Heating Installation in Greensboro: Considerations to Keep You Toasty This Winter

Heating Installation in GreensboroAlthough Greensboro typically has a short winter season, (only seventy-five nights that are below freezing and less than eight inches of snow per year), no one wants to spend a cold night, shivering in the dark because their furnace decided to die on the coldest night of the year. Most heating units have a lifespan of ten to fifteen years, but also depends on the brand, type, and if the unit was serviced on an annual basis. Typically, if maintenance is performed, the service technician can actually identify when the unit needs to be replaced, giving you the time to choose a new hvac system and preventing a sleepless night shivering in the cold.

Heating Installation – Energy Star Qualified

If you are looking for a new heating installation in Greensboro, then you should also consider buying an ENERGY STAR qualified furnace to lower your energy costs. Remember when buying a furnace, you want to make sure to look at the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) as it is used to measure the heating efficiency of your heating and cooling system.

Heating Installation – Size Matters

Also, make sure it is sized correctly for your home. A unit that is too small means you won’t be toasty during those cold nights. A unit that is too big would cycle on and off too frequently causing unnecessary wear and tear on the unit. This is why having your home’s heating load measured is so important. The standard for measuring the heating load is the Manual J Calculation, which uses a lot of important factors to calculate the right heating unit size for your home, like square footage, insulation, and even how much shade your home gets.

After the heating system installation, you will want to make sure annual maintenance is performed at least once a year. Plus, neglected heating units use on average ten to twenty-five percent more energy than heat pumps that are serviced annually. Most annual maintenance plans include inspecting the ductwork, filter, blower and indoor coils for dirt and other obstructions. They also verify that you are getting adequate airflow, lubricate the motors and inspect the belts for tightness and wear. Identifying and replacing worn parts early prevents you from suffering through a frigid night.

You will also want to make sure to change the unit’s air filters as needed to prevent a decrease in airflow. While most manufacturers recommend every three months, it is a good idea to check them every month and, if dirty or clogged, change them. Dirty or clogged filters will cause a decrease in airflow and increase in demand on the unit. Periodically, inspect the area around your unit to remove any limbs or plants that could interfere with the unit’s operation.

Berico Heating and Air Conditioning is family operated and offers furnace installation in Greensboro, NC. We are dedicated to keeping your home comfortable year round. If you care considering a new heating installation in Greensboro, we currently have several special offers that can save you money. Just give us a call today at 336-273-8663 to schedule an appointment.

Advances in Diesel Fuel in Greensboro

Advances in diesel fuel over the last few years, offers a more powerful, cleaner and economical alternatives to consumers, commercial vehicles, and non-road equipment.

Although diesel engines built in the 1980s emitted high levels of soot, advances in diesel fuel and technology have reduced particulate emissions by ninety-eight percent in the last decade. While ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel helped reduce these emissions, advances in diesel engine designs and emissions control technology have helped to virtually eliminate particulate emissions in today’s diesel fuel vehicles, equipment and trucks.

Diesel Fuel Re-Invented

When diesel fuel was first introduced, exposure to diesel fuel could result in asthma and respiratory illnesses. Plus, the emissions from diesel engines back then lead to damaged crops, trees and vegetation. Of course, this makes one wonder why choose diesel fuel if it was harmful? Because diesel fuel has always been the most efficient and powerful fuel. Diesel fuel offers a better combustion of fuel to create a more powerful mechanical energy. The downside was damage to the environment and risks associated with exposures.

However, today’s diesel fuel contains ninety-seven percent less sulfur (also known as ultra-low sulfur diesel or ULSD). This cut emissions by ten percent alone. Lowering the sulfur content also lead to advances in engine design.

Diesel fuel and engines have always provided more efficiency and power than alternatives like gasoline, natural gas, and propane. Because of the power and efficiency offered by diesel fuel and engines, it has always been the first choice for commercial vehicles and equipment. With the advances in diesel engines, it is now the dominant choice for commercial and off road equipment. New technologies like improving the combustion chamber configuration and turbocharging have made diesel engines run even more powerfully today.

With the advances in engine design and the ability to utilize ultra-low sulfur diesel, new exhaust treatments became available. This included new filtration systems known as diesel particulate filters. Utilizing new technologies in post-combustion and catalytic converters, diesel equipment and trucks are now able to trap the diesel particulates thus eliminating the harmful effects of the old diesel models.

Plus, it’s not just for the commercial industry anymore. With the advances of diesel fuel and engines, diesel cars are as efficient to run as most of the hybrid automobiles but with more horsepower and torque. While it may be true that a gasoline powered automobile is cheaper than a diesel powered one, diesel powered cars are a cheaper alternative to the hybrids. It is also feasible that consumers save more through higher gas mileage with a diesel fuel car than a gasoline powered vehicle to pay the difference.

In short, diesel fuel offers clean emissions with great fuel economy for today’s commercial equipment. Berico Fuels carry a variety of commercial fuels, including low sulfur diesel fuel in Greensboro for off road vehicles and #2 heating oil for home and business heating systems.

We also offer fleet fueling in Greensboro (we fuel the tanks of your vehicle fleet at a convenient time for you). Fleet fueling affords you a higher yield of productivity by keeping your work force on the job, not at the pump. Give us a call today at (336) 226-9371 for your diesel fuel needs.

Eden Furnace Repair: How to Recognize the Warning Signs

Furnace Repair in EdenFurnaces are complex machines that need regular maintenance in order to function properly. Parts need to be cleaned and lubricated and worn out parts need to be repaired or replaced. Without regular maintenance, your furnace could fail. And because furnaces often use gas as a heat source, safety is of the utmost importance. There are warning signs that indicate your furnace may need to be repaired. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to call an experienced HVAC service like Carolina Fuels. Carolina Fuels provides Eden furnace repair as well as heating fuel delivery and air conditioning repair.

Call a professional HVAC company for repairs if:

  • The House is unevenly warm and cold. If some rooms feel warm and others feel cold, your furnace is not working properly. There may be a blockage in the ductwork or ventilation.
  • Low air flow. If you don’t feel a lot of air coming from the vents, there may be a problem with the blower, or a blockage in the ductwork.
  • Thermostat not working. The problem may be with the thermostat. If the sensor isn’t detecting the correct temperature or the thermostat isn’t calling for heat when it should, that can cause the whole system to fail.
  • Excessive noise. Any time your HVAC system starts making noises it wasn’t making before, there is probably something wrong. Parts may be wearing out, meaning a breakdown is imminent. For more information on household noises that may indicate problems: http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/renovation/tips/a31986/sounds-house-should-not-make/

The absolute best time to call a professional HVAC repair service is before your system breaks down. Regular maintenance is the best way to help prevent expensive repairs. Maintenance on your furnace should be done in the fall before the weather gets cold. Once the cold temperatures set in, HVAC companies will be busy with customers in need of emergency repairs and it may take longer to get help. Carolina Fuels offers Comfort and Protection Service Plans that include two tune-ups each year, in the fall for your heat and in the spring for your air conditioning. Regular service is the best way to prevent repairs and keep your HVAC system running efficiently.

For Eden furnace repair, Carolina Fuels is a company you can trust. In addition to furnace repair and service, Carolina Fuels delivers propane and heating oil right to your home. Since 1924, Carolina Fuels has been providing heating fuel and HVAC service to Eden and the surrounding area. With dependable service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, Carolina Fuels is always available to meet your HVAC and fuel needs. Schedule maintenance today.

Burlington Propane Delivery and Furnace Repair from One Reliable Company

Burlington Propane Delivery If you have a propane furnace in your home, your tank needs to be refilled from time to time. You probably have a supplier who delivers propane to your home. What if that same propane supplier could also repair your furnace if the need arises? If your current propane supplier is not also an experienced HVAC company, consider switching to an all-in-one service. Burlington furnace repair and propane delivery can all be done by Alamance Oil. Alamance Oil provides reliable furnace repair and propane delivery service for Burlington and surrounding areas.

Propane Delivery for Burlington

If you are in need of a propane tank refill, fall is a good time to schedule delivery. Don’t wait until the weather is already cold, because that’s when everyone else will be in need of propane and you have may have to wait longer for a delivery. Propane suppliers offer service plans that include regular delivery to ensure you never run out. When you are a long-time customer of an experienced supplier, your usage is tracked and calculated so that deliveries are timed accurately.

Burlington Furnace Repair

As with any machine, your furnace may need repairs occasionally. If your propane supplier is also an HVAC repair service, you know exactly who to call. A propane supplier that also does repairs is even more knowledgeable about your propane furnace than your average HVAC company. Every part of your heating system from the furnace to the propane tank can be taken care of by one experienced company.

Maintenance for HVAC Systems

The importance of maintenance for your HVAC system is something that is becoming common knowledge. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your HVAC system running at its best. An all-inclusive gas and HVAC company like Alamance Oil offers a package deal that includes biannual maintenance for your HVAC system and propane delivery. Alamance Oil’s Comfort and Protection Service Agreements offer regular tune-ups, discounts on repairs, priority service, and bonus bucks. Different plans vary, but all have definite advantages.

You Can Have it All

An all-in-one HVAC company can not only deliver your propane and repair your furnace, but repair and maintain your air conditioning as well. Alamance Oil is also qualified to service your central air conditioning as part of your HVAC system. Just as your heating system needs a tune-up in the fall, your air conditioning system should have a tune-up in the spring. When you sign up for a Comfort and Protection Service Agreement with Alamance Oil, you are getting three services in one.

Alamance Oil has been providing Burlington furnace repair and maintenance, propane delivery, and air conditioning repair and maintenance since 1924. New customers receive free propane tank swap outs and long term savings when switching to Alamance Oil. Sign up for a maintenance and propane delivery plan and start saving.

For information on propane repairs, visit http://www.propane101.com/propanedoityourself.htm

Lower Heating Costs with a New Furnace in Eden

HVAC service in EdenBetween the price of heating fuel and colder temperatures each winter, the cost of heating can be burdensome. But you can lower your heating costs by installing a new furnace in Eden, NC. Newer furnaces are more energy efficient than furnaces that are even 7 or 8 years old. And depending on the energy source your current furnace uses, you may be able to save even more by switching to a heating oil or propane furnace. Carolina Fuels installs only the best brands of new furnaces in Eden. Expert technicians will recommend the best furnace for your home or business and install it properly. If you’re considering replacement, you probably have some questions.

How much more efficient is a new furnace?

Older furnaces tend to have between 56% to 70% efficiency. While 70% isn’t bad, a new furnace will give you 98.5% efficiency. That is a significant difference that will show immediately in your heating bill. Advancements in technology have made great strides in the efficiency of HVAC systems and furnaces. A new furnace will most likely pay for itself by lowering your heating costs in as little as 2 to 3 years.

What type of furnace should I get?

The type of furnace you should have installed depends on your home or business. It also depends on the weather where you live. Some furnaces are more efficient in some climates than in others. Heat pumps can be incredibly efficient in places where temperatures are moderate. A propane or heating oil furnace is more efficient in extreme temperatures. If you are considering a new furnace in Eden, NC, winters get cold enough to make propane and heating oil furnaces most efficient. The experts at Carolina Fuels will help you decide what furnace is right for you.

What if I need a new furnace but don’t have the budget for it right now?

Whether you are upgrading for the sake of lowering heating costs or if your furnace is irreparable and a new one is necessary, Berico offers financing options to ease the burden. You may find that you can use the money you save monthly on heating costs to make monthly payments on a new furnace.

What can I do to make my new furnace as efficient as possible?

  • Be sure your house is properly sealed and insulated, including your chimney. If you’re not sure, Berico will perform a free energy audit of your home.
  • Regular maintenance should be performed by your HVAC company. Carolina Fuels offers Comfort and Protection Service Agreements that include yearly maintenance and heating fuel delivery. You should definitely invest in furnace maintenance in Eden if you want your system to work the best it can and save you money.
  • Open window treatments to allow sun to come in during the cold months. Close window treatments at night to keep cold air out.
  • Get a programmable thermostat. You can program your thermostat to automatically lower the set temperature when you’re out of the house and at night, and raise the temperature before you arrive home or get up in the morning. Some you can even program from your smart phone.
  • If you are interested in saving some money this winter, consider installing a new furnace in Eden. Experienced technicians at Carolina Fuels will assess your home, recommend the best furnace, and install it properly to be sure you save the most energy possible. Contact Carolina Fuels to get started.

Carolina Fuels serves Eden, Madison, and surrounding areas including Greensboro, Burlington, Stoneville, and Mayodan.

For more information on how to save energy by installing a new furnace, visit http://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/furnaces-and-boilers

Be Proactive with Furnace Repair in Eden

Furnace Repair in EdenA lot of us take our HVAC systems for granted. We assume they will always work properly to keep us comfortable. We don’t even think about repair until our system has a problem. But problems could be prevented with preseason maintenance. For furnace repair in Eden, the best time to schedule maintenance is late summer into early fall. If you wait until the weather gets cold and you first need to turn on your heat, you may find that it doesn’t work properly after months of no use. And you won’t be the only one in the same chilly situation, which means your local HVAC companies will be busy and you may have to wait a while for service. Schedule maintenance with Carolina Fuels now and rest assured that your furnace will work properly later when you need it.

Furnace maintenance prevents problems by inspecting, cleaning, or repairing the following:

  • Ducts. Ducts become dirty over time and need to be cleaned. Ductwork should also be checked for leaks and for proper installation.
  • Air filters. Air filters needs to be replaced or cleaned regularly. Most are the disposable kind that simply need replacing. Clean filters are critical to maintaining proper air flow and for keeping dirt and dust out of your home and out of your HVAC system. If you or anyone in your household suffers from allergies, this is particularly important.
  • Carbon Monoxide Inspection. Carbon monoxide is a by-product of gas fueled furnaces. If your furnace produces too much Carbon Monoxide or it is not properly ventilated, it can be dangerous.
  • Electrical Inspection. All electrical components and wires should be checked for proper connection and any worn out parts should be replaced.
  • Thermostat Calibration. The thermostat controls the entire HVAC system. The temperature sensor can sometimes get to be a few degrees off, which can negatively affect your home comfort level.

These are the main points of inspection and repair, but maintenance covers many more parts that have the potential to cause problems with your furnace. Avoiding unnecessary repairs will save you money, as will a more efficient furnace. The cost of a maintenance plan is definitely less than purchasing a new HVAC system, and regular maintenance will extend the life of your current system. And an HVAC system that runs properly is safer for you and your family. Schedule preventative maintenance with Carolina Fuels to get your furnace ready for the cold.

Fast, Reliable Service

In the unfortunate even that you do need HVAC service in Eden, NC, Carolina Fuels provides fast, reliable service. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, Carolina Fuels is always ready to meet your HVAC needs. Certified technicians can repair your entire HVAC system, both heating and cooling. Since 1924 Carolina Fuels has been providing HVAC repair to many satisfied customers. For trustworthy and dependable HVAC contractors in Eden, NC, contact Carolina Fuels at 336-623-9741.

For more information about home heating, visit http://energy.gov/articles/energy-saver-101-infographic-home-heating

Importance of HVAC Maintenance in Greensboro

HVAC maintenance in GreensboroThe average lifespan of a heating and air conditioning unit (HVAC) is between ten and twenty years. However, the actual lifespan also depends on how well you take care of it. While having an annual maintenance plan is the best option for increasing the lifespan of your HVAC unit, there are also little tasks that you can perform that can eliminate potential issues. For example, forgetting to change your air filters can significantly reduce the life of your unit.

Remember, your heating and air conditioning unit should be considered as an investment in your home, as well as for your own comfort. A well-maintained HVAC unit increases your home’s value and delivers cool air on the hottest summer day, while enveloping you with warm, toasty air on the coldest, wintry night.

Preventive HVAC Maintenance Tips

One of the simplest maintenance tasks is simply changing the air filter. When the air filter becomes clogged, then the HVAC unit must work harder. When the unit works harder, you pay more in energy costs. Most manufacturers recommend changing the air filter at least every ninety days. However, for homeowners with pets, more often may be necessary as pet hair and dander can clog airflow quicker. By changing the air filter on a regular basis, you can increase airflow and extend the life of your unit. A good rule of thumb is too check the filter on a monthly basis and, if it looks clogged, go ahead and change it.

Another simple maintenance task that you can do in between maintenance check-ups, is to check around the unit and remove any debris. When mowing, you should always make sure you mow so that the grass is blown away from your heating and air conditioning unit as this debris can potentially clog air intake and thereby reduce airflow. Plus, with fall almost upon us, the leaves will soon be falling and they can also block the units from receiving adequate air flow. One way to look at it is whenever something is obstructing the airflow to your unit, it is costing you money that you could be saving or spending on something else. A good rule of thumb is to maintain a perimeter of two feet around your air conditioning or heat pump unit that is clear from all debris, including grass.

Also, make sure you check the ductwork periodically to ensure there are no major air leaks, tears, or other issues. Remember, sometimes stray animals manage to sneak under the house and they can cause significant ductwork damage. Of course, if you prefer not to go under the house, then consider purchasing a maintenance plan for your heating and air conditioning unit, which includes an annual inspection of the unit, ductwork and safety inspection to ensure there are no carbon dioxide leaks.

It is important to have an experienced Berico technician perform annual maintenance tune-up each year.  Not only does this extend the life of your equipment, add efficiency on your fuel and electric bills, lower repair costs, but it is also mandated to uphold any manufacturer warranties you may have on your heating or air equipment.

Berico Heating and Air Conditioning offers preventative HVAC Maintenance in Greensboro, NC. Call us at (336) 273-8663 to discuss a service plan that can help ensure that your heating and air conditioning unit is running at its peak performance all year long.

How to Choose a Greensboro Propane Company

Greensboro Propane CompanyAre you in need of a Greensboro Propane Company? Maybe you just moved to the area and need a propane or heating oil supplier. Perhaps you already have a propane supplier but you are looking to make a change. Or maybe you have recently converted to a propane or oil furnace. Whatever the reason, there are some important things to consider when making your decision. Not all Greensboro Propane Companies are created equal. Not all suppliers have the same prices or offer the same level of customer service. Not all propane companies have the same advantages. But one thing is for sure; when you look for a Greensboro Propane Company, the name Berico will come up.

Consider the following:

  • All-in-one Service. Some propane suppliers simply deliver propane. Their services stop there. Consider a company that not only delivers propane and oil, but provides complete HVAC services. Full HVAC service includes repairs, maintenance, installation, etc. Make just one call for all your HVAC needs. Build a relationship with one company and enjoy the advantages of being a long-time customer.
  • Availability. You want a propane supplier that works with your schedule. The best case scenario is to find one that delivers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. That way you will never be out of fuel.
  • Customer Service. If you have never received service from a company, how do you know what kind of customer service they provide? Ask your friends and neighbors in the area to recommend a Greensboro propane company they use for their own needs. Read customer reviews. Find out how long the company has been in business. Companies that don’t provide good customer service don’t stick around for long.
  • Prices and Fees. Compare prices between companies but don’t let that be the deciding factor. Most prices will be competitive between suppliers in the same area. Don’t sacrifice any of the things listed above just to save a few dollars a year. However, there are long term savings to be had when choosing a local company over a nationwide supplier. A local company has to compete with other companies in the area, which often means lower prices.
  • Extra Perks. Some companies offer extra perks for their customers. Savings such as referral credits when you recommend them to a new customer. Discounts when you sign up for regular service or delivery plans. Free tank swap outs for new customers. These are just some of the advantages some companies offer.

Berico is a propane company in Greensboro that meets all of the criteria listed above. Berico is a full service HVAC company that delivers propane and heating oil 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Since 1924, Berico has provided excellent customer service at affordable prices. Contact Berico for delivery or service.

Propane Delivery in Eden, NC is Convenient and Reliable

Propane Delivery in EdenWhen choosing a propane supplier, you want the right partner. For propane delivery in Eden, NC, consider the advantages of a local all-inclusive home comfort company. Carolina Fuels can deliver your propane, repair your heat and air conditioning, install new HVAC systems, and perform regular maintenance on your system. One reliable company that makes it more convenient for you to deal with and can meet all your heating and cooling needs.

Free to Switch Propane Suppliers

If you already have a propane supplier, switching to Carolina Fuels is free and easy. Carolina Fuels will swap your old tank for a new one at no charge when you sign up for propane delivery. When you sign up for a service plan you also receive a discount on propane. Service plans include maintenance on your heat and air conditioning as well, keeping your system running smoothly all year long.

Long Term Savings on Home Heating Costs

When compared to other propane suppliers, customers of Carolina Fuels save an average of $150 a year. A local propane supplier is more affordable and offers better customer service than a large nationwide supplier. And Carolina Fuels not only delivers propane, but offers service as well, saving you money on repairs and maintenance.

Additional Savings

Carolina Fuels offers referral credits. When you recommend Carolina Fuels to someone else, you receive credit toward your delivery and service when they sign up.

New to Propane Heat for Your Home

If you are not currently using propane, there are definite benefits to switching. If your home is equipped with a heat pump, switching to a propane furnace will give your home a warmer, longer lasting heat in colder weather. Heat pumps do a better job of cooling than heating. People using heat pumps often find that their home doesn’t feel warm enough when the temperature drops. Propane heat makes your home warm and cozy in even the coldest temperatures. Since heat pumps use electricity, switching to propane lowers your electric bill.

Efficiency of Propane as a Heating Fuel

Propane is already an efficient energy source, but there are ways to make it even more efficient. Make sure your home is well insulated and sealed, especially around windows and doors. Consider using propane for your water heater too and use an insulating blanket around it. Propane is a very affordable heat source when used efficiently.

Propane Delivery for Eden, NC

Carolina Fuels has been providing folks with propane delivery in Eden, NC and the surrounding area since 1924. Switching to Carolina Fuels for propane delivery is free and easy. Visit http://www.berico.com/staging/service-plans/ to sign up for a free estimate or a propane delivery plan.

For information on using propane more efficiently, visit http://homeguides.sfgate.com/heat-home-efficiently-propane-39940.html

Furnace Repairs in Greensboro, NC: Getting Set for the Cold Weather

furnacetuneupAll equipment benefits from annual maintenance and inspections to keep it running smoothly and to prevent expensive repairs – your furnace is no different. Annual service, which is recommended in the fall, includes running diagnostic tests to ensure all the components of your furnace are running smoothly, conducting safety inspections including testing for carbon monoxide, and checking the condition of all mechanical and electrical components to ensure they are working properly.

Another important reason to have annual maintenance check is duct work. Replacing duct work is expensive and with the annual maintenance technicians provide inspection of the duct work throughout your home. Duct work can accumulate debris, which can restrict airflow or cause excess allergens to be distributed throughout your home. Additionally, since most ductwork is located under the house, inspection is required to ensure there are no tears or damage that would cause airflow to be reduced.

In addition to the annual maintenance performed by the technicians, there are some things you can do on your own to ensure your furnace is working as efficiently as possible. Your Berico technician can tell you how often you should replace your air filters. A dirty filter can cause your furnace unit to work harder, which means it will take longer to heat your home and places more strain on the unit to heat your home. Of course, if your unit is working harder, then your energy costs increases, as well.

Don’t forget about the thermostat. The thermostat tells your furnace or HVAC unit how much heat it should be providing. A faulty thermostat can result in either too much heat or not enough heat in your home. While some units may need to be replaced, sometimes dust can cause the thermostats to malfunction, as well. Cleaning the thermostat is pretty easy. Simply use a small paintbrush to gently wipe off any dust or debris that has accumulated on the thermostat components.

For your annual maintenance and furnace repairs in Greensboro NC, Berico Fuels in Greensboro, NC offers a Silver Plan for your annual maintenance needs. The Silver Plan include 20% off all repairs and diagnostic fees, priority service for annual contract holders, no after-hours charges and $50 Bonus Bucks – Loyalty Credit.

Customers may order filters at filterfetch.com and use the Berico code of C4Q2 for free shipping and discounted pricing.

Remember, fall is the best time to have your furnace in Greensboro checked to ensure that you stay warm and cozy this winter! Call us today at 336-273-8663.

Photo Credit: farmersalmanac.com