“Variable speed” refers to the fan motor inside the air handler.   Variable-speed blower motors are designed to provide greater comfort through reduced initial air velocities and noise. When the unit first turns on, the blower operates at low speed, which not only provides less noise than a single-speed blower, but also allows the compressor and…

The “auto” setting is preferred, as well as the most used and most efficient setting. In this setting, the fan will only operate when the temperature requires it. There are advantages, however, to using the “on” setting. In this setting, air is constantly filtered through your unit’s air filter, and constantly circulating air results in…

Most maintenance should be performed only by a qualified service technician, however, there are a few things you can do to ensure optimal performance.  Keep ground mounted outdoor units clear of debris, clutter and weeds; this can reduce the airflow of the unit.  Use caution with weed trimmers around the unit to prevent damaging control…

Make sure the water supply is turned on. If it is, remove the lid to the toilet tank. It is probably the chain or strap to the flapper that is broken or come loose. You could also have a blockage in the toilet “jet’s” just under the rim of the toilet.

Absolutely. According to a major manufacturer of heating and cooling systems, Carrier, proper maintenance can help your unit last for years longer. On the flip side, a neglected system loses roughly 5% of its efficiency each year that it operates without upkeep. So that “green” machine that you bought to stay cool (or warm) could…

First of all, capacity is the ability of a heating or cooling system to heat or cool a given amount of space. For heating, this is usually expressed in BTUs. For cooling, it is usually given in tons. Heating and cooling systems are sized according to their tonnage. One (1) ton equals 12,000 BTU/H. Residential…

The duct system in your home is the vehicle through which heated and cooled air is distributed throughout your home. If your ducts are dirty, dusty or contaminated with molds or fungi then the air you breath will also contain these substances as well. Having your air ducts professionally cleaned can contribute to better health,…

Adding moisture to the air in your home helps raise your indoor humidity level, counteracting dramatic drops as a result of constant heating.  By restoring an ideal humidity level of 45 to 50%—the level recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)—your indoor environment may feel warmer, lessening the need to crank up the heat,…

Even small drips can waste thousands of gallons of water, as much as 150 gallons a day. Be sure to check under sinks for moisture or small leaks. And always repair leaky faucets right away to avoid paying for wasted water, and also to avoid water damage to your fixtures and pipes and surrounding areas.…

There is usually a connection between the dishwasher and the drain from the garbage disposal. Food left behind in the garbage disposal can clog that connection to the main drain and back water up into your sink. To prevent this, make sure that your disposal is free of food before running the dishwasher. Also make…