Master License
#13385

Dependable, High Quality,
Expert Plumbing & Heating Service

Boston Plumbing and Heating Blog

Reasons to Replace Your Central Air Conditioning – Boston, Worcester

24 Jul 2013

Lots of things get better with age. Central air conditioning and heating is not one of those things. In fact, the federal government recommends that homeowners consider replacing air conditioners that are more than 10 years old. That’s because heating and cooling systems now have significant advancements to save money and energy, and they are more environmentally friendly while improving comfort.

Here are five ways that newer HVAC systems outperform older ones:

Energy efficiency. The purchase of a high efficiency system can help save up to 50% or more on energy bills.

Comfort. Newer systems can better moderate temperature throughout the home. Homes with a multi-stage operation and variable speed blower technology use a “cruise control” type of system that can “accelerate” slightly to avoid temperature swings.  Newer systems also offer the option to “zone” the home, so individual rooms are heated or cooled based on your needs.

Replacement of R-22. R-22 is a refrigerant (also known by the brand name Freon(R)) and has been the refrigerant of choice for residential heat pumps and AC systems for more than four decades. Unfortunately, R-22 is also harmful to the environment and is therefore being phased out, causing the price to skyrocket. Service and repair of AC systems is becoming very costly for existing units. New systems now include R-410A refrigerant, a much more environmentally friendly alternative.

Less noise, better looks. No one likes the sound of the A/C running. Luckily, systems today are engineered to run almost silently. The design of the systems are also becoming more attractive. Furnaces have become smaller and more attractive.

High Tech. New systems can now be operated via WiFi so the system can be controlled with a smartphone, tablet or computer. They even give you guidance on how much energy you’re using every day.

For more information on replacing your homes central air conditioner, contact Greater Boston Plumbing and Heating.

Daily Markets

Service Your AC and Reduce Home Energy Bills - Boston, Worcester

22 May 2013

Homeowners who are looking to spend less on energy bills this summer will find a solution by ensuring the proper installation and service of their home air conditioning.

It is estimated that nearly half of all heating and cooling equipment in U.S. homes never performs to its advertised capacity and efficiency due to incorrect installation, which means homeowners pay higher operating costs over the life of the equipment. Older heating and cooling systems waste energy, create a bigger carbon footprint, and ultimately cost you more money.
 
Fortunately, North American Technician Excellence (NATE), the nation's largest industry-endorsed, certification organization for heating, ventilation, air conditioning technicians, recommends some steps you can take to maximize your home's efficiency while also being environmentally friendly.

  • Look at your current energy bills to identify inefficiencies. Or call a plumber help you decide if your current system should be replaced.
  • Purchase ENERGY STAR air conditioners. High-efficiency systems reduce your impact on the environment and can also save you money. You may also be eligible for a Federal Tax Credit.
  • Compare the SEER or AFUE of your cooling or heating system with newer models. If it's below 13, you may want to consider a new, more efficient system. Remember, the higher the rating, the less wasted energy and reduced carbon footprint. Use our energy savings calculator to help determine the efficiency of your current cooling or heating system as compared to a more efficient HVAC system.
  • Look into geothermal heating systems. By using the earth's natural heat, these systems are among the most efficient and energy-conserving heating and cooling technologies currently available.
  • Change your air filters monthly.
  • Ceiling fans can help delay or reduce the need for air conditioning.
  • Plant more trees on your property. By doing so, the shade it gives off will make your home feel cooler in the warmer months. In addition to climate control, trees also improve air quality.
  • Install a programmable thermostat to keep temperatures regulated all year long.
  • Make sure your home is properly insulated--drafty windows and doors waste energy.
  • Have your AC system serviced regularly for optimal performance by an HVAC professional.

For AC service or installation in Boston and Worcester, contact Greater Boston Plumbing.

WSJ

AC Preventative Maintenance Saves Money and Energy in Boston and Worcester

15 May 2013

Right now is the right time for preventative maintenance on your central air conditioning system.  Air conditioning condensing units that are on the ground or roof need to be cleaned.

The cost is minimal to have your AC unit inspected annually. The cost of not having it serviced or inspected could be too much. If you wait to have your AC serviced when it’s hot and you need it you may be in for a surprise and for some heat! Once the weather turns hot, too many people need service. If you have an issue with your air conditioning, you could end up spending a few days sweating and waiting for service.
 
To ensure that your AC is running efficiently and effectively, you should replace your air filter monthly as well. A dirty air filter will restrict the airflow, and the performance causing your electric bill to go up and your system to work too hard.  

To keep your home cooler and your energy costs down, you should also close the blinds or curtains to keep out the sun. Believe it or not, this will lower the temperature in your home by a few degrees. Additionally, installing a programmable thermostat, or keeping your thermostat above 78 will also keep your costs down. Every degree lower than 78 degrees adds 5% to your energy costs in summer.  

Long term investments, like replacing an old air conditioning unit, one that is older than 10 or even 20 years will save you money.

For more information on service and maintenance of your home air conditioning in Boston and Worcester, contact Greater Boston Plumbing.

Stay Cool with Central AC Maintenance Before Summer Starts

12 Apr 2013

As the summer season approaches, many homeowners in Boston and Worcester are starting to think about their air conditioners.  With warm weather on the way, the AC will soon be used quite a bit. This makes it important to ensure that your central AC is in top working condition. Increasing electricity bills, inconsistent temperatures, loud noises, and leaking are all signs that you need AC maintenance or repairs.

Greater Boston Plumbing and Heating offers full service maintenance and repairs to home air conditioning.  We can handle all of your service, maintenance and upgrade needs on your central air system or mini split unit. With the most qualified professional technicians you will have peace of mind when your AC is serviced by us.

It is always highly recommended that checkups for air conditioning units are scheduled before the summer heat starts. This ensures that your central AC system will be fully operational and that it iwill run efficiently before it is used daily. Proper air conditioning maintenance also helps you savings on electricity bills which can be the largest expense in your home.  

To schedule your AC service appointment or for more information, contact Greater Boston Plumbing and Heating.

Air Conditioning Repair and Maintenance Saves Money on Cooling Bills

04 Apr 2013

It may be April, and it may be cold, but this is the time in Boston and Worcester to make sure that your air conditioning system is ready for the warmer weather. You know how it works around here, we are cold and then we are hot. You don’t want to find out that your AC doesn’t work when you turn it on to use it for the first time.
 
When the weather gets warm your air conditioning is all of a sudden the most important possession in your home. But, more than 3 million AC systems fail every year. Now is the time to maintain, repair or replace the air conditioning system in your home.

The air conditioning is one of your largest expenses every year in your home. It is important to maintain such an expensive system to ensure that it runs properly and efficiently. Even if your system is running and cooling your home, if it has been serviced, it could be running poorly, in turn costing you more money than it should.
 
Air conditioning is a big investment in your home. Keeping it well maintained and keeping up on repairs keeps you comfortable all summer long. Whether you have a central air system or mini split unit Greater Boston Plumbing & Heating can handle all of your service, maintenance and upgrade needs on your cooling system. Contact us.

Keep Heating and Cooling Systems Reliable with Maintenance

07 Mar 2013

Reliability of your home’s furnace and air conditioning is directly related to how it's cared for.

In Boston, you need your home heating and air conditioning to keep you comfortable year round. Their reliability is directly related to proper maintenance.
 
A lot of newer homes have baseboard heating, which is an affordable, dry heat. With a central ventilation system, you can filter the air, heat, cool and humidify all in the same system.

There are several types of heating systems, including hot water systems with boilers and radiators, natural gas, electric, oil and forced hot air.  All use a furnace. It is important to make sure the filter in your heating and air condition system is clean. Filters should be checked on a monthly basis. People that live in the city, have pets, or who smoke inside should check them even more often.

Furnace maintenance means that the connections are tight and the drains are clean. Heating and cooling equipment preventative maintenance should be done twice a year to check for anything that could cause a problem.

If you live in the Boston area and you notice that your heating and cooling has stopped working as well, don't wait for your next scheduled inspection contact Greater Boston Plumbing.

Tax Credit Available for Energy Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems

13 Feb 2013

Did you know that there is still a tax credit available for those homeowners who spent money on qualifying energy efficient heating systems and cooling systems in 2012 or for those who intend to in 2013? Homeowners can receive up to $300.

The tax credit has been extended for energy efficiency improvements that were set to expire January 1, 2013. The newly extended credit will expire December 31, 2013.

The tax credit is available for energy efficient heating and cooling equipment purchased in 2012. If you are planning to replace your existing HVAC system, now is the time, because the tax credit is available for 2013 too.

The tax credit is available for energy efficient home improvements including central air conditioners ($300), heat pumps ($300), and furnaces ($150).

For more information, or for quotes on your new heating or cooling system, contact Greater Boston Plumbing and Heating.


RECENT POSTS

ARCHIVE

TAGS