Author Archives: Brooke Strickland

How to improve air flow in your home this summer

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Does the air inside your home feel muggy or stuffy? Poor indoor air quality can make you uncomfortable – especially during the warm summer months. It can even contribute to feelings of sluggishness, which isn’t fun when all you want to do is get outside and soak up the sun. Here are some tips on how to improve air flow in your home.

#1: Check for airflow blockages.
Are all of the vents inside of your home clear? Closed or blocked air registers or vents will obstruct air flow. This can cause your system to work harder than necessary and create unneeded wear and tear on it. Be sure to keep your air registers open and move any furniture, rugs, or drapes that are blocking them.

#2: Stay on top of air filter replacement and cleaning.
This is a home maintenance to-do item that many people forget about. But regular cleaning or replacing of your air filters is essential to maintaining a long lifespan for your system. In addition, dirty air filters bring in dirty air to your home, which can be especially harmful for those living with summer allergies or yearlong asthma. Clogged air filters also keep air from flowing freely into your home. We recommend cleaning and/or replacing your filters every other month or longer depending on the type of air filtration system you may have.

#3: Keep your outdoor HVAC unit clear.
Springtime brings plenty of wind and rain. Now that the warm summer weather is here, it’s a great time to get outside and clean the outdoor unit of your heating and cooling system. This can easily accumulate debris or dirt over time, so keep it cleaned off so there is unobstructed airflow.

Following these simple tips will improve air flow and provide a solution for stuffy, dirty air. Perhaps your old, outdated heating and cooling system just simply isn’t up to the task of keeping you comfortable any longer. We can help! We’ve been serving customers in Oregon for more than three decades! Contact our experienced team of HVAC professionals at Specialty Heating and Cooling today.

 

Ways to Avoid AC System Breakdown

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Summer is officially here, and we have already had some hot days on record. You have probably started using your air conditioning system to stay comfortable. Is it not running as well as it could be? Maybe it is making some unusual noises. Or maybe nothing is wrong, and you want to ensure that your AC works all summer long. Here are some ways that you can avoid unnecessary air conditioning breakdown.

#1: Schedule your preventative maintenance appointment.
Now that summer is here, it is important to get your system tuned up. Our team of experienced HVAC technicians will ensure that the internal components of the system are working well. We will also run an energy efficiency check, change or clean air filters, and recommend any repairs or replacements that helps keep the system working at its peak. We will also clean the inside, including the coils and blower motor. Servicing appointments are quick and efficient. They will give you the peace of mind you need, too.

#2: Change or clean air filters.
Air filters play a crucial part in the operation of your air conditioning system. When the filters get clogged, they will negatively impact your indoor air quality. And it causes the system to work harder than necessary. Over time, this creates unneeded wear and tear on the system, and it could cause premature breakdowns. Set a calendar reminder to clean and/or replace your air filters every other month, at the very least. Your system will last longer, and you won’t be surprised with an unexpected repair or full system replacement.

Unfortunately, your air conditioner won’t last forever. But if you take care of it well through the years, it will last for a long time. Regular cleaning and professional preventative maintenance appointments will ensure that the system is ready to go all summer long. Our schedule is booking up quickly with the warm weather here now, so contact us right away to get your appointment scheduled.

Maybe your current air conditioning system is not up to the task of keeping you cool for another summer. We’ll help you with affordable options on a new Carrier system! We offer variety of financing options available to help make your investment convenient and easy.

When should I replace my air conditioner

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June is in full swing and warm days are on the horizon. Is your air conditioning ready to keep you cool and comfortable all summer? Our team at Specialty Heating and Cooling is committed to ensuring your comfort this season. Here are some tips on when you should replace your air conditioner.

Most of the time, air conditioning issues can be diagnosed easily and quickly. If the system is less than 10 years old, we usually recommend repairing it – especially if the repair is a simple, affordable fix. However, if the system is continuing to need repairs, season after season, it may not be worth the investment. This is especially true if the machine is 10, 15, or 20 years old. Repairing an old, inefficient system is futile. It makes a lot more sense to invest in replacing the air conditioning system. This reliability gives you the peace of mind you need before summer weather hits. We will make sure to offer advice on what is best, and we won’t be pushy or try to sell you on something you don’t need!

A new air conditioning unit comes with many benefits. These machines are built with energy efficiency in mind, so that means you will save money and do your part in helping conserve the environment. In addition, a new machine will help improve the indoor air quality in your home. That means you may experience less allergy symptoms during the spring and summer when things bloom. We proudly carry Carrier products and offer a variety of air conditioning models to choose from. Some of these include:

  • Ductless Heat Pumps (heating and cooling in one system!)
  • Carrier Infinity Series
  • Carrier Performance Series
  • Comfort Series
  • Central Air Conditioners

Our technicians and sales team are committed to superior customer service, from start to finish. We understand how important it is to have a reliable AC system ready to go for the upcoming summer. So, call us today for an appointment! We will work with you to find the right system. We also help determine if your purchase is eligible for current promotions or rebates, including Carrier Cool Cash, which can save you thousands. Call us today to learn more!

What to Do If Your AC Is Not Blowing Cold Air

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Warm weather is back this week! As we head into June and the rest of the summer months, the heat becomes a norm. Your air conditioner will become an important part of your day to day life, but what if it is not blowing cold air? This could be concerning. Here are some reasons why could be happening and what you can do.

#1: The thermostat is not set at the right temperature.
When you turn on your air conditioner, check your thermostat. Make sure that the fan is set on the ‘auto’ function. This saves money in the long run. That’s because the fan will only run when the air conditioner is cooling the air. If the fan runs non-stop at the ‘on’ position, it will run all day and night. That increases your energy usage and keeps your utility bill high.

#2: The AC filters are clogged.
Do you remember the last time you cleaned or replaced your air conditioner air filters? These filters are a critical part in the overall system functionality. If it has been more than two months, chances are, the filters will have dirt, debris, and other buildup in them. Air flow is restricted if that is the case, and cold air simply can’t get into your home as it should. As we enter in the warm summer months, be sure your air filters are replaced every other month.

#3: The vents are obstructed.
Look around your home and make sure that the return air vents are not blocked. It’s easy to inadvertently have drapes or furniture in front or on top of them. But, if that’s the case, the return intake of air will weaken how much air will come out of the supply vents. That means your home will not be efficiently cooled.

Summer is right around the corner and you will need to rely on your air conditioning system to keep you cool and comfortable. If your system is not working properly, don’t delay in getting it looked at. Our team of experienced professionals at Specialty Heating and Cooling will get it up and running at peak efficiency. We can diagnose the issue and get it fixed so you can be on your way. Contact us today for a repair appointment or to discuss getting a new air conditioning system installed in time for summer weather.

Reasons to Replace Your Furnace and AC Simultaneously

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We have been getting a lot of calls recently from customers wondering if they should replace their furnace and air conditioner at the same time. Your heating and cooling equipment works together to form a full HVAC system. The furnace, blower, and evaporator coils are located inside the home and are connected to the ductwork. AC units will sit outside the home. Together, these systems work alongside each other to provide comfort all year long.

Replacing these together can have several advantages. Your heating and cooling system is an important investment in your home and will last for years to come. But making that decision requires some research. Here are some reasons to replace your furnace and air conditioner at the same time.

#1: The system(s) are old.
If your furnace and air conditioner are over 15 years old, it is time to consider upgrading. The older your system is, the more prone it is to expensive repairs or even a full system breakdown. These can be costly and come at unexpected times, which can cause added stress. Replacing both at the same time will help maximize your investment and provide you reliable comfort for a long time.

#2: Utility bills are rising.
Have you noticed that your energy bills are consistently going up? This could mean that your HVAC system is not functioning at its peak anymore. In fact, it could indicate that there is an internal problem. If your system is efficient, it is working harder than it has to, and that causes your utility bill to skyrocket, which is never a pleasant surprise.

While it often makes sense to replace the furnace and air conditioner at the same time, we do not usually recommend doing this if the furnace is less than 10 years old. In most instances, it makes more sense to repair the unit.

Not sure if your home needs both systems replaced? Our no-pressure team at Specialty Heating and Cooling is ready to help you make your final decision. We will provide information on what systems could work for your home and will work within your budget. And, if a full replacement is not needed quite yet, we will let you know. We will also help with any repairs that are necessary to help get things functioning in time for the warmer springtime weather. Contact us today for information!

Why are some rooms too hot or too cold with the AC on?

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Our experienced team of technicians at Specialty Heating & Cooling regularly works on homes with multiple levels. We often hear that homeowners are finding it difficult to obtain comfortable temperatures that are the same from room to room. Have you noticed that the upstairs is warmer than the downstairs, or some rooms are not as cool as the others? Inconsistent temperatures are frustrating. That is why we offer zoning systems to help.

What is a zoning system?
Zoned temperature control is a great way to keep your home efficiently cooled or heated. There are several thermostats placed throughout the home that are wired to one on control panel that pumps air through your home’s forced air system via the ductwork. The thermostats recognize the specific zone temperature and will open and close dampers accordingly to make sure the temperature is correct for the specific area.

The benefits of zoning:

#1: Money savings
Zoning is a great way to save money on utility costs! You can simply adjust temperatures according to usage. You will not overheat or overcool your home and use energy that increases your utility bill. At the end of the year, this could help you with save big. Each zone will heat or cool independently from other areas of your home. It is a concept that translates to real savings at the end of the year.

#2: Reduced wear and tear
Your system works hard to keep you comfortable all year long. If it doesn’t need to work as hard to cool or heat your home, you’ll help prolong the life of the system. Because you will only be providing air conditioning or heat to the spaces that you designate, your system will last longer & it will function at peak efficiency.

A zoning system can benefit almost any home, but especially homes with two levels or more – even those with sunrooms or garage apartments. Utilizing a zoning system will give you the technology you need to be comfortable from room to room, no matter what the weather is doing outside.

So, contact us today to talk about zoning system options! We’ll work with you to determine what system is right for your home based on its unique layout. Most of all, we will work with your budget! Contact us today to ask questions about zoning systems or to schedule an appointment!

Is Your AC Ready for Warmer Weather?

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The weather is beautiful lately! Warmer weather will be here to stay, starting soon. Summer will be here before we know it and now is the time to get your air conditioning ready. Here are some reasons why you should act now to get your AC tuned up and functioning well before hot days become the norm.

#1: AC tune-ups improve your energy efficiency.
Saving money is something that many families are really focusing on right now. That means determining how you can save energy around your home. Did you know that regular maintenance on your air conditioner will reduce excess energy use? Our experienced team at Specialty Heating and Cooling will clean coils, blades, and other internal components. We will run an energy efficiency check, make sure that the filters are cleaned, and ensure that everything is operating at peak efficiency. Clean systems will move and operate as they were intended to and that means you won’t see spikes in your energy bill.

#2: AC tune-ups make your system last longer.
Nothing is built to last forever, unfortunately. However, a quality air conditioning system installed by our experienced team will last you for many years if you take care of it. Just like a car needs oil changes and regular tune-ups, so does your air conditioner! We often see systems that have not been taken care of and unfortunately, these service calls usually require expensive repairs and sometimes even full system replacements. Basic maintenance keeps your system functioning well and ultimately, will make it last longer.

#3: Tune-ups ensure that the system is working to bring in clean air.
Outdoor air quality is something we hear a lot about. But did you know that indoor air quality is often worse than the outdoors? A clean, tuned-up air conditioning system helps cool the air, but it also will help eliminate harmful particles from entering the air you breathe. Sometimes debris, dirt, dust, pollen, and other pollutants can make their way into your home via your system. A tuned-up system will greatly improve your air quality.

Don’t wait until the summer heat is here to get your appointment schedule. Now is the time to act & get your system maintained. Keeping your air conditioning in the best shape possible is the key to surviving the upcoming warm months. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to talk to us about a full system replacement.

Heat Pumps Vs. Air Conditioners

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The Pacific Northwest gives us a little bit of everything when it comes to the weather. We are no stranger to rain – and lots of it. So, when spring and summer warm weather arrives, we need to be prepared. If you are looking to add, replace or upgrade your cooling system there are several options.  Here are the differences between air conditioners and heat pumps.

What are the main differences between a heat pump and an air conditioner?
Both systems use indoor and outdoor coils that transfer refrigerant. AC systems absorb heat the passes over the indoor coil inside the system. That means that during warm weather, cool air will be brought in through your home’s ductwork and the hot air is pushed out. Heat pumps on the other hand work for both heating and cooling. They take outside heat to warm your home during the winter. In the summer, they remove the hot air and bring cold air in. One system: two functions! No matter what time of year it is, a heat pump will bring you the comfortable temperature that you want.

What system is right for you?
We understand that a new heating and cooling system for your home is an investment that requires planning. That’s why our team at Specialty Heating & Cooling will help you determine which system is right for your home and work with your budget! There are a variety of systems that could be great options for you including:

Carrier Infinity Series
Infinity 20 Heat Pump with Greenspeed Intelligence
Infinity 19 Heat Pump
Infinity 18VS Heat Pump
Infinity 16 Heat Pump
Infinity 15 Heat Pump

Central Air Conditioner
Infinity 21 Central Air Conditioner
Infinity 19VS Central Air
Infinity 17
Infinity 16
Performance 17

Contact us today for information on what system is right for your home’s layout and your budget. And, right now you can benefit from Carrier Cool Cash for a limited time only! Homeowners may quality for a Cool Cash rebate by purchasing qualifying Carrier equipment between March 16, 2020 and June 30, 2020. Equipment must be installed, and claims submitted by 6 PM and installed by July 31, 2020. Purchase of qualifying products required. So, ask our team for more details!

COVID-19 Update from Specialty Heating & Cooling

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This week, Governor Kate Brown issued a stay-at-home order for all of Oregon. Our team at Specialty Heating & Cooling is committed to serving you safely.

As a company, we continue to strive for the highest level of caution – from our first meeting with you to the very end of clean up after a product installation. Fortunately, most of your heating and cooling equipment is located outside of your living environment. Please be assured that we are taking all the steps necessary to do our part in stopping the spread of coronavirus.

We are taking the following precautions to better serve Oregon customers:

  • All service technicians, installers and consultants are outfitted with gloves, masks, booties, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes
  • We will keep our conversations and time limited with you, only providing essential services in your home
  • Both our office and field teams will remain home if they are not feeling well or if someone in their home is not feeling well
  • We communicate with our teams consistently to ensure that they are healthy
  • We respect the 6-feet rule of social distance
  • We will not have you sign anything that is unnecessary & have protocols in place to limit interaction and signatures required on iPads

We are working hard to ensure our team and clients are safe, and we ask the same of you.  Please alert us if someone in your home is experienced flu-like symptoms prior to us entering your home or has traveled outside the United States within the last 14 days.

Many of us will be spending more time indoors in the next several weeks. Now is a great time to prepare your system so you can stay comfortable. Here’s how:

  • Change your HVAC filters: We sell filters if you need one! You can pay for the filter over the phone and will leave outside for pick up in our covered area or we can deliver to your home.
  • Schedule your annual tune-up if you feel comfortable; many times, we do not need to enter your home.
  • Schedule repair for your HVAC system that is not running at its peak or if you don’t have reliable heat.
  • Invest in a whole home duct purification system. We are currently offering the Reme Halo by RGF or the Air Scrubber by Aerus, while supplies last. Contact us for more details.
  • We also offer water heater replacement! Visit our website for our NO appointment process.
  • Currently, Carrier is offering Cool Cash rebates or low payment 0% financing for equipment replacement or for air conditioner installations.

We value our clients and their safety, and we will continue to send updates as we navigate the information that is sent out.

We’re Not Comfortable Until You Are!

Warm Regards,

Cory & Sarah Streeter, and the Specialty Heating & Cooling Team

What Are REME® Halo and REME® LED Air Purifiers?

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Today, there is a lot of discussion about air quality and breathing clean air. In the Pacific Northwest especially, we spend a lot of our winter and early spring days inside because the weather is cold and rainy. Did you know that indoor air is often 10 times more polluted than the air outside? Your indoor air quality matters and finding ways to keep the air purified and clean is critical to your health. The REME® Halo and REME® LED air purifiers can help! Here are some details about why these systems are great in helping you take control of your indoor air quality.

REME HALOTM Whole Home In-Duct Air Purifier
Say goodbye to bacteria and other pollutants that cause sickness with this system. The dual ionizers reduce airborne particles including mold spores, dust, dander, and pollen and it can kill up to 99% of bacteria, viruses and mold. The REME® reduces sneeze germs by 99% within three feet. In addition, it can kill 99% of viruses that live on your home’s surfaces. This system is easily installed to work with your existing HVAC system to offer clean air to your entire home – not just one room.

HALO-LED™ Whole Home In-Duct Air Purifier
This air purification system is the only LED in-duct, whole home system that is mercury-free and zero ozone compliant. It reduces airborne pollutants and contaminants that cause sickness due to bacteria, viruses and mold. It also reduces smoke, odors, VOCs, dust, and allergens. The replaceable LED cell module has a 2.5x longer life than other UV lamp technologies and includes automatic self-cleaning ionizers to help harmful particles from getting in the air you breathe.

Learn more about this system here:

Your home should have the cleanest air possible and we are committed to helping you with that. We are qualified installers of these systems! So, contact our team at Specialty Heating & Cooling to learn more about these incredible systems and schedule your appointment for an install.