What Really is the Optimal Setting for Your AC and Heat?

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One of the wonders of the modern world is the ability to control the temperature in your home with just a push of a button or even speaking into your phone or your smart speaker. It’s easy to take the control your thermostat gives you for granted, but this powerful tool has transformed the way we live. Given the control you have over your home’s climate, what temperature settings are optimal throughout the year? The right answer is a little different for everyone, but there are some guidelines you can follow.

 

To keep your home’s air conditioning and heating systems working properly all year long, contact Berico for Greensboro HVAC service. Ongoing maintenance from Berico can optimize efficiency and help you dial in the ideal temperature and avoid costly repairs.

 

Understanding the Goal

Whether you are heating or cooling your home, one important goal is to avoid major temperature swings in either direction. Trying to change the temperature of your home dramatically – by more than several degrees or more – requires your air conditioner or furnace to work very hard and uses a lot more energy. A better plan is to consistently maintain your home’s temperature in a comfortable narrow range so the air conditioner and the furnace never has to work too hard.

 

 

Managing Your Air Conditioning

When the temperatures outside soar into the 90s and beyond, it’s tempting to crank down your AC even lower to combat the additional heat.  However, just like warming your home on a cold day, it will take a lot of energy to cool your home dramatically on a hot day. So, cranking the thermostat down is not recommended as it will not cool the home faster.  It’s a good strategy to set your AC to a moderate temperature that is still comfortable without demanding too much from your air conditioner.

 

Try 72* F as a starting point for your AC setting. You might even be comfortable going up to 74* F or so, or you may find that 68* F is necessary to keep everyone happy. Once you determine where you are comfortable, set your air conditioning at that temperature and leave it there. Since your home could get rather hot at night with the AC off, making it harder to sleep, you’ll want to leave it set close to the same temperature throughout the day and night.

 

A Winter Heating Strategy

While you are awake in your home, you’ll likely want to have the temperature of your thermostat set somewhere around 68* to 70* F. This is a comfortable temperature for most people, but you and your family might like to keep it a little higher or lower, depending on your preferences.

 

With that said, there is likely no reason to maintain that temperature all night. Keeping the indoor temperature at higher than 70 * F when the weather outside is much cooler does require more energy. Some people allow their home temperature to drop to the mid to low 60s while they sleep, keeping warm with a blanket. As an added bonus, studies have shown that humans tend to sleep better in cool temperatures, so you might find that you get better sleep in a home a little cooler than you might think.

 

When to Call an Expert About Your Propane Tank

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Do you have questions about your propane tank? Whether you’re not sure how much propane you have left or your tank is making unusual noises, it is always best to call an expert. If you need a propane delivery or a repair of some kind, your propane supplier can help with these and other propane-related services.

 

Here are some situations when it would be best to call a propane expert.

 

Your Propane Tank is Low or Empty

Whether you know how to read the gauge or not, if you have reason to believe your propane tank is very low or empty, you should definitely call your supplier. It is best to call before the tank runs out completely because the lack of pressure inside the tank can cause problems. The best way to avoid an empty tank is to sign up for automatic deliveries from your propane supplier.

 

Your Tank is Making Sounds

If you hear a knocking sound coming from your propane tank, it indicates a potential problem, such as an imbalance of pressure. A hissing sound typically indicates a leak somewhere. A gurgling or humming sound may mean your tank was overfilled. Whether or not your tank was recently filled or it has been a while, contact your propane supplier if you hear noises.

 

There is a Propane Leak

If you hear a hissing sound or smell a rotten egg smell, you most likely have a leak somewhere in the tank or gas lines. Immediately call your supplier if you notice either of these.

 

Your Furnace is not Working Properly 

If the pilot light won’t stay lit or the furnace is not making warm air, it’s possible your tank may be empty or there may be some other issue. Call your supplier to get this resolved.

 

Berico Provides Propane Delivery and HVAC Services

Not all propane suppliers are HVAC experts, but Berico offers both services so you can get the help you need with one call.

 

Call (336) 273-8663 or schedule propane delivery today.

Questions to Ask your Propane Supplier

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Are you considering a new propane supplier? Whether you’re using propane for the first time or you’re considering switching suppliers, it can be difficult to find a good one. What should you look for in a propane supplier in Greensboro?

 

Ask your current supplier or any potential new propane supplier these questions to help you decide on the best service.

 

Do you offer automatic refills?

Automatic refills keep you from running out of propane. Not only is it inconvenient to run out, but it is bad for your tank and gas lines. Look for a supplier that will calculate your usage and schedule automatic refills before you run out.

 

Do you offer free tank swap outs for new customers?

If you’re thinking of switching to a new supplier, it is important to find one that will not charge you to swap out tanks. Your current supplier will need to reclaim their tank and your new supplier will deliver one of theirs. Find a new supplier who will take care of this entire process for you at no charge.

 

Are your prices competitive?

Ask about pricing and how theirs compares with other suppliers in the area. Most suppliers should be around the same price based on the standard price of propane. Some suppliers may be able to offer reduced rates for deliveries because of other reasons or incentives. Ask how you can get the lowest price for propane.

 

Are you reliable?

Of course a propane company who is trying to earn your business will say that they are reliable. Ask them to explain why they are reliable and what they can do specifically to ensure their reliability. You can ask for references and even read online reviews to get a better sense of the quality of service you can expect.

 

Do you deliver in emergencies?

This is an important quality. If you run out of propane at night, on the weekend, or during a holiday, not all companies are available. Find out if your potential new propane supplier in Greensboro will make emergency deliveries if needed.

 

Do you offer HVAC repair and maintenance services?

It is extremely convenient to have a propane supplier who can also service your furnace and air conditioner. In addition to propane deliveries, it is important to have regular maintenance performed on your HVAC system yearly or twice a year. Ideally you can schedule one appointment to get your propane refilled and an HVAC system tune up.

 

Berico: The Propane Supplier Who Can Do it All 

If you’re looking for a new propane supplier who does all of the above and more, Berico can. Berico is an HVAC service and propane supplier in Greensboro with competitive prices and reliable service. Berico is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and on holidays. If you need a refill or have a problem with your HVAC system, call (336) 273-8663 or request service.

The Advantages of Modern Furnaces

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HVAC maintenance and tune upFurnaces have been around for more than a century. The technology has come a long way since 1919 when the first central heating system was invented and it is constantly improving. If your furnace is more than 10 years old, chances are a new one will be more efficient.

 

Whether your furnace has quit or you’re thinking about getting a new one, here are the advantages of new furnace installation in Greensboro.

 

Modern Furnaces Offer:

 

  • Higher Efficiency. Modern furnaces are more efficient than those that are even 10 years old. Advancements in technology raise the AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) which means that you can heat your home with less heating fuel.
  • Lower Heating Bills. Since modern furnaces are more efficient, you’ll notice lower heating bills after your new furnace installation in Greensboro. Whether your furnace uses natural gas, propane, or heating oil, you’ll save money with a new furnace.
  • Greater Comfort. Modern furnaces do a better job of making your home feel warm and cozy. By making the most heat possible out of a small amount of heating fuel and distributing it more evenly throughout your home, you achieve a greater level of comfort than you would with an older furnace.
  • More Reliable. Reliability is a quality that cannot be replaced with any other feature. When you need your home to be warm on a cold day or night, your furnace just has to work. The automatic pilot is just one way that modern furnaces are more reliable than older ones. Common problems that used to plague furnaces have been nearly eliminated with advancements in engineering.
  • Environmentally Friendly. The more efficient your furnace is, the easier it is on the environment. Using less fuel is one way, and the other is emitting less pollution into the air in the form of carbon monoxide and other gases. Modern furnaces are much more environmentally friendly than older ones.
  • Automatic Pilot Light. Most recent furnaces have an automatic pilot light. This means that the pilot, the small flame that ignites the heating fuel, does not have to stay lit all the time. An electric component lights the pilot when the thermostat calls for heat. No more waking up cold because the pilot light has gone out and needs to be relit. It also prevents wasted heating fuel that a constantly burning pilot light uses.

 

Ready for a Furnace Upgrade? Contact Berico for an Estimate 

If you want all the benefits of a modern furnace, it’s time for an upgrade. Berico provides reliable furnace installation in Greensboro and the surrounding area. The energy savings alone will help your new furnace pay for itself over time. Consider a free energy audit for your home as well to discover any areas where you’re losing energy. Upgrading your insulation can help you get even more energy savings out of your new furnace.

Call (336) 273-8663 today or request service. Berico can help you save money with a new modern furnace.

Top 5 Things to Do to Keep Your Furnace in Good Working Condition

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Dirty AC FilterAs the weather cools, the sun sets earlier, and the nights get chilly, your furnace begins its busy season. Is your furnace operating efficiently? Is it ready to keep your home warm and cozy for the next few months? If you’re not sure, it may be time for some furnace maintenance. Some things you can do yourself at home, and other things may require the help of a Greensboro furnace repair service. Here are the top 5 things you should do to keep your furnace in good shape.

 

  • Replace your Filters. This is the equivalent to your computer guy telling you to turn off your computer and turn it back on again. Whenever there is a problem with your furnace, 9 times out of 10 you just need to replace your dusty, clogged filters. You should change your intake filters at least every 6 months or quarterly for best performance.
  • Consider your Thermostat. Check your thermostat settings the first time you turn the heat on. See that you have it set to an ideal temperature and that the furnace comes on when you switch it to heat for the first time. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, consider getting one. It can help you save energy when you’re home and when you’re out of the house by automatically adjusting the temperature setting based on the time of day. Many are controllable from your phone or another device.
  • Check your Vents and Ducts. Inspect all of the vents in your home and make sure they are open and not blocked by furniture, rugs, curtains, etc. Look over the ducts you can see, whether in your attic or basement and make sure there are no obvious cracks or holes. You may want to consider having your ducts cleaned and sealed if you haven’t done so in a few years.
  • Ensure Proper Ventilation. Make sure your intake and exhaust pipes are clear of leaves, debris, ice, nests, or any other potential blockage. If you are unable to access these areas on your own, consider having a Greensboro furnace repair service come out to inspect them.
  • Schedule a Furnace Tune Up. Speaking of Greensboro furnace repair, the absolute best thing you can do to keep your furnace in good working condition is to schedule professional maintenance every year. This inspection, cleaning, and tune up ensures your furnace is ready for the cold weather months.

 

Furnace Maintenance and Repair by Berico 

Your furnace is the most important appliance in your home during the fall and winter, but you may not realize it unless it stops working. Make sure your home is always warm and cozy on the coldest days and nights by keeping up with furnace maintenance.

 

Call (336) 273-8663 today for Greensboro furnace repair or schedule HVAC service.

How Does Your Furnace Work?

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adjusting thermostat in your homeMost of us know that a furnace burns fuel to provide heat, but exactly what is going on inside our home heating unit.  If your home heat is sourced by natural gas, propane, or heating oil, your heating system would be considered a furnace.  Are you contemplating furnace replacement this year? If so, you may want to know how each type of furnace works. Here’s a breakdown of the different fuel furnaces.

Natural Gas Furnace

With a natural gas furnace, the gas enters your home through a gas line directly into your furnace. The gas is ignited and the flames heat up the heat exchanger. The air that is heated by the heat exchanger is blown into the ducts and out through the vents in your home. The cold air is then drawn back into the furnace via the intake vents and the process repeats. This will happen anytime your thermostat senses that the indoor temperature is lower than the desired temperature setting.

Propane Furnace

A propane furnace works the same way, except that propane is used instead of natural gas. Propane comes into your home from a tank that is stored somewhere on your property. You can have your tank refilled periodically to ensure you have enough propane to heat your home.

Oil Furnace 

An oil furnace works mostly the same way gas and propane furnaces do, except that it uses heating oil instead of gas. Heating oil is drawn into the furnace through a filter. It is then turned into a fine spray that mixes with the air when heating. Heating oil is also stored in a tank on your property and needs to be refilled periodically.

Berico Provides Fast and Efficient Furnace Replacement 

Are you in need of furnace replacement? Whether your furnace is getting old or needing frequent repairs, a new furnace will operate more efficiently than your existing one. Berico can help you determine which type of furnace would be best for your home.

Call (336) 273-8663 today or schedule service.

Signs You Need a Furnace Replacement and Not a Repair

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HVAC maintenance and tune upAre you having problems with your furnace? Sometimes the problem requires just a simple repair. Other times there is a more complex issue with your system that needs to be addressed. How do you know when a furnace is worth repairing and when it should be replaced? There are some common signs that may indicate your furnace is on its last legs. If you notice any or a combination of the following, it may be time to find an HVAC contractor for furnace replacement in Greensboro.

 

Frequent Repairs are Needed

Have you had your furnace repaired more than once this year? One tune up or one repair should be all that is needed in a single heating season. If your furnace continues to have problems even after it has been repaired or tuned up, it may mean that it is time to replace it. Multiple problems in a short period of time suggest that your furnace may not be ready to handle a whole season of cold weather. And by continuing to repair it, you are sinking money into a furnace that may be a lost cause. Invest that money in a new furnace instead.

 

Your Furnace is More Than 15 Years Old

Furnaces have an average life span of 15 to 20 years. If your furnace starts to have problems and it is close to being 15 years old, it may not be worth repairing. Replacing your old furnace will likely operate much more efficiently than your old furnace, which will save you money on your heating bills and help offset some of the cost.

 

You Notice New or Strange Noises Coming From Your Furnace

Have you noticed noises you’ve never heard before coming from your furnace? If you hear a banging, whistling, scraping, squealing, or other noise from your furnace or the vents in your home, it is an indication that your furnace is not operating properly. The problem may be able to be repaired inexpensively. But if the noise indicates an expensive repair, especially if the repair is more than what your furnace is worth, it may be in your best interest to replace it.

 

Rising Energy Bills

Do your heating bills seem to be getting higher and higher each month? Is your propane tank requiring more frequent refills? It could be that your furnace is using up too much energy due to a mechanical problem. It could also be that your furnace is showing signs of age and is not working as efficiently as it once did. A thorough cleaning and a tune up could restore it to efficient operation, but if not, it may be time to replace it with a high-efficiency furnace that could save you money.

 

Cycling On and Off Repeatedly

Does your furnace turn on, run for a few seconds, and turn off again? Does this cycle keep repeating itself without reaching the desired temperature in your home? This is sometimes just an indication that your furnace needs to be cleaned. But it can also indicate a more severe problem that could be expensive to fix. If your furnace seems to be constantly running without sufficiently heating your home, it may be time to consider furnace replacement in Greensboro.

 

Your Home Has Warm and Cool Spots

Do some rooms in your home feel warm and cozy while others are cool and drafty? Uneven heating is another indication that a furnace is not operating as it should. For a new furnace, this can mean that it is simply not big enough to sufficiently heat the total square footage of your home. But if it is an old furnace, and the problem is new, you may need to upgrade to a new furnace.

 

Problems with the Pilot Light

Pilot lights are designed to light automatically in newer furnaces. When the thermostat calls for heat, the pilot light is electrically lit and the furnace fires up. If the pilot light won’t light for some reason, the furnace can’t create heat. Sometimes this is just a problem with the electric starter, but other times it is a deeper issue that can indicate that a furnace is close to breaking down.

 

Experiencing Furnace Problems? Berico Can Help

When your furnace isn’t working properly, it can be frustrating. You may hope that it can be repaired inexpensively, but sometimes an old furnace just needs to be replaced. Berico provides reliable furnace replacement in Greensboro if repair isn’t the best option.

 

Call (336) 273-8663 or request service today. Berico offers specials and financing to make your new furnace more affordable.

The Benefits of Propane Energy

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propane tankWhen it comes to energy sources for home and business, it may surprise you to hear that electricity is not your only option. If that doesn’t surprise you, then the sheer magnitude of advantages propane has over electricity just might.

The top factors to consider when looking into propane in Reidsville are efficiency, cost, and availability. You may also be concerned about environmental impact. Taking all of this into consideration, propane comes out on top.

A High-Efficiency Energy Source

Propane is known for its energy efficiency. It burns extremely hot, which is what makes it an excellent source of heat and energy. It keeps homes cozy in the winter because it creates a radiant, residual heat that lasts. It heats water faster, allowing your hot water supply to recover almost immediately. Cooking with propane is not only more efficient than electricity, but it is preferred by culinary experts as it is known to cook food faster and more evenly.

Cost of Propane is Reasonable and Steady

While it may seem that propane is comparable to the cost of other energy sources, you’ll get more for your money. The efficiency of propane allows it to go a long way, meaning you’ll save money on energy costs in the long run. Propane prices also tend to remain steady as it is processed almost entirely in the US and does not rely on overseas oil prices.

Propane is Readily Available to All Areas

A major advantage of propane is its availability. Wherever you are, you can receive delivery of propane, Reidsville and the surrounding area notwithstanding. No matter how rural your home, you’ll always have access to propane. And when the power goes out and the power company takes their time getting to the rural areas, you’ll still have propane to keep you warm and allow you to get things done.

Environmentally Friendly Energy

One of the biggest misconceptions about electricity is that it is better for the environment than other energy sources. The reality is that the majority of electricity produced in the eastern US is created by burning coal, which pollutes the air and surrounding environment with coal ash. Propane, on the other hand, is a by-product of oil that is made clean and burns clean. Propane emissions are well within the regulations set the EPA. It is non-toxic and will not contaminate soil or groundwater in the case of a leak.

Propane is a Versatile Fuel

Propane can do more than simply heat your home. Your water heater, clothes dryer, range, grill, pool heater, hot tub, generator, and more can all run on propane. While propane appliances may cost more at purchase, the return on investment more than pays for the difference. You’ll continue to save money day in and day out as your appliances operate more efficiently for, most likely, a longer overall time period.

Carolina Fuels, Top Supplier of Propane in Reidsville

If you’re ready to experience the benefits of propane for household or commercial use, Carolina Fuels is a premier supplier of propane in Reidsville and the surrounding area. You’ll even enjoy additional benefits and savings when you become an autofill customer of Carolina Fuels.

Call (336) 623-9741 today to request propane or schedule a propane delivery. We look forward to helping you enjoy the benefits of propane.

The Importance of Getting a Furnace Tune-Up

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Back to school season, Labor Day weekend, earlier sunsets–all are signs that cold weather is on the way. And with it comes cooler temperatures and eventually it will be time to make the flip from AC to heat. When’s the best time to discover that there’s a problem with your furnace? The first night temperatures drop low enough that you’re forced to turn it on? Sure, if you want to shiver in the cold while you wait for furnace repair in Greensboro along with everyone else who is facing the same problem.

 

No, the best time to discover a problem with your furnace is well before the weather turns cold. Avoiding unexpected furnace repairs is just one of many reasons you should schedule a tune-up toward the end of summer and early fall.

 

Your Furnace Needs a Thorough Cleaning

One of the most common reasons your furnace may fail to work properly when you first turn it on at the beginning of the cold season is the fact that it is dirty. Dust and soot build up inside your furnace and on the flame sensor causing it to misfire, cycle on and off repeatedly, or not run at all. A dirty furnace is also a fire safety hazard as well as a carbon monoxide risk.

 

A furnace tune-up performed by a professional HVAC service will involve a thorough cleaning of each and every part to ensure optimal performance and proper functioning throughout the heating season.

 

Potential Problems Can Be Discovered Early

A professional furnace tune-up also involves an extensive inspection of the system and parts. This inspection will identify any potential problems that may occur, such as parts that are wearing out or loose, wiring that needs to be tightened or replaced, or other signs of wear and tear that could be a cause for concern. In some cases parts need to be lubricated to prevent friction from causing premature wear or becoming an energy drain.

 

Discovering these problems early not only prevents an inconvenient situation where your furnace fails, but it also prevents a small problem from becoming a bigger problem that is more expensive to fix.

 

You Can Avoid Paying Emergency or After-Hours Fees

If your furnace quits in the middle of the night or on a weekend or holiday, you could be charged extra for repairs. Many HVAC companies are glad to offer emergency and after-hours services, but at higher rates. However, you can most likely avoid these extra fees by being proactive and scheduling preventive furnace repair in Greensboro before the busy season.

 

Of course furnaces, just like any other machine, can malfunction without warning. But this is much less likely to happen if you had a preseason tune-up performed by a reliable HVAC service.

 

Your Furnace Will Run More Efficiently All Season, Saving You Money 

Perhaps the most important reason to get a furnace tune-up is the fact that it can save you money. A clean, well-tuned furnace will run more efficiently and use less energy. If you want to get the maximum energy-efficiency rating out of your furnace, you’ll need to keep it well maintained with the help of an HVAC professional.

 

Whether your furnace runs on natural gas, propane, heating oil, or electricity, you’ll save money by keeping up with regular furnace maintenance. It is recommended that you schedule a furnace tune-up every year prior to the cold weather season.

 

Get Top Quality Furnace Repair in Greensboro From Berico 

Not all furnace tune-ups are the same. Some HVAC companies will do a more thorough job than others, making sure that your system is fully inspected, cleaned, and running properly. Ask to see a copy of the checklist the technician will use to inspect and clean your furnace beforehand. After completing the tune-up your technician should then go back over the checklist with you and explain any potential problems that were identified and the steps that were taken to correct them.

 

Berico goes above and beyond the standard furnace tune-up checklist to ensure every aspect of your furnace is as it should be. You’ll be sure your furnace is ready to keep you warm and cozy this winter.

 

To schedule furnace repair in Greensboro, call (336) 273-8663 or request service. You’ll be glad you made your appointment early for more flexible scheduling.

How Your HVAC Can Keep You Healthy

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Your HVAC system is comprised of your heating and air conditioning systems. Together, they keep your home comfortable throughout the year, working during their respective seasons. But your HVAC system is doing more for you than just keeping you comfortable. HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. The ventilation is the key element that can have a positive effect on your health, and proper operation of your ventilation system requires regular AC repair in Greensboro, NC.

Your HVAC System Cleans Your Indoor Air

Your HVAC system helps by passing your indoor air through a filter. The filter removes dust, dirt, allergens, and other particles from the air. Some filters are more effective than others at cleaning the air, but all filters help some, as long as they are replaced frequently. Filters should be changed out at least twice a year, but quarterly is even better. In the first year in a newly constructed home or after a significant renovation it is best to replace your filters monthly because there tends to be extra dust lying around.

HVAC Maintenance and Repair Keeps Indoor Air Cleaner

In addition to replacing your filters, regular maintenance is an important part of keeping indoor air clean and fresh. Both your heating system and your air conditioner need periodic cleaning and tuning up. Parts need tightened, lubricated, and sometimes replaced. A dirty or malfunctioning furnace can release carbon monoxide into your home in levels that are too low for your CO detector to sense but that can still be harmful. (And if you haven’t replaced your CO detectors recently, it may be time.) An underperforming air conditioner can fail to control the humidity, leading to growth of mold and mildew that could be polluting your indoor air. To ensure your HVAC system is working properly, AC repair in Greensboro, NC should be a regular part of your routine.

Add an Air Purification System to Your HVAC System for Cleaner Air

Another way your HVAC system can improve your health is through an air purifier. Certain air purification systems are designed to work with your HVAC system to filter out pathogens and toxins from the air, including bacteria and viruses. This includes all types of viruses from the common cold to the flu and even coronavirus. Many air purifiers create new air molecules that are completely clean and fresh with no foreign pollutants. Consider adding an air purifier to your HVAC system to keep your home healthy.

Enjoy a Healthier Home with HVAC Service by Berico

Trust your home’s ventilation to a professional HVAC service like Berico. Circulation of clean, air is important for your health, and regular AC maintenance will ensure that your HVAC system is working properly to keep your indoor air healthy.

Call (336) 273-8663 today or request service to schedule AC repair in Greensboro, NC.