Why it’s worth investing in your HVAC system before a home sale

 Keeping your home in good condition can result in significant dividends when it’s time for you to sell. Potential buyers are eager to buy homes where there are few repairs to be made. While cosmetic repairs may be the first thing buyers notice, you need to ensure the HVAC components of your home are also looked at carefully or it may cost you your sale. Your HVAC system should be clean, free of damage and in good working order before putting your house on the market. If you have any concerns, work with an HVAC technician who can assess the condition of your system and perform any tune-ups as required.

 

4 HVAC Components Home buyers will Never Overlook

 

Owning a home is an investment and regular maintenance can help keep it strong. Here are 4 HVAC components of your home that could help you make a sale or become potential deal breakers:

1. Furnace: If your furnace has never been replaced, you may want to consider changing it, especially if it is no longer running efficiently or you notice an increase in your energy bills. One of the most critical components of your furnace is the heat exchanger. This mechanism is responsible for turning fuel into heat but may release gas into the air if it is not maintained properly. If this is the case, it may need to be replaced by an HVAC technician.
2. Air Conditioner:Just like your furnace, it’s important to inspect your air conditioning unit with a critical eye or with the help of a professional. Age is one of the greatest culprits when it comes to having your AC unit repaired or replaced entirely. Consider the age and look for any missing or damaged parts as key signs for replacing your unit.
3. Duct Work: Make sure your duct work is clean, sealed properly and is no more than 15 years old. If not, you may need to perform a repair or replace the system. If a house inspection notifies potential buyers of poor ventilation you may be required to clear your existing system of any blockages to help ensure its longevity.
4. Gas Fireplace: Consider the last time you had your gas fireplace serviced and make sure it works properly before listing your home. While not every HVAC component has to be brand new, you need to ensure an overall good condition in order to get the best price.

Moving houses comes with several expenses so it’s not surprising that you may be reluctant to put money into the home you are leaving behind. However, new buyers may be unwilling to accept your home’s quirks and will likely look elsewhere for a move-in ready option.

 

Performing repairs on your HVAC system should be a top priority before putting your house on the market. The HVAC experts at The Energy Centre can help you prepare your home for a sale by working to ensure your system is functioning as it should. With more than two decades of experience, our team can handle installations and repairs on all major brands of systems.

 

Due to the ongoing pandemic, we have taken extra steps to ensure the safety of our staff, customers and wider community. Rest assured that the appropriate actions are being taken on each job site so we can make sure your systems are in optimal condition and you can proceed with the listing with as little disruption as possible.

 

 

Contact the team at The Energy Centre for HVAC service or repair. Schedule an appointment at 613-746-7000 or contact us online for more information about our HVAC company in Ottawa.

Originally Posted here: https://energycentre.ca/why-its-worth-investing-in-your-hvac-system-before-a-home-sale/

Why You Should Update Your HVACs System Before You Sell

Although the real estate market has slowed down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canadian Real Estate Association is helping its members get ready for when restrictions ease. Home sellers are already opening their homes for virtual Open Houses, but many buyers are hesitant to make a purchase without seeing the home. As Ottawa businesses reopen, here’s what to expect from real estate agents and your trusted HVAC professionals in Ottawa.

RECOMMENDED STEPS FOR HOME SHOWINGS UNDER COVID-19

• Real estate agents are advised to limit home showings by appointment only.
• Sellers should leave all cabinets, windows coverings and closets open before the showing.
• Remember to open the closet door to the water heater and to the HVAC system.
• Lights should be turned on.
• Following the showing, all surfaces that were touched should be wiped down with disinfecting cleaner.
• Agents should speak with clients outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• Homeowners may also choose to disinfect areas once they return.

HVAC OTTAWA SERVICE COMPANIES TAKING PRECAUTIONS TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19

Professional HVAC service or new installation can be an incentive to home buyers. The Energy Centre offers service, repairs, and new installation, even during COVID-19. Our technicians practice social distancing and are equipped with supplies to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including face masks, disposable gloves, foot covers and disinfecting wipes. We may also ask you about your health before our service appointment.

HOME BUYERS WANT WELL-MAINTAINED HVAC SYSTEMS

According to this news report, the Ottawa housing market may be slow but it hasn’t frozen.Despite a low sales inventory, there are indications of a market that is bouncing back. Homeowners who have their homes ready to sell with well-maintained appliances, such as the HVAC, will attract buyers who don’t want to deal with major repairs.

Even if you’re staying in your home, taking care of your HVAC system makes it more comfortable as you continue to work from home.

Originally Posted On: https://energycentre.ca/why-you-should-update-your-hvac-system-before-you-sell/

AIR CONDITIONER INSTALLATION IN OTTAWA

If your air conditioner in Ottawa has seen better days, it may be time to call The Energy Centre, your trusted HVAC company for excellent air conditioning installation in Ottawa. Our method of installation is performed according to best practices, with no shortcuts taken on the work we do. This ensures that your air conditioner will work correctly and deliver on the efficiency that is promised.

Our AC Installation Process

We can come to your home to provide you with a free quote, which will calculate the square footage of your home in order to suggest an air conditioner that is right for you and serves your needs best.

When Should I Replace My Air Conditioner?

The average lifespan of most air conditioners ranges between 15 and 20 years, so if yours is nearing that age, it’s probably time to start thinking about a new one. Though repairs can sometimes be made to extend the life of an air conditioning unit, once the system is older it usually makes more financial sense to replace. Old air conditioners are not as efficient leading to higher energy costs. Not to mention the price of repairs can add up quickly, leaving you paying more in the long run.

If your air conditioner is nearing 15 years of age, start paying attention to its effectiveness. If you notice a big change, call the professionals for brand new air conditioner installation in Ottawa. Look for any of these warning signs:

• HIGH ENERGY BILLS

  Have you noticed your utility bill rising every month even though you use your air conditioner the same amount you always used to? This could be a sign that your system is losing efficiency and needs to be replaced.

• COOLING AND HUMIDITY INCONSISTENCIES

  If you’ve noticed that certain parts of your home are cooled while others remain humid, it could be a sign that your air conditioner can no longer keep up. Air conditioners are supposed to remove humidity from the air and when working properly should keep all areas of the home at a consistent temperature. If yours can no longer do this, it’s probably time to replace.

• EXCESSIVE NOISE AND DUST

  If you’ve noticed a constant presence of dust in your home, even after you clean, it could be a sign that there are leaks in your ductwork, causing decreased efficiency. Excessive noise could mean your duct system isn’t large enough for the square footage of your home or could also mean that there’s an issue with the unit’s indoor coil.

For a free estimate on your air conditioner installation, just call The Energy Centre in Ottawa at any time and we will help you pick a date and time that works best for you if you prefer.

Originally Posted on: https://energycentre.ca/services/air-conditioner-installation-ottawa/

Right Steps for Preparing Your Central Air for the Cooling Season

The best way to protect an investment in your family’s comfort is with preventative maintenance. Each season you should take steps to prepare your air conditioner for the upcoming weather.

After surviving cold winters, your unit deserves some TLC to get it ready for the heat of summer. Start your spring preparation efforts by following these steps:

• Take a look around the unit and remove any debris that will impede airflow, such as debris and vegetation.
• Avoid turning on your central air until you remove any covers, blankets, or lids.
• Pay attention to the pipe insulation. If it is damaged, call in a professional HVAC technician.
• Look at the drain hose for potential clogs. Be sure to clean it out.
• Head inside to replace indoor filters and clean vents and grills around your home.

Remember that if you have a manufacturer’s warranty, you should hire a professional to take care of your maintenance to keep your warranty intact. Don’t take any chances by trying to DIY.

Originally Posted on: The Energy Centre 

How can i troubleshoot gas furnace problems?

There’s nothing worse than a broken furnace, especially in the middle of winter. Unfortunately, if your furnace is functioning poorly or is simply not working at all, it’s risky to try and troubleshoot and repair those problems on your own. A certified HVAC technician has the training and tools to assess the problem and fix it, also making sure your warranty is not voided.

When it comes to your furnace, it is not uncommon to face minor technical issues from time to time. Even if you’ve followed a regular maintenance routine and your furnace is still causing you trouble, there are a few simple things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. Read on to learn more about what you can do to help your system remain in top condition:

• Make sure your thermostat is on the “heat” setting. If it is and you still don’t notice a difference after adjusting the dial, you may need to reset your circuit breaker.
• It may be time to change the air filters in your furnace. Dust and debris can build-up over time and prevent your furnace from producing heat.
• Check the components of your furnace such as safety switch, limit switch and pilot light to make sure these parts are functioning properly. If this is something you have not done before, it is best to call a professional.
• Ensure the burner flames are free from debris.

Originally Posted On: The Energy Centre

Does my furnace need to be cleaned and maintained regularly?

In order to optimize the functioning of your furnace system, it needs to be regularly cleaned and maintained. While changing a filter or the thermostat setting are tasks you can take care of on your own, it’s important to follow a regular maintenance routine by professionals. Ultimately, keeping your furnace clean can help you avoid a variety of problems and frequent repair expenses every season.

Furnaces are often a magnet for dirt and debris which can get redistributed around your home and decrease both indoor air quality and the lifespan of your equipment. Here are a few more important reasons why your furnace needs to be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis:

• Ensures efficient and effective operation
• Extends the lifespan of your equipment
• Improves indoor air quality and overall health
• Preventative maintenance is cost-effective

Have you noticed your heating bills slowly increase month by month? Or perhaps, you can’t quite maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your home?

In these cases, a dirty furnace may be to blame. That’s why it’s important to keep it clean and follow a regular maintenance schedule. While basic cleaning and maintenance tasks can be performed on your own, there are some aspects of your furnace that are best handled by the professionals.

Originally Posted on : The Energy Centre

Central air conditioner maintenance—what, why &how?

Beating the heat in the summer is as easy as walking into a home that is cooled by a central air conditioner. These systems are an investment in your family’s comfort. Protecting your investment means a happier family, lower energy bills, and fewer costly repairs. The easiest way to accomplish this is through regular maintenance.

Simple tasks such as cleaning away debris from the unit, sweeping out the interior, and using an AC cover in the winter ensures your system will last for years to come. At The Energy Centre, we understand that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. When we say our work is our passion, and your comfort is our mission, we mean it.

Read further to learn more about year-round central air conditioner maintenance, and then call us to schedule a maintenance appointment for your unit.

HOW SHOULD YOU CLEAN YOUR CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONER?

Keeping your unit clean is critical to its efficiency. If you do not have a regular maintenance plan set up to service your system, you can take these steps to clean your central air conditioner:

1. Shut off the power at the unit and the breaker.
2. Clean out the built-up debris on the inside using a shop vacuum after removing the fan cage.
3. Clean off fins with a shop vac or a gentle stream of water from a hose.
4. Straighten any bent fins gently using a fin comb.
5. Pick up items around the outside of the unit such as leaves, debris, and vegetation.
6. Re-level the unit using rot-resistant shims.
7. Clean the evaporator coil with a commercial no-rinse coil cleaner.
8. Unplug the evaporator drain of any mold or algae.
9. Change the blower filter before the cooling season begins.
10. Button everything up and turn the power back on.

WHAT STEPS SHOULD YOU TAKE FOR AIR CONDITIONING PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE?

To get the most useful life out of your unit, regular preventative maintenance is a must. Start with routinely replacing or cleaning the furnace filters. This allows proper air flow resulting in greater comfort and efficiency. Next, check your evaporator coils at least annually, and clean as needed. Also, keep debris away from the outside of the unit. Any bent coils should be straightened with a fin comb. Finally, check and clean out the drain channels of your air conditioner to keep it from getting clogged.

Hiring an Energy Centre HVAC professional to regularly inspect your system helps keep unexpected repair costs low. Our crew is trained and experienced to find small problems before they become expensive ones.

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT USING MY CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONER AFTER WINTER?

As the thermometer creeps up, you might be tempted to turn on your central air conditioner without a second thought. There are a few steps you need to take to make sure everything is working well before you need it most:

• Replace the furnace filters. Keep the air flowing all summer long by consistently replacing or cleaning the furnace filters.
• Clean up winter debris from around the outside of the unit. Rake up leaves. Pick up sticks. Trim back branches and hedges.
• Check the insulation on the coolant lines. The lines connecting your unit to your house should be insulated. If it is missing, cracked, or frayed, call in a professional.
• Turn your unit on before you need it. It is best to know it is working before the mercury rises and you can’t do without air conditioning.
• Inspect the inside registers. Take a walk throughout your home and make sure the registers are not blocked.
• Have your HVAC specialist check your system. To get the most efficient, long-lasting use of your unit, call in a professional for regular inspections.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN PREPARING A CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONER FOR SPRING AND SUMMER?

As winter fades away and the first whiffs of spring are in the air, it is the perfect time to prepare your central air conditioner for the upcoming hot months.

All winter long, your unit has suffered through cold, ice, wind, and rain. To get the desired cooling results, there are a few items you should prepare for:

• Check the outdoor unit panels to ensure none are missing or misaligned. If you find they are, contact a professional in before you start your system.
• Remove any condenser covers, coil blankets, or lids before you turn the unit on, to avoid damaging your system.
• Repair or replace any pipe insulation that is damaged. Your Energy Centre HVAC professional can take care of this step for you.
• Remove debris and vegetation from around the unit so the airflow will not be blocked.
• Take a moment to replace the air filters indoors to keep proper air flow.
• Double check that the draining hose is not clogged.
• Clean any supply vents and return grills on your home from pet hair or dust.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONER WINTER MAINTENANCE?

Just because summer has turned to fall and then winter, does not mean your central air conditioner can be neglected. Taking a few steps to prepare your unit for winter will help when you are ready to start it up next spring:

• Turn off power to the central air conditioner.
• Clean around the unit and remove leaves, debris, dirt, and bird droppings.
• Look for cracks or rust in the casing, and check for leaks.
• Put a waterproof vinyl or plastic cover over the unit.
• Cover any exposed pipes and wiring with foam pipe covers and duct tape.
• Check the central air conditioner unit weekly by keeping it clean of debris.
• Remove water, snow, and ice as it accumulates on the cover throughout the season.

Schedule Preventative Maintenance for Your Central Air Conditioner

Before you flip the switch from heat to cool, make sure your unit is ready for the sweltering temperatures. Preventative maintenance and regular cleaning ensure your system can perform year after year when you need it most, instead of leaving you sweating in the height of summer.
The professionals at The Energy Centre are ready to inspect, maintain, and repair all major brands of air conditioning systems. For more than 25 years, we have served the residents and businesses in Ottawa and the surrounding communities. We even offer emergency 24/7 service for those times when life happens, and your unit fails. Call us today!

Contact The Energy Centre to schedule your free in-home estimate. Call us at 613.746.7000 or use our online form. Reap the rewards of your HVAC investment and get in touch today.

Originally Posted on: https://energycentre.ca/central-air-conditioner-maintenance-what-why-how/

How to clean your central air conditioner?

Your air conditioner may be the top brand and latest model, but it will only be as efficient as the maintenance it receives. One critical maintenance task is cleaning your air conditioner.

A clean unit is always more efficient, and the more regularly you clean it, the more you maximize its energy efficiency – which means better savings year-round. Cleaning an air conditioner is not a simple “hose it down” task, Multiple components of an air conditioner must be cleaned out, including:

THE CONDENSER UNIT

THE INTERIOR UNIT

REMOVING BRUSH & DEBRIS AROUND THE EXTERIOR UNIT

Any time you are cleaning out the interior of an air conditioner, you should call in a professional. The process of cleaning the condenser alone is time-consuming, and you must be extra careful that you do not damage any of the coils in the process or accidentally puncture a refrigerant line.

If you have a manufacturer warranty, then you need a certified technician cleaning your air conditioner to maintain that warranty too.

If you want a cleaner and more efficient air conditioner, contact the team at The Energy Centre. Schedule a maintenance appointment at 613-746-7000 or contact us online to learn about our maintenance services.

Originally Posted here: https://energycentre.ca/how-to-clean-central-air-conditioner/

Increase your home’s comfort

The Energy Centre in Ottawa carries a wide range of water heaters in our shop. We have water heaters with or without tanks for your convenience. With a free in-home estimate, our staff can help you choose the water heater that fits best for your space. Water heaters are available for purchase or for rent. And we provide installation. Check out some of the water heater brands and products we carry below:

Bradford White Water Heaters

You can find a wide selection of Bradford White Water Heaters at The Energy Centre in Ottawa. Please visit our shop to see what we have available in stock.

Navien Tankless Water Heaters

In addition to boilers, The Energy Centre offers Navien water heaters. We have tankless gas water heaters including the following model sample:

NPE-180A Premium Condensing Tankless Gas Water Heater

Thanks to the Navien Condensing Technology this water heater is highly efficient, allowing you to get the most out of your money when it comes to heating. Navien water heaters have reduced installation costs thanks to having built in controls. This unit is also small and easily fits in most confined areas.
Learn more about the NPE-180A tankless water heater in the Navien brochure.

Noritz® Tankless Water Heaters

An innovative company for over 60 years, Noritz® supplies The Energy Centre with quality water heaters for sale or rent. Noritz® is an industry leader in products designed for energy saving and excellent hot water delivery. Here is a sample of what we offer:

NRC98-DV

The Noritz® NRC98-DV is ENERGY STAR® qualified. As part of our ecoTOUGH Series, this gas-fired condensing tankless water heater features not only high energy efficiency, but environmentally friendly characteristics. The NRC98-DV is designed to meet the hot water needs of northern homes with two bathrooms and southern homes with three bathrooms.

Visit: https://energycentre.ca/services/gas-hot-water-heaters/

Home air filtration & ventilation systems

BREATHE BETTER WITH NEW HOME AIR FILTRATION & VENTILATION SYSTEMS

Keeping your home’s air clean is important to maintaining your family’s health. That’s why at The Energy Centre in Ottawa we offer great home air filtration systems and ventilation products. From humidifiers to air purification systems, we can help you relieve allergies while ensuring quality air circulation in your home. 

Originally Posted on: https://energycentre.ca/products/heat-recovery-ventilation-systems/

How to Maintain your Gas Furance

Are you staying warm or feeling the chill this winter? It’s important to make sure your home is ready for the extreme cold temperatures Canadian winters can bring. A heating solution that operates efficiently throughout the season can make all the difference when it comes to remaining comfortable indoors.

Routine gas furnace maintenance is the key for preventing the effects of winter weather from being felt indoors. Regular maintenance can also lower your heating costs and make your home much more energy efficient. While there are some aspects to your furnace that are more complex than others and should be handled by a professional, there are still several things you can do yourself to keep your heating system running properly. For instance, you can easily inspect areas like your furnace’s filter or blower and clean them accordingly or check your thermostat if you notice anything unusual about how you feel around the home. If you have performed your gas furnace maintenance routine and still suspect that something is off, contact us for reliable and affordable repair services.

Originally Posted here: https://energycentre.ca/gas-furnace-maintenance-guide/

How to change your furnace filter?

Swapping your furnace filter is a straightforward process if you follow these steps:

1. Turn off your furnace.
2. Remove your old filter.
3. Determine what kind of filter you use.
4. Purchase the filter replacement.
5. Insert your new filter according to the guide on the filter frame.
6. Write down the date you changed the filter and when the next replacement should be.

Read more: The Energy Centre

Furnace Installation Service in Ottawa

If your gas or electric furnace has seen better days, it may be time to upgrade to a newer energy-efficient model and consider furnace installation in Ottawa. The Energy Centre follows a thorough installation process. This not only ensures your furnace will be balanced and work correctly, but also delivers on its promised efficiencies. And, the process begins with a free, no-obligation quote for your new natural gas, propane, or electric furnace. 

When we come to your house to provide you with your free quote, we will calculate the square footage of your home in order to recommend a furnace that is efficient and best serves your comfort needs. We will also determine the amount of insulation used in your home so we can add heat loss into the equation. 

Read more: https://energycentre.ca/services/furnace-installation-ottawa/