Tips for Reducing Heating Bills Without Sacrificing Comfort

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Who doesn’t like to save money?  It doesn’t really matter where the money is saved, spending less always feels good. Of course, it doesn’t feel good to be cold inside your home, so saving money by turning down the thermostat might not be a trade you want to make.

 

But what if you could bring down your heating bills without being uncomfortable along the way? That just might be possible, and this page will explain how to do it. If you need any help with your Burlington furnace along the way, be sure to connect with the Berico team to schedule an appointment.

 

Seal Cracks Carefully

One thing you certainly don’t want to be doing during the winter is paying to heat the outdoors. That might sound silly, but it’s exactly what you’ll be doing if there are cracks or gaps in your home that need to be closed up. Space around windows and doors can allow the heated air that your HVAC system is creating to go directly outside, where it will be lost forever. So, take some time to seal things up using weatherstripping or caulking. A minor investment of time and money can go a long way toward saving you on energy costs while improving the performance of your system at the same time.

 

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Another costly mistake is heating your house while you aren’t at home to enjoy it. It’s easy to forget to change the thermostat setting when you leave the house for the day, or when you go to bed and don’t need it to be as warm. These problems can be solved with a programmable thermostat, or a smart thermostat. Putting a bit of technology on your side will help you cut down on energy use without losing any comfort.

 

Keep Up On Maintenance

There is no way that a furnace that is clogged up with dust is going to operate at peak efficiency. The same can be said for a furnace that has worn-out parts, or parts that are loose. So, having your furnace maintained regularly – once per year should be sufficient – will keep it in proper working order and can bring down the amount of energy that it uses while running.

 

Use Natural Heat to Your Advantage

There are plenty of nice days during the winter months in the Greensboro area. When the temperature does climb during the winter, be sure to take full advantage. Open up the windows to invite that warmed air inside and give your furnace a little bit of a break.

 

Get Ready for Winter Now

It’s always best to be ready for winter before it arrives, rather than trying to play catch-up later. So, if you need any type of heating repair work completed, or if you are planning a furnace installation project, call Berico right away to chat. With a friendly team of experts and excellent pricing, you’ll be in good hands on every job.

Is It Cheaper to Leave Your Thermostat at One Temperature?

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Managing the thermostat properly is one of your main jobs as a homeowner. It’s always a balancing act – you want to keep the home comfortable without using too much energy, and racking up a big utility bill, along the way. So, is it best to just pick one temperature and leave the thermostat there throughout the season? This page will take a closer look.

Whether you need a furnace tune-up, HVAC repair, or any other kind of related work in the Greensboro area, Berico should be your chosen partner. Take a moment now to call for help and get started.

 

The Case for One Temperature

The main argument for using just one temperature setting on your thermostat is that the furnace or air conditioner will never have to work too hard to “catch up” after the temperature changes. For example, instead of having to get all the way back up to 70°F after being allowed to drop down to 60°F, it can just run in short bursts to stay right around that 70°F mark.

 

You’ll also benefit from additional comfort if the thermostat stays the same at all times. No matter when you are at home, you’ll have a comfortable temperature. This can be nice when you return home from a day out in the winter and open the door to immediately be greeted by warm air, rather than having to wait for the space to heat up.

 

The Case for Adjusting Your Thermostat

While that theory does have some good points, many experts argue that it is more efficient to use multiple settings. For instance, you can let the temperature change while you are at work or asleep, only to have it return to a comfortable range when you are going to be at home and awake. This means letting the house get a little hot in the summer or a little cold in the winter, then running the HVAC to get it back where you like it. Some people believe that you will save as much as 10% over the course of a year by using this approach.

 

Consider Your Insulation

Finally, there needs to be a quick word on this page about insulation. If you have quality insulation in your home, the temperature isn’t going to change as quickly, even when the HVAC is off. So, using the adjustable setting system may be better, since much of the warm air or cool air will be retained anyway, and the system won’t have a ton of work to do once it is asked to come back on and reach the ideal temperature.

 

Finding the Right Solution for Your Needs

There is plenty of room for personal preference when it comes to operating your thermostat and controlling the temperature in your house. Whether it’s a smart thermostat or just periodic manual adjustments, simply paying attention to the system and how it works is the best thing you can do. Connect with Berico today to get your HVAC system working better than ever before!

Generators: Whole-House vs. Portable – Which is Right for Your Home?

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It’s a wonderful luxury to have a generator available on your Greensboro property. When the power goes out after a storm, you won’t be stuck in the dark if you have a generator that can be fired up at a moment’s notice.

As you shop for a generator, you’ll quickly notice that there are two main types on the market today – whole-house generators and portable generators. This page will break down the differences and help you make the right choice for your needs.

If you decide to go ahead with whole house generator installation, the team at Berico is the right partner for the job. Call today to schedule your appointment or get more information.

 

Why Portable Generators Fall Short

While portable generators may seem like a convenient and affordable option, it’s important to understand their limitations, especially when compared to a whole-house generator. Portable generators run on gas and must be manually started. They are not designed to power an entire house. Instead, they can only handle a few select appliances at a time, often requiring extension cords to connect them. This limited capacity means you may have to choose between keeping your refrigerator running or powering a few lights, but not both.

On the other hand, a whole-house generator offers a permanent and reliable solution. It’s installed by professionals, connects directly to your home’s electrical system, and runs on a continuous fuel supply like natural gas or propane. Most importantly, a whole-house generator automatically turns on the moment it detects a power outage, so you don’t have to do anything. It can power your entire home—including your HVAC system, lights, and appliances—allowing you to continue your daily life without interruption.

 

Whole-House Generators Have So Much More to Offer

There is a use case for a portable generator. But they should not be mistaken as a replacement for a whole-house generator. These two things are simply not the same. A portable model can keep a couple of things running for a while in an emergency. A whole-house generator can keep your entire home running indefinitely.

Yes, there is a larger upfront expense with a whole-house model. But those costs can be seen as an investment in your home. You’ll be adding something that is going to serve you well and stand the test of time for years to come. Anytime the weather turns ugly, or when the power goes out for seemingly no reason at all, you’ll always have a backup option in place. And, you won’t even have to lift a finger – the generator senses the loss of power and just jumps into action.

 

Berico is Ready to Serve You

Have you decided that adding a Generac generator to your property is the right upgrade for your needs? That’s a great choice, and Berico is ready to get started on the project. Generac is one of the leading generator companies, and you’ll be left with a reliable system that can jump into action anytime the grid is down. Start now to be ready for the next storm!

How Can I Reduce Noise from My Outdoor AC Unit?

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On a sweltering Greensboro summer day, nothing is more welcome than the cool flow of air from your home’s air conditioning system. The comfort it provides is a non-negotiable luxury. However, when the outdoor unit whirs and hums at a distracting volume, that serenity can be broken. This article will help you achieve true tranquility, offering practical solutions to reduce the noise from your AC unit so you can enjoy your perfectly cooled home without the unwanted soundtrack.

If you need any A/C repair work done at your home, or if you require any other type of HVAC work, Berico should be your first call. Reach out now to schedule an appointment.

 

Understand What Noises Are Normal

As a starting point, it’s good to know what your air conditioner is supposed to sound like when it’s running. That way, you don’t go trying to make improvements on something that really can’t be improved.

When your air conditioner is on, the outdoor unit will have a compressor and fan running. Naturally, some sound is going to come from the unit as a result of those functions. That sound shouldn’t be super loud, and it should mostly be a low humming. If you start to hear any unusual sounds, such as banging or rattling, that is a likely sign that something is wrong, and repair work is needed.

 

Check on the Grilles

One of the first places to start for noise reduction is checking on the grilles that are attached to the outdoor unit. These parts keep large pieces of debris from getting inside the unit, but they can get loose over time. If they are loose, they’ll rattle while the system is running and create an annoying sound. Eliminating these noises may be as easy as using a simple screwdriver to tighten the grilles up again.

 

Look into a Compressor Sound Blanket

There are sound blanket products on the market intended specifically to address the issue of noise coming from your outdoor AC unit. If you purchase one of these blankets, just install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and you will enjoy some immediate noise reduction. This step won’t make the unit silent, of course, but it should make a noticeable difference for only a modest financial investment.

 

Clean the Unit Thoroughly

It’s also a good habit to periodically clean the unit to get any dirt and debris out. This should be a pretty quick and easy job with a hose and a brush. It is critical that you make sure to turn off the power to the unit first, just to make sure there is no chance that it will kick on while you are doing the work. Keeping the unit clean will help it run quieter and should also help you avoid future problems.

 

Get Help from a Proven Partner

Berico is the leading HVAC contractor serving homeowners throughout the Greensboro area. For AC installation, repair, maintenance, and more, simply reach out to the Berico team and you’ll receive outstanding value for your money. Don’t wait any longer to get started!

How Weather and Temperature Swings Affect Engine Oil Performance in Fleet Vehicles

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In fleet management, no detail is too small to consider. Since every decision you make has consequences that impact the entire fleet, you want to do your homework and get every maintenance choice just right.

Even something as basic as changes in temperature can impact engine oil performance. This page will look at how the local weather conditions in North Carolina impact how oil should be managed in fleet vehicles.

If you need to work with a motor oil delivery service to keep your fleet running all year long, turn to the experts at Berico today to get started.

 

The Impact of Cold Weather on Oil Performance

It’s true that North Carolina doesn’t experience the coldest of winters. The northern states have it worse, to be sure, but cold temperatures can still move in and impact the performance of your engine oil.

 

In cold conditions, oil thickens and doesn’t circulate as well through the engine during the startup phase. It will also take longer for the oil to reach key engine parts, meaning wear and tear within the engine is increased. Basically, engine oil doesn’t work as well in cold weather and isn’t able to perform its job quite as effectively.

 

Hot Weather Has Its Own Challenges

What North Carolina manages to avoid in terms of cold weather, it more than makes up for in the frequency of hot weather. Summers here can be quite warm, and hot temperatures have an impact on oil performance, as well.

 

As you might expect, the effect of hot weather on oil is the opposite of what cold weather does. The oil will thin out as the temperatures rise, meaning it won’t be able to protect your engine quite as effectively. There is also accelerated oxidation of the oil in hot weather, causing it to have a reduced effective lifespan.

 

Tips for Managing Oil in Changing Weather

There are a few steps you can take to manage your oil properly while weather conditions move up and down throughout the year.

 

  • Follow OEM Guidelines. It’s important to know the guidelines for your vehicles in terms of what oils are suggested based on given conditions. Following those recommendations will help you get optimal results and avoid premature wear.

 

  • Schedule Seasonal Changes. The oil that works well for your engines in the summer months may not be the same one that serves you properly during the winter. Switching between a couple of different oils based on the time of year might be the best way to manage your fleet.

 

  • Use Oil Analysis. Periodic oil sampling and testing can highlight how the oil is being impacted by temperatures, and you can make adjustments to your plan accordingly.

 

Reliable, Affordable Service from Berico

The Berico name is one that has been trusted in and around Greensboro for generations, and for good reason. Whether it’s oil reclamation service, the delivery of bulk lubricants, or any of the other services provided by this trusted brand, Berico always exceeds expectations. Place a phone call today and see what you have been missing.

Why Does My Shower Water Suddenly Change Temperature?

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A warm shower is one of the true luxuries of living in the modern world. Few things are quite as peaceful or relaxing – until the temperature changes suddenly and you are shocked by freezing cold or scorching hot water. Why does that happen, and what can you do to avoid such an unpleasant surprise?

But before we tackle that issue; when you need to work with a Greensboro plumber to deal with any issues that arise in your home or business, Berico should be your first choice. Bathroom plumbing is just one of the many services that Berico can provide for a fair price. Call now to get started.

 

Common Reasons for Shower Water Temperature Swings

There are a few reasons that your water temperature might suddenly change while you are in the shower. One of the most common is someone else in the house flushing a toilet. When a toilet is flushed, it takes away some of the available cold water in the system, meaning that cold water can’t mix with the hot before it comes out of the showerhead. In the end, you are left with a blast of hot water that can be quite shocking.

A faulty mixing valve is another common issue. If the mixing valve gets worn or clogged over time, it may no longer be able to do its job properly. Again, the result will be a surprising change in water temperature, although that change could go in either the hot or cold direction.

Finally, you might simply be dealing with an old water heater that can no longer keep up with the demands you are placing on it. If the heater has a hard time keeping enough water warm to supply your shower, you’ll notice the temperature inconsistencies time after time.

 

Fixes and Preventative Measures to Explore

Some of the ways you can fix these problems might already be obvious. If you have an old water heater that is struggling to keep up, the clear fix is to have a new water heater installed. You might need to upgrade to a larger model, or it may be sufficient to simply replace the old one with a new version of the same size.

Likewise, if it is the mixing valve that isn’t working, having that replaced by a qualified plumber will get you back on track quickly. This tends to be a rather affordable repair that will make a big difference in the performance of your system.

One other thing that you should keep in mind is simply having routine maintenance performed on your plumbing system as a whole. As time passes, wear and tear can take a toll on various components and leave you with problems that continue to get worse. Stay ahead of the game with maintenance and know that you can count on your plumbing to always perform well.

 

Shower with Confidence Once Again

When you put Berico in charge of your shower repair project, you won’t have to worry about the results. The finished product will be exactly what you expected, and your showers will be comfortable and relaxing once again. For any type of Greensboro plumbing repair, make sure Berico is always your first choice.

How Can I Make My AC Run More Efficiently Without Replacing It?

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As an air conditioning unit ages, it is naturally going to lose some of its efficiency. This is just the reality for all types of equipment, as wear and tear prevents machinery from working as well as it did when it was new.

 

Does that mean you have to resign yourself to getting poor performance from your old AC unit? Not necessarily. The tips in this article can help you improve the results you get and save money on your utility bills along the way.

 

If you need help with any type of Greensboro HVAC project, the team at Berico is ready to jump into action. Take a moment to get in touch today and learn more.

 

Replace the Air Filters

This is the obvious starting point. The air filter that serves your system is going to gradually get dirty and clogged as the system runs. Swapping that filter out regularly – or cleaning it, if it’s a reusable filter – is a great way to improve the efficiency of the air conditioner.

 

Efficiency drops when the filter is dirty due to restricted airflow. You want as much air as possible to freely run through the system while it is on. If you are using an old, clogged filter, not as much air will get through, and efficiency – as well as overall performance – will drop.

 

Keep the Outdoor Unit Free and Clear

Just as the indoor part of your air conditioner needs plenty of airflow to perform, so too does the outdoor unit. With that in mind, keep the outdoor unit free from any leaves, branches, or anything else that might restrict how air moves. As a good rule of thumb, keep all of your plants trimmed back at least two to three feet away from the perimeter of the unit at all times.

 

Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat

It’s hard to run your AC system efficiently when using an old-style, traditional thermostat. If you have to manually adjust the temperature up and down throughout the day, you’ll inevitably leave it on a setting that isn’t ideal for the situation at hand.

 

Switching to a programmable thermostat is a big upgrade for a modest cost. This type of thermostat will allow you to set different schedules for different days of the week, ensuring the AC runs when it is needed and rests when it isn’t. You might be surprised to find just how much energy you can save by making this simple change.

 

Upgrade Your AC Performance Today

There are many options available to get better performance out of your air conditioner. In some cases, AC repair in Greensboro NC will be called for, as a small fix could prove to make a big difference. In other cases, you might simply need to replace your system, in which case, it will be AC installation that is required. Whatever the case, Berico is the best option in the Greensboro area for any of these projects. Call now!

Can I Use Propane During a Power Outage?

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propane tankThe Greensboro area is no stranger to power outages. Given the powerful storms that sometimes roll through this area, the power grid does go down from time to time. When that happens, is it still okay to use your propane appliances? Will they work properly? This article will explore the answers to those important questions.

 

For help with anything related to Greensboro propane, working with Berico is the right way to go. Berico is the leader among propane suppliers in this area, so reach out at any time to schedule service.

 

Propane Can Be Reliable When the Grid Goes Down

To answer the title question, yes, many propane appliances can continue to be used when the power goes out. That’s not true for every single appliance, however, so the specifics will be discussed below.

 

The ability to use propane during a power outage is one of the big advantages of opting for this type of power source on your property. There are many other things to like about propane, of course, including safety, efficiency, and cost savings, but knowing that you can use some of your appliances during an outage offers some nice peace of mind.

 

What Propane Appliances Work in an Outage?

The key factor to understand with your propane appliances is whether or not they feature an electronic ignition system or use an electric blower. Naturally, if an appliance needs an electronic igniter to get started, it won’t be able to work during a power outage.

 

Fortunately, many common devices do typically work while the power is out. For example, a tank-style water heater that runs on propane will usually continue working. Likewise, if you have a propane fireplace that has a standing pilot light – or a battery-powered ignition – that feature should continue to function for you. Also, if you have a propane range in your kitchen, it may be possible to light it with a match and cook food for your family while waiting for the grid to come back online.

 

Keep These Safety Tips in Mind

It’s critically important that you never use outdoor propane appliances indoors. That means you should never bring a propane grill or heater into your house during a power outage, or at any other time. These types of appliances emit carbon monoxide and can only be used safely outdoors.

 

You should also know how to shut off your propane supply quickly and safely in the case of an emergency. Knowing where your shut-off valve is located is important information for everyone in the home to have, no matter what the status of the power grid is at the time.

 

Keep Your Tank Full

Reliable propane delivery can make your life in Greensboro much easier. Once you have Berico on your side to keep your propane tank filled up throughout the year, you can check that item off your to-do list and turn your attention toward other tasks. Take a moment today to get in touch and get started.

Why Is My AC Blowing Warm Air?

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It’s an unwelcome feeling to realize that your air conditioner is blowing warm air in the middle of a hot North Carolina summer. You have the AC on, of course, to cool your home down – only to find that it is doing exactly the opposite. What has gone wrong, and how can it be fixed? This article will take a closer look so you can start to search for answers.

To get help with heating and air conditioning issues in Greensboro from an expert team of pros, call Berico right away. The Berico team is experienced with all types of AC repairs and will be sure to get the cold air flowing again as soon as possible.

Check the Thermostat

You should always start with the simplest possible solution when dealing with HVAC problems. In this case, that means checking the thermostat to make sure it is set at the right level. If you have the thermostat set higher than you thought it was, the air coming out of the vents might not feel cool. Confirm that the settings are right before moving on to other potential issues.

A Dirty Air Filter Can Be a Problem

This is another simple solution that won’t require professional help. Take a look at your air filter and replace it if the surface looks dark and dirty. You can buy a new air filter for little money, and it only takes a matter of moments to put it into place. When a filter is dirty, it restricts airflow, which causes the AC to not work as effectively as it would otherwise.

Refrigerant Issues

The refrigerant that runs through your air conditioner is what allows it to actually cool the home. Without enough refrigerant to soak up heat, the AC won’t perform very well. If a leak has developed in your system that has allowed refrigerant to escape, performance is going to decline significantly. This is a situation that requires the help of a professional to address, so call in the Berico team right away to figure out what is going on.

How to Deal with the Problem

Having a water softener installed is the best way to deal with hard water. This is a device that is designed to pull excess minerals out of your water supply before they can do damage to your plumbing system. If you suspect that hard water is an issue for your home and your plumbing, call in a professional to have the water tested as a first step.

Compressor Failure

Another problem that will require professional help is a compressor failure. If the compressor that is part of the outdoor unit of your air conditioner isn’t working correctly, the whole system will be compromised. You might hear the system running, but it isn’t going to be cooling the air as usual. If the compressor has failed, it will need to be replaced by licensed pros before the air conditioner is going to get back to producing the cold air that you need to stay comfortable.

Get Comfortable Again

It’s hard to enjoy a Greensboro summer when you don’t have a cool, air-conditioned space to use when the heat gets too intense. Whether it’s repairs or AC installation, Berico can deliver the service you need for an excellent price. Reach out right away to get on the schedule as soon as possible.

How Long Should My AC Run Before Shutting Off?

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When an air conditioning system is running properly, it will go through cycles that last relatively consistent, regular intervals. When the thermostat triggers the AC, the system will come on, run for a while, and then turn off. As you live in a home with the same air conditioner for months and then years, you start to get used to those cycles, and you have a sense for how long they last. But what happens if those intervals don’t seem quite right? This page will discuss how long your AC should really be running and what to do if it gets off track.

For the best AC repair Burlington has to offer, take a moment now to call Berico and schedule an appointment to have your system inspected.

What’s a Normal AC Cycle?

In general, an air conditioner should run in cycles that last around 15-20 minutes. That will vary some depending on a number of factors, including the outdoor temperature and thermostat settings. It’s normal for the cycles to get a bit longer on a particularly hot day, for example. However, the cycling should remain pretty consistent as the unit comes on and off to keep the house at the desired temperature.

Reasons for Short Cycling

Short cycling is the term used to describe an air conditioner that is coming on and off far too regularly. When this occurs, the cycles might last just a few minutes – which really isn’t long enough to effectively control the temperature in the house.

There are a few issues that can cause short cycling. One is a clogged air filter. Without good airflow, the system will overheat and shut itself off for safety purposes. Also, if you have an air conditioner that is actually too large and powerful for your house, it will cool spaces too quickly and then shut off before the cycle is complete. Short cycling is a problem because it dramatically reduces energy efficiency and can lead to premature wear and tear on the system.

What If the AC Runs Constantly?

On the other end of the spectrum, it’s also a problem if your air conditioner just keeps running with no end in sight. This can stem from low refrigerant levels, an undersized AC unit, or dirty condenser coils. Also, the air conditioner might keep running and running if you have the thermostat set too low based on the conditions outside. In the middle of a heatwave, you can’t expect your home to stay nice and chilly all day long. In such a situation, just bumping up the thermostat setting by a few degrees can solve the problem right away.

No Time to Waste

It’s frustrating – and uncomfortable – to deal with hot North Carolina weather without a reliable air conditioning system to keep you cool. Whether you need a repair or Burlington AC replacement, the next step is the same. Get in touch with Berico today to get the help you need.