Keeping Your Home Warm all Winter Long

Fall is in the air in Missouri. A sure sign that winter is not far behind, bringing cold temperatures that try to seep into your home. Keeping your home warm in the winter can be difficult and expensive. Knowing some tricks could save you big on energy costs.

• Programmable thermostat – These handy devices keep your house toasty warm, just when you need it. Set your thermostat to warm up just before you wake and turn down when you head to bed. If you work outside the home, program it to turn down when you are away and warm up when you are heading home. Many of these smart devices can even been synced to your smartphone so you can adjust the heat remotely.
• Let the sun shine in – Let Mother Nature do her part to keep your home warm. When the sun is shining, open up the curtains and heat your rooms naturally. Even when it is bitter cold outside, the sun’s rays can warm your home a few degrees.
• Curtains – If you have rooms that don’t get sunshine during the day, close the curtains. Curtains serve as a blanket for your windows, keeping the cold temperatures out. In addition, close your drapes in the evening when your home loses heat.   
• Watch your fire – Unless a fireplace is tied into your heating system as in the case of a water heated home, it can actually make your home colder. A fireplace that is too close to the thermostat can turn the heat off, making other areas of the home very cold. In addition, be sure your fireplace has doors to keep some of the warm air from escaping up the chimney. Finally, when the fireplace is not in use, be sure the flue is closed.
• Reveres fans – Most ceiling fans are designed to go in two directions. On direction sucks warm air off the floor, cooling the house, while the other pushes warm air off the ceiling and back down to the floor. Be sure your ceiling fan is operating in a clockwise direction to move as much warm air as possible back to your living areas.
• Clear the vents – If you have furniture near heating vents, move them away so the air is able to circulate freely.

Not sure if your furnace is ready? Contact Wheeler Heating and Air Conditioning before old man winter comes to visit.

Properly Start your Furnace Before this Holiday Season

Are you starting to feel a chill in the air? Are you waiting for someone else in your house to turn on the furnace? After this article, you will be able to turn on your furnace with confidence and ease.

Before you do anything, you’ll need to perform a few easy maintenance steps:

• Change the batteries on the thermostat.
• Check the batteries on both the smoke detector and the carbon monoxide detector.
• Clean out any of the dust and debris that has collected during the off-months from your filter and blower system.
• Clean the dust and debris from the air vents by using a vacuum. Try using extensions to get as deep as you can in the ductwork.
• Make sure you have a good seal around any windows and doors. Drafty openings can lead to inefficiencies.  
• Don’t forget to schedule a fall maintenance check with your local HVAC provider, Wheeler Heating & Cooling.

Starting your Furnace

Electric Furnace:

There are two locations.

The first location is your circuit box. There should be a switch labeled for your furnace and or HVAC system. Flip that to the “ON” position.

The second location is the furnace switch, it is usually on your furnace or next to it. Reference your furnace manual to find the exact location, each furnace is made differently. Switch that to the “ON” position. You should be heating your home within a matter of minutes.

Gas Furnace:

The pilot light will need to be turned on. Every furnace will be a little different when it comes to the pilot light, so consult the manual or search online for your furnace's specific make. When you Identify the switch, hold it down and you will hear a clicking sound. A flame will appear, success! Your furnace is turned on. You can feel confident starting the furnace and stay warm this winter season.

Are you not feeling warm throughout your home,  or you do not see your thermostat temperature moving up? Please give Wheeler Heating & Cooling a call at 417-839-9240. We have 24-hour emergency services. We also service natural gas, propane, and electric furnaces.

Sources:

www.hvactips-and-tricks.com

www.wheelerheatingandcooling.com

www.airductors.net

Types of Air Conditioners and Which One is Right for Your Home

Not all air conditioners are created equal. Some are better for residential areas while others fair better in a commercial setting. Knowing what type of air conditioning system works best for your environment will save you a lot of time and money.

There are 4 different, basic kinds of air conditioners for homes and businesses.

1. Window air conditioner - The Spruce states that it’s technically a unitary conditioner. This means that it is a self-contained air conditioning unit that sits in a window. If there wasn’t a window, it would still need some kind of hole to the outside world. This limits not only the space you can use this type of air conditioner but also limits the amount of space that can be cooled as the unit is centralized to one area.
2. Split air conditioner -This is a ductless system or a “packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC).” The split system is like the name, it’s split into two parts, usually far away from each other. Tubes that are refrigerated connect to both units. The condensing unit sits on the outside of your house and has a compressor, condenser and a condenser fan. The interior of your house will have the other half of the system, which contains the evaporator unit, the fan, expansion valve, and evaporator coil.
3. Portable air conditioner - A mobile, self-contained air conditioning system. You can put this unit where ever you want! This one unit air conditioning system releases heat with a hose vent. However, it’s a lot noisier and won’t release as much heat or cold air.
4. Central air conditioning - This is one of the most effective cooling solutions for your home; however, it’s also the most expensive. It’s quiet and gets the job done if you choose the right sized unit. The size of your home highly affects the size of unit you need. Like the split system, it's made of two different units, one inside and one outside, using refrigerant tubing.

Wheeler’s Heating and Air Conditioning is a family owned and ran business. We will provide quality service in whatever we do, to treat you just like family! We are available 24/7 and will never charge you an extra fee for after hours, holidays, or weekends. We also offer free in-home estimates and pay attention to the details.  Wheeler's Heating and Air Conditioning is a company you can trust. We provide installation and repair of air conditioning units. It’s important to know all the different kinds of systems before installing and choosing what’s right for you!

Stop by Wheeler’s Heating and Air Conditioning today! For more information visit our website at wheelerheatingandair.com or give us a call at 417-839-9240

When is it Time to Replace your Air Conditioner?

When it comes to your air conditioner, it’s often a case of “there’s more than meets the eye.” On the outside, your system may seem to appear and be functioning the way it always does. But you never know if there are hidden threats and malfunctions that are lurking below the surface. And when it comes to a problem with your air conditioning system, no matter how insignificant an issue may seem, it may have big consequences on  your wallet. 

We at Wheeler’s Heating and Air Conditioning know that just because we have an expert eye, and can spot an issue with an air conditioning system easily, doesn’t mean our customers can. We want to make sure that we address any potential problems with your system quickly and efficiently. 

Not sure if your air conditioner is still operating in the highest quality condition?  We are here to help! Until we can pay you a visit in person and take a look at your unit first hand, here are a few common warning signs and questions you can be aware of. This is what our expert team most often gets asked when it comes to air conditioners and when a repair or replacement may be needed. 

1.  How old is my air conditioner?

One of the biggest warning signs that you may be in need of a new air conditioner is its age. Even though a typical, well-maintained air conditioner on average lasts around 15 years, we’d recommend that if your air conditioner is older than 10 years old, you consider replacing it sooner rather than later.

2.  Are you satisfied with the temperature of your home?

If you have a hard time maintaining a comfortable, cool temperature in your home, especially during these warm summer months, that is a good warning sign that you may be in need of a new air conditioner.

3.  When was the last time your air conditioner broke down?

If it seems that your air conditioner is never working properly working of frequently stops working altogether, a replacement system is highly recommended. Think of it this way; small, frequent repair costs add up to one large cost, so isn’t it logical to just replace your system and have no future repairs?

4.  Is your air conditioner energy efficient?

Pay attention to the SEER rating on your air conditioner, or the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The lower the rating, the higher cost for you when it comes to monthly energy bills and future repairs. We recommend your SEER rating be a minimum of 13.

If any of these warning signs are relevant to your home’s air conditioner, don’t wait to call your expert team at Wheeler’s Heating and Air Conditioning! Trust us to make sure your system is in proper working order during these summer months and beyond. Call us today at 417-839-9240 or email us at wheelerheatingandair@gmail.com to schedule an upcoming inspection.

Stay Cool with these Summer AC Tips

Summer is here, days are longer, the kids are out of school, and the mercury is starting to climb - all  sure signs that air conditioning season is back upon us. Whether your AC unit is brand new or if it’s seen a few summers, there are things every homeowner can do to ensure that your AC keeps running smoothly and cost-effectively, year after year. 

 

Professional Maintenance is Key

 

Each spring, schedule a routine maintenance appointment with a reputable HVAC specialist. At this appointment, filters will be checked and changed, evaporator coils and the condenser will be cleaned, and refrigerant levels will be checked. If necessary, additional refrigerant will be added. Mud, dirt, and debris that have accumulated over the winter and can clog the condenser will be cleaned out, drain lines will be cleared, and the air conditioner will be checked for safety. Your HVAC specialist will also check your thermostat at this time to ensure that all of your controls are working properly and that your AC unit is as energy efficient as possible.

 

Improve AC Performance During the Summer

 

Once summer is here, there are many things that you can do to help your AC perform better and more efficiently. Sun beaming through the windows is a sure way to force your AC to work harder, so be sure to keep curtains closed during the daylight hours. Reduce heat from other sources by turning lights off when not in use and scheduling “hot” chores such as laundry and cooking for the cooler hours of the day. Keep ceiling fans on and, in rooms without a fan, use inexpensive portable fans to circulate the air. If you have rooms in your home that aren’t used on a regular basis (like a guest room), turn those AC vents to the off position and close the door. 

 

Your air conditioner filter is responsible for allowing air to flow freely from your air conditioning unit. Because the filter traps particles before allowing the cool air into your home, over time it will get clogged and efficiency will be compromised. Avoid this by changing your AC filter monthly during the summer months while it is in use. Installing a programmable thermostat allows you to control your AC usage by increasing the temperature when no one is home, and restoring a comfortable temperature when people are at home. Programmable thermostats are a great way to save money on your energy bill without sacrificing comfort. 

 

At Wheeler’s Heating and Air Conditioning, we specialize in air conditioner maintenance and repair. Visit us online today, or give us a call at 417-839-9240. 

Plants: The Solution to Indoor Air Pollution

The Problem

 

According to The National Center for Biotechnology Information, the average person spends 90% of their time indoors. And that means you need to make sure that you are living in a healthy breathing environment to prevent illness and indoor air pollution. To begin detoxifying your air, it’s best to start by giving each room in your house proper ventilation. Poor ventilation can create bad air conditions and eventually make you sick with a disease called  "sick building syndrome," which can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and eye, ear, and nose irritation, as stated by greatist.com. Upholstery or coverings, furniture, and manufactured cleaning products could be contaminating your air and releasing toxic compounds. After those products release air pollution, the toxic compounds stay in the air if the area is poorly ventilated. 

 

The Solution 

 

Indoor air pollutants come from common household objects and poor ventilation. These pollutants are a risk to the environment and your overall personal health. Luckily, according to NASA, indoor plants have become the solution. The National Center for Biotechnology Information calls indoor plants, “nature’s life support system.” The basic plant photosynthesis process removes toxins from air and soil, along with carbon dioxide, like they do outside. So, it makes sense that healthy air starts with plants. 

Plants That are Easy to Manage

 

Here’s a list created by greatist.com on the best indoor plants that are easy to take care of and will help remove toxic compounds from the air:

 

1. Garden Mum
2. Spider Plant
3. Dracaena 
4. Ficus/Weeping Fig
5. Peace Lily
6. Boston Fern
7. Snake Plant
8. Bamboo Palm
9. Aloe Vera 

 

With these plants you can easily make your living environment have a healthier breathing atmosphere for your lungs. An easy solution of having indoor plants can prevent long term problems that could result in chronic diseases like asthma. 

 

Wheeler’s Heating and Air Conditioning is all about the air being released into your home and we want to make sure you are living in a healthy, safe, environment. With our wide range of air quality products, we can help fight indoor air pollution in your home today! Along with air quality control, we provide other services such as installation of new air conditioner and furnaces. We can repair electric heat, gas furnaces, and air to air heat pumps. For more information visit our website at http://www.wheelerheatingandair.com/. Or give us a call at ​417-839-9240! 

Spring is Here - Is your Air Conditioner Ready?

Spring is in the air here in Ozark region of Missouri. While the heat of summer seems like it is a long way off, it will be here sooner than you think. Making sure your air conditioner is ready for summer is important if you want to enjoy cool comfort when the heat and humidity hit. Giving your AC a spring check up should be at the top of your to-do list.

 

What a Check up might include

 

• Full system inspection – A diagnostic test of the entire AC unit should be conducted to ensure that all parts are working effectively.
• Cleaning of any dirt or other build up on the coils  – Leaves from the fall and dirt and debris over the winter can get into the coils and can reduce efficiency.
• Lubrication of moving parts – Just like any other piece of machinery, your air conditioner has a lot of moving parts that must be properly lubricated to move efficiently.
• Air filter replacement – A clogged air filter can reduce airflow and burn out the motor in the AC unit. Additionally, it can blow dirt throughout your entire ventilation system.
• Thermostat controls and wiring – Be sure that the controls and wiring is in good shape to maintain efficiency of your AC unit.
• Condenser Cleaning – Remove debris and ensure that your condenser
  is ready for the demands constant use during the warm summer months.

 

While it might seem like a check up for your air conditioner is an added and unnecessary expense, taking the time to properly care for small things now could save you big money in the future. And, with the warm weather here in Missouri, it could also spare you several days of discomfort waiting for repairs on an AC unit that has suffered a break down or needs to be completely replaced.

 

To be sure that your home is ready for the upcoming heat and humidity of the summer months, a springtime air conditioning system check up is essential. Contact the experts at Wheeler’s Heating and Air Conditioning and ask about our spring cleaning special to prepare your AC unit for summer.