Tips for Choosing the Right HVAC System for your Home

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ac unitHVAC systems (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) are not all the same. Choosing the right one is a very important decision. Follow these tips and get an expert recommendation from Alamance Oil before you schedule air conditioning installation in Burlington.

Bigger is Not Always Better

It’s a common myth that a bigger HVAC system will make your home more comfortable and will run more efficiently. In fact, the opposite is true. Buying a system that is too big or too small for your home will cause it to fail to achieve the desired indoor temperature and can cause other issues from constant cycling to icing over. Ask the HVAC experts to recommend the right size system for the square footage and layout of your home before you purchase any equipment.

Some Systems Boast Unrealistic SEER Ratings

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a rating assigned to every HVAC system that suggests what kind of energy efficiency you can expect over a season of use. Similar to the gas mileage on a car, the number is not definite, but a suggestion or an estimate. Any system above a 14 SEER is considered efficient, with some systems being rated as high as 18 or 20 SEER. Some systems claim to reach a SEER of 21-25, but that is really an unrealistic rating. Those systems are also priced on the high end of the spectrum where the efficiency rarely ever makes up for the cost. It may be in your best interest to consider a system with a realistic SEER of between 14 and 18.

Online Reviews are one of the Best Sources of Information about HVAC System Quality

Take the time to research HVAC systems. Read reviews, compare brands, and see what real consumers are saying about some of the systems out there. Certain brands are known for quality and longevity, and you’ll see that some models always get the best reviews. Don’t purchase a system for which there is little or no information to be found. That should be a red flag to you that the manufacturer or model isn’t very popular, and probably for good reason.

Get a Recommendation from your Trusted HVAC Company

Alamance Oil has decades of experience repairing and installing a wide variety of HVAC systems. The best advice is likely to come from a professional heating and air conditioning specialist, who knows which systems break down often and which don’t, which systems last for 20 plus years and which ones will give you barely 10, and which are the most energy efficient.

Alamance Oil Offers more than just Air Conditioning Installation in Burlington

When you work with Alamance Oil you also get the benefit of HVAC expertise. Alamance Oil will recommend the best system for your home based on size, SEER, reviews, past performance, and any other helpful information. You can rest assured that you’ll be purchasing the right system in addition to quality air conditioning installation in Burlington. If you need a new HVAC system, call Alamance Oil first: (336) 226-9371.

Propane 101: Where Does Propane Come From?

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gas flameWhether you use propane or you’re thinking of using it, you may be wondering where exactly it comes from. Unlike natural gas, propane does not occur naturally. It is created or manufactured for residential and commercial use. But that does not mean that it is inferior to natural gas. Actually, the fact that it is manmade is a major benefit. Propane has been chemically engineered to be safe and efficient. If you’re considering using propane in Greensboro for the first time, here’s what you should know.

Propane is Made from Crude Oil or Natural Gas

Both crude oil and natural gas can be refined to create propane. It is what chemists refer to as a three-carbon alkaline. It exists as a gas under normal pressure, but can be pressurized into a liquid form for ease of storage and transport. When natural gas is processed, propane is one of the components that is removed, along with butane and ethane. When petroleum is made into gasoline or heating oil, propane is a by-product. Therefore propane comes from either natural gas or petroleum.

The Discovery and History of Propane

Marcellin Berthelot first discovered propane in France in 1857. It was then discovered in the US by Edmund Ronalds in 1864 in Pennsylvania light crude oil. But the real beginning of the propane industry was in 1910 when the US Bureau of Mines representative Walter O. Snelling touted it as a potential household energy source. In 1912 the New York Times published an article about Snelling’s work with liquefying the gas and thus it spread and eventually developed into the propane industry we know today.

There are Many Benefits to Propane in Greensboro

 

  • Manmade. The fact that propane does not have to be mined is a major advantage. Though it does have to be made from either natural gas or crude oil, those fuels are currently easy to access. As long as natural gas or petroleum exists, so can propane. And because it is chemically manufactured it can be altered in many ways.
  • Only burns at extremely high temperatures. Propane is one of the safest fuels because it will only burn at extremely high temperatures, which are rarely achieved, even by a house fire.
  • Environmentally friendly. Propane is non-toxic, burns clean, and will not contaminate groundwater in the case of a leak or spill.
  • Efficient. Propane creates more heat/energy per BTU than natural gas. It can heat your home and water faster and sustain a radiant heat that feels cozier on cold days.
  • Easy to transport. In its liquid form, propane is easy to store and move from place to place.
  • Alternative fuel where natural gas is not available. Not every home has access to natural gas. Propane is an alternative that can be delivered rather than tapped into.
  • Only buy propane when you need it. Rather than paying a monthly bill, you can simply pay when you need your tank refilled. Though many propane services do offer a monthly payment option to spread the cost more evenly.  

 

Call Berico today to request propane in Greensboro or speak to an expert about switching: (336) 273-8663.

Spring Cleaning your Propane Appliances

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fireplace logsSpring is a season of fresh starts. Many people perform a spring cleaning regiment both inside and outside of their home. Whether or not you do any spring cleaning, it’s important to clean your propane appliances each year, and spring is an ideal time to do it. Greensboro propane supplier, Berico, suggests these spring cleaning tips for your propane appliances.

Your Furnace Needs Yearly Cleaning and Maintenance

It may seem counter-productive to clean you propane furnace at the end of the heating season, but there’s actually a good reason to do so. After a long, cold winter your furnace has worked hard to keep your home warm and cozy for the past few months. Soot, dust, and dirt have likely built up in your furnace, filters, and ducts. When that stuff sits in your system during the hot, humid months it can cause rusting and other damage to your furnace. For thorough cleaning, call Berico and schedule a tune-up. The experts know just what to do to clean up your furnace at the end of the cold season.

It’s Time to Fire Up the Grill for some Backyard Barbecues—But First, Clean it

Your grill has probably been sitting outside all winter, perhaps under a cover, but still unused and exposed to the elements. Even if it’s been inside a garage or screened-in porch the dust and grime can build up inside. Scrub the grates and the inside of the grill. Empty the drip can. If your propane tank is still connected, check the connection and the condition of the tank itself. Also, check the propane level and get a refill or swap your tank if necessary. Make sure your grill is clean and free of debris before you light it for the first time.

Clean all your Indoor Propane Appliances from the Fireplace Logs to the Clothes Dryer

  • Cleaning Fireplace Logs. When it comes to propane fireplace logs, yearly cleaning is important, especially for the non-vented type. Follow these step-by-step instructions for cleaning your gas fireplace logs. Or take the easier, safer route and call Berico for this service.
  • Cleaning your Clothes Dryer. The biggest issue with clothing dryers is lint build up. Follow these instructions for deep cleaning your dryer. Be sure to always turn off the propane supply to your dryer before cleaning.
  • Cleaning your Water Heater. Plumbers recommend flushing your water heater yearly. It could be a DIY project with experience, but it may be best to call your plumber for this service. When it comes to propane water heaters, the propane line and related parts should be inspected and cleaned by your propane supplier. Berico can handle this portion.

Berico can Clean all of your Greensboro Propane Appliances in One Maintenance Appointment

The most convenient way to spring clean all of your propane appliances is to let Berico do it for you. Call and schedule a maintenance appointment this spring and get all of your appliances cleaned and tuned up at once. Berico will also inspect your propane tank and gas line and refill it if needed. You’ll be ahead of the game way before fall when you’ll need your furnace again. Call Berico, your trusted Greensboro propane supplier and schedule an appointment today: (336) 273-8663.

Tips on Choosing the Right Propane Supplier

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Gas flameIf you’re a new propane user or you’re thinking of switching, choosing a supplier is an important decision. Not all suppliers offer the same level of service and the same options. You are not obligated to use the company whose name is on your tank. In most areas, there are a variety of suppliers to choose from. Before deciding on a propane supplier in Eden, consider these tips.

Look for a Supplier who offers Automatic Deliveries (and Furnace Maintenance as a Bonus)

Do you want to have to keep tabs on the propane level in your tank, or would you rather let your supplier handle that? Most customers would choose a supplier who will calculate your propane usage and time your automatic deliveries accordingly. Running out of propane is not only inconvenient, but it requires additional maintenance upon refilling the tank. When a tank gets completely empty the pressurization can get out of whack and leaks can easily occur at the time of refill. And if your tank runs out on a cold day, it will take even longer to get your home warm again. It’s also beneficial to find a company that offers furnace maintenance with deliveries so that you can have one company handle all of your home heating needs (and perhaps even your cooling needs as well).

Find a Reliable Supplier with a Good Reputation and Safety Rating

Ask friends and neighbors what supplier they use and if they are satisfied with their service. Check the status of any company you’re considering with the Better Business Bureau. Read online reviews (not just the ones posted on the company’s website). Check to make sure the supplier is licensed in the state where they do business. Look up their safety ratings as well through the BBB to be sure you’re choosing a reliable company.

Ask about Fees and Pricing and get all the Details Before Signing any Contracts

Many propane suppliers will avoid mentioning the fees they charge for certain services or the cancellation of services. Initial pricing may also be promotional and your price for later refills could be much higher. Ask questions and get everything in writing before signing up for propane deliveries with any company. Make sure you understand all of the rules and fine print. Don’t work with a company that is not forthcoming about any aspect of their services.

Carolina Fuels is a Propane Supplier you can Trust

When you look up Carolina Fuels through the Better Business Bureau, you will find an A+ accreditation for customer service and safety. Ask around the community and you’ll hear nothing but positive things. When you speak with a representative at Carolina Fuels you’ll get all the information you need up front, no mystery. Comfort and Protection Service Plans are available that combine your propane deliveries and HVAC system maintenance in one convenient package that saves you money and offers benefits like discounts on propane and repairs. Make Carolina Fuels your propane supplier of choice today: (336) 623-9741.

Steps to Take if you Suspect a Propane Gas Leak

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Gas flameA propane gas leak is a very serious matter, and should not be taken lightly. While propane is a safe fuel that only burns at very high temperatures, a leak could lead to a high concentration of gas in a certain area and a spark could cause it to ignite. If you smell gas or suspect a leak for any reason, your Reidsville propane supplier, Carolina Fuels, recommends taking the following steps.

Step 1: Put Out Any Source of Flame or Spark. If you’re grilling, turn off your grill. If you’re home, turn off your furnace. Put out candles and any other source of flame. Do not use electricity.

Step 2: Turn off the Gas Valve on your Propane Tank. If you can, turn your propane off at the tank valve. Simply turn it clockwise until it won’t turn any further. If you can’t figure out how to turn it off or if you are having trouble turning the valve, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Get Away. If you smell propane inside your home, get yourself and your family out immediately. If you smell propane outside, leave the vicinity. Do not go back inside your home. Get to a safe distance before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Call your Reidsville Propane Supplier. Once you are a safe distance away, use your cell phone or another phone to call your propane supplier and alert them that there may be a leak. If you can’t get your propane company on the phone, call 911. Your local fire department will respond to a potential gas leak if necessary.

Step 5: Stay Away until the Area is Deemed Safe. Do not return to your home until it is determined to be safe according to your propane supplier or another emergency responder. Only take the word of a professional in this case.

Prevent Propane Gas Leaks with Regular Inspection and Maintenance

Propane gas leaks are not common, but unfortunately they can happen. However, you can help prevent them by scheduling routine inspection and maintenance for your tank and gas line. Your Reidsville propane supplier will typically do an inspection when refilling your tank. But if it’s been a while since your last refill, it would be wise to have an inspection. Large tanks won’t necessarily need to be refilled every year; it depends on the amount of propane your household uses. For ultimate safety, an inspection should be done yearly whether or not you get a refill.

Carolina Fuels Performs Propane Tank and Gas Line Inspections

Safe propane use is a top priority for Carolina Fuels. Whether you’re new to propane use or you’re a seasoned pro, always exercise proper safety precautions when it comes to your propane tank, gas line, and appliances. If you’re ever unsure about any aspect of your propane, contact your Reidsville propane supplier, Carolina Fuels: (336) 623-9741. Consider signing up for a Comfort and Protect Service Plan for regular HVAC maintenance and propane delivery. Your inspections and tank refills will be automatic, meaning you don’t have to try and remember to call. Let Carolina Fuels handle all of your propane and home comfort needs.

3 Ways the Weather can Affect your Air Conditioner

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lightning strikeIt should come as no surprise that the temperature outside affects your air conditioner’s performance. The weather outside is the reason you have an air conditioning system in the first place. While the weather can affect your AC in a variety of ways, the best way to keep your system operating properly is to schedule professional AC repair in Greensboro each year.

 

  • Performance. The outside temperature can affect your AC’s performance. When the temperature outside is in the middle range, your AC operates one way, using the heat exchanger to transfer heat from inside your home to the outside. When the temperature outside is hotter, your AC operates another way, where the compressor does more of the work to create cool air. The hotter it is, the harder your AC will have to work. An older system that is in need of maintenance will have a more difficult time operating in hotter temperatures. An extreme heat wave could send an air conditioner that is on its last legs right over the edge into system failure.
  • Efficiency. The hotter the outside temperatures, the harder your AC will have to work to achieve your desired indoor temperature. It then requires more energy to perform and its efficiency lowers. Air conditioners are assigned a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) that indicates the level of efficiency you can expect. The higher the SEER, the better its efficiency in hot temperatures. An air conditioner with a SEER of 14 or higher is considered efficient. A SEER of 18 or higher is a high-efficiency system.
  • Can cause damage. Extreme weather can actually cause damage to the outdoor unit of your air conditioner. Hail can cause denting or other damage to metal of the outdoor unit. High winds and especially tornadoes can do significant damage to your AC from falling branches to upheaval. If lightning strikes your outdoor unit it can do damage to the electrical systems inside. Unfortunately, it is not possible to prevent acts of nature that can damage your system. But you can take a few precautions: turn off your AC during a thunderstorm and cover your outdoor unit with a tarp or a cover designed specifically for air conditioners if the forecast calls for high winds.

 

Help your HVAC System Battle the Weather with Preventative AC Repair in Greensboro

Is the weather outside keeping your AC from operating at peak efficiency? While it’s true that extreme heat can make your AC less efficient, you can optimize your system’s energy efficiency by keeping it tuned up. Yearly AC repair in Greensboro before the warm season begins can significantly increase the performance of your system and its overall energy usage. Battle the weather with a Comfort and Protection Service Agreement from Berico, which includes twice yearly maintenance for your AC and furnace, heating fuel discounts, 20% off diagnostic and repairs, priority service, and more. Eliminate the worry that your AC is not up to the task of keeping your home cool despite extreme weather. Trust your AC to Berico: (336) 273-8663.

Preparing your AC to Handle Allergens

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wild weeds and pollenYou probably know that springtime is one of the worst times of the year for allergies. With all of the extra pollen in the air from trees, plants, and flowers it can be an allergy sufferer’s nightmare. But what you may not know is that the top culprit for spreading allergens around your home is your HVAC system. Allergens like pollen, dust, pet dander, and more can get through your AC filters and into your ducts. Those allergens are then blown out through your vents to contaminate your indoor air. However, there are ways to prevent the spread of allergens through your HVAC system. These suggestions will also improve your HVAC efficiency and delay the need for AC replacement in Eden.

Have your HVAC System Professionally Cleaned

The first step in preparing your AC to handle allergens is to schedule a professional cleaning of your system. Dust, pollen, and other allergens will build up in your system over time, lowering the efficiency of your HVAC system and spreading allergens throughout your home. A thorough cleaning will remove these allergens, improving both the energy efficiency of your AC and your indoor air quality.

Use High-Quality HVAC Filters

Basic air filters will remove a lot of particles from the air. But high-quality air filters can remove more allergens and finer particles from the air in your home as it moves through your HVAC system. After a thorough cleaning of your system, you can keep it clean with high-quality filters.

Get your Ducts Professionally Cleaned

If you’ve been using basic air filters in your HVAC system, there’s a good chance your ductwork is full of allergens. You can have your system cleaned, but if you don’t also clean your ducts you could end up right back where you started in no time at all.

Have an Air Purification System Installed

There are many different air purifiers out on the market, but the most effective types are those that work directly with your HVAC system. An air purification system can be installed in your existing ductwork that will not only filter out the smallest of particles, but even create new clean air to be released into your home.  

Consider AC Replacement in Eden if you have an Older, Less Efficient System

If your HVAC system is old, especially your air conditioner, it is not operating efficiently. A system that is 10 years old or older is significantly less efficient than those manufactured today. An older system is more likely to spread allergens because it has accumulated more dust and particles over time. And older, less efficient systems are not as effective at filtering particles out of the air. Consider AC replacement in Eden to achieve higher quality indoor air with fewer allergens.

Carolina Fuels can Help Improve your Indoor Air Quality with AC Replacement in Eden

If you or someone in your household is suffering from allergies, you may see significant improvement when you invest in a new HVAC system. Combine AC replacement in Eden with clean ducts, high-quality air filters, and an air purification system for the best possible results. Are you ready to improve your allergy symptoms? Call Carolina Fuels today: (336) 623-9741.

The Top 5 Benefits of Duct Cleaning

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open living room in big houseIs it necessary to have your air ducts cleaned? It may not be necessary, but it is certainly beneficial. If you have a central HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system, your home has a series of ducts that lead from your air conditioner to the vents throughout your home. Over time dust, dirt, pet dander, and other debris will accumulate in your ducts, contaminating your indoor air and causing your HVAC system to run less efficiently or possibly even malfunction. If your HVAC service in Burlington offers duct cleaning, you would be wise to take advantage of that service. Consider the top 5 benefits of duct cleaning.

  • Improve allergies. If you or anyone else in your household suffers from allergies, duct cleaning will be a major benefit. Allergy sufferers see immediate improvement once allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, and more are removed from the ducts in their home.
  • Improve indoor air quality. Besides allergens, other contaminants can build up in your ducts and lower your indoor air quality. Pests may have built nests in your ducts that you are unaware of, contaminating your air with droppings. Soot from your furnace can also build up in your ductwork and be circulated through your home. A thorough duct cleaning will improve the quality of your indoor air.
  • Freshen your air. Improving the quality of your indoor air will also freshen your home. Eliminate the odors that are caused by some of the previously mentioned contaminants in your ducts. You’ll notice a difference immediately and you can discontinue use of potent air fresheners.
  • Save energy. Perhaps the biggest benefit of duct cleaning is the energy savings. By having your ducts professionally cleaned and your system cleaned as well, you improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. Your monthly energy bills will be noticeably lower.
  • Dust less often. Who likes to dust their home? Not many people. Once your ducts have been cleaned you’ll notice much less dust settling on furniture and floors. You’ll find you can go a lot longer between dusting.

Finding an HVAC Service in Burlington that Offers Duct Cleaning

Looking for duct cleaning services? Not every HVAC service in Burlington offers duct cleaning, but Alamance Oil does. Most homeowners know the importance of regular maintenance and cleaning for HVAC systems, but not everyone knows how important duct cleaning is. The HVAC experts at Alamance Oil know that cleaning your air conditioning unit is only part of the routine cleaning that needs to be done. If your system is cleaned but your ducts are not, your HVAC system will be dirty again in a very short time. These services should go hand in hand for the best possible results. Cleaner, fresher air, fewer allergy symptoms, energy savings, and more can only come from a completely clean system, including the ductwork. When it’s time for yearly maintenance, call an HVAC service in Burlington that will thoroughly clean your entire HVAC system, such as Alamance Oil: (336) 226-9371.

Schedule service today Duct Cleaning – Berico

4 Signs it’s Time for a New AC

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air conditioning unitHow do you know when you need a new air conditioner? The fact that you’re wondering is probably a strong indicator that it may be time. Before you start looking for HVAC companies who handle Burlington AC replacement, consider these 4 common signs that it’s time for a new AC. 

  1. Lack of Comfort. Does it seem as if your home doesn’t feel as cool lately as it used to feel? Are there some areas of your home that feel cooler than others? When your air conditioner is starting to get closer to needing to be replaced it tends to cool less sufficiently or less evenly.  
  2. Unusual Noises. Has your air conditioner been making more racket than usual? Have you noticed it making noises you don’t think it made before? You are right to be alarmed. Sometimes it happens so gradually you hardly notice. But unusual noises can mean your AC is starting to wear out and may need to be replaced soon.  
  3. High Energy Bills. Does it seem as if your electricity bill keeps getting higher and higher? It may not be in your head. If your air conditioner is starting to go it can become a real energy drain. And even if it’s running as well as it ever did, if it’s more than ten years old it uses much more energy than new systems do. Replacing an old AC can help get those bills back down.  
  4. Excess Humidity. Do you feel a dampness inside your home? Does it smell musty? Do you notice condensation on windows, mirrors, or metal surfaces? These are all signs of excess humidity in your home, which means your air conditioning is not working properly. Your AC should automatically control the humidity inside your home, removing moisture from the air as it comes in and cools down.  

If you notice any of these signs, the first step is to call your HVAC service for inspection and maintenance. It’s possible it may just need a tune up. Your technician will be able to give you an accurate recommendation for either repair or replacement after thoroughly inspecting your air conditioner and evaluating its current condition.  

Burlington AC Replacement Done Right by Alamance Oil 

Air conditioner replacement is a big undertaking and you want to make sure it’s done right. Alamance Oil has been providing Burlington AC replacement for decades. Experienced, certified installers will replace your old, worn, and outdated air conditioner with a new, efficient model. The noises will stop, your energy bills will go down, and your home will feel comfortable again. Proper installation ensures that you will get the most out of your air conditioner from energy efficient operation to many years of home comfort. Call Alamance Oil today to have your current system inspected and either repaired or replaced: (336) 226-9371. 

4 Common AC Service and Maintenance Questions Answered

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kitchen in homeYour AC is a large appliance that is responsible for as much as half of your home’s total electricity usage during the warm weather months. To keep it working properly you will occasionally have need of an HVAC service in Greensboro. One such service, Berico, wishes to answer some of the commonly asked AC questions for you.

    • Does my Air Conditioner Really Need Preventative Maintenance?

Do you ever wonder if your AC actually needs maintenance? If it’s still running, homeowners have a tendency to assume all is fine with their AC. But there’s a lot more going on inside your system than you may be aware of. Over time dust builds up and clogs your intake filters. If these are not replaced regularly, that dust then gets into your ducts and eventually into your air conditioner. Dust inside your AC can cause all sorts of problems from an evaporator coil malfunction to other mechanical errors. If your AC hasn’t broken down yet, it is likely working harder than necessary due to the lack of maintenance. Your energy bills will be higher and eventually, you’ll experience system malfunction. Preventative maintenance keeps your AC operating efficiently and prevents unexpected problems that could result in expensive repairs.

  • How Often Does my Air Conditioner Need a Tune-Up?

Any reputable HVAC Service in Greensboro will recommend a yearly tune-up for your AC. A tune up is just another term for maintenance and typically involves a thorough inspection and cleaning, followed by any necessary repairs such as replacing worn out parts or tightening bolts. Replacing filters is also included in most tune-ups. Having your local HVAC company perform a yearly tune-up in the late winter or early spring ensures your AC is ready for the upcoming home cooling season.  

  • How Often Should I Change my Filters?

It is recommended that you replace your filters every 3 months, and at the very least, every 6 months. You should replace them monthly if your home is newly constructed or if any recent renovations have taken place. The monthly principle applies for up to a year following any construction. The reason is that construction projects create additional dust and debris that would not normally be present in your home.

  • What are the Warning Signs that my AC is not Operating Properly?

Many homeowners ask this question too late after their AC breaks down a hot day. But the experience is often so inconvenient they want to know how to prevent it from happening again. Pay attention to these clues: unusual noises, excessive humidity, uneven cooling, constant cycling on and off, and low air flow. If you notice these or any other unusual signs from your AC, call your HVAC service in Greensboro right away. You may be able to avoid complete system failure by being proactive.

Don’t hesitate to call Berico with any other questions you have regarding your HVAC system: (336) 273-8663. Berico can tune up your system yearly to keep it operating efficiently. Schedule a maintenance appointment and consider becoming a Comfort and Protection Service Plan Customer to receive regular maintenance and other benefits.