it could fall and injure someone below.

How often should a furnace be serviced?

Most furnaces need to be serviced once a year. However, if you have an oil furnace, it may need to be serviced more often. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.

When should I service my HVAC system?

It’s generally best to schedule HVAC servicing in the fall, before winter weather arrives. This will help ensure that your system is running efficiently and can handle the demands of the colder months.

How much does HVAC servicing cost?

The cost of HVAC servicing varies depending on the type of system and the scope of work required. A basic tune-up may cost around $100, while a more comprehensive service could cost up to $500.

Do gas furnaces need to be cleaned?

Yes, gas furnaces should be cleaned on a regular basis. A build-up of dirt and debris can cause the furnace to work harder than necessary, which can lead to premature wear and tear.

Why do I smell burning hair the first time turning on a furnace after summer ends?

This is likely due to the presence of dust and debris in the furnace. When the furnace is turned on, the heat can cause these particles to ignite, which can produce a burning smell.

Are gas furnaces safe?

Yes, gas furnaces are safe when they are properly maintained and serviced. However, if there is a problem with the furnace, it can pose a safety hazard.

Get More HVAC Safety Tips and Expert Help from Elevated Comfort

The trained HVAC professionals at Elevated Comfort can help you with all your HVAC needs, including safety tips and maintenance. We offer a comprehensive HVAC maintenance program that covers boiler, heat pump, and furnace maintenance, and more! For more information on heat pump systems, see our last article. Ready to start taking HVAC safety more seriously? Call today to schedule your service!

If you’re in the market for a new heating system this fall, you may be considering a heat pump HVAC system. Heat pump systems have been growing in popularity in recent years and for good reason! They offer many benefits over traditional AC and furnace systems. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the basics of heat pump HVAC systems and why they are a great option for Santa Rosa, CA homeowners. We’ll also answer some of the most common questions about heat pumps, so you can decide if one is right for you!

What Is a Heat Pump HVAC System and How Does It Work?

So, what is a heat pump HVAC system? Heat pumps are a type of mechanical-compression cycle refrigeration system. In other words, they move heat from one place to another to heat or cool your home. Heat pumps can be used for heating and cooling, making them a very versatile option. It uses a refrigerant to absorb heat from the air or ground and then pumps it into your home.

There are two main types of heat pumps: air-source and ground-source. Air-source heat pumps are the most common type and use the air outside to heat or cool your home. Ground-source heat pumps, also called geothermal heat pumps, use the ground to transfer heat. The heat from the ground is transferred into your home in the winter and transferred out of your home in the summer.

Heat Pump HVAC Components

The heat pump thermostat controls the heat pump and regulates the temperature in your home. The thermostat has a sensing element that monitors the air temperature around it. When the air temperature falls below the set point, the thermostat signals the heat pump to turn on. The heat pump then begins circulating refrigerant through its system.

This heat pump diagram explains how the heating cycle works and how the heat pump will be installed in your home. As the refrigerant circulates, it absorbs heat from the ground and transfers it into your home. In the summer, the process is reversed. The heat pump removes heat from your home and transfers it back into the ground.

Frequently Asked Questions about Heat Pump HVAC Systems

If you’re thinking about getting a heat pump HVAC system installed this fall, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to choose a reputable company with experience in heat pump installation. Second, be sure to get a system that is the right size for your home. Heat pumps come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to choose one that will be able to heat and cool your entire home effectively. Finally, make sure to ask any questions you may have about heat pump HVAC systems. A reputable company should be able to answer any questions you have and help you choose the best system for your needs.

Who Makes the Best Heat Pump System?

The best heat pump system for your home will be the one that is properly sized for the square footage of your house. Heat pump systems are available in a variety of sizes and efficiency levels. You should consult with a qualified HVAC contractor to determine which system is right for your home. Some popular brands include Trane, Carrier, and Rheem.

What Are The Benefits of Heat Pump HVAC Systems?

Heat pump systems offer a number of benefits over traditional furnace and air conditioner systems. Heat pump systems are more energy efficient, meaning they will save you money on your monthly utility bills. Heat pump systems also have a much longer lifespan than traditional HVAC systems, so you can expect to get many years of use out of your heat pump system.

What Are The Disadvantages of Heat Pump HVAC Systems?

Heat pump systems do have some disadvantages. Heat pump systems are more expensive to install than traditional HVAC systems. Heat pump systems also require regular maintenance and repairs, so you will need to budget for these costs.

Should I Install a Heat Pump HVAC System in My Santa Rosa CA Home?

If you are looking for a more energy-efficient and cost-effective way to heat your Santa Rosa CA home, then a heat pump system is a great option. Heat pump systems are also much better for the environment, so you can feel good about installing a heat pump system in your home.

How Can I Find Heat Pump Service Near Me?

For those who live in and around Santa Rosa California, Elevated Comfort offers prompt, professional heat pump service, including installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance. If you live outside of our Northern California service area, search for “heat pump installation near me” in your favorite search engine to find heat pump HVAC contractors near you.

If you need heat pump repair, maintenance, or replacement, you can adjust your search query to match the service you need. Be sure to read reviews and do some research on the HVAC contractors that come up. This will help you find a reputable contractor that installs quality products and has the experience and skill to take care of your system without breaking your budget.

Heat Pump vs HVAC Systems

There are a number of differences when comparing the use of a furnace and air conditioning vs heat pump installation. Heat pumps are more efficient than furnaces and air conditioners because they don’t generate heat, they move it. This makes them ideal for use in places with moderate climates like Santa Rosa. Let’s take a closer look at how the dual function of a heat pump stacks up against its more specialized competition

Heat Pump vs Furnace

The debate of heat pump vs furnace is a common one. Furnaces are powered by electricity, natural gas, or oil. Heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat from the air, water, or ground outside into your home. In most cases, it costs less to operate a heat pump than it does to run a furnace and an air conditioner. Heat pumps also tend to last longer than furnaces, with a lifespan of 15-20 years.

When it comes to efficiency, heat pumps have an edge over furnaces as well. Heat pumps can reach 400% efficiency, while the most efficient furnaces are only about 98% efficient. This means that for every dollar you spend on electricity to run a heat pump, four dollars worth of heat is generated. In contrast, a furnace will only generate $0.98 worth of heat for every dollar spent on electricity. Finally, heat pumps don’t produce the waste products that furnaces do, such as carbon monoxide and other pollutants. This makes them a much cleaner option for heating your home.

Heat Pump vs AC

When it comes to cooling, the battle of a heat pump vs air conditioner is a little more clear-cut. Air conditioners have to generate cold air, which takes more energy than simply moving it around as heat pumps do. Heat pumps also have the ability to reverse their function and actually heat your home during the winter months by pulling warmth from the outside air and pumping it into your house. This saves you money because you do not have to generate new heat, you’re just using what’s already there.

Heat pumps cool just as well as regular air conditioners, but they have the added benefit of being able to heat your home as well. Heat pumps are a great option for people who want to be as energy efficient as possible.

Our Thoughts on Heat Pump HVAC Systems

So, what’s the verdict? Heat pump vs HVAC systems is a bit of a toss-up depending on your needs but, in general, heat pumps are more efficient and can save you money in the long run. Heat pumps are a great alternative to furnaces and air conditioners, especially in Santa Rosa, CA. If you’re interested in having a heat pump installed in your Santa Rosa home this fall, call Elevated Comfort – we’re your local heat pump experts! With over twenty years of experience serving the Northern California region, Elevated Comfort has the knowledge and expertise to help you select and install the perfect heat pump system for your home. Still have questions about heat pumps? Give us a call, and one of our friendly, knowledgeable staff members will be happy to answer all of your questions.

If you’re like most people, you probably only think about your home’s or office’s HVAC system when it’s not working properly. And that’s a shame, because knowing a few simple troubleshooting tips can save you a lot of time and money. Here at Elevated Comfort, we’ve seen almost every HVAC issue imaginable. So we wanted to share with our readers some of the most common problems we see, as well as how to fix them. Keep reading for 5 HVAC troubleshooting tips you’ll wish you knew sooner!

What Is HVAC Troubleshooting?

HVAC troubleshooting is the process of diagnosing and resolving problems with your home’s or office’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. It can be as simple as cleaning a dirty filter or checking to see if a fuse has blown. Or it could be more complex, like replacing a faulty compressor.

Why Is HVAC Troubleshooting Important?

Most people only think about their HVAC system when it’s not working properly. But taking the time to learn some basic troubleshooting tips can save you a lot of money in the long run. By being proactive and addressing small issues before they become big ones, you can avoid costly repairs down the road.

Plus, knowing how to troubleshoot your HVAC system can help you avoid calling in a professional every time something goes wrong. While there are some issues that definitely require the expertise of an HVAC contractor, many common problems can be fixed by homeowners themselves.

HVAC Troubleshooting vs HVAC Maintenance

Before we dive into the specific troubleshooting tips, it’s important to understand the difference between troubleshooting and preventive maintenance. Troubleshooting is only necessary when there’s an issue with your HVAC system, whereas preventive maintenance should be performed on a regular basis regardless of whether or not there are any problems.

Preventive HVAC maintenance helps to ensure that your system is running efficiently and can help prevent small issues from turning into big ones. It’s always best to consult with an HVAC professional about how often you should be performing preventive maintenance on your particular system. Now that we’ve got that straightened out, let’s take a look at some specific HVAC troubleshooting tips.

HVAC Troubleshooting: How to DIY Basic Diagnostics

If your HVAC system isn’t working properly, the first thing you should do is check for simple solutions. Sometimes, the problem can be as simple as a blown fuse or a dirty filter. If that’s the case, simply performing some basic HVAC housekeeping can save you the time and expense of calling a professional HVAC repair company like Elevated Comfort.

Tip #1: Check the Filters

One of the most common causes of HVAC problems is dirty filters. If you don’t change your filters regularly, they can become clogged with dust and debris, which can lead to reduced airflow and decreased efficiency. Additionally, dirty filters can cause a build-up of mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your health. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to check your filters regularly and replace them when necessary.

#2: Inspect the Wiring

Another common cause of HVAC issues is faulty wiring. Over time, wires can become loose or damaged, which can lead to shorts and other problems. These shorts can cause the system to overheat, which can lead to serious damage. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to inspect your wiring regularly and have any damaged or loose wires repaired or replaced by a professional.

Tip #3: Clean the Coils

Coils are an important part of your HVAC system, and they need to be kept clean in order for the system to work properly. Dust and debris can build up on the coils over time, causing them to become clogged. This can lead to reduced airflow and decreased efficiency. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to clean your coils regularly. You can do this yourself with a brush or vacuum, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.

Tip #4: Check the Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is an important part of your HVAC system, and it needs to be at the proper level in order for the system to work properly. If the refrigerant level is too low, it can cause the system to overheat and break down. If the refrigerant level is too high, it can cause the system to freeze up and stop working. To prevent either of these from happening, it’s important to check the refrigerant levels regularly and have them adjusted by a professional if necessary.

Tip #5: Get a Professional Inspection

Even if you’re regularly maintaining your HVAC system and doing your best to keep it running smoothly, there’s still a chance that something could go wrong. That’s why it’s always a good idea to have a professional inspection once a year. During an inspection, a technician will thoroughly examine your system and look for any potential problems. If they find anything, they’ll be able to fix it before it becomes a bigger issue.

When HVAC Troubleshooting Isn’t Enough

So you’ve tried everything on our list, and your HVAC system still isn’t working right? Sounds like it’s time to call in the professionals! The experienced technicians here at Elevated Comfort have seen it all when it comes to HVAC systems, and we’re ready to help you get yours back up and running. We serve homeowners and commercial property owners in Santa Rosa, CA, and throughout Northern California. We hope you found this list of HVAC troubleshooting tips helpful! Remember, if you ever have any questions or need assistance with your HVAC system, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re always happy to help!

Summer may be coming to an end, but it’s never too late to start thinking about how to lower your energy bill. One way to shrink your energy bill is to find the best AC setting for your needs. Elevated Comfort has found the best AC setting for sleep, work, and savings! With the right AC settings, you can keep your house cool and comfortable while keeping your energy bill manageable. Keep reading for more information on how to find the best AC setting for you!

The Best AC Setting For Sleep

According to the Sleep Foundation, the best AC setting for getting a good night’s sleep is 65℉.  This temperature is cool enough to promote restful sleep but not so cold that you’ll wake up shivering in the middle of the night. If you have trouble sleeping, give this AC setting a try! You can even drop it down to 60℉ if you’re still feeling too toasty.

What Is the Most Energy-Efficient Setting for Bedtime?

Here’s where things get a little tricky. If you ask a medical doctor for their recommendation for a nighttime AC setting, you’ll find that most of them recommend a cooler temperature—somewhere between 60℉ and 72℉ at the highest. This is because heat typically disturbs sleep more than cold (and why winter naps are so famously refreshing). But if you ask Energy Star for the best setting to save money, the recommendation jumps up to a sweltering 82℉.

The Best AC Setting For Work

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) recommends keeping office thermostats set somewhere between 68℉ and 76℉. There isn’t nearly as much research available on the best AC setting for productivity, but 72℉ falls right in the middle of this range and provides the best opportunity to please everyone at your office. Happy people are more productive (and there is research to back that up).

What to Set Your Home AC to While You’re Gone

While you’re at work or running errands, there’s no reason to keep your home as cool as it needs to be when you’re there. In fact, most people find that their homes are actually more comfortable when they’re set a few degrees warmer than usual when they’re gone. The recommended temperature is around 85℉, leaving enough slack to save money and keeping cool enough that your HVAC system won’t struggle to get down to temp when you get home.

The Best AC Setting For Savings

Now let’s get into the savings side of things. The Energy Star program recommends keeping your thermostat at 78℉ when you’re home and awake for the most significant energy savings.  But, of course, this temperature might not be comfortable for everyone in your home. If that’s the case, aim for the middle ground between comfort and savings by setting your thermostat to 68℉ or above. You’ll still see some energy savings while keeping things comfortable for everyone in your home.

AC Maintenance for More Energy Savings

We hope you have found these recommendations for the best AC setting for sleep, work, and savings helpful in deciding on the ideal temperature for your home and office! By following these simple tips, you can keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long while shrinking your energy bill. Give our team a call today to learn more about how we can help you save money on your energy costs with our AC maintenance services and our maintenance program!

Fall is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about air conditioner replacements. If your air conditioner is more than ten years old, it might be time for AC replacement. Many homeowners put off this home improvement project because they think it will be too expensive or too much of a hassle.

Benefits of AC Replacement

However, there are many benefits to AC replacement that make it worth considering this fall. Call a qualified AC replacement expert like Elevated Comfort for a system evaluation and estimate before you buy. Here are five reasons to replace your air conditioner this fall:

Increased Energy Efficiency

When your AC is old, it might not be as energy-efficient as a newer model. This means that it’s using more energy to cool your home, which costs you more money on your energy bill.

However, if you replace your AC with a newer model, you can save yourself some money on your energy bill. New air conditioners are more efficient than older models, so they use less energy to cool your home. This means that you’ll spend less money on your energy bill each month, which can add up to significant savings over time.

So if you’re looking for ways to save money on your energy bill, AC replacement is a great option. Not only will you save money on your monthly bills, but you’ll also reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment.

Elevated Comfort

One of the main reasons to replace your air conditioner is for increased comfort. A newer, more efficient AC unit will provide you with improved cooling performance and a more comfortable environment. With a newer AC replacement unit, you’ll be able to cool your home more quickly and evenly, ensuring that you’re comfortable no matter where you are in your house.

If you’re looking for increased comfort in your home, it’s definitely worth considering a new air conditioner. A new AC unit can help you save money on your energy bills and make your home a more comfortable place to live.

AC Replacement Is Cost-Effective

AC replacement can be a costly endeavor, but it may be more cost-effective in the long run. An old, inefficient AC unit can use twice as much energy as a newer model and can drive up your cooling costs.

Replacing your AC may seem like a big investment, but it can actually save you money in the long run. A new, energy-efficient AC unit will pay for itself in reduced cooling costs over time. So if your AC is in need of repair, it may be more cost-effective to replace it altogether.

New Unit, New Warranty

When you purchase a new air conditioner from Elevated Comfort, you can be sure that you’re getting a quality product with a warranty to match. With our new units, you know that your new AC will keep you cool all summer long – and if something goes wrong, we’ll be there to help.

Elevated Comfort offers a 10-year parts and compressor warranty on all of our new air conditioners, so you can be sure your investment is protected. We also offer free in-home estimates, so you can be sure that your new AC will fit perfectly into your home.

Peak AC Replacement Season

When is the best time to replace your AC unit? Most people would say in the summer, when the weather is hottest and you need it most. However, fall is actually the best time to replace your AC unit.

The weather is cooling down, so you won’t have to use as much energy to cool your home. And since the holidays are coming up, you may be spending more time at home than usual. It’s a great time to get a new AC unit installed and start enjoying the comfort of your own home.

If you’re looking for a new AC unit, Elevated Comfort has some of the best deals around. We offer a wide selection of high-quality units, and our experts can help you choose the perfect one for your home. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services, or visit our website to see our latest offers.

Why Choose Elevated Comfort for AC Replacement in NorCal?

Are you in the market for a new AC unit? If so, consider Elevated Comfort. We offer a wide selection of high-quality AC units, and our experts can help you choose the perfect one for your home. We also offer some of the best deals around, so you can be sure you’re getting the best value for your money.

Why choose Elevated Comfort for your AC replacement? Here are just a few of the reasons:

• We have a wide selection of units to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
• Our experts are knowledgeable and experienced, and they can help you choose the right unit for your home.
• We offer great deals on our products, so you can get the most value for your money.
• We have a reputation for quality and service, and we’re dedicated to exceeding our customers’ expectations.

If you’re looking for a quality AC unit at an affordable price, Elevated Comfort is the company to call. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services, or check out our latest offers. We look forward to helping you find the perfect AC unit for your home or business.

Anyone who’s ever had their air ducts cleaned knows that it’s a seriously dusty job. Not just a little dusty, but enough dust to make you sneeze and cough for days afterwards. If you’re seeing signs that professional air duct cleaning might be in your near future, read on. We’ve put together a list of seven signs that you need to call in the pros. Keep an eye out for any of these indicators, and don’t wait too long – the sooner you get your air ducts cleaned, the better!

When Is It Time for Professional Air Duct Cleaning?

The most common indicator that you need professional air duct cleaning is air quality problems that cause  respiratory issues, such as sneezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. If you or anyone in your family is having these kinds of problems and you can’t seem to find the source, it might be time to call in a professional. Another sign that you need air duct cleaning is if there’s visible mold growth inside the ductwork. This is a serious problem because mold can cause respiratory issues and other health problems. If you see mold, don’t try to clean it yourself – call a professional immediately.

If your heating and cooling system seems to be working overtime, that could be a sign that your ductwork is full of dirt and debris. When the system has to work harder to move air through the ducts, it uses more energy and your utility bills go up. If you have any concerns about the air quality in your home, it’s a good idea to get your ductwork cleaned by a professional. Air duct cleaning is a relatively quick and easy process that can make a big difference in the quality of the air you breathe. Let’s take a deeper look at these seven reasons for professional air duct cleaning.

Hire a Professional Air Duct Cleaner for Double-Digit Homes

If your home is more than 10 years old, it’s likely time for a professional duct cleaning. The older your home is, the more likely it is that your ducts need to be cleaned. Over time, dust and other debris can build up in your ductwork, making it more difficult for your heating and cooling system to do its job. A professional air duct cleaning can remove all the dirt and debris from your ductwork, improving the quality of the air you breathe and making your heating and cooling system run more efficiently.

Recent Renovations? You Need Professional Air Duct Cleaning

If you’ve recently had renovations done to your home, a duct cleaning is a good idea. Construction dust and debris can get into your ducts and cause them to become dirty. A professional duct cleaning will remove all the dirt, dust and debris from your ductwork, leaving it clean and fresh. This is especially important because leftover construction debris can contain different, more dangerous particles than run-of-the-mill dust.

Pet Dander Dangers and Sick Building Syndrome

If you have pets, you should have your ducts cleaned every year. Pet hair and dander can build up in your ducts over time and cause allergies or asthma symptoms. In addition, if you have a cat that scratches furniture or urinates in your home, these particles can end up in your ductwork and cause an unpleasant smell. If you work in an office, you may have heard of sick building syndrome (SBS). This is when people who work or live in a building experience health problems that are thought to be caused by the environment they share. If the ducts in your home or office are full of dust and debris, it’s possible that this could be contributing to SBS symptoms.

Professional Duct Cleaning Reduces Asthma

If you have allergies or asthma, regular duct cleanings are recommended. Allergens and asthma triggers can collect in your ducts over time and cause problems for people with respiratory allergies or asthma. Dust, pollen, mold spores, and other airborne contaminants can build up in your ducts over time, causing the air you breathe to be less clean. A professional duct cleaning will remove these triggers from your environment, providing relief for allergy and asthma sufferers.

Smoke and Soot Demand Pro Duct Cleaning

Duct cleaning is also important if you smoke or have a fireplace. Smoke and soot from cigarettes or fires can accumulate in your ducts over time and cause air quality problems. A professional duct cleaning will remove these contaminants from your environment, improving the air you breathe. Dirty ducts can also be a fire hazard. Soot and debris can build up in your ducts and block the flow of air. This can create a fire hazard in your home. A professional duct cleaning will remove this risk by removing the soot and debris from your ducts.

Get Professional Duct Cleaning for Better Energy Bills

Duct cleaning can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Dirty ducts can lead to decreased airflow and increased energy usage.  A professional duct cleaning will remove the dirt and debris from your ducts, allowing your system to run more efficiently. This can lead to lower energy bills for you while your system enjoys a well-earned break and your family thrives in a healthier environment.

Duct Maintenance Matters

Duct cleaning is an important part of preventive maintenance for your home. By having your ducts cleaned on a regular basis, you can help keep your home healthy and comfortable year-round. In addition to improved airflow and energy efficiency, regular duct cleaning can also help extend the life of your heating and cooling system. You should have your ducts cleaned at least once every few years. While duct cleaning is important, it’s only one part of maintaining a healthy home. Be sure to also keep up with other preventive maintenance tasks like changing your furnace filter regularly and scheduling annual tune-ups.

Why Choose Elevated Comfort for Professional Air Duct Cleaning?

Cleaning the ducts in your home or office is not a do-it-yourself job. It requires special equipment and training to do it properly. Duct cleaning professionals have the right equipment to clean all types of ductwork, including flexible ducts used in many modern buildings. They also know how to use this equipment safely and effectively to avoid damaging your ducts or harming themselves. Elevated Comfort technicians have decades of combined experience to put to use for you, so get your free estimate today!

It’s that time of year again – it’s hot, and you’re probably thinking about ways to cool down. But have you thought about your water heater? Annual maintenance is an important part of keeping your home running smoothly. In this behind the scenes plumbing tutorial, Nick explains the best practices for flushing a water heater during annual maintenance.

How Often Should You Flush a Water Heater?

The tech featured in the video above is Nick. With elevated comfort plumbing, heating, and air today we’re going to talk about doing a water heater flush, anode rod check, just a safety inspection should be done yearly. Once a year, every year this is a 40 gallon American standard. First things first we want to figure out how old this system is. You know usually you can tell by the model number. Any technician should be giving you that information.

Plumbing Behind the Scenes: Step-by-Step Water Heater Flush

First, we’ll shut the water down to the water heater. This is our domestic cold water inlet. From there, what we do is shut that guy down. We’re going to hook up a standard garden hose to the drain valve and drain it out. This will allow us to descale the tank itself. Getting the most minimal amount of calcium, sand, and debris out of the tank is something that you want to do from the first year it’s installed. If you wait 10 years and then try to do it, it’s not really going to do anything for your system.

Once that’s all descaled, we come over to this system. This system has a hex head style anode rod inside the unit. The anode rod is magnesium with city water, and their zinc with well water. Otherwise you start getting that rotten egg smell. So for this system, in particular, city water application is a magnesium rod. Now there are two places these can be on this system: on a hex style or a nipple style. You know, some of the older systems have a hex style, and others have a nipple style. Your plumber will be able to determine where the anode rod is located in the tank.

In this case, we’re going to use a big impact wrench with a socket that’s 27 millimeters to unscrew the rod. It should just unthread out of there. This one is missing for some reason – it has half the rod going – but it should be about the length of the tank, going all the way down to right above the burner. What this does is it attracts calcium and sediment minerals and debris things like that. Hard water can cause these systems to overheat, so it’s important to swap out the filter every two to four years.

Behind the Scenes Tip: Flush Often for Stable Temps

So if you are a household that is constantly turning up the temperature on your water heater, you know that every year or every six months it’s probably because you haven’t had it looked at in a while. It is very important that your plumber and you work together to make the best judgment on whether one of these needs to be replaced or if the tank is long gone and needs to be replaced entirely, or if you can put a new anode rod in it. If your inner rod looks good, it just needs to be wiped clean; it may have another year or two in it.

Then, you throw it back in and cinch everything down after that process. You know we’re sure there’ll be questions involved but your plumber’s going to get rid of the hose close up that bib and slowly fill this guy back up releasing air either out of the TMP valve if it’s new enough or through a inside fixture like a bathtub or something like that. So once that’s all done, your system’s good. You kick it back to 120 degrees and give it 30 to 45 minutes – that is your water heater flush.

Why Start at a Bathtub?

The reason why we want to start at a bathtub instead of a kitchen faucet is because if there is any sediment minerals inside of the tank, we don’t want to stir it up and suck it through the faucet. We always want to go to a bathtub or something with a big amount of water that comes out – this is your water heater flush. Hopefully this is helpful, like we said, with a system like this or a process of how to maintain these- it’s like a car, right? You have to change the oil, rotate the tires, and clean the air filters. We ask so much of these things every day – to give us hot showers after a long day, to be sanitary when we’re washing our hands, and to do dishes – that we have to take care of them.

Want More Behind the Scenes HVAC and Plumbing Tips?

Our channel features weekly tune-up tips and more. However, maintenance is always the best behind the scenes secret that we can pass on, it’s the difference between six years of use letting it sit or thirteen to fifteen years if you take good care of your equipment. Number one: a good manufacturer and a homeowner that knows how to take care of their equipment are very important. We have a monthly plan for nineteen dollars a month. It’s something that we come out and do for you, which is really cool. Hopefully that’s helpful, guys. Thanks for reading and have a good day!

When I, Matthew McDonald, founded the Elevated Comfort HVAC company, I had a vision for providing the highest quality heating and cooling services to his community. With over two decades of experience in the home improvement industry, I was confident in my ability to succeed. I joined an elite business mentorship group and surrounded myself with top experts in order to accelerate my personal and professional growth. Through hard work, dedication, and loyalty to my clients and team, Elevated Comfort has become one of the fastest-growing HVAC companies in the region!

The Backstory of an HVAC Company Founder

Hi, my name is Matt McDonald. I just wanted to tell you a little bit about myself. I got into the construction industry about 22 years ago. I learned how to work hard and work efficiently. Construction was a tough job, working outside all the time. But my wife and I got married, she was pregnant with my son, and I realized that I wanted a better life for us. I knew a lot of guys in the industry, and I had a tight group of guys. So I eventually had the epiphany: I started to think of ways to start my own business.

I thought this industry needed another honest company to fill the void in the market. As a top producer at a local company, I felt I knew what the market needed from an HVAC company. So finally, I joined the Arete Syndicate group. Andy Frisella and Ed Mylett lead it. There’s a lot of fear behind taking the next step and being able to talk with like-minded people. This network of professionals at my back gave me the courage to start my own business.

Starting an HVAC Company

The hardest thing is just to start from day one. We try to do everything the right way–financially, practically, and ethically. We pride ourselves on being honest with customers and providing five-star quality service. You’d be surprised how far that goes.  HVAC is a very old industry and it’s very easy to do things the wrong way or take shortcuts and we just don’t operate that way.

My vision for this company is to be number one. I want to own the most profitable, best customer service, largest HVAC and plumbing company in northern California. I want to have a hundred employees who all have amazing jobs, everybody loves to come to work, and everybody makes money. Our customers are happy, we’re doing good work in the community, and we’re taking care of people. That’s really my vision.

I also want to take care of my team. I have a great group of young men working for me now and I want to see them succeed. I want to see them make a lot of money, buy houses, have families, and just be happy. That’s important to me too.

The Buck Stops at the Top

Every issue that comes into the company, whether you’re a customer or an employee, everyone’s problems come through me. So I make sure that everybody is taking care of customers and employees and everything is going to come through me so that we’re doing the right thing.

I just want something I can pass down to my kids and have them grow up learning the trade as I did.  That means helping the guys clean the trucks, learning how to do the trade from the bottom up, starting to do ductwork, plumbing, digging, and then working their way up to service management and then eventually owner. I’m really proud of my team. I have an incredible staff and great technicians, so we’ve just been able to build something really special.

Final Thoughts on Building an HVAC Company

Thank you for reading! The HVAC industry has a lot of room for growth, and we’re excited to be a part of that evolution. If you’re looking for the best HVAC company in Northern California, look no further than Elevated Comfort! We offer top-quality HVAC services at competitive prices, and our friendly staff is always available to answer any questions you may have. If you require HVAC services like AC installation, heat pump repair, duct cleaning, and more, we’ll be happy to help you out in any way possible. Please don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a visit from one of our highly trained and experienced technicians!

If you’ve been feeling sick lately and can’t seem to shake the feeling, you may be experiencing sick building syndrome. SBS is a condition that affects many people who spend time in indoor environments. The good news is that there are ways to reduce the incidence of sick building syndrome. In this blog post, we will discuss what sick building syndrome is and how you can recognize the symptoms. We’ll also provide information on air quality services from Elevated Comfort that can help reduce the symptoms of SBS.

What Is Sick Building Syndrome?

When a number of people in a building have nonspecific symptoms that are not caused by a specific identifiable factor, the structure is said to be suffering from sick building syndrome. These symptoms should be temporally linked to being in the building, go away when the person isn’t there, and afflict numerous individuals within the structure. Building-related illnesses with a specific identifiable cause for the signs should not be confused with sick building syndrome.

According to a 1984 World Health Organization committee report, up to 30% of new and rebuilt structures throughout the world may be the source of excessive indoor air quality (IAQ) complaints. This issue is frequently transitory, but some buildings have persistent issues. When a building is operated or maintained in an irregular way opposed to its original design or stated operating methods, difficulties arise. Indoor air problems can sometimes be attributed to poor building design or occupant behaviors.

How to Recognize Sick Building Syndrome

The symptoms of sick building syndrome can vary from person to person, and may also depend on the specific environment in which the person is working. However, there are some general symptoms that have been identified:

• allergy-like symptoms, like sneezing
• body or joint aches
• breathing troubles
• burning sensations in the airways
• chills
• difficulty concentrating
• dizziness
• dry, itchy skin or rashes
• fatigue
• fever
• forgetfulness
• headaches
• irritability
• nausea
• runny nose
• throat irritation
• tightness in the chest

Particularly affected by SPS are people who have preexisting respiratory conditions, like asthma, COPD, or allergies. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical help. However, you can also take some steps to improve the air quality in your building and reduce your exposure to sick building syndrome.

Prevent SBS with Indoor Air Quality Services

Elevated Comfort can help you maintain the indoor air quality of your property. Our qualified, experienced air quality technicians can:

• Install an air purifier
• Increase ventilation with exhaust fans or an HVAC system upgrade
• Clean or replace filters on your HVAC system regularly
• Eliminate sources of indoor air pollution, like smoking and pets

If you are experiencing sick building syndrome, it is important to take steps to improve the air quality in your building. However, if the symptoms persist or become worse, it is best to seek medical help.

IAQ Specials from Elevated Comfort

For more information on sick building syndrome and how to prevent it, contact Elevated Comfort. We offer a variety of services to improve indoor air quality, including air purification, ventilation upgrades, and filter replacement. We can help you create a healthy environment for you and your family, customers, staff, and visitors with our spring air quality specials. Call or click today to learn more!

Now that spring is in full swing, it’s time to start thinking about implementing HVAC maintenance tips. Many people wait until the summer heat sets in to address any issues with their HVAC system, but this can be a huge mistake. If you want to keep your home or business cool and comfortable all season long, it’s important to perform some routine maintenance tasks now (as well as hiring a professional HVAC contractor like Elevated Comfort for tasks that go beyond simple spring cleaning). In this blog post, we will discuss five spring cleaning practices that will help keep your HVAC system running smoothly!

These HVAC Maintenance Tips Keep Your System in Shape

While HVAC maintenance may seem like a tedious and meaningless task, studies show that regular maintenance on your HVAC equipment can reduce energy bills by up to 30 percent and extend equipment lifespans by years. With HVAC maintenance tips from experts like the technicians at Elevated Comfort, you can save money in the short-term and the long run alike.

5 HVAC Maintenance Tips for Spring

When the weather starts to warm up and the days grow longer, it’s time to start thinking about HVAC maintenance. Spring is the perfect time of year to give your HVAC system a little TLC while you spruce up your home or business in the spirit of spring cleaning. Dust, debris, and more can build up in several areas of an HVAC system, and a simple, thorough, end-to-end cleaning can stop future problems in their tracks. For equipment maintenance that goes beyond cleaning, a licensed contractor like Elevated Comfort can help keep your system running smoother, longer, and leaner. Check out our top five spring HVAC maintenance tips below.

Clean Equipment

One of the most important HVAC maintenance tips is to keep your equipment clean. This includes both the inside and outside of your HVAC unit. Over time, dust and dirt can build up on the coils and other components, which can reduce efficiency and lead to breakdowns. To clean your HVAC unit, simply use a soft brush or cloth to remove any debris from the surface.

Change Filter

Another important HVAC maintenance tip is to change your air filter regularly. Depending on the type of filter you have, you may need to change it every month or two. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your HVAC system to work harder than necessary, which can lead to higher energy bills and inefficient cooling.

Clean Ducts

Another HVAC maintenance practice to consider is cleaning your ducts. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in your ductwork, which can reduce airflow and lead to poor indoor air quality. To clean your ducts, you can hire a professional or do it yourself using a vacuum with a brush attachment. However, for severe duct blockages and damage, a call to an HVAC professional like Elevated Comfort is a necessity to prevent further costly repairs.

Clear Drainage

If your HVAC unit has an internal drain, it’s important to clear it out on a regular basis. Otherwise, water can build up and cause damage to the unit. To clear the drain, simply flush it with a garden hose or use a wet/dry vac to remove any debris. For clogs that can’t be worked out or a damaged drain, we recommend contacting a professional as their training and experience can address a small concern quickly and effectively before it turns into an expensive repair at best or an even-more-expensive system replacement at worst.

Schedule Equipment Maintenance

Finally, one of the best HVAC maintenance tips is to schedule regular equipment maintenance with a licensed, experienced HVAC technician. The technicians at Elevated Comfort have years of training, experience, and knowledge that streamlines the maintenance process and ensures that no mistakes are made. In fact, we guarantee our work.

Call Elevated Comfort for Spring HVAC Maintenance

Elevated Comfort has been serving the Northern California area for years, with the integrity and reputation you would expect from a local community touchstone. We offer a routine maintenance membership program to help you make sure HVAC maintenance doesn’t slip through the cracks for busy business people and homeowners. Schedule your spring maintenance service today, and put these HVAC maintenance tips to use as you prepare for lower energy costs, better airflow, and elevated comfort.

If your HVAC system isn’t working correctly, you may be tempted to shell out your hard-earned cash for a replacement or extensive repairs. Before doing so, however, it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion from a seasoned professional. No technician is perfect, and sometimes what seems like a significant issue could actually be a minor problem that someone with more experience can quickly fix. A Free Second Opinion HVAC estimate from Elevated Comfort gives you peace of mind with expertise from qualified professionals. Contact us today to get started!

Why We Offer Free Second Opinion HVAC Estimates

At Elevated Comfort, we know that to err is human and to know is divine. That’s why our free second opinion HVAC diagnosis offer is so important to us. Many people consider that a less-than-reputable contractor could oversell their services, and they check reviews to take precautions. Unfortunately, many reputable HVAC companies employ trustworthy professionals who may still misdiagnose HVAC and plumbing issues. Everyone needs a second pair of eyes at some point, and an innocent mistake could still leave the customer with a hefty bill for the wrong fix.

A Free Second Opinion HVAC Estimate Can Save You Money

HVAC repairs and replacements can get quickly become expensive and time-consuming for residential and commercial properties alike. However, suppose you are having problems with your system. In that case, a free second opinion HVAC diagnosis can give you peace of mind that the service is needed or even save you money if the problem isn’t as serious as it first appeared.

Contact Elevated Comfort for Your Free Second Opinion Today

Elevated Comfort is a Sonoma County-based HVAC company that has been servicing Northern California for over twenty years. We are happy to offer our customers a free second opinion on their HVAC repairs and replacements, so you can be confident you’re getting the service you need at a fair price.

Get your FREE second opinion HVAC diagnosis today by either calling or filling out the quick form.

If you’re like most people, you spend the majority of your time indoors. And unfortunately, indoor air quality can be a lot worse than outdoor air quality. That’s why it’s important to have indoor air quality services that you can count on. At Elevated Comfort, we provide indoor air quality services to Northern California cities like Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, and Mill Valley. We also service the surrounding areas of San Anselmo, Larkspur, Windsor, Novato, Petaluma, San Rafael, Healdsburg, and Corte Madera. We know how important it is to keep your indoor environment healthy and free from pollutants. Contact us today to learn more about our indoor air quality services!

What Affects Air Quality?

There are many things that can affect indoor air quality, such as pets, smoking, and construction. Pets produce dander, which is a major contributor to poor indoor air quality. Smoking produces toxins that get released into the air and can cause respiratory problems. Construction can also release toxic fumes into the air if there isn’t proper ventilation. While these three examples address indoor air quality factors that come from inside the home or business, they are not the only things that can compromise the air quality in your property.

Other external factors can affect indoor air quality, too. These include airborne allergens like pollen and pollutants like carbon monoxide and smog. These environmental factors make up a significant portion of air quality problems in Santa Rosa and the surrounding areas. Unlike the internal factors mentioned above, though, these external air quality issues can be monitored with a tool called the Air Quality Index, along with meteorological and allergen monitoring available on news and weather programs.

Common Airborne Allergens and Pollutants

There are two primary categories of airborne contaminants that can have a negative impact on the quality of air inside your property: allergens and pollutants. Allergens are particles that cause an immune response in sensitive individuals, whereas pollutants are harmful chemicals that affect everyone, regardless of allergy sensitivity (though people with allergies will often be more severely affected than those without).

Pollen, mold, dust, and pet dander are among the most common allergens that can be carried in the air. Concentrations of these particles are often higher at certain times of the year than others. For example, mold thrives in humid conditions, so seasons with heavy rains can produce more mold spores than drier seasons. Chemical pollutants, like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, smoke, and soot, may travel as solid particles (soot, smoke) like many allergens or may be the result of fumes (CO, CO2). These categories also occasionally overlap, with household and commercial cleaning agents, air fresheners, and disinfectants causing allergic reactions and other health concerns when their fumes are concentrated without proper ventilation.

How Allergens and Pollution Affect Indoor Air Quality

Airborne allergens and pollution fill the air outdoors and cause significant health hazards when their concentrations are on the rise, but how does that translate to indoor air quality? When your air circulation system, like your air conditioner or your furnace, draws air into your property from outside, those particles and contaminants travel on the air and are circulated inside your property. However, unlike outdoor air quality, indoor air can’t be cleaned by heavy rains or a strong wind that removes or disperses the particles.

This can lead to a phenomenon known as Sick Building Syndrome. Symptoms of sick building syndrome often affect the entire household or the entire staff of a business simultaneously, rather than spreading from one to another, but increased frequency of respiratory infections is also an indication of poor indoor air quality. Other symptoms include the following:

• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Sinus congestion
• Headache
• Coughing and sneezing
• Dry or irritated skin, eyes, nose, or throat
• Allergy hypersensitivity
• Fatigue

Understanding the Air Quality Index

California air quality data is separated into districts, with the vast majority of Elevated Comfort’s service area falling into the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. From there, the data is broken down further into zones, and then into cities and city segments. This data segmentation is important because one side of a city could have significantly higher levels of airborne pollutants than the other due to weather patterns and other factors.

The AQI, or Air Quality Index, gives residents a scale for the overall air quality, divided into six health ranges spanning 0-500 and assigned a color based on the severity of the potential health hazards and how many residents could be expected to have a negative reaction. For example, if the AQI is orange, people with asthma should limit outdoor activities but those with healthy lungs may be unaffected by more time outside. If the AQI is purple, though, everyone should limit outdoor activities and those with asthma should avoid them altogether.

How Is Indoor Air Quality Measured?

To measure the indoor air quality of your property, whether it’s commercial or residential, you’ll need a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor. This is a specialized tool that can detect allergens and other chemical pollutants in the air. Once you have used the VOC sensor to identify the source of the contaminants, you can take whatever steps are necessary to reduce their impact.

Other tools that can help you monitor the air quality in your property include carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide meters, an accurate thermostat to monitor temperature, and moisture or humidity sensors. These sensors can help you learn what your specific air quality needs are before contacting a qualified contractor like Elevated Comfort for air quality services in Santa Rosa and the surrounding areas.

What Are Indoor Air Quality Services?

At Elevated Comfort, we offer two main categories of services that relate to air quality: IAQ and Air Duct Cleaning. IAQ services include the installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance of equipment like air purifiers and air cleaners, which remove VOCs and other harmful particles from the air in your property. Air duct cleaning, repair, and replacement remove buildup in your air ducts that can lead to dust and other particles circulating whenever your heating or cooling system is in use, as well as repairing air leaks and replacing damaged ducts to avoid contamination from external sources.

Elevated Comfort Helps You Breathe Easier

The indoor air quality in your home or business is more important than you may think. While the symptoms of indoor air pollution may seem like a minor annoyance, they can actually lead to much bigger health problems down the line if left untreated. At Elevated Comfort, we provide indoor air quality services that Northern California cities like Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Mill Valley, and more! Call today to schedule your IAQ services from an experienced, local HVAC contractor.