When your furnace stops working, what do you do? Will you need to call for service, or is it something you might be able to fix on your own? How do you know? At Service Champions, we are your furnace repair experts. We know how stressful it can be when your heating and cooling system is on the fritz. Below are a few common reasons customers call us for heating repair and some steps you can follow to help diagnose the problem before having to call for service.

System Won’t Turn On
If your furnace won’t come on, there are a few things you can check. First, make sure the unit isn’t turned off. Check the service switch that is usually located on the side or just above the furnace to see that is in the “on” position. If the problem isn’t with the switch, next head over to your home’s main electrical panel. Check to verify that the circuit connected to your furnace isn’t tripped. If it is, reset the breaker and see if this fixes the problem. If not, the last place we recommend you check would be the thermostat. Make sure your thermostat is set to heat and at a temperature higher than the existing temperature inside your home. If none of these steps make your furnace come on, we recommend you call for service.

Fan Runs, But Doesn’t Produce Heat
When you hear your furnace running, but don’t feel any heat coming out, there could be several causes. First, if your furnace has a pilot light, check to make sure it is lit. If this isn’t the problem, and your furnace does run on gas, check your water heater. If your water heater is working properly, you can eliminate gas supply as the problem. Next, check your air filter and verify it is clean. Your air filter should be changed every month – a dirty filter can cause your furnace to blow cool air as well as perform inefficiently.

The Furnace Shuts Off Before the House Is Warm
If your furnace runs and blows warm air, but cycles frequently or shuts off before the house warms up, there could be a number of issues contributing to this. Again, check your air filter and verify it is clean. If your air filter isn’t to blame, it’s best to contact a professional. Your furnace could be employing a safety feature that keeps the furnace from overheating, or you could be losing air somewhere in your ductwork that keeps your home from warming up. A professional can effectively diagnose the problem for you.

If you’ve tried troubleshooting with the tips above and your furnace is still not working properly, it’s probably time to call in for help. Service Champions has a team of expert technicians experienced in heating repair.

Contact us online today!

 

Big name companies make a killing every year by selling oils, candles, sprays and a variety of other products – often designed to reduce airborne odors in your home with a more desirable scent. These products don’t actually do anything to remove the odor or clean the air; instead they mask odors by adding perfumes and so-called neutralizers to the mix. While many of these products often smell nice, they are only adding to the problem, and in some instances make it worse. Odors caused by cigarette smoke and chemical fumes can best be removed by using a whole house air cleaner.

What is a whole house air cleaner?

Also known as a Bioguard Powered Filter, air purifier or air ionizer, air cleaners remove odors and clean the air throughout your entire home by removing odor-causing particles as well as any bacteria or viruses that may be inside your home. Whole home air cleaners are typically installed by a trusted HVAC contractor and work with your overall HVAC system.

How does a whole house air cleaner work?

Whole home air cleaners remove odor and illness-causing particulates from the air using ionization. Most particles floating in the air in your home are positively charged. The air purifier sends air over a charged electric coil, which creates negatively charged particles. When the negatively charged particles collide with the existing positively charged particles, the two particles join together creating an ionic bond. This continues until the bundle of particles becomes too large and heavy to remain in the air. The clumped particles then fall to the floor thus removing the odor-causing particles, bacteria and viruses from the air. This process continues as long as the air cleaner is running inside your home.

When installed as part of your central heating and cooling system, the air cleaner works with the system so the cleansed air is distributed throughout your home more effectively. When compared to portable air cleaners, whole home air cleaners do a much better job of cleaning the air, and are much easier to maintain.

If you are struggling with stubborn airborne odors in your home, or you’re looking for effective ways to reduce the transmission of illness-causing bacteria and viruses, consider a whole home air cleaner. Service Champions carries the industry’s leading line of whole home air cleaners and other indoor air quality products and services.

Contact us today to learn more.

 

Both heat pumps and furnaces do a great job of heating indoor space, but many homeowners wonder if one method of heating is better than the other. When it comes to choosing between a heat pump and furnace, determining which unit is “better” can depend on several factors. We’ll look at two of the most important, and more popular, aspects homeowners should consider when choosing between a heat pump and furnace: climate and cost.

Climate
Unlike furnaces, which require fuel to produce heat, heat pumps do not actually generate heat; instead they move heat from one place to another. In the case of air source heat pumps, the most common type, warm air is extracted from outside and transferred indoors in the winter. In the summer months this process is reversed to cool indoor space. In climates like Southern California, where the temperature rarely dips below 40 degrees, heat pumps are often a great choice and work quite effectively, providing continuous comfort.  For cooler climates like those you’ll find up north, a heat pump can still be a good choice, but many homeowners will require a backup source for heat. Usually a furnace will serve this purpose, helping to maintain a more steady temperature when the air outside is dramatically cooler for extended periods of time.

Cost
Soaring energy costs coupled with a challenging economy often give pause to homeowners looking for a new heating system. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, if you heat with electricity, a heat pump can reduce the amount of electricity consumed for heating by as much as 30% -40%.  Since heat pumps do not require fuel to produce heat, they are often the more economical choice by offering greater energy savings. Again however, for persons living in areas where the seasonal temperature differences are more dramatic, a high efficiency furnace will offer greater savings to operate over time.  

When it comes to the upfront cost of purchasing a heat pump or furnace, the prices will vary depending on the size and efficiency rating of the unit. Federal and local tax incentives are available to offset the purchase cost of some units provided they meet current energy standards.

For homeowners considering a new heating system, its best to consult with a professional. The technicians at Service Champions have the experience and knowledge to help you select the home heating system that is best suited for your home comfort needs and budget.

Are you in the market for a new heating system? Are you curious about whether you should choose a furnace or heat pump for your home? Service Champions is your home heating expert. Contact us online today to learn more!

 

 

As we get deeper into winter, the cold weather means an increased use of your furnace. If turning on your furnace makes you cringe in anticipation of high energy bills, use these five steps to help you save money and increase your furnace efficiency.

1. Check/replace your furnace filter
Your furnace filter removes airborne particles that can be harmful to your furnace. If it has been awhile since you last replaced your furnace filter, there may be a buildup of dirt, dust and other pollutants restricting the airflow to your furnace and causing it to work harder than necessary, which decreases its efficiency.

2. Install a programmable thermostat
Heating your home to the same temperature when you are away as when you are at home is wasteful. Manually turning the thermostat down a few degrees when you leave the house for extended periods of time can be a hassle. It saves you money, but you come home to a cold house and have to wait for it to heat up. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature in your home based on the day and time, to keep you warm and save you money.

3. Get your annual furnace tune-up
Annual furnace tune-ups are extremely important. Just like regular oil changes for your vehicle, annual tune-ups keep your furnace running efficiently while extending the life of your system. Without regular tune-ups your furnace can experience a shortened lifespan as well as costly and preventable breakdowns.

4. Look into a zoned heating system
Sometimes, even when everything else is done correctly, your furnace’s efficiency is lacking. Zoning your heating and cooling systems allows for different zones in your home to be heated or cooled to different temperatures. This saves you money and increases your furnace’s efficiency by heating your home to more even temperatures and eliminating frustrating hot and cold spots.

5. Seal your air ducts
Old, worn or improperly sealed ducts can result in up to 20% of your heated air escaping on its way from your furnace into your home. By taking the time to have your ductwork professionally sealed, less of your heated air will be wasted. Also, your heating system will be more efficient because it does not have to work as hard to heat your home. This, in turn, saves you money by reducing your energy bills.

Still experiencing inefficient heating?
Your unit may be sized improperly or, if your furnace is over ten years old, it may be time for a new one. The energy savings on a newer, more efficient furnace is quite significant and it can pay for itself quickly.

Contact Service Champions for more information on improving your furnace’s efficiency, or schedule a furnace tune-up online.

Like your vehicle, your heating and cooling system requires regular maintenance to continue running correctly. If routine maintenance and tune-ups are ignored, you could find yourself looking at major repair or replacement costs down the road. A comprehensive maintenance agreement helps you prevent these costly repairs and gives you additional discounts on services and replacements.

Manufacturers’ warranties are great but…
Many people believe they do not need a maintenance agreement because their furnace, heat pump or air conditioner is still covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.  While a warranty is great to have in case of a manufacturing defect, these warranties typically only cover the parts, not the labor.

Your manufacturer’s warranty may be voided by:

• Improper installation
• Not being serviced by a professional
• Lack of upkeep

In addition, warranties from the manufacturer usually require that a trained specialist diagnose the problem. If the HVAC specialist determines that the problem with the part was due to one of the items listed above, the warranty will not cover the replacement.

How does a maintenance agreement work?
The bottom line is manufacturers’ warranties are limited. This is where it becomes important to have a maintenance agreement that helps cover labor as well. Since manufacturers’ warranties typically require a certified HVAC technician services your unit, a maintenance agreement compliments a warranty.

With a maintenance agreement, your heater and air conditioner receive the important regular tune-ups required to keep your manufacturer’s warranty valid. Your tune-ups are included and you enjoy priority service.

Benefits of Maintenance Agreements:

• Reduces risk of costly breakdowns
• Increase efficiency & reduce energy bills
• Quality, guaranteed service
• Ensures safe operation of your equipment
• Discounted service & repair costs
• Priority scheduling

Service Champions offers an affordable maintenance agreement to keep your home’s HVAC system running safely and efficiently.

Join our maintenance club now to start saving money today or contact us online for more information.

At Service Champions, we pride ourselves on being more than just a business. We are part of a community and we are continually looking for ways to give back and get involved. As a part of that commitment, our employees and their families participated in two events last month, our Second Annual Turkey Drive, and the Orange County Walk Now for Autism Speaks.

Second Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Drive Feeds 165 Orange County Families

Last year Service Champions began a new company Thanksgiving tradition, an annual turkey drive. The idea was hatched at a dinner between the founder and president of Service Champions, Leland Smith, and some of our technicians.

The discussion centered around finding a way to assist struggling families during the holidays. It was obvious to each of them that there was need in the community they served and they wanted to play a role in helping. With company trucks and personnel already at their disposal, one of them suggested using Service Champions’ equipment to deliver Thanksgiving meals.

This was a great solution because it allowed the entire Service Champions team to get involved.

Our staff collected a list of families in the Orange County area that were looking for holiday meal assistance. Employees made at-will donations to the turkey drive. Then, from Monday, November 21st through Wednesday, November 23rd, our technicians arrived early to work each day to deliver the collected meals before their first calls.

Last year, our technicians delivered 100 Thanksgiving meals. This year, we improved that number to 165 meals.

Thanks to the kind and selfless donations of our employees’ time and money, families throughout our community received free traditional Thanksgiving meals. But the event is bigger than just doing a good deed. It bring Service Champions’ staff together in a team environment and showcases our commitment to community involvement.

For photos of the event, view our Facebook gallery.

 

Service Champions Raises $7,979 For Autism Research

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in every 110 children in the United States is diagnosed with autism. Autism is more common among children than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. It is estimated that autism affects 3 million people in the U.S. and tens of millions in the world.

These are staggering statistics that, no doubt, affect our Service Champions team and our community. So, last year we made a commitment to make a difference.

For the second year in a row, Service Champions led a team at the Orange County Walk Now for Autism Speaks.

Autism is a unique disorder that affects every child in a different way. Those diagnosed with autism struggle with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. To date, the exact cause of autism is still unknown.

In order to help raise awareness for this disorder and raise funds for further research, over 50 of our employees and their families walked with Team Service Champions on Saturday, November 12, 2011 at Angel Stadium in Anaheim.

The Service Champions team raised $7,970 and was recognized as one of the top teams in terms of money raised in support of Autism Speaks.

At Service Champions, we’re dedicated to being more than just a successful business. We want to share with and give back to our community.

For more information on Walk Now for Autism Speaks, visit their website. For pictures of the event, check out our Facebook gallery.

The weather continues to grow colder and that means people continue to reach for their heating equipment. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment caused 21% of home fire deaths in 2010. No matter how you stay warm this winter, we want you to be safe, so we compiled a list of safety tips for each heating source.

Furnace
Your central heating system is the single most important factor in staying comfortable this winter. To ensure safe operation of your furnace all winter long, we recommend the following actions:

• Get an annual furnace inspection to ensure your furnace is operating safely.
• Make sure your furnace is properly vented.
• Clear the area around the furnace of combustible materials.
• If you have a gas furnace or other gas appliance, install carbon monoxide detectors.

Wood Stove
Wood stoves cause over 9,000 residential fires each year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. To prevent this, make sure your wood stove is safe by observing the following:

• Burn only dry, seasoned wood. This produces more heat and prevents creosote buildup, which can damage your flue.
• Flue vents should be inspected and cleaned at least annually
• Keep combustible objects at least three feet away from the stove.
• Do not put trash or artificial logs in the stove.
• Install working fire/smoke alarms and test them regularly.

Fireplace
A fireplace can offer both relaxation and warmth. Many families associate the winter and holiday seasons with gatherings around the fireplace. Here are a few ways you can keep your fireplace safe:

• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Watch children and pets around the fireplace.
• Use the metal mesh screen to keep embers from coming into your home.
• Never burn cardboard or other garbage in the fireplace.
• Do not use flammable liquids to start fires.
• Make sure there are no branches hanging above your chimney.

Electric Space Heater
The elements of some electric space heaters get hot enough to ignite combustible materials if care is not taken. When using your electric space heater this winter, remember these tips:

• Buy and use only space heaters evaluated by a national-recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Unplug the space heater when not in use.
• Do not use the space heater to dry clothes and do not store items on top of them.
• Keep combustibles at least three feet away from space heaters.
• Avoid using electric space heaters where they may come in contact with water.

Kerosene Heater
Before purchasing a kerosene heater, check with the local fire department to make sure that they are allowed in residential applications in your area. You may also want to check with you homeowner’s insurance company to see if damage caused by kerosene heaters is covered in your policy. If you have a kerosene heater, or are purchasing one, take heed of the following.

• Purchase and use only kerosene heaters with an UL evaluation.
• Use only in well-ventilated areas.
• Do not put other fuel sources in a kerosene heater.
• Refuel the heater outside of the house.

As the weather grows colder and you turn more and more to heat sources to keep yourself warm, remember these tips to keep your family and your home safe this winter.

Contact Service Champions for more information on keeping warm this winter or schedule your annual furnace tune-up online.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air pollution is one of the top five environmental health risks. The air inside your home can be two to six times worse than the air outside. UV germicidal lamps improve your indoor air quality while reducing asthma and allergy problems.

Indoor Air Quality
Today’s homes have been built to hold air inside and minimize air leaks. This tight construction saves you money on energy bills by avoiding heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. However, it also keeps dust, mold, pollen, animal dander and other pollutants inside your home.

The simplest way to combat poor indoor air quality is to open your windows and air out your home, but the weather does not always permit this method. That’s where an ultraviolet (UV) lamp can help improve your indoor air quality by eliminating harmful pollutants.

Types of Indoor Air Pollutants
The pollutants in your home come from a variety of sources including pets and plants. Also the natural condensation created in your cooling and heating system can be a great place for mold and mildew to grow. Almost all homes have more than a healthy concentration of one or more of the following.

• Mold, mildew or fungus
• Bacteria, virus
• Pet dander
• Dust mites
• Tobacco smoke
• Pollen
• Dust, soil, ash

Healthy Habits
There are several things you can do around your house to help improve the indoor air quality your family breathes. These steps will reduce the number of pollutants in your home and help family members that struggle with asthma and allergies.

Clean. Modern vacuums have filters that trap many of the common pollutants. Carpets, upholstery and curtains are a common place for those pollutants to settle. Frequently vacuuming and cleaning your home greatly reduces the number of air borne contaminants circulating through the air you breathe. Regularly changing your air filter is also important.

Ventilate. If the weather allows and the air in your area is not experiencing high pollution, it may be a good idea to air out your home by opening all the windows for a day. This may not be a good idea for those that are allergic to pollen and other allergens that are more common outdoors.

Sterilize. Even when doing everything else correctly, you probably still have indoor air quality problems. According to the American College of Allergists 50% of illnesses are caused or aggravated by mold, mildew, bacteria and fungi. A UV germicidal lamp like the Biocide Chamber is designed to kill those pollutants.

By combining regular cleaning habits with a whole-home UV air sterilizer like a biocide chamber, you can protect yourself and your family from the air pollutants that can cause or aggravate allergies and asthma.

Contact Service Champions today for more information on how to improve your indoor air quality with a UV germicidal lamp.

Do you have some rooms that are too hot or too cold no matter what you do? Installing a zoned heating or cooling system may be the solution to eliminating frustrating hot and cold spots in your home.

What is Zoning?
Zoning refers to breaking up your home into different heating or cooling zones. Say, for example, your upstairs rooms are always much warmer than the downstairs rooms (not uncommon because heat rises), you can install one thermostat upstairs and one downstairs and individually control each zone.

How Does it Work?
You don’t have just one switch that controls every light in your house. In the same way, a zoned heating and cooling system has more than one thermostat so you can control the temperature of each zone separately.

Lets use our earlier example and say we installed a cooling and heating zone system with two thermostats – one upstairs and another downstairs – and you set both to the same temperature. Your system will kick on and cool the entire house until one of the zones reaches its desired temperature. Once that happens, it will shut off the airflow to that zone using dampers in the ducts, and direct its full attention to the other zone. This results in less energy usage and more even temperature distribution.

Should You Get a Zoned System?
There can be many causes of uneven temperatures in a home. However, hot and cold spots can exist even in the most well sealed systems. If your home has one or more of the following, you may benefit from zoning your cooling or heating system.

• More than one level – Because heat rises, if you only have one central thermostat, your highest levels will be warmer and your lower levels cooler.
• Vaulted ceilings – If one or more rooms have vaulted ceilings and other rooms don’t, you may experience differing temperatures from uneven airflow.
• Rooms with large glass areas – Glass doors and windows are often the primary culprits that allow your temperature-controlled air to escape. Even high-efficiency windows may not be enough to prevent hot or cold spots.
• Family members comfortable at different temperatures – Sometimes one family member needs a much warmer or cooler temperature than the others enjoy. Installing a zone in that family member’s room allows them to have individual control of their preferred temperature without affecting the rest of the house.
• Ranch-style homes with wings extending off main living area – In homes that extend out from the center, often the long journey of the air through the ducts causes loss of heating in the winter and loss of cooling in the summer. This leaves the center of the home at your desired temperature and the wings either warmer (in the summer) or cooler (in the winter).

Some of today’s most desired home features, such as vaulted ceilings, large windows and multiple levels, make it difficult for your heating and cooling systems to keep each area at a comfortable temperature. By zoning your heating or cooling system, you can eliminate hot and cold spots in your home while conserving energy.

Contact us today to find out how Service Champions can increase your comfort and save you money with a customized zoning system.

The summer heat has subsided and left cooler temperatures in its wake. Before the weather grows colder and wetter, prepare by performing some routine home maintenance.

Roof & Gutters

• Check for and repair broken or missing shingles. November marks the beginning of Southern California’s rainy season. Make sure your roof is ready by inspecting for and replacing broken or missing shingles.
• Clean gutters and downspouts. Throughout fall, clean your gutters and downspouts of leaves and other debris. This will keep water from collecting on your roof and prevent wood rot and other damage to your home.
• Make sure water drains away from your home. The area around your home should be graded away from your house. Downspouts should transport runoff at least 3 to 4 feet from foundation. Improper drainage causes costly foundation problems.

Windows & Doors

• Seal around windows and doors. Make sure you are keeping your heated air inside this winter by caulking around windows and checking the weather stripping around exterior doors.
• Clean windows. Cleaning your windows is easier when the weather isn’t too cold or too hot. Cleaner windows let more natural heat from the sun enter your rooms.
• Open curtains and shades. Opening your curtains and shades during the day allows more sunlight into your home and more natural heat. This can help reduce your winter heating bill. But remember to close them again at night to keep the heat inside.

Heating System

• Change your furnace filter. This should be a regular occurrence for your heating and cooling systems. Check and replace your filter about every month. A dirty filter will cause undue stress on your heating system.
• Schedule an annual furnace tune-up. Your heating system has been taking the summer off. Before it’s thrust into action again this winter, get an annual tune-up from a trusted professional. Regular maintenance will prolong the life of your furnace and prevent costly repairs.
• Consider a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow you the ability to set your heater to turn on only when you need it.

Landscaping

• Make sure your trees are healthy. Trim your trees before the winter storms to help prevent trees from falling or shedding limbs from high winds. A tree that hasn’t been trimmed in awhile can cause serious property damage during storms.
• Give your plants mulch. Keep your flowers, bushes and shrubs healthy and warm this winter by applying a thin layer of mulch around the base of the plants.
• Plant your winter lawn. If you are going to be planting your winter lawn this year, now is the time to do so. The lawn must be established before the weather becomes too cold.

Enjoy the cooler weather that fall provides and prepare your home for the oncoming winter by performing these simple home maintenance tips now.

Contact Service Champions today for more information on how we can help you prepare your heating system for winter.

If you are currently searching for a new heating or cooling unit, you may have seen the abbreviation BTU. Getting a unit with the appropriate BTU for your home is important because it is measurement of a HVAC system’s capacity and is used to calculate the amount of energy a unit can deliver.

What is a BTU?
BTU is an acronym for British Thermal Unit. Although its name seems to suggest otherwise, it is no longer commonly used in the United Kingdom. BTU is a unit of measurement for energy. One BTU is equal to the amount of energy used to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. In most applications the BTU has been replaced by the joule, but BTU remains a popular measurement of heating and cooling equipment.

How does it apply to heating and cooling equipment?
In a heat pump or furnace, the BTU number refers to the heat output of the particular unit. The higher the number the more heat the unit can produce. Air conditioners are a little different. The BTU number on cooling equipment refers to the amount of energy used to remove the heat from the air.

Even small heaters or air conditioners have high BTU numbers. Typically, whole house units range from 60,000 to 80,000 and above. The larger your home, the higher the BTU you will want because it means the heating or cooling unit will be able to produce more heated or cooled air. BTU is a good way to compare the capacity of similarly priced units.

How many BTU’s do you need?
Every heating and cooling need is different, so there is not a one-size-fits all approach. The power you need for your home is going to depend on several factors.

• Size of your house
• Type and quality of insulation
• The type and size of your windows
• Location of home
• Height of your ceilings

If you are having difficulty, a professional HVAC company can be a great help in determining the appropriate size unit for your home.

A note on efficiency
Typically, BTU measures the capacity of the system’s output. For energy efficiency compare a furnace’s AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). A high AFUE number on a furnace means that it wastes less energy and is more efficient.

For air conditioners and heat pumps, the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures the efficiency of the cooling process and the higher the SEER number, the more efficient the unit. All new products in the U.S. must have a rating of at least 13.0 but many go up to 21 and higher.

Contact Service Champions for help selecting your next heating or cooling unit or request an estimate appointment online.

Don’t be intimidated by the daunting task of finding the right HVAC company for your new heating or cooling equipment. We know you want someone who will not only do a great job, but also be a professional while at your home. Therefore, we’ve devised five simple questions to ask during the estimate that will help you separate the wheat from the chaff.

1. How long will this project take? Although a seemingly obvious question, the answer may help you choose between two otherwise similar companies. If you need the work done sooner, is there an additional charge? How will they accommodate your schedule? Make sure they will be able to work out those details with you.

2. Can you provide proof that you are properly licensed and insured? Reputable heating and air companies are licensed with the state, county or other governing bodies in which they reside. A license means that the company has put in the time to go through the process of registering and is in it for the long haul. The correct insurance is equally important. If something were to happen on your property during the work, you want to make sure that you are not held liable.

3. Do you offer any type of guarantee or warranty? Once a job is over, does the company stand behind their work? Most reputable companies will offer some sort of guarantee on the work, and many will also have warranties on the equipment they install. Make sure to get the specifics on any type of guarantees or warranties in writing.

4. What is included in the price? This may seem like a no-brainer in an estimate, but it often goes unasked. Does the company offer a guaranteed up-front price for the job? Or do they bill per hour? Get a list of exactly what is included in the price. That way, when comparing multiple estimates, you know what you’re getting in the price and there will be no surprises later.

5. What benefits do you offer? You will want to tweak this question to fit your individual needs. The point is to find out if there are currently any special offers or tax incentives out there that you may qualify for. Also, ask about energy consumption. Is there a slightly more expensive option that is much more efficient and saves you money in the long-term?

These five must-ask questions will make your next quest for an HVAC estimate much less intimidating. By having a set of criteria to judge each company, you can more easily compare estimates and decide on the best fit for you.

Schedule a free estimate to replace your equipment now with Service Champions or contact us online to request additional information.
 

It’s hard to believe, but September is already packing its bags and taking the summer heat along with it. With winter around the corner, fall is a good time to prepare you, your house and your heating system for cooler temperatures. Here are six ways you can ensure you are ready for the changing weather.

1. Get a heater or furnace inspection. Your heating equipment has been sitting unused for several months. Before the cold temperatures come and the demand on your heating equipment ratchets upward, you should take the time to schedule an inspection so you are not stuck with any surprises this winter.

2. Change your air filter. The dry summer months can result in increased quantities of dust and other pollutants in your home. This can lead to dirty air filters, which can cause your heater to run less efficiently. Your air filter should be changed at least once a month to maintain optimal performance.

3. Air out your home. Did you know that your indoor air quality is about five to ten times worse than outdoor air? Take advantage of a cooler day, by opening up your windows and letting in some fresh air. Sometimes more is needed to improve your air quality, especially in metropolitan areas. Service Champions can help further rid your house of pollutants with the use of powered air filters or UV lamps.

4. Check your weather sealing. The summer heat can be detrimental to the weather sealing around your home’s doors and windows. Fall is a good time to make sure that your home won’t be letting any valuable heat escape this winter.

5. Inspect and clean your chimney. If you have a fireplace, it is a good idea to get your chimney inspected and cleaned before it enters its peak usage time. Also, to prevent heat from escaping, remember to keep your chimney vent closed when not in use.

6. Install a programmable thermostat. If you don’t already have one, a programmable thermostat can be a great money-saver. You can program it to run your heating system differently during different times or days. These thermostats help reduce wasted heat while you are not home. Service Champions can help you install and calibrate your new programmable thermostat.

With the seasons transitioning, this is an optimal time to prepare your home for fall and the cooler temperatures that come along with it.

Schedule a tune up now with Service Champions or contact us online to request additional information.

No matter how energy efficient your home may be, every home is faced with some amount of energy loss. In most homes, the biggest culprit is your ductwork, the system responsible for moving heated and cooled air throughout your home.

Most duct systems consist of both supply and return ducts. Your heating and cooling equipment uses a fan to force heated and cooled air through the supply ducts. The return ducts, which are ideally located in every room, supply the air to this fan. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, statistics show that 25% to 40% of heating and cooling energy produced by your furnace, heat pump or air conditioner is lost through your ductwork. Typically, duct systems lose energy in two ways: through conduction and through air leaks.

Energy Loss Through Conduction
Conduction is simply the transfer of heat from one location to another through a substance. When it comes to heating or air conditioning your home, your duct system can lose energy when the temperature inside the ducts is vastly different from the air outside the ducts. So when heating your home, for example, if your ductwork passes through unheated areas like your garage, attic, basement, or crawlspace and the temperatures in this area are much colder than the heated air passing through the ducts, a great deal of heat is likely to be lost. Because most ductwork is made from thin sheet metal, the best way to avoid energy loss through conduction is to thoroughly insulate your ductwork.

Energy Loss Through Air Leaks
Leaks in your ductwork can happen for a variety of reasons and are often found in the form of cracks or holes caused by poor seals and/or damage caused to the ductwork. When leaks are present, they are preventing your heating and air conditioning system from performing adequately and keeping you comfortable. As heated or cooled air passes through your duct system, air escapes through even the tiniest crack or hole, effectively reducing your airflow. To keep this from happening, it’s best to have your ductwork regularly inspected and sealed.

Reducing energy loss is the best way to get the most from your heating and cooling system. Even the most efficient systems aren’t doing much for your comfort or energy bill if more than a third of the effort the system yields is going to waste.

Whether it’s simple repairs or a replacement of your existing air duct system, at Service Champions, we are experts at helping you save money and maximize comfort.

Contact us today to learn more or schedule a repair online. 

The ductwork in your home is a crucial element in your overall heating and air conditioning system. Without ductwork, effectively distributing heated and conditioned air throughout your home would be incredibly difficult.

While air ducts are designed to distribute air about your home, there is a problem that for many can be quite significant: The particulates and contaminants floating in that air is also being pushed around.  For anyone this can be a concern, especially as homes are being built more and more airtight every day. But for individuals who suffer from allergies, asthma, or are particularly susceptible to infection, indoor air quality can be a big concern.

While there are now a fair number of products on the market that help to improve indoor air quality (IAQ), more recent advancements have come in the type of ductwork you have installed in your home. One of them, Green Safety Ductwork, is one of the latest IAQ products that are also environmentally friendly.

Benefits of Green Safety Ductwork
In addition to doing an excellent job of air distribution, Green Safety Ductwork offers significant benefits towards the improvement of your IAQ.

• Agion® Coating - The inner core of the ductwork is coated with a special antimicrobial lining that contains silver. This helps to inhibit the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria in your new ductwork – growth that can occur rapidly without effective treatments. Because this coating inhibits the growth of molds and fungi, the offensive odors that often accompany them are also eliminated.
• GREENGUARD® Certification – The materials used to make up the ductwork all pass the most stringent of standards for low chemical emissions. The ductwork uses Johns Manville Formaldehyde-free™ insulation, which helps make for a healthier home.
• Green Vapor Barrier – The outer layer of the ductwork is wrapped with a green polyester vapor barrier which strengthens the ducts against tearing and helps to prohibit moisture from entering the ductwork.

Green Safety Ductwork can make a big improvement to your overall IAQ. If you’re considering replacing your air ducts, or want to know more about this exciting new product, contact a Service Champions expert or schedule a free estimate today!

Whether it’s dust, cigarette smoke, household cleaners, mold, mildew, naturally occurring radon gasses or other particulates, the air inside our homes can sometimes be harmful. When statistics say people spend as much as 80-90% of their time indoors, air quality is definitely worth paying attention to.

Ways You Can Improve Air Quality
There are many ways you can reduce the pollutants inside your home and the impact they may have on you. Common sense solutions such as stopping the pollutant at its source, or opening windows to ventilate your home aren’t always an option. Sometimes identifying the source takes a professional to inspect and test your air quality in your home, and weather and other factors aren’t always conducive to leaving your windows open.

Your best, and most often effective option, is to take steps to purify your indoor air. This can be done in a few ways, using different methods and systems:

Air Filtration - If dust and other allergens are your problem, make it a practice to regularly change your air filter – this can have a big impact on your symptoms. Air filters should be changed every 30 days, or when they appear dirty. If you are using a standard filter purchased at your local hardware store, you might consider upgrading to a model with a higher efficiency rating. Standard filters will typically only trap larger particles like dust and pet hair while more efficient filters can trap pollens and pet dander.

Air Cleaner – Having an air purifier, like the Bioguard Powered Filter, can help you remove more than 95% of allergens and other contaminants from the air. Using ionization, Bioguard Powered Filters use a polarized charge to directly capture airborne matter leaving behind air that is fresher and cleaner.

UV Lamps – Ultraviolet Lamps, or Biocide Chambers, require professional installation by a qualified HVAC technician. While Biocide Chambers do not remove particles from the air, they are excellent at killing dangerous microorganisms such as airborne viruses and some bacteria.

If you have concerns about your indoor air, consider having an air quality analysis performed by a professional. Doing so will help you identify areas that need attention and the best methods you can employ to resolve them.

Contact Southern California’s indoor air quality specialists, Service Champions, today to learn more about how you can improve the quality of your indoor air.
 

Whether it’s a local news anchor, your favorite home magazine or even your neighbor, as the temperatures continue to rise everyone seems to be an expert on staying cool and saving money. Unfortunately, popular air conditioning tips tend to become misconstrued and often misleading.

At Service Champions, we hear a lot of myths surrounding air conditioning and keeping your home cool for less. We’ve addressed 3 that we hear a lot and the realities behind them.

The Myth: Cranking the temperature on your thermostat way up when you leave the house will lower your air conditioning bills.

The Truth: This is a tip you’ve probably heard before – we hear it a lot. But actually, it’s only partially true. Yes, it’s better to raise the temperature on your thermostat rather than completely turning off your air conditioner when leaving the house, however, the key here is how long and by how much. The U.S. Department of Energy claims you’ll see the most savings when you set your thermostat back for at least 8 hours and for no more than 5 degrees. Half day shopping trips to the mall, or lunch out with a friend is not long enough to make a substantial difference in the amount of energy your A/C consumes - and adjusting more than 5 degrees causes the AC to spend too much time and energy recouping. If you typically set your thermostat at 78 degrees, then it is best to raise the temperature to 83 when stepping out for the day. Upon returning home, lower the temperature to 78 and the AC System only has to cool off the home by 5 degrees. To help you remember – and time – the setback temperatures, consider installing a programmable thermostat to do it for you.

The Myth: If you upgrade to a new energy-efficient air conditioner, you’ll drastically reduce your electric bills.

The Truth: Again, this is only partially true. While a new air conditioner that meets today’s energy efficiency standards is a step in the right direction, it’s only one piece to the puzzle.  It’s important to purchase a unit sized correctly for your home, and that other elements of your HVAC system are considered – like your ductwork and airflow. Before moving to a new unit, contact a professional who can help you identify any energy weaknesses in your overall HVAC system that could affect your overall system performance.

The Myth: Keeping ceiling fans running will help you save on energy costs because your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard to cool a room.

The Truth: Ceiling fans have no bearing on the overall temperature inside a room. They simply move air around which is what makes you feel cooler when you’re in a room with a ceiling fan. Ceiling fans are only helpful when they are running in an occupied room. If nobody is around, the ceiling fan isn’t doing any good and should be shut off – not to mention it’s consuming it’s own bit of energy when it’s left running.

Service Champions has a whole team of professionals trained and experienced in helping you save money while still staying cool. Do you have a question about your air conditioner? Ask one of our experts online!

Contact us online to learn more about our products and services or schedule an air conditioning repair with us today.

When it comes to selling a home, the heating and air conditioning system can be a touchy subject between buyers and sellers. Typically the idea of how much it costs to replace a unit is something neither the buyer nor seller likes to entertain. However, if you’re serious about selling your home, you need to take a hard look at your HVAC.

Before you put your home on the market, here are two hot button issues you need to consider:

The Age of Your Unit
If your air conditioning or heating unit is close to, or older than 10 years, you could benefit from upgrading to a new unit. Air conditioners and heaters are not designed to last forever, and prospective homebuyers know this. If they can take one look at your unit and speculate it’s dire need of repair or replacement without even having it inspected, you can bet it will make them think twice about the overall purchase of your home. While we realize a new HVAC system can be quite an investment – and one you’re not too interested in making on a property you plan to sell, but remember that if you plan ahead, the cost of replacing your system can be built into the overall sales price of your home.

Utility Bills
With the daily costs of living steadily on the rise, today’s homebuyers are more financially savvy than in the past. This means they’re not only evaluating the overall cost of your home at purchase, but what it will cost to keep it running once they own it. It is not uncommon for homebuyers to request to see utility bills for a home prior to deciding to buy. As a seller, this means you need to be aware of how much you’re paying in energy costs – particularly from your HVAC system – and what you can do to make sure your heating and cooling costs are appealing to buyers.

An easy way to lower your heating and cooling bills is to make sure your HVAC system is running efficiently. Many homeowners still don’t realize the importance of regular maintenance and tune-ups. Just having your system maintained and tuned up once a year can help your system run more efficiently. If you are planning to sell your home in the next year, the time is now to have your system serviced!

If you are preparing to sell your home and you are considering replacing your heating or air conditioning unit, contact us today for a free estimate or schedule a tune-up for your existing unit online.
 

If you don’t know this already, regular maintenance for your heating and air conditioning units is very important. The people who don’t realize this are often those whose systems unexpectedly break down, leaving them without any heating or air conditioning during some of the most uncomfortable times of year.

For the small amount of money it costs to schedule a professional tune-up, the return on your investment can be huge. Besides helping avoid unexpected breakdowns, tune-ups are important for helping your unit recover lost efficiency, operate more safely, increase the overall lifespan of the unit, improve your overall level of comfort, and reduce your operating expenses. Ideally your heating and air conditioning system should be inspected at least once a year.

What Goes Into an AC Tune-Up and Professional Cleaning?

A thorough tune-up should include the following:

• A comprehensive cleaning of the condenser coils. Doing so increases efficiency (which directly impacts energy costs) and can reduce the wear and tear on your system.
• Evaluation of the coolant level to help maintain peak operating performance. Lubrication of all moving parts to eliminate friction and wear that can increase your energy costs.
• A full calibration of your thermostat to verify proper operation.
• An inspection of the ductwork for possible energy loss.
• Tightening and inspection of all the electrical connections to verify safe system operation.
• Evaluate performance of the blower motor and the condition of the blower belt.

These are just a few of the standard checks that should be performed by a reliable HVAC technician. Service Champions offers a full 26 point check-up to help ensure your system is operating efficiently and reliably.

While you should rely on a trained professional to maintain your HVAC system, there are things you can do on your own to help. The easiest and most effective home maintenance is regularly changing your air-filter. Clean air filters help to protect the unit and can improve the quality of your indoor air.

At Service Champions, we guarantee after our Precision Tune-up and Professional Cleaning, your utility bill will be at least $77 less the next five months or we’ll refund your $77!

Schedule your precision air conditioning tune-up today or contact us to learn more.

It’s easy to overlook the importance of having an HVAC service membership. However, when you compare the benefits of a service agreement to not having one, the contrasts can be significant. Service agreements, like the Club Memberships we offer at Service Champions, can provide priority service, special rates, maintenance incentives and more.

Here are just a few reasons to consider a Club Membership:

Priority Service
When you need service, you likely don’t want to wait long for your repair. Sometimes, however, especially during the busy times of year, that can happen – unless you’re a Club Member. With a Club Membership, members enjoy priority service over other customers. This means, depending on your membership, you can count on same day service in some cases – night or day. Knowing your key to comfort is only a phone call a way can bring great peace of mind when you need it most.

Special Rates
Purchasing new equipment and maintaining it can sometimes place a strain on your pocketbook  - particularly when the need for unexpected repairs arise. Club Memberships can help to lesson that strain because members of any level can enjoy special discounts. Whether it’s a percentage off the total purchase price of new equipment, discounted service calls or complementary annual tune-ups, no matter how you look at it, the savings can be huge!

Precision Tune-Ups & Cleaning
Service Champions Club Members enjoy the benefits of annual furnace and air conditioning tune-ups without the cost. Of all the benefits of being a Club Member, this feature gives you the most bang for your buck. Annual preventative maintenance and cleanings are important for your equipment. It keeps them running efficiently - which helps to lower operating costs for you - extends the overall life of the unit, and reduces the chance of the dreaded unexpected breakdown. The savings and benefits from this perk alone can really pay out for you in both the short and long term.

Exclusive Offers
Special offers and incentives are available to Club Members that are not available to other Service Champions customers. Benefits like extended original warranties for your furnace and air condenser, special one-time promotions, and exclusive Facebook offers and competitions are all additional benefits.    

If you don’t already have a service agreement or you’re looking to learn more about the great benefits available to Service Champions Club members, contact us to learn more, or sign up for your membership today!

When your heating and cooling system is running, it acts as the catalyst for recirculating the air throughout your home - the air that can contain allergens and contaminants like pet dander, mold, dust, gases, and odors. It can also contain illness causing bacteria and viruses.

Unfortunately, washing your hands and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze isn’t always enough to keep you healthy, especially if family members in your home are sick. If you’re breathing air that is contaminated with the cold and flu virus or bacterial pneumonia, your chances for infection are significantly increased.

So what can you do?

The best way to keep the air clear is to stop the germs from spreading. Outside in nature, this happens through ionization and UV energy from the sun. UV light has been proven for decades to effectively disinfect air, surfaces and water. Understanding the benefits of UV energy has made it possible to apply this same principal for use in hospitals, labs, nursing homes, schools, office buildings and even residential settings.

By installing biocide chambers, also known as UV germicidal lamps, in your central HVAC system you can reduce your risk of getting sick. Biocide chambers eliminate the germs that traditional and HEPA air filtration cannot. Microorganisms like the cold and flu virus are too small to be trapped by these methods of filtration. Ultraviolet energy, at the right wavelength, is lethal to viruses, bacteria and mold spores of any size.

As they pass by the light, microorganisms are exposed to the UV energy produced by the lamp and their genetic structure is compromised. Essentially, when the microorganisms are exposed to the light, the genetic material of the microorganism is deconstructed and prevents them from reproducing – rendering it harmless.

What are the benefits of using a germicidal UV lamp?

When a germicidal UV lamp is properly installed, your indoor air quality will be better and you will be healthier. Using ultraviolet technology is a safe and effective non-chemical approach to air purification. Once the lamp is installed, it requires very low maintenance.

UV lights are also great because unlike other sanitary methods, the pathogens and microorganisms cannot develop a resistance to the light. This means the UV light will always be an effective method of sterilizing the air in your home.

While UV lamps are certainly effective, it is still important to continue using an air filter with your HVAC system. They are important for trapping larger particulates like dust and pet hair that can trigger allergy and/or asthma symptoms and significantly affect the efficiency of your heating or cooling unit.

To learn more about UV germicidal lamps or other methods and products for improving your indoor air quality, contact Service Champions online today. Do you have questions for us? Contact an expert online now!

Sometimes your air conditioner can appear to be running just fine, but still isn’t doing its job to cool your home. When this happens, there can be several possible causes that prevent your air conditioner from keeping you cool. We’ve listed a few below.  

Ductwork – Ductwork is one of the most important components of your overall HVAC system. It is responsible for delivering the heated or cooled air, produced by your air conditioner or furnace, throughout your home. When your ductwork is cracked, bent, or poorly designed, the heated or cooled air your HVAC unit works so hard to create, cannot keep you comfortable. A thorough inspection and sealing of your ductwork may be necessary to fix the problem.

Thermostat – If you notice your AC is running, but not always cooling, you might want to check your thermostat settings. Most thermostats have an “auto” and “on” setting for the blower, and when set a certain way, can make your air conditioner seem like it’s not working properly. When set to “auto” the blower goes off and on according to the set room temperature. In the “on” position, the blower will run continuously regardless of the room temperature. Often, the “on” position is used for homes with air cleaners and other filtration systems installed as part of their HVAC system.

Refrigerant – Especially as your unit ages, it will leak small amounts of refrigerant every season if it is not charged on a regular basis. Sometimes, your unit can leak too much refrigerant to be effective at keeping you cool. In other instances, the refrigerant can come into contact with moisture and freeze, which causes blockages and prevent your unit from cooling properly. To avoid this, it’s a good idea to have your AC serviced on an annual basis.     

Condenser Coils – Sometimes a stalled condenser coil can cause your unit to keep from blowing cool air. The condenser coil is the part of the unit responsible for producing cold air. A blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker can cause it to quit working while the fan will continue to run, providing the facade your AC is operating, as it should. A professional inspection if your AC will help to determine if this is the problem.

When your AC isn’t keeping you comfortable, it’s best to contact a professional who can help you properly diagnose and repair the problem. At Service Champions, our technicians are trained to fix your problem fast while saving your money.

Schedule service with us online today, or contact one of our experts to learn more about your air conditioning problems.
 

If you have recently upgraded to a new energy efficient heating or cooling system, or you’re considering doing so in the near future, don’t automatically assume new equipment will be the answer to your skyrocketing energy bills.

Too many homeowners overlook one of the most important factors in the efficiency of your overall HVAC system: the ductwork. Your air ducts are the responsible for delivering the heated or cooled air those units work so hard to create. Unfortunately, many homes do not have the proper ductwork, or ductwork that is performing to it’s fullest potential.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 75% of homeowners are losing hundreds of dollars every year due to leaks and insulation flaws with their ductwork.

Benefits of Effective Ductwork

Comfort – Fixing leaks and sealing cracks, as well as insulating your ductwork can result in noticeably improved comfort. These cracks and leaks often lead to rooms being too hot or too cold and make regulating a comfortable temperature difficult.

Energy & Cost Savings – Effective ductwork will work for your new energy efficient heating and cooling systems. Leaks and poor insulation, however, will make that new “efficient” unit work harder than necessary to keep you comfortable. This translates into a great deal of money lost in energy costs.

Safety – Ductwork that is properly sealed will keep dangerous vapors out of your home. Leaky ducts can allow contaminants like household cleaning agents, vehicle and small machine exhaust, carbon monoxide and more to be released back into your home instead of being exhausted safely outside.

Health – Sealed ducts keep the dust, pollen, pet dander and mold that is floating around from entering your duct system. For allergy and asthma sufferers living in your home, this is great as it helps to alleviate triggers that can make them miserable.

Don’t let your ductwork keep you from enjoying the energy savings you deserve. Sealed and insulated ductwork is good for your pocketbook and the environment!

At Service Champions, we care about helping you keep comfortable while saving you money. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you get the most from your ductwork.

Being a homeowner means you sometimes have to make decisions about things you’re not so familiar with. When it comes to your home, understanding the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can be overwhelming. To help you make more educated choices about the products you choose for your home, we’ve outlined some terms we feel every Southern California homeowner should understand.

HVAC Terms You Should Know

SEER, or the seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is used to rate the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps on a seasonal basis. The higher the SEER, the more efficiently the unit will run. Today, all air conditioners or heat pumps sold in the United States must meet a minimum SEER rating of at least 13.

AFUE, or annual fuel utilization efficiency, determines the efficiency of a furnace by measuring how well a fuel source is used by the unit. Any new furnace installed today must have an AFUE rating of at least 80. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the unit will run. For example, a furnace with a AFUE rating of 90 means it will use 90 percent of the total fuel burned to heat the home. The remaining 10 percent is lost.

MERV, or the minimum efficiency reporting value, is used to rate the efficiency of air filters. The higher the MERV rating, the more particles the filter will successfully capture. The scale is established using captured particles measuring between less than 0.3 micrometers and greater than 10 micrometers.

The higher the rating you opt for in each particular unit can result in lower energy costs, but the unit will cost more up front than a less expensive unit with a lower rating. Selecting the right efficiency rating for your home will depend on the amount of money you wish to spend on a new unit, the time you plan to run the unit and the energy savings you hope to achieve with the purchase of a new system.

What many homeowners, don't know about efficiency ratings can end up increasing utility bills and wasting energy. Do you have questions about the efficiency ratings of your heating or cooling unit? Are you looking to upgrade? Consult with one of our experts online, or schedule a free estimate today.

As a homeowner, it’s likely at some point; you’ll need to consider replacing your heating or cooling unit. Making the decision to do so can be difficult because you’re likely faced with a large budgetary decision as well as a plethora of choices when it comes to picking the right unit for your home.

When to Upgrade

Age – When your air conditioner or heat pump is more than 10 years old, or your furnace is more than 15 years old, it’s probably time to upgrade to a newer model.

Cost – If your unit requires more and more repairs to keep it going, and your energy consumption seems to be increasing, a new unit might be a better investment over repair costs and energy bills.

Performance – Systems that are too noisy or don’t heat or cool like they once did are also good candidates for replacement.


What to Consider

When you upgrade to a new heating or cooling unit, you’ll want to also consider your ductwork and it’s effectiveness. Leaky air ducts can hinder the performance of even the most efficient unit available. Save yourself time, money and frustration and have your ducts inspected and sealed.

With so many choices available on the market today, make sure you select a unit that is right for your home and comfort needs. It is highly recommended you consult with an experienced professional who can help you determine the energy efficiency and other important considerations so you don’t end up making a costly wrong decision.

Choose an HVAC contractor who offers up front pricing and financing to fit your budget. Purchasing a new unit is a big financial decision and nobody likes added costs or other surprises when making such a large purchase.

When you do make the decision to upgrade to a new heating or cooling unit, make sure you’re getting what you’re paying for – have your unit professionally installed. Not doing so can cost you more in higher energy bills and reduced system efficiency.

If you’re considering a new air conditioner, heat pump or furnace for your home consult with a Service Champions Heating and Air Conditioning expert or schedule a free estimate today!

It’s not uncommon for homeowners to purchase a new furnace or air conditioner and opt out of extended warranties and maintenance contracts. Typically, naïve assumptions and misunderstandings about manufacturer warranties are the main reasons behind such decisions. Understanding the warranties that come with your unit and the role maintenance plays is important in making an educated choice that often translates into cost-savings for you.

Understanding Warranties
While every manufacturer’s warranty is different, generally speaking they do share some similarities. First, since manufacturers can’t control how their equipment is installed, you won’t ever see a combined parts and labor warranty that extends for the life of the unit. Typically warranties offered by the manufacturer will only cover parts, and are only honored if a licensed HVAC contractor has determined the part’s failure was caused by a manufacturer defect. This means if your unit isn’t installed correctly, or not serviced by a professional, your warranty can be void. Additionally, parts warranties typically only cover major elements and do not cover air filters, fan belts, lubrication, electrical wiring or other similar components. Homeowners are expected to assume responsibility for the maintenance of these parts on their own. If the system fails due to lack of upkeep, again, your manufacturer warranty will be void.

Certain expert HVAC contractors offer extended parts and labor warranties. When combined with the original manufacturer warranty, homeowners can see a great deal in long-term savings and enjoy many other benefits.

The Role of Maintenance
After understanding the basics of what is covered by your manufacturer’s warranty, it’s easy to see why regular professional maintenance is so important. Most warranties are only applicable if a certified HVAC technician services your unit. This means you must take steps to see that your heating and cooling system is properly cared for on a regular basis. Doing so not only keeps the warranty valid, but also helps you avoid the hassle of unexpected breakdowns and the need for what would otherwise be unnecessary repairs.

At Service Champions, our experts are trained to help you select, install, and maintain your new air conditioner, heat pump or furnace.Contact us today to learn more about our products, services and how we can help you save money.

Summer is nearly here, so before it’s too late, there are several things you should do to make sure you’re ready for the heat. Preparing your air conditioner for the strain of summer can help to extend its life and reduce the amount you pay in energy costs.

Test Your System
Switch your thermostat to “cool” and run your air conditioner for a brief period to verify it comes on and starts to cool your house. Testing your unit prior to actually needing it will keep you from having to make an emergency call at the first sign of unbearable temperatures.

Maintenance
Before you begin using your air conditioner full-time, be sure you have it inspected and serviced by a professional. Pre-season tune-ups can not only extend the life of the unit and keep it running efficiently, but also help detect any potential problems that might cause an unexpected breakdown. If you learn it might be time for a new air conditioner, don’t wait! Unexpected breakdowns and reduced efficiency can add up in operating costs and cause unnecessary frustration for you. Service Champions offers flexible financing plans to help with the purchase of a new unit.

Change Your Air Filter
It’s important to change your air filter. Doing so helps to protect the unit from a build up of dirt and debris and helps your air conditioner to run more efficiently.

Reduce Solar Heat Gain
While natural sunlight is a great way to warm your home in the winter, it works against you in the warmer months. During the day, keep blinds or drapes closed to reduce the amount of sunlight entering a space. Solar screens installed on the outside of windows also offer an effective means of keeping extra heat out of your home.

Open Your Windows
As summer approaches, early morning and nighttime hours still bring cooler air. Leaving your windows open instead of running your air conditioner, when you can, will reduce the strain placed on your unit. Installing a whole house fan can also assist with bringing the cooler air inside.

Use a Programmable Thermostat
Consider switching to a programmable thermostat. Doing so can save you a lot in energy costs by setting it to only turn on your air conditioner when you need it most.

Do you have questions about your air conditioning unit? Ask one of our experts online. To learn more contact us today.

Especially when you have never had the need to call a HVAC contractor before, selecting the right company can be difficult. While there are a lot of companies to choose from, how do you know you’re selecting one that is trustworthy and will do the job right?

There are still several key things you should always be looking for when choosing a new contractor. Here are just a few:

Certifications
Make sure your contractor is licensed and certified. Licensing is typically determined by the state in which the business is located although not all states require HVAC contractors be licensed. Appropriate licenses and certifications demonstrate the business has met the outlined operating standards and that you are getting a qualified technician.

Longevity
How long has the contractor been in business? Knowing the history of a company can tell you a lot about a business. It’s pretty safe to say the longer a company has been in business in your area, the better for you. Businesses that have been around for several years or more often bring much more experience and knowledge to the services they provide.

Reviews & Recommendations
Do your own background checks. With so many review websites available on the Internet, it’s easy to uncover what other customers are saying about a business by searching online. When you read online reviews, be sure to read both the good and bad. Consider what each person is saying and judge for yourself whether or not their concerns should add weight to your decision to hire a particular company.

Guarantees
When a business offers warranties and guarantees on their products and services that means they stand behind their work. When it comes to your home and comfort, guaranteed peace of mind is of the utmost importance.

Choosing the right contractor can be challenging at times. Protect your home and your pocketbook by evaluating a company fully before choosing to do business with them.

Do you have a need for service or repair and you’re looking for a great company? Contact Service Champions online!

One of the most important elements of your heating and cooling system is your air filter. Air filters are responsible for protecting the unit against dirt, dust, pet hair and other debris. Air filters also are important for preserving good air quality. They help to keep contaminates from being recycled throughout your home.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, you should check your air filter every month and change it at least every three months. Especially during seasons of heavy use, like winter and summer, if the filters look even slightly dirty, they should be changed.

Why It’s Important to Change Your Air Filter
Dirty air filters can slow down airflow and your system will end up having to work much harder. This not only places unnecessary strain on your heating or cooling unit, it can end up costing you in higher energy bills as your system becomes less efficient. Air filters are also very important for keeping your system clean and free of debris. A build up of dirt and grime can end up leading to expensive repairs and/or early system failure.

How to Change Your Air Filter

Step 1. Turn off your HVAC unit.
This can be done either at the thermostat, directly on the unit or by flipping the appropriate breaker.

Step 2. Locate your air filter.
Typically, your filter will be located at a ceiling or wall return grill, or near the air handler which is often in the crawl space, attic or utility area of your home.

Step 3. Access the Filter.
To access the filter, you will need to remove the fasteners on the wall or ceiling, or the cover plate on the unit.

Step 4. Check and/or remove the old dirty filter.
If the filter is still clean, simply set it back into place, but if dirty, remove and discard it.

Step 5. Install new air filter.
Locate the small arrow at the top of the filter. Using the arrow as a guide, place the filter in the direction of airflow (which is typically facing the blower if you are working near the air handler).

Step 6. Replace grill or cover plate.
Check to ensure everything is fastened tightly. Turn on your unit when finished.

For questions about changing your air filter, or to learn about maintenance services, contact us online today.

For being such a little instrument, thermostats play a pretty big role in your overall comfort and the cost of heating and cooling your home. Consider the following thermostat myths and facts when you use your thermostat. Doing so may just help you maximize the benefits you get from controlling your indoor comfort.

Myth: Your furnace or air conditioner has to work much harder to warm or cool a space to a comfortable temperature after the thermostat has been set back, meaning you really aren’t saving all that much on energy costs.

Fact: If the temperature is set at energy saving set points for longer periods of time during the day when no one is home or at night after bedtime, a significant amount of energy and/or fuel is saved over letting the unit run to maintain the desired comfortable temperature. Years of research have proven energy savings are achieved between the time the temperature stabilizes at the set back temperature and the next time the heat or air conditioning is needed. The longer your home remains at the set back temperature, the more energy you will save.

Myth: The higher you raise the temperature for heat or the lower you set it for air conditioning, the faster your house will reach this temperature.

Fact: Cranking your unit down super low to say, 55 degrees, or a super high 90 degrees will not cool or heat your home any faster. Furnaces and air conditioners put out the same amount of heat or conditioned air regardless of the thermostat setting. The determining factor is how long it takes to reach the set temperature, not how high or how low the thermostat is set.

Myth: If your house isn’t being cooled or heated to a comfortable temperature, despite the thermostat settings, the thermostat must be broken.

Fact: More often than not, when your home isn’t reaching the desired temperature, it is not the thermostat to blame. Instead, the issue could be with the heating or cooling unit or possibly a problem with your ductwork. If your experiencing this issue, you should contact a professional who can accurately diagnose the problem and offer the appropriate repair solutions.

Myth: The location of the thermostat is not that important to its ability to function properly.

Fact: The location of your thermostat is very important. Its environment can significantly influence its performance, which in turn, influences your comfort and the cost of keeping you comfortable. Thermostats should be placed away from doorways, direct sunlight, drafty areas, drapery, appliances, vents, registers and the kitchen. Ideally, thermostats should be installed in a convenient location and most closely to areas requiring optimal comfort control such as the bedrooms.

Myth: No home really needs more than one thermostat.

Fact: Even smaller homes can benefit from having more than one thermostat. Especially homes with multiple heating or cooling zones such as downstairs living space and upstairs bedrooms, multiple thermostats can help you maximize your energy savings and improve your overall comfort.

Understanding how to use your thermostat correctly can help you save a lot on energy costs and greatly improve your comfort control. If you are in the market for a new thermostat or have questions about getting the most out of what yours has to offer, contact a qualified HVAC contractor to help. Especially when it comes to installation of a new thermostat, proper calibration is key.

To learn more about operating your thermostat, purchasing a new thermostat and more, contact Service Champions online today.

Do you ever feel cold drafts or dramatic swings in temperature when your equipment isn’t running? Have you ever awoke sweating so much that you needed to sleep the rest of the night on the couch just to say cool? Do find it difficult to keep one area of your house comfortable while the rest of the house can be a difference of several degrees or more in temperature?

Many homeowners experience this and it can be difficult, and altogether frustrating. If you experience hot and cold spots inside your home, it doesn’t have to be that way.

How does it happen?

Hot and cold spots, or temperature inconsistencies between one part of your house and another are relatively common. Unfortunately, most people think they have to live this way. The reality is however, once you identify the leading cause of the problem, more often than not there is a relatively simple solution. There are a few common problems that could be causing your home to be difficult to keep comfortable.

Your air ducts are leaking.
Leaky ductwork can be a real problem. First, they make balancing the temperature throughout your house nearly impossible. Compare your ductwork to a drinking straw. When you try to use a straw that is cracked or broken, getting the drink to come all the way through the straw can be really difficult. Just like that straw, when your air ducts are leaking, the heated or cooled air is not making its way through the entire system and instead, is lost through cracks and leaks along the way. Not only can leaky ducts make the comfort level in your home more difficult to control, they can reduce your heating and cooling system’s efficiency by as much as 20%. This means the unit will have to work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Leaky ducts can also contribute to other problems like poor air quality and fluctuating humidity levels throughout your house.

Your ductwork is poorly insulated.
Ductwork is typically made from thin sheet metal. When you combine this with its location within the home, which is commonly in exposed in spaces like attics, basements, and crawl spaces; regulating your indoor temperature can be difficult. According to the US Department of Energy, if left uninsulated, ducts can lose 10% - 30% of the energy used to heat and cool your home. Duct work that is properly insulated, like Gold Flex Ductwork, offers minimal loss in heated or cooled air and less condensation which can make delivering even temperatures to every room in your home much easier to do.

Your Home isn’t zoned properly, or not at all.
It could just be the temperature imbalance you’re noticing doesn’t really have anything to do with an inefficient HVAC system. Rather your home requires a customized zoning system to keep you comfortable. Zoning allows you to independently control the comfort level of different “zones” inside your house. For example, if you live in a two-story home and you spend much if not all of your day downstairs, a zoning system might be right for you. The downstairs can maintain a manageable temperature while the upstairs can be cooler for sleeping and you don’t have to adjust your thermostat to manipulate the comfort level you’re trying to achieve for any particular space. The plumbing and electrical system within a home is already zoned. When you flip a switch, or turn on a faucet or appliance, only the lights, faucets or appliances associated with that switch come on. Unlike the plumbing and electrical, an “un-zoned” house heats or cools the entire house whether you are occupying all areas simultaneously or not. What’s more, your HVAC system consumes more energy than all electrical and plumbing fixtures combined. With zoning, not only is your home more comfortable with temperatures balanced based on your individualized preferences, but the energy savings can be big.

Your air conditioner or furnace is not the right size for your home.
When it comes to your home’s HVAC, bigger isn’t always better. If your heating or cooling unit is too big or too small, it makes controlling your comfort very difficult and very expensive. An incorrectly sized unit will mean the temperatures in your house will not be consistent. Some areas will get too much and some not enough. Indoor humidity levels become difficult to control and the overall comfort level of your home is compromised.

This situation often becomes a problem after an addition is placed on the home. If you think the sizing of your heating or cooling unit might be to blame, consult with a professional to help you determine the appropriate size for the square footage of your home.

Take control of your comfort.

If you’re experiencing hot and cold spots throughout your home, you can do something about it. Sometimes discovering the root of the problem is half the battle. Contacting a professional HVAC company like Service Champions can help you determine what’s causing your discomfort.

Interested in eliminating those hot and cold spots in your home? Contact us online today to learn more!

A heat pump is a device that uses a small amount of energy to move heat from one location to another. They are capable of both heating and cooling a space with only one unit. This can be quite convenient for homeowners who don’t have natural gas or need to install separate heating and cooling units in their homes. While there are several kinds of heat pumps available today including geothermal, absorption, mini-split and reverse cycle, split system heat pumps are of the most common variety.

Heating and Cooling

Air-source heat pumps are ideal for moderate climates like southern California. Using a heat pump instead of a furnace and air conditioner can offer a great deal in energy savings. Instead of burning fuel to create heat, air-source heat pumps use electricity to warm or cool an area by transferring heat from one location to another. During the heating season, the heat pump extracts the warm air from outside and moves it indoors. The same happens during the cooling season. Warm air is pumped from inside your home to the outside.

It seems logical when the heat pump is operating in cooling mode. Pulling warm air from inside your house and expelling it outside is easy to understand. It’s pulling the “warm air,” from the already cold outside air, into your home that gets so many people confused. It may seem hard to believe, but according to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat can be harvested from cold outdoor air down to about 40?F through the process of refrigeration.

The main components of an air-source heat pumps consist of a compressor and two copper tubing coils that are surrounded by aluminum fins. The aluminum fins aid in the transfer of heat. Depending on whether the air-source heat pump is heating or cooling, refrigerant is moving through the system making the coils either hot or cold. A blower blows air through a filter and across the heated or cooled coils. This heats or cools the air, which is then sent through your ductwork and registers and into the rooms of your home.

By design, air-source heat pumps typically produce a milder heat than what you would get by using a conventional furnace. And because they do not cycle on and off as frequently, they are an energy smart alternative method of heating your house. For times when the temperature dips below 40?F, an optional electric resistance heating element like what you would find in your toaster, turns on to provide additional indoor heating. When this happens, it can detract from the energy benefits of using a heat pump. It is for this reason an air-source heat pump is best suited for moderate temperatures.

Advantages

Besides the convenience of one single combined heating and cooling unit, heat pumps offer several advantages to homeowners.

Efficiency. Heat pumps move heat rather than generate heat. Because of this, heat pumps can provide up to 4 times the amount of energy they consume.

Environmentally Friendly. As of January 2010, today’s heat pumps no longer us R-22, an ozone-depleting refrigerant. Heat pumps installed now are much more earth-friendly than they were just a couple years ago. Additionally, because they do not burn fuel, toxic gases and byproducts are not being released into the atmosphere.

Improved Comfort. Air-source heat pumps are great at providing uniform heating and cooling for the home. Temperature fluctuations are less likely. What’s more, heat pumps are also quieter to operate. With the compressor outside of your home, you are less likely to hear the noise generated by the unit.

Lifetime. With proper maintenance, heat pumps can last for more than 20 years.

While the advantages of a heat pump are enticing, like all heating and cooling units, air-source heat pumps should be regularly maintained to receive the most in energy savings and performance. Heat pumps that are not well maintained can experience up to 25% less efficiency than one that is kept clean and running smoothly.

To determine whether a heat pump is right for your home, it is best to consult with an expert who can help you decide.

For more information on heat pumps or any of our other products and services, contact us online today!

Today it’s so easy to spend more money than necessary when keeping your home comfortable. While there are many things you can do to save money on your energy costs, calling on Service Champions can help you see big savings, increased comfort and reliability.

Increase Efficiency, Reduce Your Energy Bills

Upgrade to a new energy efficient unit. Particularly if your heating or cooling unit is ten years or older, it might be worth your money to upgrade to a newer unit that better meets today’s energy efficient standards. Comparatively, older units are not as efficient and cost more to heat or cool your house than the units now sold in the market today. Service Champions’ selection of furnaces, air conditioners and heat pumps can help you improve the level of comfort inside your home while allowing you to save on your energy bills.

Regular Maintenance. If you own a vehicle, you know that for it to run reliably it needs regular oil and filter changes, tire rotations and more. What many people don’t realize is that like your car, you’re HVAC system needs the same kind of regular care to keep it running smoothly. When your heating or air conditioning units are not regularly maintained, they often end up working harder than necessary to heat or cool your home, which ends up costing you in higher energy bills. Service Champions offers full maintenance services to help you keep your units in top shape, increasing the life of the unit, and it’s level of performance.

Have Your Air Ducts Inspected and Sealed. The duct system inside your home is a crucial element in the performance of your HVAC system. Responsible for distributing heated or cooled air throughout your home, the smallest leak can result in a significant amount of energy loss. Any time this happens, your heating or air conditioning unit must work that much harder to make up for the loss, resulting in higher costs for you. A thorough inspection of your ductwork will identify and repair any leaks and weaknesses, and help you save a great deal of money.

Consider Zoning Your Home. If you find you are regularly adjusting the temperature inside your home to compensate for areas that are cooler or warmer from the rest of the house, or you prefer for more individualized temperature control from one location to another, you might benefit from a home zoning system. Zoning allows you to heat or cool certain areas of your home, like the upstairs or downstairs for example, without having to control the temperature of your entire house. This can save you a great deal of money and improves efficiency by keeping your furnace or air conditioner from working overtime.

Purchase a Programmable Thermostat. Programmable thermostats are one of the easiest and quickest ways to save money on energy costs in your home. Allowing you to set heating or cooling schedules based on when you’re home, sleeping, or requiring automated comfort control, programmable thermostats help regulate the temperature inside your home without making your HVAC units operate more than necessary.

Regulate Humidity. The level of humidity in the air can have a significant impact on your comfort. Using a dehumidifier or humidifier can help to regulate the humidity levels inside your home and help make the work of your heater or air conditioner a little less difficult.

Are you interested in one of these services? Do you have questions about how Service Champions can help you save on energy costs? Contact us today to learn more.

Every year, cold and flu season arrives, and it usually sticks around for quite awhile. Most people tend to associate the season with cooler temperatures, but never really consider why illnesses increase during this period.

It is often assumed the chances of getting the cold or flu are increased by not washing hands and improper sanitization. This is true, but what often goes unrealized is that the quality of your indoor air also has a lot to do with the spread of cold and flu causing microorganisms.

Cold and flu season typically begins early fall and lasts well into spring – the time of year most of us spend more of our days indoors. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, the air inside your home is nearly 7-10 times more contaminated than the air outside. It’s no wonder when each sneeze and cough containing bacterial and viral pathogens is being released and recirculated throughout your home.

You know to wipe down surfaces, wash your hands, and avoid those who you know are sick, but how do you clean the air? Luckily, with the right system in your home, it’s possible and easy to accomplish.

How to Reduce the Spread of Germs

Install a biocide chamber. Biocide chambers use UV lights. UV lights, used by hospitals and laboratories for years, work in conjunction with your air conditioner or furnace to sterilize harmful cold and flu-causing organisms.

In nature, UV energy from the sun is used to cleanse outdoor air and inhibit the growth of mircoorganisms. Just like outside, UV lamps inside your home can have the same effect. They work by damaging the microorganism’s DNA. When the structure of the DNA is altered, the virus or bacteria is incapable of reproducing and thus spreading illness throughout your home. UV lights are great because unlike other sanitary methods, the pathogens and microorganisms cannot develop a resistance to the light. This means the UV light will always be an effective method of sterilizing the air in your home.

Install a humidifier. It has been shown that changes in relative humidity can affect the frequency of someone catching a cold or succumbing to the flu. The microorganisms responsible for the cold and flu thrive in environments with low humidity, which is usually during the cooler months of the year. Installing a humidifier can help you balance the relative humidity inside your home and make it an environment less friendly to germs. Plus, adding a humidifier has the added benefit of increasing your comfort because your skin and inner lining of your nose will maintain a more balanced level of moisture. This means you won’t experience the itchiness often associated with dry winter air and the sore nose that is more vulnerable to viral infection.

Other Ways to Clear the Air

While these methods aren’t designed to remove germs from the air, they can really help with removing the particulates contributing to allergies and asthma which can make your cold or flu symptoms that much worse.

Change your air filter on a regular basis. Your air filter is the first line of defense against spreading airborne particulates including dust, pollen and pet dander throughout your home. If you or someone in your home suffers from allergies, changing your air filter regularly will help - especially when the allergy sufferer is already suffering from cold or flu symptoms.

Install a bioguard powered filter. Bioguard filters, or electric air cleaners, are designed to replace your existing furnace or air conditioning filter. Unlike traditional filters, which are designed to capture larger particulates and mostly protect the unit, bioguard filters actually capture and remove airborne particles from the air.

Are you interested in taking steps to make your home healthier? Contact Service Champions to learn more today!

Has your furnace had it’s check-up?

Most of us are content to let things go. That is, until they break. For many, this is fine until it’s their furnace and it quits working on one of the coldest nights of the year. When this happens, more often than not, it’s a lack of upkeep and maintenance to blame.

Your furnace is just like your car when it comes to regular maintenance. Your car requires clean oil and filters, tire rotations and brake inspections to keep it reliable and safe for you and your family. Your furnace needs the same kind of care. If you want your furnace to be reliable, efficient and safe, it must be regularly maintained.

Why It’s Important

Safety
Just as many people don’t realize their furnace needs maintenance, the safe operation of the heating unit is also often overlooked. Sadly each year on the news we will hear of at least one family who has been accidentally poisoned by carbon monoxide gas.

If you have a gas furnace, it’s very important to have it inspected at least once a year to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas, is produced from the burning of fossil fuel. The most common sources for the gas are oil and gas-powered furnaces and wood burning stoves.

When someone suffers from carbon monoxide poisoning, physical symptoms could appear as fatigue, chest pain, impaired vision, headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea and can sometimes be fatal in higher concentrations.

A professional inspection will include a check of the carbon monoxide levels produced by your furnace. This is particularly important if you own an older unit with heat exchangers susceptible to cracking. It’s also a good preventive measure to have a carbon monoxide detector installed near the furnace.

In addition to carbon monoxide concerns, a professional tune-up will include an inspection of the furnace for loose wires or signs of corrosion, burning or exposed metal along insulated wires. If your furnace is gas powered, a thorough inspection of the gas line might also be a good safety measure. The line should be inspected for leaks and the current pressure should be evaluated. Gas pressure that is too high can lead to an increased risk for carbon monoxide poisoning and can also cause the unit to over fire and use more gas than is really needed.

Performance
If your furnace isn’t running efficiently, it’s costing you money - more money than you should be spending. It’s also costing you the comfort you deserve. Professional tune-ups can help improve the performance and efficiency of your furnace.

Regardless of the type of furnace you own, regular cleaning and upkeep is a must if your unit is to run efficiently and without fail. Professional technicians are experienced and trained to identify weaknesses and potential problems that can cause the unit to fail. They also have the knowledge to assess and clean the complex electrical components of your furnace.

Regular maintenance not only helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns, but it also can significantly improve the life of the unit. With annual tune-ups, your furnace can afford you more years of reliable comfort.

What You Can Do
While it’s certainly important to have your heating unit professionally maintained at least once a year, don’t forget there are things you can do on your own, too. The easiest, and one of the most important, is to change your system’s air filter regularly.

The air filter is vital to helping keep particulates like dust and other debris out of the unit. It helps your furnace run more smoothly and efficiently. Your air filter should be changed ever 1-3 months depending on the type you use.

You can also regulate how often you are running your unit. The less you need the unit to perform, the less wear and tear you are placing on it. Especially if you work during the day or are regularly away from home for longer durations of time, installing a programmable thermostat can help you reduce the strain on your unit.

If your furnace seems to be running just fine, scheduling an annual tune-up might seem like an unnecessary expense. However, the peace of mind and improved comfort you get in return is well worth your time and money both now and in the long run.

To learn more contact us online or schedule a furnace tune-up now.

When your furnace quits working, (which always seems to be during a cold snap) it can be worrisome to deal with. More often than not, when your furnace gives out, it’s usually not the heating unit that’s actually to blame, but something else that’s causing things to go awry.

At Service Champions, not one heating season goes by where we don’t get calls from people complaining about their furnace. We decided to put together a collection of some of the most common culprits of furnace failure and an explanation of what might be happening to cause the issue.

Problem: Furnace Isn’t Heating
Possible Causes:

• Thermostat – You might be surprised how many calls we receive where the furnace isn’t working because of a thermostat setting. Sometimes customers will call for service on their furnace only to have a technician check the thermostat and see that it isn’t set correctly. If your furnace isn’t functioning properly, check that your thermostat is switched to “heat,” the desired temperature is higher than the existing room temperature, and the fan is set to “auto.” If you have a programmable thermostat, you may need to override the settings to verify whether the thermostat is the issue or not.
• Circuit Breaker – Check your circuit breaker. It could be tripped or blown and keeping your furnace from turning on. If your circuit breaker is tripped, try resetting the breaker to see if this fixes the problem.
• Faulty Pilot Light – This is a common problem that can become quite frustrating when you don’t know why it’s happening. A pilot light can go out for a number of reasons. It could be caused by a faulty thermocouple or dirty gas tube and even a draft. If you suspect a problem with your pilot light, it’s best and safest to contact a professional to help diagnose and repair the problem.
• The gas flow is inhibited. This can sometimes happen when the gas pressure regulator malfunctions and closes off the propane or natural gas feed or the valve has simply been closed off. If you suspect either of these scenarios, don’t try to troubleshoot it yourself. It’s safest to leave this to a trained professional.

Problem: Not Enough Heat
Possible Causes:

• Dirty Air Filter – A clean air filter is very necessary for your filter to function effectively and efficiently. Dirty furnace filters clogged with dust, pet hair and other debris will inhibit the flow of air over the heat exchanger and make warming your home more difficult. Make sure you change your air filter every one to three months, depending on the variety.
• Imbalanced airflow – If it doesn’t matter how often, and at what temperature, you run your furnace, some rooms never seem to be warm enough, it could be the airflow. In this case, it isn’t the furnace at all. To determine if this is the problem, you should have a full airflow analysis.
• Leaky Ducts – Cracks, broken seals, and even poor insulation in your ductwork can permit warm air to escape, which makes it very difficult to keep your home warm. If you suspect this is a problem consider having your ducts professionally inspected and sealed or insulated.

Problem: High Energy Bills
Possible Causes:

• Lack of Maintenance – Of all the furnace problems, a lack of furnace maintenance is the biggest culprit. When it comes to efficiency, a well-maintained furnace will always outperform its dirty, out of tune counterpart. You should plan on having your furnace professionally cleaned and maintained at least once a year to maximize on efficiency and performance. Units that run efficiently use less energy. When you are using less energy, you’re spending less money.
• Unit is Past Its Prime – Efficiency, efficiency, efficiency. This is one situation where the problem might just be the furnace. Today’s newer furnaces operate much more efficiently than the older units of yesterday. If your unit is older than 15 years, you should consider purchasing a new furnace. The savings over the long run will outweigh the cost of the upgrade.

If you are having problems with your furnace and you suspect one of these possible causes listed above, it’s always best to contact a trained professional HVAC technician to help you verify your suspicions and make the best suggestions for improvement.

Service Champions is your leading HVAC specialist. Contact us online today to learn how we can help you.

As the busy holiday season approaches, make sure your home is ready. Whether you’re expecting guests or planning to spend the holidays quietly at home, there are things you can do to stay comfortable while saving money and keeping energy costs low.

We’ve compiled a list of reminders and tips to help you get ready to enjoy what is sure to be another wonderful holiday season.

• Get a furnace tune-up. If you haven’t already, schedule your annual furnace maintenance. Nobody wants the furnace to quit unexpectedly – especially when you are entertaining a house full of guests. With annual maintenance, a trained technician can inspect and tune-up your furnace to help you guarantee it is running efficiently and effectively when you’ll need it most. Well maintained units run better, use less power and lower energy costs.
• Use your ceiling fans. Many people don’t realize that ceiling fans are not just for cooling a room; they can help keep it warm, too. Cool air sinks and warm air rises. Switch your fans into reverse, and they will help push warm air down from the ceiling. Using ceiling fans in conjunction with your heating unit can help a room to feel warmer without having to adjust the thermostat.
• Keep the damper closed. If you have a fireplace, and you’re not using it, keep the damper in your chimney closed. When open, it is very easy for warm air to escape and cold air to enter which can create a drafty feeling inside your home.
• Use a programmable thermostat. Help conserve energy and keep everyone comfortable with a programmable thermostat. Set the thermostat to a lower temperature at night when everyone is sleeping, and staying comfortable under blankets, and have it set to warm the house up a few degrees by the time people are waking up to start the day. If you are expecting guests keep in mind the more people in your home, the more body heat is generated. Depending on the level of activity and people there, you may plan on setting your thermostat a couple degrees lower than normal to keep your house comfortable.
• Avoid using portable heaters. Portable heating units can be dangerous if not used properly or if left unattended. If you notice some rooms in your home are colder than others, this might be indicative of a larger issue with your home heating system. You could have an imbalance in your air flow or your home might benefit from a zoning system.
• Let the sunlight in. Take advantage of the free heat from the sun. When it’s shining in your windows, open the blinds or curtains and allow the warmth to enter your home. Getting in this habit can allow your furnace to work less and save you on energy cost. The sunlight will also have the added benefit of reducing cabin fever and livening everyone’s mood!
• Keep your registers and vents free and clear. Give your home a one-over and make sure curtains and/or furniture isn’t blocking your heating registers in any way. If guests are staying in your home make sure their suitcases, coats and other belongings are clear from the vents and registers, too. If the air supply is hindered in any way, this can cause your furnace or heat pump to work harder to compensate for the imbalance.
• Dress for the season. If you have guests coming you might consider reminding them to dress warm. If everyone knows and plans to dress for cooler weather, you won’t have to worry about cranking up your thermostat to compensate for the underdressed.
• Schedule showers. Think ahead if you plan to have a house full of guests. Especially if you have a traditional tank water heater. Spacing out, and timing, showers can help you avoid running out of hot water when you need it most. If this is a common problem in your house all year-round, you might consider switching to a tankless water heater, where water is only heated as it is needed. It saves on energy costs and you never run out of hot water.

Especially during the holidays, it’s good to feel confident in your home’s heating system and know you’ll be warm and cozy. Following these tips can help you be sure you and your guests will enjoy the holiday as planned.

For more on how you can prepare your home for the holidays or for questions, contact us online. Need service? Schedule service online today!

Federal Tax Credit Coming to a Close Soon
Back in February of 2009, President Obama approved a consumer tax credit as part of the larger 2009 American Economic Recovery Act. Eligible homeowners can take advantage of this $787 billion dollar stimulus package when you make upgrades to your home comfort system with Energy Star efficient products.

According to the US Department of Energy (www.energy.gov), consumers who purchase and install qualifying energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment are eligible. Qualifying systems include natural gas, propane, or oil furnaces; heat pumps; air conditioners; and even tankless water heaters. You can purchase up to $5,000 in products and can claim up to 30%, or $1,500 as a tax credit until December 31, 2010.

Unlike a tax deduction that only removes a percentage of the tax owed, tax credits reduce your taxes dollar-for-dollar – regardless of the tax bracket you fall into. Purchases can be itemized on your federal income tax form, allowing the total amount of tax owed to the government to be lowered.

California Offers Its Own Incentives
As if the incentives from the American Economic Recovery Act weren’t enough, the State of California created and expanded the California Cash for Appliances Program (CFA). California homeowners are eligible for up to an additional $1,000 on top of the federal stimulus package. The CFA program does have a fund limit; this means once the funds run out the offer ends. With many people realizing the federal tax credit is due to expire at the end of this year, there will likely be a rush to take advantage of the savings, and this could quickly deplete the remaining funds in the CFA program. If you’re thinking about upgrades to your home comfort system, it’s best to act soon before it’s too late.

More Discounts
For a limited time Service Champions is offering southern California residents a special discount of $1,250. Along with a manufacturer’s discount of $1,200, you can see savings up to $4,950 when purchasing a new high efficient home comfort system.

When you think about all the great reasons to upgrade your home comfort system, don’t forget the increased efficiency you’ll experience with these new qualifying units. Installing energy efficient units can means you’re using less energy, saving even more money, and increasing your indoor comfort.

If you’re considering updating your heating or cooling unit, installing a new energy efficient tankless water heater or any of the numerous efficiency upgrades available, the potential for savings is huge. Now is the time to act. Remember, projects must be completed by the December 31, 2010 deadline to qualify.

To learn more about qualifying systems, contact Service Champions today.

The climate in southern California means heating and cooling needs are more moderate than in other areas of the country. While furnaces suit many residents just fine, the more energy conscious choose heat pumps to help them stay warm in the cooler months.

Sometimes referred to as a central heating and cooling unit, heat pumps perform the job of two units in one by warming your home when it’s cold and cooling your home when it’s hot.

How They Work
Many people falsely assume that heat pumps generate heat when in actuality; they act as the catalyst in transferring heat from one location to another using only a small amount of energy. They are usually used to pull heat from the ground or air to heat your home in colder months, and can be switched to work in reverse by pulling heat from inside your home and expel it outside during the hotter months.

Since heat pumps do not burn fuel to generate heat, they are considered much more energy efficient than a furnace or boiler. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat pumps can provide up to 4 times the amount of energy they consume.

Popular Types of Heat Pumps
While all heat pumps are considerably more efficient than say, using a furnace to heat your home, some are better than others. Geothermal heat pumps are among the most energy efficient models of heat pumps available. They work by transferring heat between the ground or a nearby water source and your home. While they have low operating costs, the can be more expensive to install.

Air-source heat pumps on the other hand, are relatively inexpensive to install and are probably the most common kind of heat pump available today. Air-source heat pumps work best in moderate climates where temperatures do not dip below freezing for any extended period of time. With an air-source heat pump, a liquid refrigerant is pumped through coils and a fan pulls outside air over the coils. Liquid inside them absorbs the heat and generates vapor. The heated vapor is sent through a compressor to increase the temperature before flowing to the indoor coils. The heat is then pumped into your home’s ductwork and distributed throughout the house.

While heat pumps can perform their function successfully in most all climates, some may require assistance from a back up unit. There are several kinds of heat pumps available on the market today, including ductless varieties for homes with no ductwork. It’s suggested you consult with a professional to learn what type is best for your home. Installing the wrong kind could mean you might end up paying more in energy costs.

Purchasing a Heat Pump
If you’re considering a heat pump for your home, you should know that today, they are one-and-a-half to two times more efficient than heat pumps available 30 years ago. Because of this, several federal tax credits are available through the end of 2010. To learn more, contact us online today!

The kids are back to school, the neighborhood pool is closed for the season and there is a hint of fall in the air. It’s hard to believe, but the transition from summer into fall is happening and cooler days will be here before you know it.

Things You Can Do
With the change of each new season there are things you can be doing around the house to make the transition easier and more comfortable for you and your family. Here are a few:

Turn on your ceiling fan. As you use your air conditioner less, consider making use of the ceiling fans if you have them. They can help to supplement cooling on milder days and can help you save a significant amount of money over running your air conditioner.

Get a tune-up on your furnace. Before you know it you will be relying on your furnace to keep you comfortable again. Like your car, your furnace needs seasonal tune-ups to help you avoid sometimes expensive and unexpected repairs, as well as help ensure the unit is operating safely. Tune-ups help your furnace run more efficiently, too and that helps you save energy and cut down on costs.

Replace your air filter. Filters in your furnace should be changed monthly to help the unit run at peak efficiency. The filter in your furnace helps to remove airborne particulates and debris that could potentially damage the fan or the heating coil. Depending on the filter you choose, some even remove impurities like pollen and mold from the air - and this is important if you have allergy or asthma sufferers in your home. If you do have people living in your home who are sensitive to airborne pollutants, installing a bioguard powered air filter is also a good idea.

Clear the area around your furnace. Before you begin to use your furnace, make sure that the surrounding area is clear of stored chemicals, boxes, clothing, newspapers, etc. Furnaces require fresh air to run properly and efficiently. The same rules apply if your home is heated with a heat pump. Be sure weeds, bushes, leaves, and other debris are cleared away from the unit.

Check the weather stripping on your doors and windows. Chances are good that you’ve opened and closed your windows and doors a lot this summer. It’s likely the seals have become dirty and worn which can make it difficult for a tight seal from forming. When this happens, it’s easy for heat to escape. Go around to each of your windows and doors to inspect and clean the seal. If it appears the weather stripping is worn, you should replace it.

Have your air ducts sealed. If you haven’t had your ductwork inspected and sealed, you should. A good portion of the energy lost in the average home escapes through leaks in the ductwork. Not only can properly sealing your air ducts help cut down on energy loss, but it also helps to prevent dust and other matter from entering.

Switch to a programmable thermostat. When the cost of heating your home can sometimes seem unreasonably high, installing a programmable thermostat can help. These thermostats help you regulate the temperature inside your home by automatically adjusting to fit the required comfort levels throughout the day as well as on different days of the week. This means you’re only running your unit when you need to.

Install a carbon monoxide detector. Especially if you have an oil or gas furnace in your home, having carbon monoxide detectors can be life saving. It is best to install them in the hallway near sleeping areas and that they are not obstructed by furniture or curtains. If you already have detectors installed in your home and they are battery operated, make sure you replace the batteries at least once a year.

Are you looking towards fall and need a little help preparing your home? Contact a certified Service Champions expert today.

An often overlooked, yet significant element in your home’s heating and cooling system is your ductwork. Without air ducts, there would be no point in having a heating or air conditioning unit. Air ducts are responsible for distributing warmed or cooled air throughout your home, and for keeping you comfortable. Improperly designed or failing ductwork can cost you a great deal of money in energy loss and in some instances, lead to a premature failure of your heating and cooling units.

We’ve collected some of the most frequently asked air duct related questions and posted them with our answers below.

Q. I hear that your ducts can leak. What does this mean?
A. Studies have shown that leaks in your ductwork are responsible for as much as 25% of energy loss inside your home. Air Ducts require a balance in pressure to evenly distribute heated or cooled air throughout your house. Gaps, dents, or loose seals can all allow air to escape into unconditioned areas. This imbalance of air pressure can make the job of your heater or air conditioner more difficult. Your unit has to work extra hard to make your home comfortable. Anytime your heating or cooling unit has to perform overtime, your sacrificing comfort while wasting energy and money.

Q. How can I tell if my ducts are leaking?
A. While there are several ways to tell if your air ducts are leaking, a telltale sign is often your level of comfort. If you find that you’re always running your heating or cooling unit and your home never seems to reach a desired temperature, or some rooms are more comfortable than others, your ductwork might be to blame. Homeowners are usually quick to blame their air conditioner or furnace for their comfort concerns. In many instances, it’s not the unit to blame rather, the ductwork isn’t performing to it’s fullest potential. The best way to be certain is to contact a professional to help you accurately assess the condition and performance of your ductwork.

Q. If my ducts are leaking, how can they be fixed?
A. Contrary to popular belief, the best way to seal or repair your ductwork is not by using duct tape. Today, technology has given us cement mastic that not only seals your ducts, but also keeps contaminants out. When done by a trained professional, your properly sealed air ducts can reduce energy costs significantly.

Q. If my ducts are sealed, why do they also need to be insulated?
A. Even if you have a perfectly balanced system with no leaks, your air ducts can still lose energy. Imagine how sweltering hot the air inside your attic gets in the summertime. Now imagine how effective your bare sheet metal ductwork is if it passes through your attic with out insulation. All the cold, conditioned air you are trying to cool your house with is being warmed as it passes through this zone. Some studies have shown that the same amount of energy lost via leaks can also be lost due to a lack of insulation.

Q. My neighbors said they have their home zoned. What is that all about?
A. Zoning is a great way to save money because you are only heating or cooling the areas of your home you regularly use. In a zoned home, your thermostat is connected to a control panel, which operates a number of dampers in your ductwork system. Depending on the comfort needs in different areas of your home, dampers will open and close controlling the air that is distributed throughout your house.

Do you have questions about your ductwork you don’t see here, or do you think your air ducts might be leaking? Contact us today!

Tankless water heaters, sometimes called instantaneous or on-demand water heaters, only heat water on an as needed basis. They’re known to help with energy savings and storage capabilities.

Understanding Tankless Water Heaters
Before you can understand how a tankless water heater works, it’s important to understand how a traditional water heater functions. A traditional water heater operates by holding a reserve of water inside its tank and keeping the reserve heated to a ready-to-use temperature. Traditional water heaters are often looked at as energy-hogs as they are continually heating the water, even when it isn’t being used; contributing to what is called standby heat loss.

Tankless systems provide on-demand hot water without the use of a reserve tank. Instead, a gas burner or electric heating element heats the water as it travels through the unit.

Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters
Since tankless water heaters are not continuously heating a reserve of water, they are only running when a demand is being placed on the unit. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters are more than 24% - 34% more energy efficient than traditional water heaters in homes that use less than 41 gallons of hot water, daily. In homes that use around 86 gallons of water a day, tankless water heaters can be 8% - 14% more energy efficient.

What’s more, tankless water heaters last much longer than a traditional water heater. Where traditional water heaters are typically good for 10 years or so, tankless water heaters will last you another 5 to 10 years more.

Because there is no tank for storage, tankless water heaters are significantly smaller in size and take up much less space than it’s traditional counterpart. For homes with not a lot of storage or for water sources like a kitchen sink or utility room that requires a designated supply of hot water, the sizing options tankless water heaters offer is a great benefit.

Selecting a Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters are available in electric, propane, or natural gas varieties. And you can select from two types of tankless water heaters: point of use and whole-house heaters. Point-of-use water heaters are great for small spaces like underneath the kitchen sink or outside by the barbeque.

For the whole-house variety, the amount of hot water used in your household should be considered as well as the frequency. If you have a large home where it takes a long time for water to travel from the heater to the point of use, if you want the ability to allow for simultaneous showers, or if you want to run the washer and the shower at the same time, you might benefit from multiple units. If you’re not sure which route is right for you, contact a trained specialist to help you make the best choice for your home and daily hot water habits.

If you’re considering a tankless water heater, and want to know more about your options, contact your local tankless water heater expert today!

A heating and cooling system can be a little tricky when it comes to how well it’s performing. Most homeowners don’t realize there is a performance problem with their HVAC system until it finally stops working. If nothing else, for this reason alone, it is so important that you perform regular maintenance on your HVAC.

Maintenance Saves Money
Regular maintenance helps guarantee that your unit is working effectively, as well as provides the opportunity to catch signs of wear and weakness. The earlier they are noticed, the less the chance these small issues unexpectedly develop into big problems that can be costly to fix. All too often people will assume their unit is covered under warranty, and the warranty will pay for repairs, but when a unit does not receive regular tune-ups and cleaning, the manufacturer’s warranty becomes void.

Maintenance Maintains Efficiency
While the cost of unexpected repairs is certainly something to be concerned about, it’s important to be attentive to how efficiently your system is operating, too. If your system isn’t running efficiently, your unit is working harder than necessary to distribute air throughout your home, which wastes energy and money.

Maintenance Helps Ensure Your Safety
Many homeowners don’t realize that safety is an important issue when it comes to the operation of your heating and cooling units. A good maintenance tune-up will include an evaluation of all electrical connections. Defective connections can be a fire hazard and place a strain on the life of the affected unit. Furnaces in particular, are fire and carbon monoxide hazards when not attended to regularly.

Getting the Most from Your System
The most surefire way to ensure your system is operating effectively is to have it professionally maintained on a regular basis. Professionally performed tune-ups, cleaning and safety inspections are performed by technicians who are trained and certified to completely inspect and evaluate your system for performance and safety.

What You Can Do
Be sure to clean or change your air filters regularly. Of all the reasons an air conditioner or furnace doesn’t work as well as it should, this is often it. When the unit is on, it’s pulling air through the filter. The filter works to trap impurities and particulates from the air. Eventually the filter becomes blocked with everything it has trapped, and it becomes more difficult for the air to pass through. When this happens, your unit must work extra hard and use more power to do its job. Most filters should be changed once a month. Depending on the type of filter you use, you may be able to go longer or simply clean it on a regular basis. If you’re not sure what type of filter you are using, contact a professional to help you determine this and the schedule you should keep.

Regular maintenance on your HVAC ensures your system runs efficiently and provides round-the-clock comfort for you and your family. To schedule a tune-up for your system, contact Service Champions today!

Air conditioners seem to fail at the most inconvenient times. Usually, the reasons for failure are relatively easy to repair or can be prevented with regular maintenance.

We’ve compiled a list of the most common AC problems people experience and what you can do about them.

AC Unit Won’t Come On
Sometimes mysteriously, an air conditioning unit won’t come on, but the fan inside the home seems to be working OK. There can be several reasons for this. The first thing to check is your thermostat to make sure it is working properly. A broken thermostat can easily disable an entire AC system.

If you are able to rule out the thermostat as the problem, check your home’s circuit breaker and the circuit breaker outside near the unit. If you suspect it may be the breaker, it doesn’t hurt to try to figure out what might have caused it to trip before you attempt to reset it. If you flip the breaker and it does trip again, don’t repeat the process. Call a professional to diagnose and repair the problem.

If you have excessive vegetation growing around your unit, it could also be a reason your air conditioning unit quit. Grass, leaves and debris can be easily sucked into the vents of your unit and cause damage to the capacitor. If you suspect this might have happened, you will need to call for service.

Air Conditioning Unit is Making Noise
Most air conditioners make some noise when they are running, and this is normal. If you are hearing vibration or loud rattling noises, something could be wrong. Your ac unit could have been installed incorrectly and should be checked by a professional.

Sometimes people report squealing sounds when their air conditioner is running. This may actually be coming from your air handler, the part of the ac system that regulates and directs air through the ductwork. Most air handlers have direct-drive motors, but older units may be belt-driven. The squealing noise sometimes occurs when the belt connecting the blower to the motor slips. If you suspect this is the case, shut your ac unit off and call a professional – proper diagnosis and repairs are likely needed.

AC Runs, But Doesn’t Cool Your Home
If air is flowing through your vents, but it is not coming out cold, you might have a stalled condenser coil – the part of the air conditioning unit that produces cold air. The condenser fan will run even if the condenser isn’t working properly. Condenser failure can be caused by a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. Sometimes, it isn’t the condenser at all and a lack of cool air can be due to low refrigerant. In either case it is best to contact a professional to help you diagnose the problem.

If the lack of cool air you are noticing has been gradual or appears to be fairly minimal, your air conditioner may not be to blame. You could have leaks in your ductwork that are allowing conditioned air to escape. If your ducts are older, or tightly constructed you might benefit from air duct sealing.

Anytime your air conditioner fails or you suspect something is mechanically wrong, contact a professional to help you diagnose the problem. At Service Champions, we recommend regular maintenance to keep your unit running smoothly. We offer air conditioning tune-ups to help you avoid costly repairs and unexpected system failure.

If you suspect problems with your air conditioner, contact us today or schedule a repair online today.

“The average household spends more than $2,200 a year on energy bills – nearly half of which goes to heating and cooling. Homeowners can save about $180 a year by properly setting their programmable thermostats and maintaining those settings.”
-Energystar.gov

It seems we never really think of the consequences of tampering with our thermostats until the energy bill arrives. With energy costs soaring, installing and using a programmable thermostat is a wise move both financially and environmentally.

The thermostat inside your home is responsible for keeping you comfortable. It works by detecting the temperature of the surrounding area to control the air conditioning unit and furnace. Many times, we prefer different temperatures for different activities inside the home. A programmable thermostat reduces the demand placed on your heating and cooling units by allowing the temperature settings to rise or lower depending on the heating or cooling needs of the season and requirements of the zone being controlled. People who are regularly away from home during set times throughout the week are ideal candidates for using a programmable thermostat.

Choosing a Programmable Thermostat
When you decide to buy a programmable thermostat, you need to consider your schedule. Programmable thermostats come in three different models: 7-day, 5+2 day, and 5-1-1 models.

7-Day Model
This model is perfect for persons with an irregular schedule. With a seven-day setting, you can customize your comfort settings for each day of the week. For example, if you have a fluctuating work schedule and the time you leave and return home from work on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday is different from Friday & Saturday, you can create separate temperature schedules for each of those days - as well as your days off.

5+2 Model
For those with a fairly regular schedule, a 5+2 model works great. You can program your thermostat for Monday through Friday and keep a separate setting for Saturday and Sunday.

5-1-1 Model
This model is similar to the 5+2 model, only instead of the same setting for your weekends, you can program Saturday and Sunday separately.

Regardless of the model you choose, the following temperature adjustments are recommended for you to benefit from reduced energy consumption and cost:

During the Heating Season
Decrease your set point by 8 degrees during periods of inactivity or absence.

During the Cooling Season
Increase your set point by 7 degrees during periods of absence, and 4 degrees during inactivity.

To get the most from your programmable thermostat, consult with your HVAC company on how to optimize efficiency during your next maintenance visit.

Other Considerations

• To get the most from your programmable thermostat, it’s best to locate it away from any device that can be considered exceptionally warm or cool such as appliances, vents, registers, or windows. Doing so can throw off the accuracy of the device. It’s best to install your thermostat on an inside wall, preferably in a hallway for a single-zone system, and near living rooms and bedrooms in multi-zoned homes.
• If you have a large home with multiple heating or cooling zones, you should have a thermostat for each zone to maximize on savings and comfort.
• Most thermostats are battery operated. It is a good idea to change the batteries at least once a year.
• Remember that although the programmable thermostat are a great way to help you save energy and cut costs, looking at other areas of your heating and cooling system should be done, too.
• If you are uncertain of the best type of programmable thermostat, or how to install it, it is best to contact a professional.

For more tips, how-tos and other great information on your home air conditioning, heating, air quality and more visit the Service Champions Blog.

 

Some of us are tightening our proverbial belts while others are looking for ways to use less energy and “go green.” If you fit into one of these two categories today is your lucky day. We’ve got some great tips that are easy to do, and can help you consume less energy, which we all know saves money.

Tip 1: Control the temperature inside whether you’re home or away. Programmable setback thermostats are a great solution because you can set different temperatures for different times, depending on your comfort needs and schedule. You can see energy savings of sometimes 25% or more with this simple step. Additionally, for every degree you lower your temperature in the winter and raise it in the summer, you’re saving 2-3 % in energy costs.

Tip 2: Close your blinds. Rooms without blinds, curtains or shades to block the sunlight will be warmer. Simply closing all of your blinds while you are away can make maintaining a comfortable temperature easier for your air conditioner or furnace.

Tip 3: Turn down the temperature setting on your hot water heater. For every 10 degrees you reduce the water temperature, you can see savings of 3-5%.

Tip 4: Install timers where you use vent fans. Most bathroom fans can remove moisture within 20 minutes. Timers help you avoid forgetting to turn them off.

Tip 5: Switch to energy efficient light bulbs, also known as CFLs. They use a fraction of the electricity of traditional incandescent light bulbs and instead of lasting about 1,000 hours, they continue working for 10,000 hours or more. With CFLs, you consume less energy and need to replace bulbs less often.

Tip 6: Let your dishes air-dry. Instead of using the heat cycle on your dishwasher, crack the door enough to allow the dishes to air-dry on the rack before putting them away. Eliminating the heat cycle will reduce your energy consumption and also keep from raising the temperature in your kitchen.

Tip 7: Clean the coils underneath or on the back of your refrigerator every so often with a vacuum. Dusty or dirty coils can cause the compressor to work harder than it needs to – which wastes energy.

Tip 8: Have your furnace or air conditioner serviced to assure they are running at peak efficiency. Tune-ups that are scheduled before there is a problem help avoid costly repairs in the future. Professional maintenance makes sure the unit and all the components are running smoothly and efficiently.

Tip 9: Make sure curtains, bedding, furniture or other items are not blocking baseboards or registers in each room. When the airflow is obstructed, your HVAC system has to work that much harder to regulate the temperature to a comfortable level. The harder it works, the more energy is consumed and the more it costs you.

Tip 10: Make sure cool, conditioned air isn’t escaping through cracks or gaps in your windows or doors. Re-calk and check to see that your weatherstripping is doing it’s job. Weatherstripping can be purchased for next to nothing at your local hardware store. Tight weatherstripping also prevents your home from penetration by moisture and pests.

Follow these 10 simple tips and you quickly see lower energy bills. At Service Champions, we care about your comfort. If you are looking for more ways to lower your energy costs, contact us. We have a team of qualified experts who specialize in helping you identify ways to conserve energy while staying comfortable.

Taking the handyman approach and doing-it-yourself, or attempting to save money can certainly be a good idea from time to time, but when it comes to your home heating, cooling and ventilation system, take note of these common mistakes. You’ll avoid more costly fixes in the future.

Mistakes To Avoid
• Purchasing a unit too large for your home. Of all mistakes a homeowner can make, this is the most common and often most costly. Choosing to purchase a unit from your local home improvement store, or insisting on a larger unit (assuming bigger must be better) can result in wasting a significant amount of energy, and that can cost dearly over the long term.
• Installing a heating or cooling unit on your own. If you are unsure of your ability to properly install a new unit in your home, it’s best to rely on the experience of an expert. Certified HVAC technicians understand how to properly calibrate and balance each element of the unit so it works correctly and efficiently.
• Bargain shopping for repairs. While it can pay off to shop around for the best price on other areas of home service repair, when it comes to repairs on your HVAC, it’s best to go with a company you can trust. If the job isn’t done correctly the first time, you end up spending more to fix the mistakes of the cheaper company.
• Not having your HVAC system professionally maintained. Neglecting to maintain your system can lead to costly repairs and inefficient performance. Regular professional maintenance will prolong the life of your system and help it remain reliable when you need it most.
• Risking repair over a needed replacement. To save money, many homeowners will choose to repair their heating or cooling unit when it should be replaced. In the long run, this short-term savings can end up costing you more with additional repairs and more frequent service. With today’s federal tax incentives and energy efficient standards, it can be more economically beneficial to replace your system rather than spending more to keep it running.
• Not having your air ducts professionally sealed. Enlisting a professionally trained person to seal your air ducts helps to assure good air quality inside your home. If not sealed properly, your air ducts can contribute to an unhealthy environment, especially for persons with allergies or asthma.
• Not exhausting bathroom, kitchen or dryer vents to the outside of your home. Be sure your vents are not exhausted into your attic or crawl space. Doing so can lead to serious moisture problems that contribute to mold and mildew. Dryer vents exhausted inside the attic or crawl space can contribute to lint build-up, which can be a very dangerous fire hazard.
• Masking odors with air fresheners and/or open windows. If you have an odor inside your home that won’t disappear, don’t try to hide it by masking it. If you notice unusual odors, or the air seems stuffy and stale, it could be your air quality. Installing an air filtration system such as a Bioguard Powered Filter or Biocide Chamber can help your HVAC system deliver fresher, cleaner air.
• Not changing your air filter. It is important to change your system’s air filter regularly – every month for standard filters, and every three months for the HEPA variety. Clean air filters not only help keep your indoor air quality at a healthy level, they contribute to your HVAC system’s smooth operation.
• Regularly turning your thermostat up or down to overcompensate for temperature imbalances. If you find you are constantly adjusting the thermostat to make up for one room or area of your home always being too hot or too cold, you are likely wasting a great deal of money. Zoning your home might be a better solution, so you’re only controlling the comfort in the areas that matter to you most.

While it’s great to take on regular maintenance and repairs by fixing things yourself when you can, it can sometimes become more costly and complicated if not done correctly.

Do you have a need for repair? Do you have questions about your home HVAC system? Contact the pros at Service Champions or schedule a repair online today.

As you put away your winter wardrobe and step into your shorts and sandals, it’s a good idea to prepare your home for the transition into the summer season, too. In Southern California, where summers are predictably hot and dry, preventative safety measures and energy saving solutions are sure to make this season as enjoyable as ever.

Things To Do Inside
• Verify weather stripping and calking is intact. According to Southern California Edison, properly sealed windows and doors are a great way to lower your electric bill and conserve energy when cooling you home. Reseal any gaps or cracks and replace worn or old weather stripping.
• Install or inspect ceiling fans and make sure they are rotating in a counter-clockwise direction. Running a ceiling fan uses less energy than a light bulb, and the regularly circulating air can make a room feel much more comfortable without having to turn down the thermostat.
• Begin using a programmable thermostat and you’ll immediately see savings on your next energy bill. Programmable thermostats allow you to have more control over your indoor environment by letting you customize settings when you need comfort most.
• Consider the quality of your indoor air. Summer in California is often too hot for open windows, so you’re likely breathing a lot of recirculated air. Using a biocide chamber or electronic air cleaners can significantly improve the quality of the air you breathe.

Things To Do Outside
• Inspect and test your air conditioner, schedule maintenance if it isn’t working. The last thing you want is a 100-degree day and an air conditioner that isn’t doing is job.
• Clean up the landscape around your home. Summer wildfires are something we should always be conscious of. Clear brush, dried leaves and grass from your condenser, yard, away from your home and out of your gutters. Doing this can help prevent a fire from starting or spreading.
• If you have a pool, make sure you have proper safety fencing and gates installed around the perimeter. Check that all latches are in working order and secured.
• Inspect backyard play equipment. Check hardware and structure to make sure it is in good condition and address any sharp points or potential tripping hazards, so your children have a safe place to play.

These simple steps can help you save money, stay safe and make your summer more enjoyable. Service Champions is your heating, cooling and ventilation expert. Contact us today to learn how we can help you enjoy a cool and comfortable summer.

Leaky ducts can lead to a whole host of problems. Sealing your air ducts helps to keep harmful airborne contaminants from entering the ducts and posing a risk to your health. Sealed ducts also help to conserve home heating and cooling costs by reducing unnecessary energy loss.

Why should I care?
According to Home Energy Magazine, Online, improperly sealed air ducts - or ducts with multiple leaks - can contribute to significant health and safety concerns. Leaky return ducts take in air from the surrounding area and then distributes the conditioned air throughout the home. This air can often contain allergens and other dangerous fumes:

• Dust, pollen, and other airborne particulates
• Moist air that can lead to condensation mold and/or mildew growth
• Vapor from household cleaning agents and other harmful substances
• Vehicle and small machine exhaust fumes

A significant amount of energy is often lost when air ducts have even a small amount of leaks. As a duct loses conditioned air, outside air is sucked in to replace it. This results in your heating or cooling unit working harder than necessary to maintain a comfortable room temperature. Overworking your system wastes energy and drives up cost.

How do I know if I have leaks in my ducts?
In the average home, 25% of the air circulating inside your duct system is lost as a result of improperly sealed ducts. If your ducts are not connected properly, poorly insulated or inefficient, you might notice:

• Higher than average utility bills
• Rooms that feel stuffy or congested and are difficult to regulate
• Excessive amounts of dust in your home despite regular cleaning
• Rooms that are difficult to keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter
• Ducts located in an unfinished basement or crawlspace, attic or garage

What can I do about it?
It is recommended that if you suspect problems with your ducts you contact a qualified service professional. Incorrectly sealed ducts can make a bad situation worse. Missing leaks or only fixing “major” leaks can lead to serious pressure imbalances. Service Champions specializes in diagnosing and sealing air ducts and assures that both energy efficiency and air quality improve. Our team of highly trained technicians is equipped with the knowledge and skill to fix air duct inconsistencies– the first time.

It’s also a good idea to be proactive towards improving indoor air quality. Service Champions offers a selection of indoor air quality products designed to clean and filter the air.

Want to know more? Contact us today or schedule service with us, online.

It is estimated that nearly 90% of our time is spent indoors. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air quality can be two to five times more polluted than the air outside. Many factors contribute to this: improper ventilation; indoor sources such as carpeting, upholstery, cleaning agents, and tobacco smoke; and biological sources like mold, mildew, dust and other airborne particulates.

The following hints can help you reduce or eliminate some of the common culprits of poor indoor air quality.

Fix leaks. Moisture entering through leaks in your roof, basement, crawlspace or foundation can lead to the growth of mold and/or mildew.

Make your home tobacco free. Request that smokers take the activity outdoors to eliminate the risks and pollutants caused by second-hand-smoke.

Keep houseplants. Plants inside your home are great at filtering out contaminants and adding fresh oxygen back into the air.

Use all-natural cleaning products. Newer “green” cleaning agents and products marked “low VOC” (volatile organic compounds) cut down on odors and toxins.

Ventilate bathrooms. Directly ventilating rooms prone to strong odors or moisture lowers the risk of mold or mildew growth and eliminates odors from traveling into other areas of your home.

Don’t let the car idle in the garage. Allowing fuel-burning machines to idle inside your garage increases the risk of releasing poisoning toxins into your home’s ventilation system.

Store toxic products outside the home. Keep solvents, cleaning agents, paints, pesticides and other potentially harmful elements away from indoor living space.

Limit the use of wood burning fires and candles. Fireplaces, stoves, candles and other combustible sources produce harmful byproducts and fine particulates that can pollute the air.

Vacuum regularly. Use a high efficiency particle air (HEPA) vacuum regularly to eliminate allergens that frequently collect in carpets and rugs.

Change your air filter. Plan to change your home heating and cooling system’s filter at least every thirty days to maintain optimal efficiency. Consider installing a Bioguard powered filter to capture and remove even more airborne particles.

Regularly wash linens. Using hot water to wash linens and draperies helps to fight dust mites and other allergens.

Use essential oils to refresh air. A diffuser with natural odor-blocking scents like lavender, lemongrass and tea-tree oil is a chemical-free way to freshen up any space.

Clean your home regularly. Us a damp cloth or mop when cleaning surfaces to avoid stirring dust and other particulates into the air.

Install an air cleaner. Using an indoor air purification system or Biocide lamp can cut down on molds, mildew and other germs in the air.

No home is without its fair share of indoor air pollution. Taking these steps towards eliminating airborne particulates, allergens, contaminates and odors can significantly improve the quality of the air you breathe. Your indoor air will smell better; you’ll breathe easier, and live healthier.

Service Champions is your indoor air quality specialist. Contact us today to learn how we can help you cure your indoor air quality concerns.

Often when thinking about replacing or repairing your furnace or air conditioning system, your decision comes down to choosing between the upfront cost of an entirely new unit, or the expense of regular upkeep and often unanticipated repairs. The information below can help you better determine which action you may need to take.

Repair
Sometimes inconsistencies in your home that appear to be unrelated, are in fact indicative of issues with your home heating and cooling system (HVAC). In these instances, the poor quality of one element within your overall system could be blame for overall faulty performance. According to www.EnergyStar.gov, less costly repairs could be the solution if you have the following concerns:

• No matter how much you clean, your home is always dusty. Improperly sealed ductwork could be redistributing dust and other airborne particulate throughout your home. Leaky ducts can contribute to uneven distribution of air when trying to heat or cool your home. Have your ducts properly sealed and this may solve both problems.
• Humidity control has become a problem inside your home. Often, inadequate or faulty equipment and leaky ductwork can lead to air that is too humid or too dry for the season. This situation can likely be improved by having your system serviced by a Service Champions technician.
• Temperatures from room to room are not consistent. This problem can be from a number of things. Again, leaky ducts could be the culprit, but inadequate insulation also is often an auxiliary factor.
• Your energy bill seems unreasonably high. You keep your HVAC unit running full blast all day long to assure your home is comfortable when you return home in the evening. This wastes energy and money. Install a programmable thermostat to eliminate the need to continually run your system all day long.

Replace
Repairs or improvements to your system might not be the best fix if:

• Your AC unit or heat pump is 10 years old or more. It is likely that you will benefit from a new unit with greater energy savings and decreased repairs.
• Your furnace is older than 15 years. Although these units can run well for many more years, often the cost of operation can be significantly higher than if you replaced your unit with a more energy efficient model.
• You find your equipment needing regular repairs. There could be quality concerns with your system and this could be costing you dearly. The upfront expense of a new unit could end up saving you more in the long run.

If you’re considering replacing your existing HVAC system, contact us to learn more about our product and service warranties. For service, make a request online today.

Every spring we begin our traditional spring-cleaning regimen and work to rid our homes of dust and clutter. Despite our best efforts, improving our indoor air quality is a task often left unaddressed. This season, spring isn’t the only thing in the air. Allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, mold and other airborne particulates have been wreaking havoc on your indoor air quality all winter long. Now is a great time to clear the air. Learn how by reading these simple tips below.

Prevent dust from entering your home.
More than 60% of dust inside your home originates outdoors. Simple ways to keep dust outside include taking off your shoes before entering your house or using a doormat outside, and an entry rug inside. These minimal steps will stop any additional dust from being tracked into your home. It is also a good idea to vacuum or shake out the rugs at least once a week.

When you’re cleaning, be certain to use products and tools designed to trap dust - not just push it around. Using a vacuum with a HEPA filter or cleaning with microfiber or electrostatically charged cloths are good ways to get started.

Improve indoor ventilation.
When it comes to dust and other airborne particulates, these preventative measures can only get you so far. Sometimes, allergens enter your home from under your house and attic. The solution to this problem is to assure your air ducts are properly sealed. Your Service Champions technician is trained to seal your air ducts and prevent contaminants and debris from entering while at the same time, improving your ventilation efficiency.

It is also a good idea to make sure you regularly change or clean your HVAC system air filter at least every 30 days. Clean air filters help keep particulates out of the air and also protect the equipment.

Another small but helpful step includes cleaning the dirt and other visible matter from bathroom vents. With the power off, simply remove the vent cover and scrub it clean in warm soapy water. A toothbrush or slightly damp rag can be used to wipe the blades of the fan clean, too.

Be intentional about purifying your air.
It’s estimated that most people spend nearly 90% of their time indoors, so wouldn’t it be a good idea to help guarantee the air you breathe is clean? Service Champions provides several services to aid in purifying the air inside your home. Installing a biocide chamber can help to kill any new airborne bacteria which in turn, assists in reducing respiratory agitators and the risk of unwanted illness.

Replacing your old air ducts with green safety ductwork can also help maintain fresh, clean air. Green safety ductwork has built-in anti-microbial polyethylene that keeps mold, mildew and other particles form growing, among many other benefits.

As your cleaning this spring, don’t forget to clear the air – stop dust before it enters, improve your indoor ventilation and start being proactive. Follow these simple tips, and you’re on your way to cleaner, healthier air!

For questions or information about any of Service Champions’ products and services, contact us today.

If you haven’t noticed already, the season of spring is upon us, and it’s a good time to start thinking about preparing your home’s air conditioning unit for steady use. Southern California summers have proven how unforgiving they can be, so if comfort, cost, and energy savings are important to you, read on.

To assure the air conditioning unit in your home is in top condition and ready to perform come the first sign of warm weather, there are a few simple things you can do. The first easy, but important, step is to assure the condenser is clean and free of any debris. Loose leaves, grass, dust, dead insects, and other matter can accumulate on the unit’s coils and cause it to work harder and wear out sooner. If after inspecting the unit, you see it could use some attention, turn off the power to the air conditioning system. Then be sure to remove any debris and excess plant growth from the surrounding area. With a garden hose, gently spray from the top of the coils towards the bottom of the unit to wash away any remaining dirt or debris.

Air conditioning units do more than simply cool the air inside your home; they help to purify the air by removing dirt and other particulates like dust. It is important that all air conditioning units also have good airflow to assure it performs at its best. Just as it is important that the condenser is free of debris, you should be certain your system is operating with a clean air filter whether that means regular cleaning or replacement, on a monthly basis. A clean filter will improve performance and reduce energy consumption.

While its important to keep your air conditioning unit running smooth, using a programmable thermostat will help to keep summer energy costs down by up to 25%. With settings that allow you to customize temperature settings based on your schedule and the time you need indoor climate control most, you are guaranteed to see savings on your utility bills.

These tips can help cut costs by keeping your air conditioning unit running smoothly and your home more comfortable all summer long. At Service Champions, we recommend contacting us for a complete precision tune-up and professional cleaning by one of our licensed and insured service technicians.

To schedule a maintenance appointment, learn more about our products-including programmable thermostats and indoor air quality products, contact us today.

What’s the Difference?
Traditional Water Heaters heat and store water in a large tank. Each time you shower, wash dishes or run a load of laundry, you consume pre-heated water from the tank. Your water source refills this tank as hot water is used, and the cycle continues.

Tankless Water Heaters, sometimes called Instantaneous or Demand Water Heaters, heat water only at the time of use, rather than storing heated water in a tank. When you turn on a hot water tap, cool water runs through the Tankless Water Heater. Its heat source – either electric or gas – instantaneously heats the water on demand.

Which is Better?
When shopping for a Water Heater, there are many things to consider, including efficiency, convenience and cost. There is no universally “right” choice, as your decision should be based on your individual needs. We’ve outlined the key differences between Tankless and Traditional varieties to help you determine the best selection for your home.

Efficiency
Traditional Water Heaters devour a lot of energy because a constant supply of heat is needed to keep the stored water hot, even when you are not using any hot water. Tankless Water Heaters only use energy as you use hot water, making them the more energy-efficient option by a landslide.

Convenience
Generally speaking, a Tankless Water Heater is more convenient because it eliminates the dreaded last-one-up-gets-a-cold-shower dilemma. It’s an unfortunate and common situation: When a Traditional Water Heater’s tank is used up in shower no. 1 and shower no. 2, the unlucky recipient of shower no. 3 gets a not-so-relaxing cold shower. Brrr.

Tankless water heaters also can save you space, where as traditional water heaters can require a larger amount of space. These compact units can be mounted on a wall, inside or outside your home and supply hot water on demand.

However, there are some circumstances when a Tankless Water Heater does not win the convenience category. Some Tankless Water Heaters are too small to supply enough hot water for simultaneous use. For example, if you were showering, running a load of laundry in hot water and washing dishes in the dishwasher, you could be demanding more hot water than the Tankless Water Heater can supply. This can be avoided if you avoid certain types of Tankless Water Heaters or choose to install multiple units. If you have a busy lifestyle and consume a lot of hot water, a Service Champions representative can help you select a Water Heater that will meet your needs.

Although energy bills can be somewhat unpredictable, Service Champion’s up-front pricing eliminates the element of surprise so you can plan your budget accordingly. We also offer flexible financing options to make your Water Heater purchase manageable.

An educated purchase is a smart purchase. A call to Service Champions will give you the assistance of one of our friendly and knowledgeable staff to provide you with a wealth of additional knowledge.

We strive to make your Water Heater purchase simple and tailored to your budget and needs. Contact us for more information.

Looking around your home for ways to be proactive and make a difference on your heating system’s energy consumption can have a huge impact on your monthly utility bills, as well as help you do your part with conserving natural resources. Making the effort to carry out energy efficient practices can be overwhelming, homeowners often don’t know just where to begin and what will make the biggest difference. Below are a few tips on how you can get started with offsetting your carbon footprint while saving money:

• Cooling and heating costs are wasted by drafts at door and windows. Apply weather stripping or replace stripping that is worn out. If you are not able to weather strip for any reason, try to block off the drafts as best you can. Heavy drapes at all windows and the patio door can help. Also filling in cracks on window frames with sealant or utilizing blockers such as the beanbag draft snake at the bottom of your doors.
   
• Yearly maintenance of your heating and cooling system. If you are not having your heating and cooling system serviced and cleaned by a professional at least once a year, you can be sure that your equipment is wasting energy. Your system can work up to 40% less efficiently when it is not serviced. This not only wastes energy, but also costs you more in higher utility bills. Make your appointment today.
  
  
• Switching out standard light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs. Although you may think these are a more expensive alternative than standard bulbs at first, after continuous use you will find that they use less energy and last longer over time and will end up paying for themselves.
   
• Lower your home’s water heater temperature. Many homeowners find that their home’s water heater temperate is set much too high, which is not only a waste of energy, but can pose a hazard in homes where there are young children exposing them to scalding tap water. Although some manufacturers set water heater thermostats at 140ºF, most households only require the temperature set at 120ºF. You should also ensure that your water heater is wrapped properly in insulation.
  
  
• Inspect your attic and heating duct insulation in both new and older homes. If your home is older you may find that your insulation has not been replaced since the home was built. Insulation has changed greatly over the last 20-30 years and addressing any issues will make a significant difference in your home’s efficiency. A newer home can also benefit from an inspection, as you may find that your builder has not done all that they could to insulate your attic and ducts, as they should be. Your Service Champions technician will check to see not only what type of insulation you have, but also how much there is. If it is not adequate, we will replace or supplement it.
   
• Install a programmable thermostat for better control. This device can be programmed to adjust the temperature settings in your home so that you can conserve energy during off hours, when running the heat or AC might be a waste. Program your thermostat so that your system will kick on before you return home to ensure comfortable temperatures.
   
• Simple, yet easy ideas that we all know but may forget to practice. Turn off the lights when you leave a room in your home or office. When doing the dishes or laundry, stick to running full loads to conserve water and electricity; partial loads are a waste of resources. Skip the preheat cycle on your oven, except where food requires it. Put on socks and a sweater instead of raising the thermostat when it’s cold, and in the summer, use fans for additional cooling.

Contact us today for more ideas on how to save you money and make your home operate more efficiently!

Your home’s air duct system is responsible for dispersing heated and cooled air throughout your house, and then is cycled back into your system so that it can be treated, then heated or cooled again. If you have a leak in your duct return system, or if it was poorly installed you can run the risk of having to deal with significant financial and equipment performance problems.

Leaks in forced air duct systems are seen as a major source of energy waste in both new and existing houses. Studies indicate that duct leakage can account for as much as 25% of total energy loss and can even cause your utility bills to be 20% higher than they should be. We have found that duct leakage is responsible for many of the comfort issues experienced by homeowners today.

What Types of Problems Can Duct Leakage Cause?

• Unwanted outside air can be pulled into the duct system reducing efficiency and range. Hot summer air and the cold the winter chill can find its way into your home through these leaks, as well as causing uncomfortable humidity.  Moist, humid air can overrun the dehumidification element of your air conditioning system, causing your house to feel damp and sticky even when the air conditioner is running. ?
• Heat pumps are exposed to problems from duct leakage, most commonly during the colder seasons. These leaks can cause the air coming from your heat pump to feel luke-warm or even cool during the winter. ?
• Leaks can cause conditioned air to be wasted and redirected into your attic, crawlspaces or garage instead of into your home, and can also draw air into the house from these same areas bringing in dust, mold spores, insulation fibers and other impurities. ?
• Depressurization from leaks and imbalanced systems can cause spillage of hazardous combustible products from furnaces, water heaters and fireplaces into the house, exposing your family to unsafe elements.?
• Moisture can enter through leaks or by an improperly installed system. Research suggests that condensation (which occurs when a surface temperature is lower than the dew point temperature of the surrounding air) on or near cooling coils of air conditioning units is a major factor in moisture contamination of the system. The presence of condensation or high relative humidity is an important indicator of the potential for mold growth on any type of duct.

How Can You Stop Duct Leakage?

• Schedule regular maintenance check ups with a certified technician to make sure your ductwork is properly vented and sealed and is in excellent working order.  We also perform duct replacement if we find that your system may need additional help.  Maintained and properly installed ductwork allows your heating and cooling system to run more efficiently and produce consistent temperatures while providing better overall comfort to your household. 

The main components of your comfort system are built to last. They can live through several owners and years of successful running seasons. However, the time does come when your air conditioner or furnace stops working, or should be replaced due to safety hazards. Large pieces of equipment don’t give up without a fight, so keep an eye out for signs that your equipment is nearing the end of its working life.

Air Conditioners and Furnaces show many of the same indications of failure:

Age – the average lifespan of air conditioners and furnaces is anywhere from 12-20 years. They may last longer, but once your equipment is around this age, you should schedule maintenance regularly.

Noisy Operation – If you hear creaks, squeaks, scratches or other noises while your equipment is running, it could just need a filter change. It could also mean that the motor needs replacement.

Burning Smell – Particularly in the case of furnaces, it is normal to smell dust burning when you turn on heat at the beginning of winter. If this burning smell persists, turn off the furnace immediately. It is possible that the cords or other internal parts have been set aflame and consequently destroyed.

Cracks in the Equipment – Your equipment needs to be replaced if the exterior or interior parts of either the furnace or air conditioner are cracked.

Pilot light wavers – if you need to keep lighting a furnace pilot light, it could indicate a carbon monoxide leak.

Freezing air output – Specific to air conditioners, freezing air output can occur when the blower has run for too long. If the air conditioner emits freezing air every time it runs it is a sign of an unhealthy equipment.

Concerned about your equipment? Schedule maintenance today.

The State of California is advancing its policies on building energy efficiency. January 1, 2010 is the beginning of a gradual decrease in emission levels and energy use along with a better environment and lower electricity costs. By setting efficiency standards, the California Energy Commission (C.E.C.) will achieve the following goals

• Reduce Greenhouse gas emissions
• Make energy use “adequate, reasonably priced, and environmentally-sound”
• Decrease electricity peak demand
• Enforce a gradual upgrade in building codes

How this affects you
Depending on the age and model of your heating and cooling equipment, you might be using more energy and producing more pollution than is needed for your home. It’s important to make sure your system is up to date and functioning according to state standards.  Check out the 2009 Appliance Efficiency Regulations from item B-1 to E-8, or take our word for it. Service Champions provides any information you need about your equipment and how it measures up to the 2010 standards.

How Service Champions Complies
Service Champions is now required by law to provide only state-approved heating and cooling equipment, as well as make any improvements required to current systems that improve efficiency. Since we have been providing only the best equipment and highest quality of installations since we began, the new laws do not represent a big change for us.

Make sure your equipment is 2010 compliant. Contact Service Champions today.

Heating your home is a winter necessity. When furnaces and heat pumps break down during the holidays, the only option is a speedy repair job. The good news: some problems are safe and simple to solve. Before contacting a service company, look for the problems you can fix yourself. If all else fails, Service Champions provides round the clock service for your holiday comfort.

Power switch
If you have a power switch next to your furnace, the switch can be mistaken for a light switch. If you have guests who are unfamiliar with your home, this switch is more likely to be flipped. Make sure it is on. Before starting any repairs on furnace equipment, turn the switch off.

Thermostat
Anything from an accidental brush against the dial, to a loose wire can cause the thermostat to malfunction. Check the batteries on digital thermostats, and replace if necessary. Make sure the thermostat is set and programmed to your desired temperature, and is set to heat. If this does not work, remove the unit from the wall, and clear the area of dust and other debris. Make sure the two wires (one for heating, and one for air conditioning) are securely connected.

Circuit breakers
Power outages from winter storms are rare in Southern California. On these occasions, some electronics short when power is restored. Try flipping the circuit breaker to your furnace completely off and then back on again, to get the electric current running again.

Owner’s manual
Consult your furnace owner manual or visit the manufacturer website for information about your specific model. Most model names and numbers are found on the front of the machine. Your owner manual can guide you through

• Replacing your filter
• Checking and re-lighting your pilot light
• Unclogging intake and exhaust vents
• Finding worn or broken belts in the furnace motor
• Detecting a gas leak
   

Vent Registers
Check vents in each room. At least 80% of the registers in your home should be open. If only a few rooms in the house are not receiving heat, the problem could be in the duct system.

When to call a service company
If the steps listed above don’t do the trick, it is not a good idea to continue troubleshooting. Contact a professional heating company for advanced problems with your heater. If you run across the following problems give us a call.

• Furnace motor isn’t running properly.
• Furnace doesn’t provide heat
• Furnace turns on and off
• If your house isn’t heating evenly
• In the event of a gas leak, evacuate your house and call for repair as quickly as possible. 
• Any instance where you are unsure of what to do
  
  

Saving time and money through furnace first aid is a welcome option. If your furnace still does not function properly, Service Champions can help. Contact us today or give us a call at (714/949) 777-7777.