Just like a smoke detector can notify you of a fire in your home or place of business, a carbon monoxide detector is a good addition to protect you from the dangers of carbon monoxide gas. This gas is a byproduct of heating systems that burn natural gas or propane and is hazardous if it builds up. It is colourless and odourless and if allowed to accumulate in a home or business due to inadequate ventilation or burning of the fuel can cause carbon monoxide poisoning or result in death.

Where should I install a carbon monoxide detector?

Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on each level of a home or business and kept at least 5 feet away from any combustion device (furnace, fireplace, appliance). These devices should have their batteries replaced annually, just like a smoke detector. The lifespan of a carbon monoxide detector is 5-7 years and most new detectors will have an expiration date sticker on them.

Electric forced air heaters require the least maintenance. Blow the dust out every once in awhile and you’re done. The dirtier your garage is, the more often you should clean the unit. Maybe check the mounting bolts. Things that vibrate tend to loosen up nuts and bolts.

Natural gas garage heaters should be serviced every couple of years. Again, this is to get rid of any dust and buildup but also allows for an inspection of the heat exchanger, gas lines and venting. Likewise, gas fired radiant tube heaters should have their air inlets and outlets inspected for obstructions and the tubes should be inspected for tight fit and for any cracks. Cracks in heat exchangers and radiant tubes could result in carbon monoxide leaking into the garage space.

If you need your garage heater serviced, or if you are considering adding heat to your existing garage or workshop contact Pro North Heating today!

Storage hot water heaters are the long-standing, traditional method for getting hot water to your taps. In recent years, tankless water heaters (commonly referred to was “hot water on demand”) have gained popularity due to their higher efficiency operation and potential money saving.

Which hot water heater is best for you?

There is really no hard and fast rule when it comes to choosing tankless over a storage tank hot water heater. The decision ultimately depends on your family, your lifestyle and your budget.

Storage water heaters, on average, cost less than their tankless counterparts. Electric versions of both cost less than natural gas versions. Depending on your region, the cost of natural gas vs. electricity is also a determining factor. While natural gas hot water heaters may not be any more efficient than an electric version, if natural gas consumption costs are less than electricity, that’s where the real savings are made.

Lifestyle also makes a difference. A storage hot water heater must maintain the temperature of a large volume of water throughout the day, whereas tankless only operates as needed. If you don’t use much hot water daily, tankless might be a better option. Not that tankless doesn’t work in a busy household that consumes a lot of hot water, but if you don’t use much….there’s no need to keep a hot water storage tank running all day!

One other thing to consider is what happens when the power goes out, or there is a temporary interruption in natural gas supply? With a storage hot water tank you’ll have access to “warm” water until the tank cools. With a tankless system, you have no hot water until the electricity comes back on or the gas starts flowing again.

And another thing to consider….do you hate running out of hot water filling that large soaker tub? Tankless might be the option for you!

There are many makes and models of both tankless and storage hot water systems and consulting with a knowledgeable plumber can ensure you are getting the best option, sized correctly for your home and lifestyle.

Cleaning the condenser coils is a fairly simple and straightforward process. First, make sure the power to the unit is off, then locate your HVAC unit outside your home. Remove the cover if necessary to gain access to the condenser units. Using a garden hose, rinse the dirt and debris and buildup from the fins. Be careful as they are very fragile. Too much water pressure can bend the fins, ruining their cooling efficiency or even break them. If you are concerned at all about cleaning the condenser yourself or if you notice any damage, contact us to inspect and clean the unit for you.

While regularly scheduled filter changing intervals are recommended, it’s best to inspect your HVAC system and learn when your filter needs to be replaced. As building environments and locations are all different, you may find you need to change your filters more often in summer than in winter due to an increase in dust and pollen in the air and if you tend to keep your windows open to enjoy the summer breeze (when you’re enjoying mothers nature’s air conditioning). If you own pets or have a lot of carpeting in your home you may also need to change your filters more frequently.

Clean Those Coils!

The A-Coil in the AC plenum should be cleaned every 3-5 years. A visual inspection will confirm whether it is dirty and requires a cleaning. Why clean them? Dirt build up on the coils is hard on your air conditioning system, requiring it to work harder to maintain the temperature in your home. This can place undue stress on the system, resulting in premature wear and tear and possible failure. It also makes the system less efficient, which increases the cost of operation. As the A-Coil is fragile and can be damaged easily, it is recommended that you don’t undertake the cleaning yourself. This regular maintenance can pay for itself through continued, trouble-free efficient operation of your central air conditioning unit.

Automatic hydronic feeders can also introduce air into the system, which can dilute the water and glycol mixture. Part of your scheduled maintenance should include testing the level of glycol and adjusting as needed along with pH.