heating system

How to Get the Most Out of Your Heating System

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The last thing you want to happen in the winter time is to have your furnace go out. Keeping your furnace clean and operating properly can improve its longevity and ensure that you won’t have any worries this winter.

According to Forbes, there are a few things you can do to improve your heating system. Unless your system is brand new, you should have trained professionals clean and inspect it annually. A well-trained technician will make sure that your system is clean and running efficiently.

You should also always make safety a priority. Some furnaces are in the basement, and people have a tendency to have stuff pile up down there. Make sure there is a clear area around your furnace to avoid any fire hazards.

Having HVAC Issues? Find a Contractor Near You Today.

A great way to save money on your heating or AC bills is to install a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats let you control the temperature during certain times of the day, so when you aren’t home during the day, you can keep the house cooler in winter or warmer in the summer and save some money.

Changing your filters is also a great way to keep your forced air furnace running smoothly. In most cases you can change your furnace filter yourself, check to see if yours is dirty or dusty, change it as required. Clogged filters can lead to an inefficient system, higher energy consumption, and premature breakdowns.

Our contractors will ensure that your heating system is working correctly, safely and efficiently. If you have any other questions about your HVAC system, we can answer them.

SMART Contractors Provide Our Customers With The Best Possible Service.

diy hvac

DIY HVAC Solutions: Do’s and Don’ts

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HVAC systems are undoubtedly an essential part of our everyday lives, but we often forget that they are systems composed of intricate moving parts.

Poorly functioning or broken down HVAC systems can definitely be frustrating, but before impulsively deciding to remedy the issue yourself, consider first what you can and can’t do. While there are issues that you can certainly handle independently, there are others that are best left out of your hands and into those of a skilled professional.

 

Don’t

  • Attempt to replace existing parts or install new ones

Not every HVAC is built the same, so it’s unwise to assume that any two parts are exactly alike. Further, any given part may not serve the purpose that a website lists. It’s best to have your system’s parts examined by a licensed technician so that they can meet the needs of your specific unit.

  • Handle electrical connections

Electric currents that run through HVAC systems have high voltages. Attempting to tighten or disconnect electrical wires could result in a serious accident.

  • Handle refrigerant chemicals

While it may seem easy to fix a refrigerant leak, to err on the side of caution, call a professional to handle this. Exposure to refrigerant chemicals can cause frostbite, respiratory problems, and skin irritation. They are also very harmful to the environment and should be disposed of properly.

  • Attempt to clean coil fins

These parts of your system are actually more fragile than you think. Using the wrong appliance to could result in damage.

See Our Checklist to Make Sure Your HVAC System is in Good Shape

 

Do

  • Check your thermostat

While this may seem obvious, this could be your easiest and quickest solution and should be examined first. Try adjusting the temperature or changing the batteries.

  • Check your fuse box

An HVAC system might be broken down, but it could be in perfect working condition. Make sure that your fuse box is working properly before attempting to fix the system itself.

  • De-clutter the area surrounding your unit

This fix is easy enough. Head to your backyard and dust or vacuum the blower wheel on top of your system. For good measure, remove any leaves or furniture that could be crowding the condenser.

  • Change the air filters

Air filters should be changed on a monthly basis. This can improve air quality and flow in your home or business.

 

Think your HVAC system has an issue that you shouldn’t handle alone? Make an appointment with us today.

Noisy Furnace

Noisy Furnace? Read This.

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Yes, we know you’re trying to hold on to the last bits of semi-warm weather before the fall temperatures come in full effect – but it’s time to “think fall” for your HVAC units.

The last time you used your furnace was probably early spring, right? So who really knows the condition of your furnace at the moment?

First, we recommend running your furnace. 79 degrees or higher is an ideal temperature to run when making sure your furnace is working properly.

And while you’re running your furnace, the most important thing to do is to check for sounds. This will be the key factor in knowing whether your furnace needs to be repaired or replaced.

Noisy Furnace

The best way to know if your furnace needs to be repaired or replaced is by having a SMART technician stop by before cooler weather sets in. Reach out today.

Fall 2016 HVAC Checklist

Fall 2016 HVAC Checklist

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With Chicago getting its first wave of fall-like weather this week, it’s time to prepare your HVAC units for the coziest time of year.

Fall 2016 HVAC Checklist

1. Check Your Air Filters
Be sure you know the condition of your air filters to determine whether they need to be cleaned or fully replaced. And the cleaner you keep your air filters, the lower your energy costs will be. Monthly cleanings are ideal as dust and debris tend to build up during cooler months.

2. Clear Your Airways
Just as your air filters can collect dust and debris, so can your airways. To get the most out of your heat, clear these on a regular basis.

3. Make Sure Your DUCTS Are in a Row

Another way to get the most out of your heating system – lean in and listen for any escaping air from your air ducts. Take it even further by getting a pressure test performed by a professional, and you can be certain your ducts are in the best shape for the fall.

Get Your HVAC Units Fall Ready.

4. Test Your Thermostat
No need for surprises when the time comes to heat up your home. Test out the heat before it becomes cold at least once. A temperature of 79 degrees or above will ensure that your thermostat is working properly.

5. Do a Mechanic Check
Be sure that the essential parts that help your HVAC run, like electrical connections, burner, belts, and exchangers, are working correctly. Without doing so, you can put your home at risk for an electrical fire.

6. Schedule an Appointment with a Professional
The most important tip of all! We recommend that you schedule an appointment before any extreme weather changes.

With a five-year apprenticeship program, our SMART technicians are equipped with the best knowledge and skillset to take care of any of your HVAC needs.

Be smart – schedule your fall maintenance check with us today.

Fundamentals of HVAC

The Fundamentals of HVAC

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In order to use and save on your heating and cooling systems efficiently, understanding the fundamentals of HVAC is key.

Why is it important to understand HVAC?

45% of your energy bill is spent on heating and cooling. This equates to an average of $2,000 annually.

In this case, it’s important to understand heating and cooling units’ cycles, as well as how ventilation plays a role in keeping these costs down and keeping your units running for as long as possible.

Cooling

The Cooling Cycle

  • Your AC recycles the air that is currently in your home and repurposes it into cooler air.
  • Freon, the cooling agent, cools your entire home.
  • The cycle completes once the temperature you set is reached.

Learn more about your HVAC systems

Heating

The Heating Cycle

  • Your furnace draws outside air into a cabinet.
  • The outside air enters a cold-air return and then goes through a heat exchanger.
  • The heated air is then pushed and circulated around the room through the blower.

How to Save on Heating and Cooling

  • Adjusting your thermostat rather than completely shutting it off will help your units recycle air quicker and preserve energy.
  • Have your home properly sealed and insulated to preserve air and prevent it from escaping.
  • Making sure your AC doesn’t have leaks will help Freon cool your home easier.

Other Important Tips to Help You Save

  • Pay attention to the SEER ratings for an efficient system. The higher the SEER rating, the better.
  • Maintain your units regularly. Have them serviced two to three times a year and before extremely hot and cold periods of the season hit.
  • Change your filters on a monthly basis.

Ventilation

When referring to HVAC, ventilation is the process that produces quality air flow. Using ventilation tools is just as important to helping you save.

Mechanical Ventilation

  • This comes from fans. This type of ventilation uses outside air and reuses it to make fresh air circulate around the area.

Natural Ventilation

  • This would come from open windows and doors. This type of ventilation is beneficial as it allows the home to rid itself of pollutants that can build up over time.

The best way to save is to understand and maintain your HVAC units. And when it’s time to service your units, you know who to contact.

smart thermostat

Taking the Best Care of Your Thermostat (Infographic)

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With all the tips and tricks dedicated to maintaining your system and keeping your energy costs low, it can sometimes be challenging to keep up with them all.

One very simple step to remember is to monitor your thermostat.

First, here’s what you should know about your thermostat:

Why should you care about your thermostat?
Heating and cooling your home costs about 54% of your utility bills.

The more strategic you are in using and monitoring your thermostat, the more you can decrease this percentage.

Here are the steps to take when monitoring your thermostat:

  1. Adjust the temperature when you’re in and out of your home.
    Take note of the 3% you can save on your energy costs for adjusting air conditioning temperatures accordingly.

Best Care of Your Thermostat

Make sure your HVAC units are ready for every season.

  1. Get a programmable thermostat.
    Not only will this make adjusting temperatures throughout the day much easier, but the newest versions come with user-friendly touch screens and even mobile applications that allow you to monitor your thermostat from the palm of your hand.
  • Pick the right thermostat.
    You have four options of programmable thermostats to choose from. Make sure you choose the one that will best complement your lifestyle.
  • 7-Day Programming: Program a different schedule for each day of the week. Best for people with fluctuating schedules.
  • 5-1-1 Programming: Program three schedules – one for Monday through Friday, one for Saturday, and one for Sunday. This is best if you have a consistent schedule for weekdays and fluctuating schedules on Saturdays and Sundays.
  • 5-2 Programming: Program two schedules – one for Monday through Friday and one for Saturday and Sunday. This is best if you have a consistent schedule during the weekdays and weekends.
  • 1-Week Programming: Program one schedule for the entire week. Best for those that spend the majority of their time at home.

Keep in mind that these schedules will need to be adjusted when the season changes.

Here are some other thermostat tips to keep in mind:

  • Program your thermostat to turn on 20 to 30 minutes before you come home.
  • Lower your thermostat 60 minutes before bedtime.
  • Increase your thermostat 30 minutes before waking up.

Taking the best care of your thermostat with these tips is a very efficient way to save on your energy costs. Making sure your HVAC systems are up-to-par will help you save, too. We can help with that – give us a try.

Air Ducts

Do You Have Your DUCTS in a Row?

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Your air ducts play an important role in your home’s air quality. However, if you’re not an HVAC technician, it may be challenging to figure out the right time to maintain them. With this handy guide, you’ll not only learn how to take care of your air ducts, but you’ll learn what they are, their importance to the HVAC world and how maintaining them can benefit your health.

What You Should Know About Air Ducts

#1: What is an air duct?
An air duct is a metal pipe that carries cold and hot air through the vents within your home.  

#2: Why should you care about your air ducts?
Inefficient air ducts, such as those that leak, can heavily waste energy. If pollutants like mold, dust, and bacteria build up within them, they can irritate allergies, cause respiratory issues, and bring about other health concerns.

The Stats

  • Up to 40 pounds of dust can collect in your home annually
  • The debris collected in your ductwork can circulate up to 5 to 7 times a day in your home
  • 70% of indoor air is more polluted than air from the outdoors

Make sure your air DUCTS are in line.

Air Duct Maintenance

#3: How do you know when it’s time to maintain your air ducts?

  • If your furnace runs with a “musty” or “stale” odor
  • Dust builds up on your furniture quicker than usual
  • You have pets, especially those that shed a lot
  • Your HVAC system uses a throw-away filter

#4: How often should you clean your air ducts?

  • Air ducts should be cleaned every 2 to 5 years

#5: What does the process look like?

  • A system inspection (including a look at your air ducts)
  • A hose and pipe combination is connected to your system
  • Vents are completely covered
  • The system is vacuumed until debris-free
  • Compressed air is flushed through system
  • Parts within reach will be cleaned

Cleaning your air ducts is important to the cleanliness of your home and most importantly, your health. Keep them maintained by the technicians that know your air ducts best.

AC Over Time

The Advancement of AC Over Time

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Do you ever think about a time before air conditioning?

It’s tough – we know. Fathomable or not, there was once a time when this glorious invention didn’t exist.

So, what creative approaches did people take to stay cool back in the day? Thanks to a few handy sources, we’ve found some very interesting past solutions to beat the heat and the interesting development of AC over time.

Our ancestors used to:

  • Have their homes built on hilltops to catch the breeze.
  • Strategically place their windows on opposite ends of each other with a door between them to produce a steady flow of cool wind.
  • Use ice water-soaked sheets and have air blown over them to create cold air.
  • Sleep on their porch at night.
  • Have attic fans installed. (The most effective approach of them all, right?)

Here are some more interesting approaches specifically for homes:

  • Trees. We often think of trees as just shade for outdoors, but that wasn’t the case in earlier days. People would strategically plant trees on the east or west side of their home, (this being where the sun rises and falls), to block out the sun.
  • Transom and Double-Hung Windows. Transom windows sit above doors, which allow hot air to rise upstairs. Double-hung windows allow you to let heat out from the top opening during the day and let cool air in from the bottom opening at night.
  • Reflective Roofs. Using light colored, reflective material to build rooftops made for a significant decrease in the heat absorbed into the home.

Have an expert cool your home.

And lastly, here are some notable breakthroughs in air conditioning:

  • In 1904, mechanical cooling was used to cool the World Fair’s Missouri State Building.
  • In 1922, the first well-designed cooling unit, using a technology called centrifugal cooling, was installed in movie theaters.
  • In 1929, a smaller cooling unit was produced but was modified between 1930 and 1931 to create a self-contained room cooler.
  • By the 1960s, new homes were built with air conditioning.
  • As of present day, air conditioning is now found in over 87% of homes.

From strategically placed homes and windows, to cooling units being available in establishments, to now being available anywhere, air conditioning is here to stay. We project that the industry will continue to shift towards greener HVAC solutions, and we’ll be analyzing this trend every step of the way.

Learn more about your modern day air conditioning solutions – give us a try.

Chris James' Ironman Triathlon

Apprentice by Day, Triathlete by Night

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“I’m in love with helping people, especially with raising money for breast cancer research.”

It’s not every day that you meet some like Chris James. A dedicated apprentice, an experienced athlete, and a caretaker for breast cancer.

Meet Chris.

Chris James' Ironman Triathlon

This fall, Chris will compete in the very prestigious triathlon, the Ironman. His run will support the Edith Sanford Breast Cancer Foundation. The triathlon will take place on September 25.

Explore Chris’ incredible journey through this video.

About Chris
Chris is a fourth-year apprentice with SMART. He made his way to us after being a welder for the Marine Corps. He was intrigued by Local 265 union, the camaraderie, and the benefits that came with being a part of a great organization. He also found a connection to our values of quality and integrity, as he appreciates the quality five-year apprenticeship he’s a part of and carries integrity everywhere he goes, just as the Marines have instilled in him. Thanks to these factors, SMART was the perfect fit for Chris and he’s dedicated himself to SMART and the union ever since.

Chris was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, but spent most of his life in Illinois and Georgia. When he’s not training for the Ironman triathlon, he spends his spare time with his fiancé (who he says he wouldn’t be able to train and do this triathlon without), dogs, and performing gigs.

Chris’ Journey to the Ironman Triathlon

Though this is Chris’ first time competing in a triathlon, he’s an experienced athlete who has participated in everything from 5ks to 100 mile runs, including an extensive Olympic triathlon. His influence to compete in the Ironman derived from seeing it firsthand. He supported his friend during his entire Ironman in Louisville. By being exposed to the triathlon and the amazing spirits of the triathletes, he was completely won over. He says the community even reminded him of SMART.

As Chris began his Ironman search, there were some key things that stuck out to him, making it clear that he was meant to do the triathlon. First, he found that Chattanooga was one of the locations. Being that this is hometown, this alone sold him. Unfortunately, as he went to sign up, the Chattanooga triathlon was full. But this didn’t stop Chris.

The Ironman also allows people to fundraise for organizations. The organization that stuck out to Chris was the Edith Sanford Breast Cancer Foundation. Choosing this foundation meant more to him than just a means to enter the triathlon, but as a way to support a cause that was near to his heart. His grandmother passed away from breast cancer, and Team Edith was the perfect way for Chris to help the breast cancer community.

Supporting a foundation for the triathlon comes with a huge commitment. The typical registration fee for the Ironman is $700. However, to support a foundation, you’re obligated to raise money for it. Chris’ goal is to raise $5,000, and he must hit a minimum of at least $3,500. So far, he has raised money through music gigs and support from his family and friends. Check out his donation page.

More About the Ironman

This triathlon is prestigious because it is the biggest and most rigorous triathlon of its kind. It consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and a 22.6-mile run. The triathlon runs from 7:30 a.m. to midnight of the following day, giving the triathletes a total of 16.5 hours to complete the competition.

Chris has an equally intense training schedule as the triathlon, as he’s been thoroughly preparing for the Ironman on a daily basis. For nutrition, Chris consumes 3,000-4,000 calories a day. He currently trains 11-13 hours of a week, but will increase to 16+ hours a week as the triathlon nears. To break down his weekly schedule:

  • Monday: Swim
  • Tuesday: Bike
  • Wednesday: Swim
  • Thursday: Bike and Short Distance Run
  • Saturday: Swim and Long Distance Run
  • Sunday: Long Distance Bike & Short Distance Run

Chris gives himself Friday off to take a break.

Chris also has a swim coach, who helps him greatly with water-based athletic training, as it was not something he practiced competitively until this past winter.

Inspiration for Aspiring Triathletes

For those that are aspiring to become triathletes, Chris says, “It takes discipline and the will to live a healthy lifestyle. First, get the right gear (don’t just go cheap.) Also, pay attention to what you eat and be sure to get your nutrients and stay hydrated. Step out your comfort zone, start small, and listen to your body.”

Lastly, he says to “respect the distance”, so be sure to train consistently and keep a great support system.

Quotes That Have Inspired Chris

“Make yourself stronger than your excuses.”

“7-minute mile or 14-minute mile – it’s still a mile.”

Chris & SMART

Chris’ goal is to be able to combine Edith Sanford and I Want Smart to bring awareness to breast cancer and shed new light on the union. Chris says that he wouldn’t have been able to do the race without the help of SMART, as we have been able to support him mentally and financially through his journey. He reached out to SMART for help with fundraising and we were pleased to lend a hand. We’re extremely proud of Chris’ story and journey to the Ironman. Now we’re on a mission to share his story with the world.

We look forward to following Chris’ journey, and we encourage you to follow with us. To support Chris, visit his donation page. To stay updated, follow our Facebook page.

Updates – 8/18/2016

– Chris has reached his $3,500 minimum. Help him reach his goal of $5,000 on his donation page.
– His training has increased to 15 hours a week and has remained injury free!
– He will taper in the next few weeks, meaning that he will decrease his workout load to allow his body to recover and rest in preparation for race day.
– He has completed his nutrition and consumption plan for race day.

Best of luck Chris! September 25 will be here before you know it!

Air Quality

8 Easy Steps to Improve Your Air Quality

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Fun Fact:

You breathe 3,400 gallons of air a day on average.

Indoor air quality is a topic most people pass right over, as they probably assume their air is as clean as they keep their home. However, you’d be surprised what hidden threats lie within it.

Your Bathroom
Dampness and humidity from your shower can cause mold.

Your Bedroom
If you have a ceiling fan in your bedroom, or anywhere else in your home, the dust and allergens that collect on the blades can sprinkle on furniture.

Carpets and Furniture
Dust mites love to roam around furniture and carpets.

Appliances
Carbon monoxide can be produced from leaks and exhaust from your appliances.

Wall and Floor Openings
Radon can be produced from wall and floor openings that are in contact with the ground.

Now, take a breather. (Pun intended.)

Utilize these 8 very simple ways to ensure that your air quality is in top-notch shape.

1. Dust Your Home Regularly
This is key, as it will prevent the buildup of dust and allergens.

2. Change Your Filters
Not only should you replace your filters regularly, but make sure you choose an effective one. You want a filter that catches at least 85% of large air pollutants.

3. Wash and Vacuum
Cut down on dust buildup by washing your bedding and vacuuming your carpet on a weekly basis.

4. Ventilate
Kitchen and bathroom ventilation fans rid the air of pollution.

5. Maintain Humidity
Keep your humidity between 30% to 50%.

6. Radon Testing
Make sure your home is gas-free with a radon test kit.

7. Carbon Monoxide Testing
Have a carbon monoxide alarm installed and regularly test your home for this toxin.

8. Open Your Windows and Doors
The easiest step of all! Get some fresh air circulating through your home to increase your air quality.

Get the professionals to clean and maintain your HVAC units the right way. Get in touch today.