Bellevue WA Heating: Room Temperature Does Not Match Thermostat Setting

May 6th, 2013

Most of your heating and air conditioning system components are tucked away out of view, and you have little interaction with them. Your thermostat, however, is one of the most important parts of your HVAC system, and by far the component that you have the most face time with. When you are unable to operate your thermostat successfully, it can be quite frustrating. The Bellevue, WA heating professionals at Sound Heating & Air Conditioning know that you depend on your thermostat year round to accurately control temperatures in your home. Here are a few reasons why the temperature in your home may not match that of your thermostat setting.

If your thermostat is not able to accurately read the temperature in your home, it will not be able to regulate it properly either. It is possible that your thermostat is dirty inside, which can affect its reading of the temperature. Remove the cover on your thermostat, and use a soft brush to gently remove and dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated therein.

It is also possible that some corrosion has taken place within your thermostat. If this is the case, the electrical contacts in the thermostat may not be operating properly. By using an electronic contact cleaner you can resolve this problem in some cases. If the thermostat is outdated anyway, though, you may just want to consider replacing it.

The installation of your thermostat is very important in determining the success of its operation. If your thermostat is too close to the ground, or is located close to windows or in direct sunlight, it may not operate properly. Make sure that your thermostat is in an area that is actually indicative of the true temperature in the room. For more tips on using your thermostat properly, give us a call.

At Sound Heating, our Bellevue WA heating technicians have the answers to any thermostat questions you may have. Contact us today to learn more. Get the best performance possible from your air conditioning and heating equipment by communicating with it successfully. A great thermostat is integral to achieving that goal.

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Auburn WA Heating Tip: What are the Benefits of Installing a Heat Pump

April 30th, 2013

Homeowners throughout the Auburn, WA area are always looking for ways to improve their energy efficiency. As we transition into a different season of the year that presents its own challenges to our indoor comfort, you may be in the market to replace your current heating system. While furnaces, boilers, and radiant heating all have their advantages, the heat pump remains one of the most comprehensive home comfort options available. Whatever type of system you choose, however, remember that the most important part of the process is its installation, which should be carried out by a certified technician. Speak to an Auburn WA heating professional at Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn more about your options.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of installing a heat pump in your home:

  • Versatility. Most heating systems are only able to work during part of the year to keep your home comfortable. What makes the heat pump special is its versatility. It has an indoor and outdoor unit, and works a lot like an air conditioner. It harnesses the thermal energy of the outdoor air, even in low temperatures, to heat your home. But it can also cool your home during the summer by reversing the flow of coolant. This makes it into a comprehensive, year-round option for ensuring that your home is comfortable no matter what the outside temperature is.
  • Energy efficiency. While furnaces and boilers can use natural gas to heat your home, a heat pump uses electrical energy, making it one of the most energy efficient types of heating available today. For example, the York Affinity™ YZH is up to 60% more energy efficient thanks to its two-stage compressor technology.
  • Ground-source capability. A ground-source heat pump, also known as a geothermal system, uses the moderate temperature of the earth to heat and cool your home. An underground piping system is installed in a loop beneath the ground near your home, and a refrigerant circulates through it, transferring the cold air out of your home, and sending heated air throughout the ductwork.

For more information about heat pumps and how they might improve your home, call the Auburn, WA heating experts at Sound Heating & Air Conditioning. Call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today!

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Tacoma WA Air Conditioning: How To Prepare Your Air Conditioner For Summer

April 23rd, 2013

As the temperature slowly begins to rise in Tacoma, WA, it’s finally starting to feel like spring, and fairly soon we’ll be well into the cooling season. Now is a great time to ensure that your AC works well. If you haven’t already fired it up, then make sure you do before too long. Discovering any issues early can prevent headaches later on. Our customers often want to know how they should prepare their AC systems for the upcoming summer. While there are various types of cooling systems on the market, there are some general actions to take if you want to maximize your AC’s performance this year. For more information, or to schedule excellent Tacoma, WA air conditioning services, call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today!

  • Enroll in a preventive maintenance program. Prevention is the key to lasting performance. If you want to ensure that your air conditioner can thrive during even the hottest temperatures, make sure you enroll in a maintenance program, if you haven’t already. There’s no substitute for professional care. With professional inspection, cleaning, and tune-ups, your AC will be in good hands for the years to come.
  • Change your air filter on a regular basis. We can’t emphasize this simple task enough. Far too many air conditioning systems have been ruined as a result of neglecting this key duty. By regularly changing your air filter, you are making sure that your system components are fully protected against particles of air that enter your home. Also, when an air filter becomes clogged or dirty, it can begin to impede airflow, which can reduce the performance and energy efficiency of your system, and may even cause system damage.
  • Install a programmable thermostat. This cost-effective upgrade can help you save on your energy bill during the cooling season. It will also give you a way to schedule temperature changes that match your work schedule, so that you can save energy without sacrificing your comfort.

These are just a few of the things you can do to get prepared for the cooling season this summer. For more information, or to schedule exceptional Tacoma air conditioning services, call the experts at Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today!

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Bellevue WA Heating: Frequently Asked Heating Questions

April 15th, 2013

A professionally installed and maintained heater is a technological marvel. Today’s furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps are highly efficient, and they perform well under even the coldest winter temperatures. But homeowners throughout the Bellevue, WA area often ask about their home heating systems. We understand that you probably have some questions and concerns about how your heater operates. We believe a well-informed client is a good thing: it allows you to identify problems before they become serious, and it gives you some info to impress your friends and family. We’d like to address some frequently asked heating questions in this post. For more information, or to schedule a Bellevue WA heating service, contact the experts at Sound Heating today!

  • What is a programmable thermostat? If you haven’t yet taken advantage of a digital programmable thermostat, then you’re missing out on fully customizable temperature control as well as improved energy efficiency, up to $180 per year, according to the EPA. A programmable thermostat is not only more accurate, but it allows you to create a schedule for your heating and cooling systems, so that you don’t pay for unnecessary energy usage while staying comfortable.
  • Is there anything I can do to maintain my heater? Yes! You can start by cleaning and replacing your air filter at least once a month during the peak heating season. The air filter is responsible for preventing dust and debris accumulation, both of which can negatively impact the efficiency and effectiveness of your heater. You can also make sure to keep and the area surrounding your heater clean and clear.
  • What’s a heat pump? A heat pump is a highly efficient heat transfer machine. Unlike a furnace, the heat pump draws on the ambient thermal energy of the outside air, which is available even during cold temperatures. It works just like an air conditioner, except that instead of only being able to remove heat from your home, it also works the other way. However, it can become inefficient at temperatures below 35°, so people often pair a furnace with a heat pump to maximize performance and efficiency.

To reach a Bellevue, WA heating specialist, feel free to contact Sound Heating today!

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Lakewood WA Heating Tip: What To Do Before You Shut Down Your Heater In The Spring

April 8th, 2013

As we enter the spring months, many homeowners have already started to think about how to keep their homes cool this summer. That’s important, and we’re glad you’re thinking ahead. But before jumping into the cooling season, there are some things to consider when shutting down your heater this spring. We often get asked what to do to make sure that the heater is in good working order when you return to it next fall. In this post, we’d like to advise you on just that topic. For more information about Lakewood heating, call Sound Heating today!

Let’s look at a few things you can do before shutting down your heater for the spring:

  • Clean the outdoor unit of your heat pump. If you rely on the reliable year-round service of a heat pump, then it’s imperative that you ready your heat pump for cooling. Make sure to consult with a professional about adjusting the reversing valve for cooling. Also, clean the area around your outdoor compressor/condenser—it may be filled with organic debris and it requires proper airflow to operate effectively and efficiently.
  • Replace the air filter. If you have a forced air distribution system, you should check the air filter. The air filter is there to prevent pollutants and contaminants from entering your ductwork and flowing through your indoor living space. Even if you made a habit of regularly replacing it during the peak heating season, it’s a good time to make sure you’re on the right food come the next heating season.
  • Schedule a professional inspection. Routine maintenance is the key to preventing major and costly repairs, to extending the life of your heater, and to ensuring that it is primed for the next heating season. If you haven’t already enrolled in a heating maintenance program, start today and take advantage of professional inspection, cleaning, adjustments, and tune-ups.

Taking care of your heating and cooling systems is a year-round task. But it doesn’t have to be difficult. If you’d rather enjoy your heating than be bothered to ensure it is operating properly, consider enrolling in a professional maintenance program. For more information about our Lakewood, WA heating services, call Sound Heating today!

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Auburn WA Heating FAQ: What Type of Indoor Air Quality Equipment Can Be Installed with My Heater?

April 1st, 2013

A heating system that you can rely on during the coldest nights of the year is an important component of any home in Auburn, WA. Comfortable temperatures, though, while important, are not the only factor that you must consider when keeping your home comfortable. At Sound Heating we know that it is just as important that you are able maintain high indoor air quality in your home. There are many indoor air quality products that you can use in conjunction with your heating system to keep your home as comfortable as possible. Contact the Auburn heating technicians at Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn more.

One of the most basic ways to improve indoor air quality is through air filtration. While your heating system comes with a factory installed air filter that must be changed regularly, this filter cannot be relied upon to improve indoor air quality. It is not efficient enough to do so, but is rather designed to protect your heating system itself from dirt and debris. By installing a more efficient air filter you can remove dirt, dander and other pollutants from the air circulated throughout your home by the ductwork of your heating system. Keep your home warm and comfortable without worrying about what else is traveling throughout the system.

An energy recovery ventilator is another great indoor air quality product that can be used with our home heating system. It is natural, during the heating season, to want to seal up your home as tightly as possible. After all, you do not want the air you have paid to heat escaping to the outdoors. However, sealing your home up too tightly can cause air to go stale due to a lack of ventilation. By ventilating your home and recovering heat that would be lost in the process otherwise, an energy recovery ventilator allows you to keep your air quality high and fresh without sacrificing comfort or efficiency.

For more information about how to improve indoor air quality in your home, call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ll make sure that you are able to enjoy high indoor air quality throughout the Auburn, WA heating season. Contact us today to learn more.

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Seattle Air Quality Tip: Advantages of Steam Humidifiers

March 18th, 2013

Many homeowners in Seattle are increasingly concerned about the quality of the air in their homes. Whether it’s mold, bacteria, dust, pollen, dander, or other foreign debris, controlling what kinds of particles circulate through your home can be challenging to say the least. But one complaint that stands out among the rest is low humidity levels. Dry air can often be difficult to breathe, can result in skin irritation, and can slow healing. Ensuring that you have the appropriate levels of humidity in your home is critical to your health and comfort. Steam humidifiers make a great addition to any home. For more information, or for humidifier installation in Seattle, WA, call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today!

A steam humidifier works by boiling water until it’s vaporized and then sending it circulating it through your home by means of a tube inside your ductwork. They are quiet and easy to maintain. While a standard power humidifier works by blowing your hot air over wet pads or cells, they can often reduce airflow and create bacteria problems. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of a steam humidifier:

  • Cleanliness. Because water needs to reach boiling point in order to vaporize, steam humidification is the cleanest of its kind. This means less risk of increased bacteria levels in your home.
  • Comfort. The appropriate level of humidity in your home makes it comfortable. By installing a steam humidifier, the dry air in your home will change into moist air that seems to make breathing easier. This can help to improve your sleeping habits, allow your sinuses to heal, and reduce skin irritation.
  • Good health. Customers who suffer from respiratory problems or other health concerns may be adversely affected by dry air. Steam humidification boosts the natural healing process by adjusting to the appropriate amount of humidity. Dry air conditions can be intolerable, especially for the elderly and the very young.

Low humidity levels in the air can negatively impact your health at home. Make sure that your air is comfortable with a steam humidifier. For comprehensive indoor air quality services in Seattle, call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning today!

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Tacoma WA Air Conditioning Tip: When to Schedule Spring Maintenance for Your AC System?

March 11th, 2013

At Sound Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer comprehensive air conditioning maintenance service in Tacoma, WA. One of the main services we offer is an annual tune-up for your air conditioner or heat pump. It is a good idea to schedule this service in the spring, before the hot weather gets here and when you have to use your air conditioning system the most. This helps to ensure that any known issues are handled before your turn on your AC so that your system doesn’t break down in the middle of a heat wave.

During one of these routine tune-ups, here are some of the basic tasks that our technicians will provide:

  • Clean condenser coil
  • Check and tighten electrical connections
  • Check for oil and refrigerant leaks
  • Test safety features and efficiency levels
  • Inspect blower belt
  • Inspect expansion valve and coil temperatures
  • Replace or clean air filter
  • Check refrigerant level and charge if necessary
  • Check condensate drain for clogs
  • Lubricate moving parts as needed

In addition to these basic tasks, we also give advice on how to properly operate your air conditioning system, including the thermostat. We can also show you how to do basic maintenance tasks and keep your system clean. We give customers who sign our service contract priority service under certain conditions, including your agreement to operate the AC system according to our instructions. It’s also important that you notify us as soon as you notice anything unusual about your air conditioner, whether it’s a strange noise or poor performance.

Another reason to schedule tune-ups in the spring is that it will help to ensure that your AC system is working at optimal efficiency levels. If not our Tacoma air conditioning specialists can give some tips or pinpoint areas of improvement, such as installing a programmable thermostat or insulating parts of your home.

Call Sound Heating & Air Conditioning for your next Tacoma, WA air conditioning service and tune-up!

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Tacoma WA Heating FAQ: How Efficient is a Hydronic System?

March 8th, 2013

Here at Sound Heating, we often get asked about hydronic heating systems in Tacoma, WA. For people that have forced-air systems like furnaces and heat pumps, the idea of hydronic heating is very interesting. There are definitely distinct advantages that hydronic heating systems, like boilers, enjoy over furnaces and heat pumps. But how efficient are boilers really? At Sound Heating, we offer comprehensive heating services, including heating repair in Tacoma, WA and heating installation. We wanted to help shed some like on hydronic heating and help out our customers in the area.

What Is Hydronic Heating?

Hydronic heating is the use of hot water to heat your home. Common hydronic heating systems including hot water radiators, under-floor heating and wall heating systems. The systems usually include a large boiler where the water is heated (not boiled) and a pump that pushes the water through the pipes to the rest of the house.

Difference Between Forced-Air Heating and Hydronic Heating

Forced air systems use convection to heat your home: your furnace draws in air, heats it up and then circulates it through your home. Hydronic heating systems use heat radiation to heat your home. Heat radiates out from the radiators in your rooms or from the pipes in the floor. Thus, hydronic heating systems actually heat the objects in the room instead of heating the air.

 How Efficient is a Hydronic Heating System?

Hydronic heating systems do offer homeowners some energy advantages over forced-air systems. One of the main advantages is that radiant heat is easier to retain in a space than convective heat. This allows hydronic heating systems to use less energy to keep your home warm. Also, many hydronic heating systems feature zone control. This allows you to only heat the rooms in your home that you’re using instead of wasting energy heating other, unoccupied rooms.

If you have any questions about hydronic heating installation in Tacoma, WA call Sound Heating. We have years of experience installing all kinds of heating systems—including forced-air and hydronic systems. Contact Sound Heating today!

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Olympia WA Heating FAQ: What are the most efficient heating options?

March 5th, 2013

Energy prices never seem to go down which is why many homeowners are looking for new and creative ways to reduce the amount energy that they use in their homes. Getting a new heating system is a great way to potentially reduce your heating bills because new systems are typically much more efficient than older ones. Contact the Olympia WA heating experts at Sound Heating if you’re interested in getting a new heating system. We thought it would be helpful if we put together a quick list of some of the most efficient heating systems on the market.

Forced Air Heating Systems

Forced-air systems like furnaces and heat pumps are extremely popular across the country. They are able to provide very efficient and comfortable heating. Furnaces are given an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating that describes how much of the fuel they consume is actually turned into heat. Many older furnaces had an AFUE rating of about 60%, meaning that they wasted the other 40%. New furnaces can have up to 98% AFUE ratings which is a huge improvement. Heat pumps, on the other hand are normally even more efficient than furnaces because they don’t actually burn fuel to create heat. Instead, they just move heat from one place to another. Their heating mode has an efficiency rating called a Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) that describes how much heat they produce over a season divided by the energy that they consume. Heat pumps also include geothermal heat pumps which use the energy of the ground or the water to provide heating and cooling as well. These systems are even more efficient than standard air-source heat pumps.

Hydronic Heating Systems

Unlike forced-air systems, hydronic heating systems like boilers use heated water to provide heat to your home. They typically use a series of pipes in the floor, walls or baseboards to produce heat. This kind of heat is also called radiant heat. Many homeowners have reported that radiant heat is actually more comfortable than forced-air heat. Because of how radiant works, homeowners can typically set their thermostats a few degrees lower to remain comfortable. This could potentially reduce the amount of energy that you use in your home for heating.

For all your Olympia, WA heating repair and installation needs, contact Sound Heating today.

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