Archive for the ‘Heating and Cooling’ Category

 

The Basic Wood Stove Parts

Monday, December 23rd, 2013

There are only a few wood stove parts but knowing what they are and how they work will help you use your wood stove safely and properly. Certain parts of a wood stove simply allow it to disperse heat more efficiently. Here’s a quick look at the basic parts of a typical wood stove.

Doors and Handles

Obviously, these important wood stove parts have the main purpose of keeping the firewood secure inside the stove. It’s important for doors to have a tight seal to ensure a good fire and that heat does not leak out of the stove. The doors should be serviced regularly before the start of the cold season to keep the stove in good condition.

If you need to make a tight seal, use a gasket and affix it to the door with special cement. Wood stoves also have door handles that are specially designed to resist heat, so they can be touched without you being burned.

Blower or Fan

A wood stove’s blower or fan works to distribute the heat around a space. Because a wood stove uses an electric fan, it must be within reach of an electric outlet in order to use the fan.

Before the heating season begins, check the components of the fan to make sure they are clean. Detach the fan cover and vacuum out the dirt and dust. Lubricate the fan for easy and quiet turning.

Pipes

Examine all wood stovepipes regularly throughout the wood-burning season. Pipes are critical wood stove parts because they carry the smoke safely out of the house through the chimney. Check the gaps between different pipe sections to see whether smoke is leaking through. If there is leakage, put out the fire and make the necessary adjustments to the fitting between the pipes or replace seals.

Dampers

If you have an older stove, the dampers may be on the front of the door. In newer models, they are sometimes built into the stovepipe. Let the dampers stay open to keep a fire burning, but close them to slow down the fire and save the heat inside the stove. On older stoves, the dampers have a knob that you need to turn to open or close them.

Need Professional Help with Your Wood Stoves?

Seeing to it that your wood stove parts are well maintained will ensure safe and efficient heating. Contact TalkLocal today, and we will find a heating professional near you to help maintain or repair your wood stove fast and easy!

Using Small Wood Stoves

Friday, December 20th, 2013

In general, small wood stoves are any wood stoves that are capable of heating an area up to 1,500 square feet. These stoves heat up quickly and will burn and generate heat more efficiently compared with a stove that is too big for a particular living space.

These stoves are typically made of cast iron, and have legs and a long vent pipe. Some models come with an electric blower or fan that blows the generated heat into the space, while other models are the stove types. Most small stoves cost somewhere in the range of $600 to $1,000 depending on the brand of the stove and its features.

Installation

Because wood stoves are designed like a traditional fireplace, using one in a home often requires the installation of a heat board at the back of the stove. This part can be bought at any home improvement store. However, if your home already has an existing masonry fireplace, then adding a wood stove can easily be done without any significant structural modifications.

Best Uses

Small wood stoves are ideally used for homes, garages, wood shops, cabins, and other living spaces no bigger than 1,500 square feet.  Many of these stove models can heat a 1,000-square foot house with it being the only heating source. In larger homes, they make zone heating possible by being able to heat certain small areas within the home, and also make a reliable heat source during a power outage.

Looks Great in Homes

Small wood stoves come in different shapes, styles, and designs from contemporary to vintage. They can be decorative items in a home and not just an efficient heating device. So make this addition an attractive one that will contribute to your home’s appeal by choosing a stove that suits your home’s look and feel, instead of automatically going for the most popular model.

Safe to Use

Small wood stoves are not only attractive, they are relatively safe to use as well when compared to gas or oil-fired heating appliances. They have a sturdy and well-built body that does not tip over easily to cause fires.

It is easier to extinguish fire in a wood stove than an electrical or gas fire. Also, wood stoves do not produce a large amount of ash, so cleaning and maintenance is not needed that often.  Furthermore, timber is far cheaper than both gas and electricity.

Need a Wood Stove Expert?

If you need any help with installing or maintaining your wood stove, you can always count on TalkLocal to connect you with a local expert. We’re fast, free, and convenient. Try us now!

Wall Electric Heaters

Thursday, December 19th, 2013

Wall Electric Heaters - Heating and Cooling

As winter approaches, millions of families start looking for ways to preserve energy and reduce their utility bills. Some of them have already tested the effectiveness of wall electric heaters, considered an amazing alternative due to their long list of advantages.

Why Are Wall Electric Heaters an Excellent Alternative?

If you want to warm up your office or only one or two bedrooms at home, zonal heat may be your most inspired choice. Modern wall electric heaters provide an ideal level of heat over a relatively short period of time. They also help reduce energy costs, because they turn almost 100% of the power they consume into heat.

Electric heaters are green too, compared to their gas and kerosene counterparts. They reduce the carbon footprint of your household; so they are perfect for people who choose to embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle and make the most of renewable energy. Wall electric heaters run quietly, don’t pollute, and represent the perfect candidate when it comes to heating small indoor areas.

Electric Heaters versus Gas Furnaces

Some people prefer gas furnaces, while others choose to install electric heaters in their homes. What would be the best option for you? It all depends on different factors, including the size of the space that you plan to heat and your budget.

One thing’s for sure: last-generation wall electric heaters, launched on the market by reputable manufacturers, like Cadet, for instance, guarantee zero heat losses, while most gas furnaces are much less efficient, displaying an AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) rating of only 65%.

Get an Expert Opinion

These days, one could easily find different types of wall electric heaters, introduced by reputable brands. The key is to spot, purchase, and install the one to meet your specific heating needs. When in doubt, it’s advisable to consult a skilled heating and cooling expert before making a final decision. Rely on TalkLocal to meet hundreds of professionals operating in your area, who have what it takes to complete any task to your complete satisfaction.

Purchasing Furnace Repair Parts

Wednesday, December 18th, 2013

Purchasing Furnace Repair Parts - Heating and Cooling

It can be exasperating and seriously problematic when your furnace is not working. The good thing is there are many suppliers of authorized furnace repair parts such as igniters, capacitors, flame sensors, heating elements, thermostats, and others, so repairing your furnace should not be a problem.

However, it is crucial that you obtain the correct furnace repair parts that match your particular equipment, and these parts must come from a registered supplier who can offer a guarantee on the parts in case an issue arises during or after installation.

Accessibility of Parts

Your location and access to a supplier will affect how quickly you can get your hands on the exact furnace repair parts that you need. It can be especially difficult to find the right parts when you’re attempting an emergency repair in the middle of winter.

How fast you need the repair done may mean that you may have to purchase some of the parts from unusual sources. Some parts may only be for sale to an HVAC engineer and are not available to public consumers. You will have to look for a company that will sell you just the furnace repair parts, or ask your trusted HVAC engineer to make the purchase for you.

Buy From Reputable Dealers

Whatever furnace repair parts you need, make sure that you buy only from reputable dealers. A dealer may keep parts for older furnaces in stock, but make sure you’re not buying second-hand parts and that the products come with the right paperwork and  instructions for use. When it comes to HVAC parts, never buy recycled or second-hand parts. Doing so is not only inefficient, but also dangerous.

Ensure Safe and Proper Installation

Once you have purchased the right furnace repair parts, you’ll need to hire a trained HVAC engineer to install them. Ideally, a registered gas engineer should install the parts, as improper installation can result in inefficient fuel combustion, which can in turn produce dangerous poisonous gases such as carbon monoxide.

Hire a Professional Now

If you find your furnace is not working, then the safest and quickest way to get it fixed is to hire a professional. TalkLocal offers a free and convenient service that will connect you with up to three HVAC experts, so you can quickly find the right service professional for your needs. Contact us now, and get the help you need to get your furnace working like new again.

How to Avoid Emergency HVAC Repair Service

Tuesday, December 17th, 2013

How to Avoid Emergency HVAC Repair Service - Heating and Cooling

Modern heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are designed to work incredibly efficiently. Yet most emergency calls for HVAC repair service are caused by simple issues. However, all it takes is a few practical steps so that you can avoid the trouble of a broken down AC system in the middle of summer, or a heating problem in winter.

Here are some tips to ensure the smooth operation of your HVAC system:

1. Schedule a routine HVAC maintenance program.

As with most mechanical devices, a regular maintenance program will keep an HVAC system in smooth, running condition. With so many moving components that work together, failing to check the parts and pieces on a regular basis can easily lead to problems that need emergency repairs. Here are the basic things that should be part of a routine HVAC maintenance:

– Monthly cleaning or replacement of air filters inside the home

– Monthly cleaning of the ductwork to minimize dust and debris buildup

– Annual replacement of HVAC filters

– Annual cleaning of the coils

2. Keep the HVAC system clean of debris.

You can lessen the amount or frequency of emergency HVAC repair service calls simply by being mindful of where your unit is located. It may be situated in an area with trees nearby, so it can easily be covered with debris that falls from the trees, in addition to dust and dirt. Make it a point to check your HVAC system at least once a month and clear any debris off the unit that might block airflow.

3. Pay attention to the thermostat.

Another simple but effective way to prevent most issues that require emergency HVAC repair service is to make sure the system runs consistently. Many repairs are caused by frequent adjusting of the thermostat, especially in areas with extreme weather.

When the thermostat is changed frequently, the unit works harder to change temperatures, which affects its performance sooner or later. Find the temperature that makes your home comfortable throughout the day, and try to keep the thermostat at that.

Do You Need HVAC Repair Service?

By following the tips above, you will avoid needing urgent HVAC repair service, which often happens at the most inconvenient times. Fortunately, whenever you need to find an HVAC professional quickly, all you need to do is use TalkLocal. Emergency or not, we can help you locate a qualified HVAC technician in your area at no cost. Try us now!

7 Tips Heating Wood Stoves

Monday, December 16th, 2013

7 Tips Heating Wood Stoves - Heating and Cooling

When you burn wood efficiently, you will be reducing pollution and health risks while enjoying a warmer home for less the cost. Here are 7 tips heating wood stoves to maximize efficiency:

Un-split wood will dry very slowly, so split wood works best as firewood. Don’t stack firewood tightly, so air can circulate and dry the wood faster. Split firewood into smaller pieces with a diameter of about 4 to 6 inches. Smaller pieces of split firewood will burn more efficiently, as more of its surface area contacts the flame. Use these pieces to start your fires, and then use larger firewood when the fire is already built.

Burning seasoned firewood generates more heat energy, unlike unseasoned firewood, which also emits more smoke and adds to the dangerous buildup of creosote in chimneys.

3. Don’t burn fuel that is not meant for your stove.

If you have a wood stove, burn wood and only wood in it. However, never burn treated or painted wood in your wood stove. You also shouldn’t use your wood stove to burn trash or household garbage. Doing so will release harmful chemicals into the air. You should also never burn coal or any other fuel in your stove that it’s not designed to handle, because it can damage the stove.

Your fire should be getting sufficient air so that it will burn clean and hot. When your wood stove is burning properly, it will burn hotter, more efficiently, and produce less smoke. Inspect the stove’s air intake to make sure no spider webs or dust buildup is blocking airflow. Brush the screen clean if the stove has a through-floor air intake.

Avoid putting too much firewood in the stove so as not to restrict air flow, which is necessary for good combustion. Instead of overloading the stove, simply refuel more frequently with smaller batches.

6. Ensure your wood stove is the proper size.

This is one of the most important of these 7 tips on heating a wood stove. A properly sized stove will burn efficiently even during the coldest weather. To ensure that you choose the right size for your stove, determine the size of the area to be heated in square feet and the amount of surrounding insulation to be heated. Bring these numbers along to a dealer.

7. Inspect the wood stove

Schedule a yearly or half-yearly inspection of the stove and chimney. Check for warping, gaps in the baffle, and creosote buildup.

Need Professional Assistance?

If you want to learn more about heating wood stoves or your unit needs some repairs or maintenance, TalkLocal can save you time in searching for qualified heating professionals in your area. We’ll connect you with the service you need fast and free of charge!

Timberwolf Wood Stoves Care and Maintenance

Tuesday, December 10th, 2013

Timberwolf Wood Stoves Care and Maintenance - Heating and Cooling

Timberwolf wood stoves are a traditional, but economical alternative for heating your home . They are masterfully made and crafted with care. These wood stoves make a cozy alternative to gas heating. Timberwolf wood stoves are also sturdy and durable.

The manufacturer provides a warranty with these stoves, so you can be confident about their reliability. It’s still important, however, to maintain your Timberwolf stove in order to enjoy years of use. Here are some guidelines for the proper maintenance of Timberwolf wood stoves.

Chimneys

Clean your chimneys at least once per year. However, you should check your chimney and chimney connector for any build-up weekly, until you know approximately when you have to clean it. Before you clean the chimney, disconnect the appliance. Replace any broken bricks if necessary.

Ash Removal Procedures

Allow ashes to accumulate to at least two to three inches deep before removal. Always leave an ash bed an inch or more thick in order to maintain of a hot bed of charcoal. The best way to dispose of ashes is to deposit them in a metal container with a snugly fitting lid.

The ash container can then be kept on the ground away from any combustible material. Once the ashes have cooled you can empty them from the container to finally dispose of them.

Ash Removal with Ash Drawer

To remove the ashes from a Timberwolf stove, first clear ash away from the ash plug. After that, use a poker to remove the ash plug. Use a rake to move the excess ashes into an ash drawer. However, the ash drawer should not be overfilled. The ashes should be no higher than the sides of the ash drawer. Remove the ash drawer and dispose of the ashes properly.

Need Help with Your Timberwolf Wood Stoves?

Contact TalkLocal today and we will locate a professional near you to help maintain your wood stove with ease!

Eco Electric Heating System Guide

Friday, December 6th, 2013

Eco Electric Heating System Guide - Heating and Cooling

With concerns over climate change and dwindling fossil fuel supplies, people are being forced to rethink the way things are done. This includes methods for home heating.

Today, architects and builders are designing and constructing homes with excellent insulation and less energy consumption in mind. Eco electric heating systems are perfectly geared towards the global need for cleaner forms of energy.

Eco-Friendly Technology

One revolutionary eco electric heating system is underfloor heating, which uses radiant heat to slowly warm a floor surface. It is ecologically friendly and economical, particularly if the eco electric heating system uses renewable eco-friendly fuel sources such as hydropower and wind. The idea behind underfloor heating systems has been around for centuries, but developments in this technology have produced a system that is designed to warm homes without contributing to environmental deterioration.

Reduces Energy Waste

Underfloor heating is an excellent eco electric heating system, because it offers the advantage of local heating, allowing individual room temperatures to be adjusted according to the daily need for heating throughout the seasons. Because warmth is focused exactly where and when it is needed, energy is not wasted.

Heat Retention

Another feature of underfloor heating systems is heat retention, which is crucial to energy efficiency. Eco electric heating can retain heat for a long time after the power supply has been turned off. It may take some time to heat up, but it also takes longer to lose heat, so you can remain warm for some time after turning off the power.

This is possible because of the insulation boards that are embedded on the subfloor below the heating system. With the boards reflecting heat upwards, there is no lost heat, meaning reduced running times and energy use.

Consult with a Heating Professional

By choosing eco electric heating for your home, you’re doing your bit to slow the change in our climate. A heating professional can help you understand more about underfloor heating and advise you on its suitability for your home. TalkLocal is a free service that can connect you quickly with reputable professionals in your area. Try Seva Call now!

Electric Fireplace Heating Maintenance

Thursday, December 5th, 2013

Electric Fireplace Heating Maintenance - Heating and Cooling

Electric fireplaces are becoming more and more popular. They are an economical alternative to a traditional gas or wood-burning fireplace.

Electric fireplace heating also offers a cozy atmosphere without the dirt and the hassle of cleaning a regular wood-burning fireplace, making it ideal for homeowners who want to use a realistic fireplace but want to avoid all the labor that comes with having a traditional fireplace.

Because they are designed to minimize debris and dirt, electric fireplaces are easy to clean and maintain. You don’t need to worry about burning logs and having to install and clean a chimney or air vents.

There is very minimal cleanup required with electric fireplace heating, but it should be noted that “minimal cleanup” is not the same as “no cleanup”; there are still a few things you need to do to keep your electric fireplace in good condition.

Safety Precautions

Before cleaning your electric fireplace, make sure to disconnect it from the power supply. Regularly check the wires and other electrical components of the electric fireplace heating to make sure they are in safe and working condition. If you find any frayed wires, do not use the fireplace until you’ve had the damaged wires replaced. Call a professional right away to deal with the problem.

General Cleaning Tips

– A soft, clean duster is enough for basic cleaning of the electric fireplace. Use a soft cloth to clean the glass-viewing screen.

– Never use abrasive cleaning products and harsh glass that may scratch the fireplace.

– To clean the fireplace mantel, use only cleaning products that are suited for the material of the mantel. Similarly, use a compatible cleaner for polishing the fireplace brass work.

– Use a vacuum cleaner soft brush attachment to remove any dirt or dust on the fireplace logs and from the outlet grill.

– To access the logs, unscrew the front glass panel and remove it carefully. Next, unscrew the artificial logs. Wipe them clean with a soft duster or damp cloth. Replace the log screws, front panel and front screws.

When to Call a Pro

Apparently, electric fireplace heating is not entirely maintenance-free, but it is very easy and simple to maintain. Follow the tips in this guide and you will be able to enjoy your electric fireplace for years to come. Call a professional to have the heater system cleaned to further extend the life of your electric fireplace. It’s easy to find a reliable professional with TalkLocal. Submit your request now to be connected with high-quality professionals in just minutes!

Underfloor Heating Repair

Wednesday, December 4th, 2013

Underfloor Heating Repair - Heating and Cooling

Numerous owners of modern buildings have decided to profit from the long list of advantages provided by underfloor heating systems, including environmental benefits, superior levels of comfort, fewer space restrictions, increased safety, and improved energy-efficiency.

You might be asking yourself the following question: what happens when something goes wrong and the system stops functioning properly? Keep reading to discover interesting information on underfloor heating repair projects, and find out how you could easily identify the best heating and cooling expert in your area.

Professional Installations Prevent Common Underfloor Heating Problems

Professional installations will get you a long way, maximizing the lifespan and the effectiveness of your underfloor heating system. A system that is properly installed should require very little maintenance.

Since your heating elements are placed under your floor tiles, they are protected against frequent strains and powerful stresses, unlike traditional heating systems based on radiators.

Identifying and Addressing the Problem

A great system installed by experts is unlikely to give you a hard time — not even when it requires local repairs. In most cases, you just have to lift a few tiles and simply replace the defective circuit. It is recommended to keep a few spare tiles, just in case you break the old ones while performing the underfloor heating repair.

Fixing electric underfloor heating systems may be straightforward, but wet systems are a bit more complex and demand more time and effort. Since they are buried in your floor, made from brick or concrete, you have to do a lot of digging, which is a laborious and strenuous task. In these circumstances, you may be forced to rely on professional services, which are usually covered by your home or heating insurance.

Ask an Expert

All in all, underfloor heating repair projects are fairly complex and could put your patience to the test. Save time and money by contracting a heating and cooling specialist to get the job done in no time. Meet the best ones by consulting TalkLocal, a free service designed to put you in contact with skilled professionals in your area.