Author Archives: Brooke Strickland

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.

Tips for getting your system ready for springtime

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Spring is right around the corner. That means it’s time to start thinking about how to get your heating and cooling system ready to go for the change of season. Here are some tips on how to get your system ready for springtime.

Tip #1: Ensure the outside unit is clean and clear.
The cold winter months bring lots of wind, rain, and ice. That means your outside unit likely has some debris that has accumulated around the outside unit. When the sunshine comes out, head outside to clean and clear the unit so there is no restricted airflow. That includes cleaning the top of the system of dirt and debris. If this isn’t cleaned off, it could hinder the system’s performance and the internal components could even be impacted. A system that is working unnecessarily hard could cause your utility bill to increase and it could mean your system is prone to needless breakdown.

Tip #2: Clean or replace air filters.
It’s easy to forget about the filters in your furnace or AC unit. But this is a simple thing to do and it makes a big impact on how your system performs. Dirty air filters mean you’re breathing dusty, dirty air. Not to mention, your system won’t be working at peak efficiency. Be sure you clean or replace your filters every other month or as needed.  This helps reduce the flow of pollen, dust, dander, or other bacteria that makes its way into the air you breathe.

Tip #3: Upgrade your thermostat.
How old is your thermostat? Spring is a great time to get a new programmable thermostat installed in your home. These regulate the temperature of your home night and day, even when you’re away. Set your desired temperature based on your schedule and let it do the work for you! If you are at work during the day and don’t need to heat or cool your home, program it to turn down a bit, then turn back up before you get home. Programmable thermostats are a great investment for your home and can save up to 20% a year on your energy bill.

Spring is a beautiful time of year in the Northwest. This is a time that our experienced team at Specialty Heating and Cooling gets very busy, too! So, plan ahead and get your springtime preventative maintenance appointment scheduled. Or, if a new system is required for your home, we can help with that too! We’ll find the perfect system for your home’s layout and your budget. Contact us today for more details!

Tax Credits Available Now

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Looking to replace your heating and cooling system but don’t want to finance the whole thing? We have good news. Federal tax credits have been reinstated, so you can now upgrade or replace your old system with helpful tax credits! These will help offset the cost and make your dream of a new heating or cooling system for your home a reality. Whether it’s a heat pump, central air conditioner, or an energy-efficient gas furnace, we have the options that are right for your home and your budget.

Important must-knows:

  • Tax credits include 10% of cost up to $500 or a specific amount from $50 to $300.
  • Must be installed in your existing home and your primary residence. New construction and rental homes do not qualify for these tax credits.
  • Offers end December 31, 2020

What is a manufacturer’s certification statement?
This is a signed statement from the manufacturer that certifies that the equipment qualifies for the tax credit. Manufacturers can provide these certifications through the website, or you can call the manufacturer for this information. You will need to keep this statement for your records.

Ready to get your home’s heating and cooling system installed and ready for spring? Before you know it, the weather will be warming up and our schedule will get more and more full! Now is the time to act! Why pay full price on a heating and cooling system when you don’t have to? Learn more about the federal tax credits & get more information on how to apply for them here.

Contact us today to ask about what systems are right for your home and which ones qualify for these outstanding tax rebates.

Why Going Ductless Is the Best Solution

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Ductless systems are a great invention that offer an affordable heating and cooling solution for homes. For homes that do not have duct work that traditional HVAC systems require, ductless systems are especially helpful!  They can be installed in a variety of places including tiny homes, ADUs, garages, and in many different homes including new homes or historic ones.

Here, we list some of the main reasons why we think going ductless is the best solution.

Ductless system details:
Ductless systems use innovative technology that provide cold and warm air in one system. An outdoor unit connects to cables and a refrigerant line, which is at the ground level of your home. This connects to the indoor unit which has at least one head that shoots the warm or cold air out into the home. Depending on the size of the space that is being cooled or heated, there could be one head or multiple heads that are placed in central locations around the house. Each head is connected to a remote control that gives you the option to adjust the temperature as needed.

Why ductless systems are the best solution:

  • Energy efficiency
    • Say goodbye to bulky window air conditioner units in the summer! Your ductless system provides air conditioning all season long.
    • For homes that use electric or oil heat, a ductless system offers instant savings.
  • They are very quiet
    • Most homeowners hardly notice the machine when it’s running!
  • They help bring in clean air
    • Many ductless systems include air purification systems that help clean the air that is being pumped into the home and limit exposure to dust, pollen, dander, bacteria or germs. This makes them a great solution for people with chronic allergies or asthma.

A ductless system offers comfort all year long with just a touch of a button. Not sure if switching to ductless is right for your home? Our experienced team at Specialty Heating and Cooling will look at your home’s layout and provide recommendations on how a ductless system would function in the space. We’ll help you find something that’s right for your budget, too!

Contact us today for more information!

How to Avoid a Heating System Emergency

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The threat of snow and ice may be gone for now in our area. But, chances are, you’re still likely relying on your heating system to do its job in keeping you warm. When a heating system emergency or a complete breakdown happens, it won’t be fun! It is definitely not something you want to experience as a homeowner. This can be stressful! You might be forced to come up with a hefty amount for a repair or full furnace replacement. Not to mention, you’ll be cold! Thankfully, you can avoid this scenario.

#1: Keep your system professionally maintained.
Preventative maintenance is important! Just like your car needs regular oil changes and your teeth need routine cleanings at the dentist, so does your furnace system need to be tuned up. Lack of professional preventative maintenance is actually one of the most common reasons for emergency heating system service calls, too. During these appointments, our experienced team of professionals at Specialty Heating & Cooling will check the internal components of your machine, clean or replace filters, and make sure there are no outstanding issues that could pose a problem in the future. Preventative maintenance helps with improved comfort, better air quality, energy savings, and peace of mind knowing that we have taken a close look at everything.

#2: Don’t try to repair the system yourself.
Heating systems are complex machines.  They need professional servicing! No matter how handy you are with other machines, heating system work can be dangerous. Especially if you don’t have the proper training. If something is repaired incorrectly, it could end up costing you more down the road to be fixed.

#3: Don’t put off a heating system replacement.
Is your system more than 15 years old? If so, it’s probably on its way out. An old, outdated system is not energy efficient and will be more prone to breakdowns. Not sure if your system has more life in it or not? Our team at Specialty Heating and Cooling will help you determine how long you have and what new replacement options are available within your budget. We know this is a big investment and requires some planning and research. Let us help you find which one is right for you!

Contact us today for information on schedule your maintenance appointment or to talk to us about replacement options!

 

How to Keep Your Heating System Working in Cold Weather

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We have seen some wet and cold days already this winter, but the coldest parts of winter are likely on their way soon. That means we will be relying on our heating systems to keep our homes warm. Unfortunately, many people will experience some performance problems with their furnace when the temperatures start dropping. In order to avoid any issues or a full furnace breakdown, here are some ways that can help you keep your system working well in the cold weather.

#1: Keep your filters cleaned and changed.
Your furnace needs all the help it can get to keep it functioning at peak efficiency. Clean air filters can help with this, keeping the system from working harder than necessary. In addition, they will also help keep the air you breathe cleaner. Air filters help capture dirt, dust, debris, and other particles that make their way into your home.

#2: Use a programmable thermostat.
A programmable thermostat allows you to set your home’s temperature to what is comfortable, even if you’re away from home. For example, if you know you will be gone for most of the day at work, don’t heat your home like you would when you’re there. Instead, program the thermostat to turn down a couple degrees, then program it to turn back on before you get home so it’s at your desired temperature. Programmable thermostats save homeowners hundreds of dollars each year in energy and can help keep your furnace from working overtime when it’s not necessary.

#3: Keep vents clear.
Sure, your new recliner might look great on that one wall in your living room, but if it’s covering up a vent, it could cause an issue. It will not only cause the room to be unevenly heated, but it also puts pressure on your furnace to heat an area that is closed off. Be sure your vents are clear from furniture, drapes, rugs, or other household items that could prevent airflow.

Your home is your place of rest and relaxation and keeping it at a comfortable temperature during the winter is key. Instead of stressing about the upcoming forecast of possible colder temperatures and snow, call our experienced team at Specialty Heating and Cooling for a preventative maintenance appointment. We will ensure your system is working at its best and we will talk to you about any issues that may need to be addressed. We’re not comfortable until you are!

How Your Heating System Can Keep You Healthy

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Cold winter days are here and unfortunately, that means there are more viruses going around. A lot of people are sick and looking for ways to stay healthy for the rest of the season. Did you know that your heating system and the overall indoor air quality in your home can impact your health? Indoor air is often dirtier than outdoor air. Our team at Specialty Heating and Cooling can help you with indoor air quality solutions that can help keep you healthier.

Air Scrubber:
Ahhhh…clean air. There’s nothing like it! Purified air in your home means you’re breathing healthier air. The Air Scrubber uses ActivePure™ technology, which is proven to purify the air by its germicidal UV light wave system. This process uses molecules of oxygen and hydrogen that travel through the unit, as to freshen and clean the air molecules that enter the air at home. It can eliminate 90% of the contaminants in only 30 minutes.

Duct Cleaning:
Many people don’t think twice about the ductwork in their home. But, if you neglect cleaning them, you may be blowing dirty, contaminated air right back into your home’s heating system. Ductwork can harbor bacteria, fungi, dust mites, and more. These all contribute to health issues! But never fear, we can help! We can clean your ductwork through our powerful HEPA level filtration machine. In 4 to 6 hours, the ducts in your home will be clean and you can breathe confidently knowing there aren’t contaminants in the air.

Advanced Filtration:
Air purification systems are a reliable way to keep the air in your home clean all year long. These systems clean 99% of germs, viruses, mold, and bacteria. In addition, they capture pollen, pet dander, smoke, and other pollutants that contribute to dirty air. We offer several top-notch systems that will work in tandem with your HVAC system.

So, say goodbye to sickness this winter with these indoor air quality solutions! Contact us today for more information on what option will work best for you!

Heat Pump Myths Debunked

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Cold weather is here, and your heating system is being put to good use. If your system is not up for the task of keeping you comfortable this year, a new ducted heat pump system is a great replacement option. However, there are several misconceptions about these systems out there. We’re here to debunk them.

Myth #1: Gas furnaces provide higher level of comfort.
Gas furnaces are great machines that offer higher temperature air from the heat vents. However, ducted heat pumps close the gap and can offer a better, well-rounded heating solution that works with your existing gas furnace. They can help with energy efficiency, too! They can help save you significant money on your utility bill.

Myth #2: Gas furnaces are more efficient.
During mild winters, like we are having in the Pacific Northwest so far this year, a ducted heat pump is a very efficient option. Heat pumps also allow for heating in the winter and cooling in the summer, too! So, you can save money even in the summer months, when you don’t have to rely on bulky, energy inefficient window air conditioner units.

Myth #3: Ducted heat pumps can’t keep up with cold winters.
Even on the coldest of winter days, a ducted heat pump can keep you and your family warm. The newest technology in these systems, including the Carrier Infinity® heat pumps with Greenspeed® intelligence can effectively keep homes evenly and reliably heated. So, it doesn’t matter if the temperatures drop well below freezing — you’ll be comfortable!

Myth #4: Heat pumps only heat.
Like we mentioned above, heat pumps offer both heating and cooling capability! One system can provide year-round comfort with just a touch of a button.

Myth #5: Heat pumps are loud.
Early models of the heat pump were noisy. But with today’s new and improved technology, you can hardly hear them. We offer a variety of Carrier® variable-speed systems that have sound ratings as low as 55 decibels.

Not sure if a ducted heat pump is the right option for your home? We know there are a lot of options out there! Our qualified and experienced team at Specialty Heating & Cooling can help. Contact us today for information on how a ducted heat pump could provide you the comfort and energy efficiency you need in your home.

 

How Duct Cleaning Can Help Your Health

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Now that we are into the colder weather months, we see people come down with more cold and flu viruses. When was the last time you thought about the ductwork in your home? Dirt, mold, and other contaminants in your home’s heating system can bring in viruses and also aggravate existing health symptoms like asthma and allergies, especially those living with respiratory issues. Did you know that indoor air is oftentimes significantly dirtier than outdoor air? Ductwork that is dirty can bring contaminants and other airborne illnesses inside the air you breathe. However, duct cleaning can help! Here’s how.

Duct cleaning:
Cleaning your ductwork can help eliminate nasty odors and remove dust buildup. This translates to improved indoor air quality almost immediately! Our experienced team at Specialty Heating and Cooling can clean the ductwork in your home thoroughly through our powerful HEPA level filtration machine. In 4 to 6 hours, the ductwork will be completely cleaned.

Duct sealing:
This can help reduce mold growth and minimize bad airborne particles from entering your home. Not to mention, duct sealing helps reduce energy waste, because no air will be leaked in or out. We are proud to offer a unique patented solution: ductwork that is cracked or has small leaks can be sealed through our Aeroseal® system that ensures toxins are kept out. This system fixes leaks from the inside out by using small aeroseal particles to collide and stick to the leaks. It has a 98% success rate, so homeowners simply can’t go wrong!

Winter is right around the corner and it’s the perfect time to get everything sealed, cleaned, and ready to go for the change of season. Contact us today for more information on how you can improve your indoor air quality this season. We have worked with residential customers for the last three decades and know how to efficiently clean and seal your ductwork! The result: clean air that keeps you healthier.