5 Benefits of Switching to a Programmable Thermostat

August 30, 2023

The thermostat is the part of your HVAC system you use the most, as it controls your home’s temperature. What if there was a way to make your home even more comfortable by upgrading your thermostat to a programmable one? This article will explore some compelling reasons to switch to a programmable thermostat. It might be the best decision for your home. Take a look! 1. Lower Energy Bills If you use it properly, a programmable thermostat can save up to 10% of annual heating and cooling costs. That’s because you can set the thermostat to

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A Homeowner’s Guide to Venting a Water Heater Without a Chimney

August 30, 2023

Hot water heaters play a crucial role in our daily lives, providing us with the comfort of warm water for various household tasks. One aspect that homeowners often consider is proper ventilation for their hot water heaters. Traditionally, chimneys have been the go-to method for venting combustion byproducts from gas-fired water heaters. However, advancements in technology and building codes have introduced alternative venting options that provide more flexibility and efficiency. In this blog post, we’ll explore the question: Can I vent a hot water heater without a chimney? We’ll delve into modern venting solutions, their benefits, and considerations for homeowners.

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How to Troubleshoot Your HVAC Issues

August 20, 2023

Both summer and winter can be brutal in Wisconsin. An HVAC system failure during extreme weather is more than uncomfortable; it can be dangerous. With close attention and proper care, you can reduce the risk of your heater or air conditioner breaking down. Here is an overview of the most common symptoms to look for. Strange Noises Perhaps one of the most telltale signs of a struggling HVAC system is unusual noises. A functioning system operates relatively quietly. Unusual noises such as banging, clattering, or high-pitched whistling could indicate various issues. Banging or clattering noises may

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The Differences Between a Heat Pump and Central AC

July 2, 2023

As most residents here in Fox Valley, WI, know, energy efficiency is a priority if you want to keep your monthly bills under control. For that reason, more and more homeowners in the area are reaching out to the team here at Black-Haak to ask about heat pumps instead of central air conditioning systems. Most know that a heat pump offers excellent energy efficiency, but some may not always be clear on how they work and how they differ from conventional central AC systems. So, we’ve put together this guide that explains how a heat pump functions and the specific

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Choosing the Right Size Ductless System for Your Home

June 1, 2023

If you’re considering installing a ductless system in your home, one of the most important factors is sizing. Choosing the right size ductless system for your home’s square footage can greatly affect energy efficiency, comfort, and overall performance. Getting it right the first time will save you a significant amount of time and money. Keep reading to learn how to choose the right size system for your home. Measure Your Home’s Square Footage The first step in sizing your mini split is to determine the square footage of your home. To do this, you first need

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Green Energy for Your Home: Why You Should Choose Geothermal Systems

April 3, 2023

As global temperatures continue to rise, a growing number of eco-conscious individuals and business owners are turning to renewable energy sources for heating and cooling solutions. One of these clean alternatives is geothermal energy. Read on to explore the benefits of geothermal systems and why you should consider installing one in your home for a greener, more comfortable living environment. What Is a Geothermal System? Geothermal energy comes from the Earth’s natural heat. Geothermal systems use this energy to provide electricity for your home or business. The system works by pumping hot water or

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Modern Benefits of Ductless Cooling Options

March 10, 2023

Ductless heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, often known as mini-split systems, are aesthetically pleasing and provide reliable comfort. The decision to install a ductless system comes down to homeowner preferences. Ductless air conditioning is a great option for individuals living in small quarters who need additional cooling during warm Wisconsin summers. How Does Ductless Cooling Work? Ductless air conditioning systems connect indoor air handlers to an outside compressor. To transfer heat from one space to another, the ductless system uses ductless heat pumps and heat exchanger coils. In the winter, the heat

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10 Things to Check Before Calling a Technician for HVAC Problems

January 18, 2023

Are your energy bills suddenly getting higher than normal? If so, your HVAC system may be the culprit. Unless it’s an emergency, the best course of action isn’t to immediately call in a technician but to do some troubleshooting first. Below is a guide that will help you through all the steps you can take to try to diagnose problems with your HVAC system before calling in professionals for costly repairs or replacements. After reading this, you should have a checklist of things you can easily inspect. 1. Check the Filter A clogged

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Do I Need To Cover My HVAC System In The Winter?

December 1, 2022

What You Need to Know About Covering Your HVAC System This Winter Installing new and highly efficient HVAC equipment in your Fox Valley, Wisconsin home can cost quite a bit. Quality heating and cooling equipment ranks among the most expensive improvements that homeowners can make, but it’s also among the most essential. Without it, it’s more difficult to remain safe and comfortable indoors when the outside temperatures plummet or soar. Thus, as winter comes rolling in, you may be tempted to cover HVAC system’s outside components. Following are several reasons why you shouldn’t. AC Equipment Manufacturers

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How Weather Affects Your HVAC System

November 1, 2022

The weather in Fox Valley, Wisconsin can go from below-zero temperatures in the winter to heat waves reaching the triple digits in the summer. The following are some of the ways these swings in weather conditions can have an impact on your HVAC system. Cold Weather and Dust Buildup When outside temperatures are cold, your system needs to work harder to circulate air in your home in order to maintain a warm indoor temperature. As this happens, it collects a larger amount of dust and debris. Debris build-up impairs the performance of your

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