Oasis Heating, A/C & Refrigeration Blog : Posts Tagged ‘Tips’

Here’s How Often You Should Change Your HVAC System’s Air Filter

Tuesday, February 28th, 2017

Regular professional maintenance is a job you must schedule twice a year for your residential HVAC system: once in the spring for the air conditioner, and once more in fall for the heater. But between these times, there’s a key maintenance chore you need to take care of on your own, which is to change out the air filter on the AC/heat pump/furnace. If you neglect this task, the filter will rapidly become clogged and start to cut off airflow into the system. This will mean a drop in energy efficiency and possible repair troubles in the future. If left long enough, a clogged air filter can even shorten the lifespan of an HVAC system.

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Shutting Down the Furnace for Warmer Weather

Monday, February 27th, 2017

girl-welcomes-in-spring-weatherFirst thing’s first: we aren’t out of the woods yet when it comes to cold weather. Last week saw some warmer days here in Northern Virginia, but March is notorious for the way it can take sudden turns and hurl chilly weather our way. You may still need to have your home’s furnace running a few more days before it’s time to settle in for a pleasant spring and hot summer.

However, this is the time of year to start making plans for the change from heating season to cooling season. One of the most important steps to take is to arrange for a spring maintenance visit from our HVAC experts to see that your AC is ready to go to work when necessary. Signing up for a maintenance contract with us means benefits for both your cooling and heating.

We also recommend taking steps to shut down your furnace. This means doing more than simply stopping use of the furnace! You’ll save energy and help keep the furnace in the best possible shape if you follow these steps:

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Is Radiant Heating Right for My Home?

Sunday, January 22nd, 2017

There are many different types of heating systems in Alexandria, VA homes, many more options are available today beyond boilers and gas furnaces. A option you might want to consider is radiant heating systems, which warm your home directly through the floorboards. Radiant heating offers a number of advantages, including lower monthly bills and less wasteful heating: no small concerns for a homeowner with his or her eye on the bottom line. Even so, radiant heating isn’t always the best fit for everyone. Houses are unique, and each one needs a system that fits its particular needs.

For starters, radiant heating entails a fairly hefty installation cost. Because it adds tubes or electrical coils beneath your floors, there is a considerable disruption of your household entailed as well, and while you may reap the benefits in lower monthly bills and an improved resale value for your home, such an undertaking may not be right for you or your family at this particular moment. This is especially true if you have an existing duct system or similar apparatus that doesn’t exhibit any real problems.

On the other hand. hydronic radiant heating systems are known for providing consistent, reliable heat. As opposed to a furnace or heat pump, which goes through on and off cycles to keep your home warm, the radiant floor can remain a steady temperature all day. As a result, many people find it more comfortable than central heating. It is also a great choice for people with allergies, as it doesn’t circulate airborne pollutants through air ducts as central heating systems do.

Radiant heating works well for many types of homes and can be a perfect fit for you.  The Alexandria, VA heating experts at OASIS Heating, A/C & Refrigeration, Inc. can provide sound advice on the type of heating system that works for you, and perform installation and repairs with efficiency and care. Pick up the phone and call us today. You’ll be glad that you did!

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The Best Thermostat Settings for the Winter

Wednesday, January 11th, 2017

A few weeks ago, we wrote a post about why it’s a good idea to upgrade to a programmable thermostat. This week, we’re going to look at how to put that programmable thermostat to best use. The finest technology in the world can still result in energy waste if it isn’t handled correctly. Here’s the way to handle your programmable thermostat during the winter so that your family members receive the comfort they needs without creating needless energy drain.

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Protecting Your Indoor Air Quality in Any Season

Wednesday, January 4th, 2017

Virginia winters aren’t as bad as in some of other parts of the country, but you’ll still need a heater running during a good portion of the season to stay warm. But cold isn’t the only issue you’ll run into during the season: indoor air quality often declines during the winter. Spring isn’t the only period when allergy and asthma from air pollutants pose a problem.

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