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Archive for the ‘Heating and Cooling’ Category

Wednesday, January 22nd, 2014

More and more people who want to preserve an ideal temperature inside their house and keep their monthly bills under control choose to insulate their homes on their own, or with help from a heating and cooling expert.

The question is this: what kind of insulation would be more suitable for this project and where could it be found? Also, could Home Depot insulation meet and even exceed your highest expectations?

Discover Numerous Appealing, Cost-Effective Options

Home Depot offers you a generous selection of insulation, tailored to your goals, needs, specific requirements, and financial possibilities. You could shop by application and product type to save time. There are various kinds of insulation that you should consider:

– Fiberglass insulation

– Rigid insulation

– Denim insulation

– Spray foam insulation

– Radiant barrier insulation

– Blow-in insulation

Also, you could choose the most appropriate type of insulation based on application (the part of your house which needs to be insulated). There are specially-formulated products for floors and walls, for attics and basements, and for exterior structures (garages, exterior walls, sheds, and so on).

Making an Inspired Choice

The final choice is up to you. Keep in mind that it is preferable to opt for insulation with a superior R-value, which will limit your heat transfer between the indoor and outdoor areas and allow you to experience considerable financial savings and an elevated level of comfort.

The best part is that Home Depot gives you the chance to estimate your costs and make inspired decisions, by using their Insulation Calculator.

Ask an Expert

Don’t know much about Home Depot insulation? In this case, ask a heating and cooling expert for advice. Pick the most reliable one in your area by utilizing Seva Call, your trusted connection to the best professionals. Seva Call is easy to use and will always encourage you to make informed decisions and feasible long-term investments.

Tags: home depot insulation
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Install Heating Ductwork

Tuesday, January 21st, 2014

Properly installed, high-quality heating ducts can help you profit from considerable energy savings in the long run. You can choose to install heating ductwork on your own, by conducting a simple, time-effective DIY project, or you could hire a heating and cooling expert and let him do the heavy lifting. Here are a few easy steps that every do-it-yourselfer should follow, to attain excellent results.

1) Estimate How Much Material You Will Have to Use

Draw a sketch and take a few measurements and calculations to determine how much material you’ll have to purchase. Based on the ductwork layout, you could also estimate the amount of money that should be invested in this project.

Don’t hesitate to overestimate. Spare material could be used in the future, to conduct repairs or replacement projects.

2) Estimate the Amount of Heat that You’ll Need

How much heat do you actually need? Do some basic math to find out. Generally speaking, you will require 1 CFM (one cubic foot per minute) for every single square foot of a certain room that has to be to be heated up.

3) Opt for the Right Duct Size

To enhance the performance of your furnace, determine the ideal duct size. To experience considerable savings, you will have to factor in different elements, like for instance the number of vents, the size of your rooms, and also the duct length.

Buy the duct size that matches the ideal number of cubic feet per meter. Four-inch ducts are for 30 CFM, 6-inch ducts go with 110 CFM, 14-inch ducts correspond to 1,000 CFM and so on.

4) Cut and Assemble the Ducts

Cut the ducts to match your needs, by using a knife. Assemble them properly and don’t forget to seal them with duct tape to prevent heat losses. Insulate your ducts to avoid heat dissipation.

Ask an Expert

Can’t seem to be able to install heating ductwork on your own? If so, don’t hesitate to let a heating and cooling expert complete this project in a cost- and time-effective manner. Find the most respectable ones in your area with Seva Call, a free service introduced to help you meet the right professionals in just minutes.

Tags: Install Heating Ductwork
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Attic Insulation Types

Monday, January 20th, 2014

Homeowners who want to limit their heat losses and experience considerable energy savings in the long run often choose to insulate their attics. This is a relatively small investment, compared to the benefits that it brings.

Nonetheless, it is important to opt for high-quality materials with a superior R-value, which will keep your house warm in the winter and cold during summer. Keep reading to discover more about some of the most common attic insulation types currently available on the market.

Most Popular Attic Insulation Types

Blown-in insulation, also known as loose-fill insulation, represents one of the most common types of insulating materials. It is made from mineral wool, cellulose, or fiberglass and various other kinds of recycled materials. Its installation process usually requires special tools, so this task is normally conducted by certified professionals. After a certain period of time, this material can lose up to 20% of its effectiveness, as it becomes compact.

Blanket insulation is also another popular choice. The main advantage is that the installation can be completed by do-it-yourself-ers in no time. Moreover, this material represents a mix of fiberglass and natural and synthetic fibers, and it is extremely affordable compared to other premium attic insulation types.

Weatherize Your Home the Right Way

In some cases, apart from purchasing and installing great insulation, you will also need to take care of cracks and energy-wasting gaps that may appear at some points in your attic. To cover them in an effective manner and minimize heat losses, use spray foam, caulking, or plastic sheeting.

Ask an Expert

Looking for more info on the best attic insulation types? In this case, just discuss your options with a heating and cooling expert. Find the right one with Seva Call, your free connection to the best professionals in town.

Tags: Attic Insulation Types
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Wood Pellet Stove Inserts

Friday, January 17th, 2014

A beautiful, custom-made fireplace can add value to your property and boost its appeal. Moreover, it can turn the dullest room into a cozy, inviting environment. Now homeowners have the chance to transform their fireplaces into eco-friendly, incredibly effective heating powerhouses by simply purchasing and installing wood pellet stove inserts.

Get the Best Pellet Inserts for Your Fireplace

Of course, pellet inserts for fireplaces come in a great variety of shapes, styles, and sizes. Choose the right one for you based on some of the most important selection criteria listed below.

Price: Brand-new wood pellet stove inserts carry different price tags (based on their size, materials, design particularities, and heat output) ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 and up.

Your particular heating needs and requirements: With a good model, you should be able to heat up an indoor space measuring up to 2,000 square feet fast and without any difficulties.

Insert material: Wood pellet stove inserts are usually made from durable, resistant materials like steel and cast iron. Both options are worth considering, due to their superior quality.

Analyzing the Main Benefits of Truly Remarkable Pellet Inserts

Pellet inserts should be aesthetically pleasing and energy-efficient at the same time. Some of the most advanced models have an optimal efficiency estimated at approximately 83%. Moreover, they should be designed to heat up large rooms without triggering a large amount of emissions.

In most cases, the pellet hopper is adjustable, ensuring a perfect fit, trouble-free, rapid cleanups, and very low maintenance. Some models come with an air wash feature that allows users to keep the glass of the pellet insert spotless at all times.

Ask an Expert

If you want to turn your fireplace into a green, reliable source of heat, consider investing in wood pellet stove inserts. Choose the best products and features for your home by consulting a heating and cooling expert. Find the most competent one in your area with just a little help from Seva Call, your best connection to great local professionals.

Tags: Wood Pellet Stove Inserts
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Wood Stove Cost

Wednesday, January 15th, 2014

Are you flirting with the idea of purchasing and installing a wood stove? Numerous people are tempted to do the same thing, taking into consideration that wood is a carbon-neutral, widely available resource.

Should you worry about the wood stove cost or is this actually a factor that would encourage you to buy the latest model available on the market? Keep reading to find out.

The Main Reasons Why People Rely on Wood Stoves

These days, when oil and petroleum-based fuels burn deep holes in your pockets, many homeowners turn to wood and wood pellets to heat up their indoor spaces. However, cost-efficiency isn’t the only advantage offered by modern wood stoves. These appliances enable users to:

– Save a considerable amount of money (up to $500 dollars per year, according to recent studies)

– Benefit from a higher level of comfort

– Go green, by relying on a eco-friendlier heating alternative

– Beautify their living space and turn the coldest room into a friendly, warm, and inviting environment

Estimating the Cost of a Wood Stove

These days, potential buyers have the chance to choose from numerous appealing models of energy-efficient stoves that display different features and different price tags. Even those with limited financial possibilities can find great options in their price range.

For instance, a small wood stove with a blower that can heat up indoor spaces with a total surface under 1.500 square feet can cost you only a little over $700.

Luxurious models with a superior heating capacity, made from cast iron carry heavier price tags (approximately $3,000). All in all, the best thing that you can do is to shop around. You’ll find plenty of appealing, energy-efficient models below $1,500.

Ask an Expert

Can’t determine the ideal heating capacity that should be displayed by the best wood stove for your home? Don’t know how to evaluate the relationship between the wood stove price and its actual quality?

In this case, eliminate your doubts by consulting a heating and cooling expert. Find the best ones in your area with Seva Call, a free service implemented to connect you with reputable professionals in just minutes.

Tags: Wood Stove Cost
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New Heating and Cooling Systems: Heat Pumps

Tuesday, January 14th, 2014

Heat pumps are not entirely new inventions. They have been around for decades but were not that popular. However, recent technological advancements have created a growing demand for these appliances. For those not familiar with heat pumps, these devices are able to deliver heat and cooling, as well as hot water. In short, they are energy-efficient substitutes to air conditioning units and furnaces.

Using electricity, a heat pump will take heat from a cool area to make it even cooler and will move this heat to an already warm area to make it warmer. This line of new heating and cooling systems simply transport heat, as opposed to producing heat, so they cost less than the traditional cooling and heating devices in conditioning the same amount of space.

Types of Heat Pumps

– Air-source heat pump: Moves heat between a house and the air outside.

– Geothermal heat pump: Moves heat between a house and a nearby geothermal source, which is either the ground or a water source.

– Absorption heat pump: Utilizes heat as its fuel source. Various heat sources can be used.

New Innovations

Heat pump technologies are continuously developing and improving. Those in the market for these new heating and cooling systems can look forward to a number of innovative features such as:

– Two-speed compressor: It allows the heat pump to be operated almost to its cooling or heating capacity, saving electricity and reducing wear on the compressor. It also makes it possible for different rooms in your home to have different temperatures.

– Variable- or dual-speed motor: With the ability of the fan’s speed to be adjusted, you can maintain air circulation at a comfortable level. This reduces cool air drafts while boosting cost savings. It also lessens blower noise when it’s operating at full speed.

– Desuperheater: This feature works to recover excess heat from the cooling mode of the pump and use this energy to heat up water. This enables a heat pump to efficiently heat water thrice more than standard electric water heaters.

– Scroll Compressor: Heat pumps equipped with this feature offer warmer air when in heating mode in comparison to other types of heat pumps that have piston compressors.

Interested in Installing a Heat Pump?

Finding a quality contractor to install a heat pump is crucial. The system has to be the right size, not too small and not too big, in order not to create unnecessary wear on the equipment and ensure your home will be kept comfortable. It is recommended to meet with at least three different heating and cooling contractors before hiring for your job.

With Seva Call‘s help, searching for qualified service professionals is not a problem. Call us or submit your service request through our site, and be connected with up to three reputable HVAC professionals in minutes!

Tags: New Heating and Cooling Systems
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Natural Gas Heaters Home Use Buying Guide

Monday, January 13th, 2014

Are you in the market for a natural gas heater? Before you begin shopping for natural gas heaters for home use, it would help to know the basics. One fact to remember: Cold air is heavier than warm air, so it will fall while the warm air rises.

In your home and other large areas, there is constant air movement. Air moves faster if there is larger difference between warm air and cold air, which can produce drafts. Therefore, you will have a more comfortable environment in your home if you can maintain a fairly even temperature inside.

There are three methods whereby heating occurs:

– Convection – Works on the principle that warm air tends to rise. As warm air moves, it warms the surfaces around it.

– Conduction – Heat is carried not through air but through materials. The source of heat can be warm air or radiant heat. Denser materials conduct heat more easily than less dense objects, such as batt insulation, which slow down the movement of heat through the walls or roof.

– Radiant Heating – Works like the rays of the sun, warming objects that are in its direct path instead of warming the air. The objects that have been heated can then also radiate heat to cooler objects. A traditional fireplace is a good example of a radiant heat source.

When shopping for natural gas heaters home use, you should:

1. Consult with a professional for help in choosing the best natural gas heating system for your home and determining the correct unit size that you need.

2. Find out what your options are concerning venting, particularly if you’re converting your heating system to natural gas from another type of energy source or if you’re moving the system to another location in your house.

3. Look at different natural gas heaters for home use, compare operating costs, and prices. Do note that a system may be more expensive initially but may be more cost-efficient to operate.

4. Compare both equipment and installation warranties.

5. Choose a model with a design that has been certified by a nationally recognized laboratory to ensure it has been tested to meet national standards.

Finding and Using New Heating Systems

After installing the unit in your home, make sure to use it following the manufacturer’s recommendations. Don’t forget proper maintenance as well, including an annualy inspection of your HVAC system. For professional installation or maintenance, Seva Call can find the right professional for you. Contact us and speak to local professionals within minutes!

Tags: Natural Gas
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Heating Cooling Systems Prices

Friday, January 10th, 2014

Nowadays, people are more and more concerned about using energy-efficient HVAC systems to heat and cool their house. These are essential for the comfort of their homes, but also allow them to lower their utility bills and have better control on their budget.

However, when it comes to installing a new HVAC system, your main priority is getting a high-quality product for a fair price. Here are some clues about heating cooling systems prices that might make your purchase decision easier.

What Factors Determine the Price of a HVAC System?

Heating cooling systems prices vary according to several factors, including technology, performance, demand, and individual needs.

Technology

There are many technologies available, and the price generally reflects the capabilities of a particular type of HVAC system. HVAC systems basically integrate three functions: heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, to ensure the comfort of your home throughout the year.

Performance

Heating cooling system prices are also determined by the performance of the unit. Some HVAC systems are more energy-efficient than others, and they allow you to save money in the long-term by lowering your utility bill. If you can afford the initial investment of buying and installing a new HVAC system, you will not only make your home more cozy, but also reduce your overall household costs in the long run.

Demand

Another aspect to consider when deciding to upgrade or replace your HVAC system is demand. Some HVAC systems are more popular than others are, which may add to their price. Popularity and demand are not always the most important criteria for such an important investment as a new HVAC system. What is good for others might not be the best for you.

Individual Needs

When you choose your HVAC system, it’s best to focus on your individual needs. The size and location of your house, as well as your expectations, play an important role in the final price you’ll have to pay for your heating and cooling system. To these, you need to add installation costs, which may vary from one contractor to another.

A new, high-quality HVAC system may cost you up to $5,000 or even more if you install it in a new house. To get an accurate estimate, consult an expert who can give you a price based on the particulars of your house.

Need Help?

Seva Call can connect you with reputable HVAC experts in your local area, so that you can be sure you made the right choice and benefit from nothing less than excellent service.

Tags: Heating Cooling Systems Prices
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Wood Stove Pellets

Thursday, January 9th, 2014

More than 1 million U.S.-based owners of homes and businesses rely on wood stove pellets to heat up their indoor spaces. Pellet fuel is suitable for a wide range of applications and has a virtually endless list of benefits, including low emission levels and superior thermal efficiency.

Discover the Main Benefits of Wood Stove Pellets

Reduced shipping costs: The distribution of wood pellets is cheaper than the distribution of wood chips.

Reduced emissions: Wood stove pellets represent a greener fuel, ideal for those who want to minimize their carbon footprint. Due to their elevated burn efficiency and their particular fuel density, wood stove pellets produce a reduced amount of emissions, compared to other types of fuels.

Approximately 1.5 tons of CO2 emissions are prevented from entering the atmosphere every single time 1 ton of pellets is used to replace the required quantity of oil.

Easy storage: Wood pellets occupy less space than fire logs and can be easily stored by homeowners.

Energy efficiency: 1 ton of wood pellets is the equivalent, in terms of energy efficiency, of 2.8 barrels (333.87 liters) of #2 fuel oil.

As you can see, pellet fuel has considerable environmental and monetary benefits worth considering.

How to Use Wood Stove Pellets

Pellet fuel stoves are equipped with fuel hoppers, designed to hold and store up to 130 pounds of wood pellets, which represents the normal amount of pellets that should be burned during an entire day, under normal circumstances.

A feeder gradually pushes the pellets inside the fire chamber, where they are burned to produce heat. Emissions are carried outside through a small-size flue pipe. Modern pellet stoves also come with a thermostat and a tiny computer, utilized by owners to gain full control over the pellet feed rate.

Ask an Expert

Wood stove pellets display numerous advantages and are definitely a greener heating option. Would it be good for you? Only a heating and cooling expert could provide the best answer to this question. Use Seva Call, a free service, to meet exceptional professionals in your area, and make inspired decisions on a daily basis.

Tags: Wood Stove Pellets
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Cheap Ways to Heat Your Home

Wednesday, January 8th, 2014

The month of January has brought record-shattering low temperatures to many parts of the United States. Many families are struggling to find cost-effective ways to heat their homes without breaking the bank. As the weather continues to worsen, you could consider using these cheap ways to heat your home this winter.

Seal Around Your Doors and Windows

Covering areas around your door with towels or a makeshift draft dodger can make a big difference. Preventing cold drafts from entering can drastically raise the temperature in the areas of the home near that door.

You can also hang blankets and towels around your windows, or tape the frames, to keep drafts from leaking through the windows.

Put Down a Rug or Carpet

Rugs and carpets items help prevent heat loss through the floor. They offer a warmer surface to walk on and are a great way to stay comfortable on wood or stone floors.

Install Insulation in the Attic and the Crawl Space

Warm air rises, so a lot of heat escapes through the attic. By losing this heat, you could continue to raise the thermostat. However, this would cause you to lose a lot of money and still not sufficiently heat your home.

Speak with a Heating Expert

Does the house you live in have enough insulation to make it through the winter? Seva Call can help you track down the right professional to make sure your home is prepared for the many cold days ahead. Call now, so we can connect you with a reputable professional who can help you stay warm for the remainder of the season.

Tags: affordable, heating
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