How Long Does an HVAC Fuse Last?

The lifespan of your HVAC unit is directly related to your unit’s fuse. The fuse interrupts the electrical current when issues arise, such as power surges or electoral overloads, keeping your HVAC unit safe. HVAC Fuses HVAC systems rely on a complex interplay of electrical components to function optimally. Fuses act as protective devices and prevent system damage from electrical faults. Fuses are used in the evaporator coils, motors, compressors, and wiring configurations. Without fuses, your HVAC system would become overloaded and break down. Fuse Lifespan Factors How long your fuse lasts depends on several factors: usage, quality of materials, and environmental conditions. Usage refers to how often you use your HVAC at home. Is it often overwhelmed with back-and-forth requests from hot to cold and back again? Do you run it 24/7 year round, or does it have breaks where the system is shut off? The more the system is used, the more wear-and-tear the fuse undergoes. The quality of materials used to make the fuse matters as well. Higher-quality materials mean a longer-lasting part. Environmental conditions refer to the type of environment your system is in. Is your HVAC system outside? That can make it more likely to...

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How to Choose Between a Furnace and a Heat Pump

If you’re looking for a new heating system for your Oak Harbor, WA, home, your choice may come down to a furnace or a heat pump. These are the two most efficient options and make up the majority of new heating systems sold today. If you don’t have any experience with one or both of these systems, you might not know how to choose between them. Here’s everything you need to know to choose between a furnace and a heat pump. The Pros and Cons of Furnaces Gas furnaces are the most common type of residential heating system in the U.S. Gas furnaces have a variety of advantages that make them a top option. For one, they rely on natural gas. This fuel source is plentiful and relatively inexpensive, making it easy to keep energy bills down. Plus, even a minimally-efficient gas furnace will still boast a 90% or greater efficiency rate. That means they convert the vast majority of the fuel they burn into usable heat for your home. Gas furnaces are also popular because of their relatively low up-front costs and excellent longevity. With proper maintenance, you can expect a gas furnace to last up to 30 years....

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Are There Ways to Make Holiday Heating More Efficient?

The holiday season comes with many concerns for homeowners. Whether guests visit during the winter season or the homeowner spends time by him/herself, there’s no escaping the cold weather. During harsh winter seasons, keeping a home heated at desired levels supports both comfort and safety. Cost considerations may arise, as running a furnace comes with unavoidable bills. In general, there are ways to heat a home “a little better.” Here are some ideas to think about. Avoid Clutter Near the Furnace When expecting guests, you may think about their safety and move objects out of the bathroom, living room, and other areas. Since few people may walk near or around the furnace, the area becomes a preferred spot for storage. That could turn out to be a drastic and dangerous mistake. Putting anything flammable near the furnace might turn into a tragedy, which is why cluttering the heater area seems like an awful plan. Better to be safe and keep the area clear of clutter. You’ll sleep easier for it. Put a New Filter Into the Furnace If the furnace’s filter is both old and dirty, putting a new one in its place seems advisable. An old furnace presents air...

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Is It Bad to Run My Heating System 24/7?

Is it safe to run a heating system without any breaks? The answer is usually yes. In fact, there are several benefits to 24/7 operation. The furnace will circulate air throughout the home and even out temperatures in the room. Here are some reasons to keep your heating system turned on throughout the winter months. Regulates Heating Temperatures For those with townhomes or multi-story homes, the warm air can rise to the upper levels. When that happens, you can be left with a hot upper level and a cold downstairs. You want to run your heating system to even out those temperatures. As the fan pulls back the warmer air, the ductwork will push that air to the lower levels. When the heating system runs 24/7, you can regulate temperatures all day long. Helps Clean the Air If anyone in your home has asthma or allergies, you want to have clean air pumping throughout the building. By running your heating system, you can effectively filter out the particles with continuous operation. The system will pull out those harmful elements to keep your air healthy and clean. May Extend Motor Life When the heating system’s motor stops and starts, it puts...

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