The average lifespan of a central A/C is 12-15 years, and as yours ages, you’ll start to see higher operating costs, decreased cooling capacity and frequent repair bills. Upgrading air conditioning is a major investment, and if you want to get the greatest benefit, it needs to be done right.

It’s starting to warm up outside and that means it’s almost time to turn your A/C units back on. Like any piece of machinery, you should make sure it is in tip top condition before you flip the switch. Whether you utilize a central air conditioning system or room air conditioners, a little bit of basic maintenance and preventative care will help ensure your system will keep you nice and cool throughout the hot and humid months ahead.

In a world where airborne pollutants are hard to avoid, homeowners are growing increasingly concerned about indoor air quality. Your Sarasota area home should be a place where your entire family can relax and feel safe, but if your family members are being bombarded with indoor allergens and pollutants, you will lose that feeling of safety. Whole-house air-cleaning systems can help you breathe free again, but before you invest in one, you should understand the four basic types.

During the winter, the cost of heating your Sarasota area home can be surprisingly high, considering our southwest Florida climate. If your home’s attic insulation is insufficient for the climate or installed improperly, you may be spending more than you need on both heating and cooling costs. With the following tips, you can find out if you have enough insulation and how to add more, if necessary.

Over time, dust and debris can build up in your ductwork. This can limit airflow and cause your furnace to work harder to heat your home. This dirt and dust can also be blown into your home, causing respiratory and allergy problems. Cleaning ducts helps eliminate air flow obstructions and air quality concerns.

As a Florida homeowner, it’s important to regularly schedule important maintenance checkups for your HVAC system. When you make a large investment in a new heating and cooling system, you’ll want to have it installed and cared for by a trusted HVAC contractor who will help to ensure everything is working properly. Here we’ll take a look at what you can expect during your next visit.

Sure, brand-new energy efficient HVAC equipment will help you save energy. However, there are plenty of affordable ways to save energy at home without purchasing a single thing. We’ve put together a list of six things you and your family can do to conserve energy, improve whole-home comfort and save money on your monthly utility bills.

If you’ve been shopping around for a new furnace, you’ve probably run across the term “two-stage heating.” This comfort-enhancing feature is worth getting familiar with because it’s especially useful in west central Florida’s mild climate.

With winter weather underway, it pays to have your furnace looked at by a qualified heating contractor. Not only will it help maximize the life of your furnace, but you’ll also save money on your energy bills by having a well-maintained and properly functioning furnace. Such inspections vary in cost, but it’s not difficult to find a trustworthy contractor who can carry out an inspection at an affordable price.

A programmable thermostat is a vital component of a home that is energy efficient. With such a device, you can set your schedule and ensure that the air conditioner, heat pump or heater is not running the whole time when you are gone for the day or sleeping at night. Understanding the features of programmable thermostats and how you can incorporate those features into your day-to-day life will help you make the most out of this investment.

If you find yourself with furnace trouble this winter, troubleshooting furnace problems is possible—and smart—before you call a trusted HVAC professional. Where you’ll want to start depends on what problem you’re having.

With the hot months of summer behind us, homeowners in southwestern Florida can now start shifting gears from keeping their houses cool and energy bills low to other household issues. However, they may overlook a major but invisible threat that can cause long-term health problems.