Should My Furnace Fan Run Constantly?

February 17, 2020 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling furnace fan

Ever go to your air register and feel the air coming out, but it’s not warm? You may wonder if your furnace is malfunctioning, and a repair is required, but this may not be the case. A furnace fan running for extended hours doesn’t necessarily indicate any damage. A little troubleshooting may find the reason behind the constant running and have a simple fix without calling a service technician.

Why is the Furnace Fan Always Running?

The most common reason behind this issue is the settings that you’ve enabled on your thermostat. “Auto” and “On” are the only two modes. The “auto” option means the fan turns on and off automatically as the heat comes on and off. The “On” option switches on the fan, which will run whether the heat is on or not. For most people, turning to the “auto” mode will solve the problem of the fan running continuously.

However, sometimes this issue does occur due to some error in the speed modes and other technical problems. For such mechanical breakdowns, you need to call a professional service provider.

Pros of Keeping the Fan Running

There is no problem with keeping the fan on all the time because these fans were designed to run continuously for long periods. There are some benefits to running a fan all the time. Running the fans ensure proper air circulation within the home, and this is especially desirable in bigger apartments and houses. Further, continuous air circulation improves the air quality in the home, especially in cities where the outdoor air quality can be poor. Good air quality is beneficial for people suffering from allergies or asthma.

Drawbacks of Keeping the Fan Running

The primary issue of a constant running fan is higher electricity bills due to increased energy consumption. Also, if air ducts are exhausting to the outside, warm air may be pushed out by the fan triggering the furnace to come on more often.

If your furnace fan is running constantly, contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling and schedule a service appointment. Call 215-947-1166.

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What are the Different Types of Furnaces?

February 3, 2020 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling furnaces

If you’re wondering how your heating units are providing heat around your house – meet the furnace. A furnace is where the heat is produced and is then circulated in your home via ducts, fans, and blowers that make up the entire HVAC system.

There are many types of furnaces, and they are classified depending on the kind of energy source used. The sort of energy source determines the type of heat transfer. Before you choose a new furnace for your home, make sure that you analyze which type of furnace is appropriate for your home. Though there are many factors to consider, such as efficiency or functionality, it all boils down to your budget and convenience.

Types of Furnaces

Gas Furnaces: As the name suggests — it uses natural gas as its primary energy source. It works by igniting the gas source, which in turn, ignites the burners, producing heat. The generated heat is then transferred to the air and circulated by ducts, fans, and blowers via the heat exchanger. Its efficiency is rated at 98% using the AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratio — the ratio of heat produced for every dollar of energy consumed. Gas furnaces are highly economical; however, only modern models can achieve such a high rating. This type of furnace has become the most popular type used in the USA.

Oil Furnaces: This type of furnace is commonly used at places with frigid climates because oil performs more efficiently in freezing temperatures as compared to natural gas. Considering everything ideal, the AFUE ratio of oil furnaces ranges from 80 – 90%. An oil furnace also has a lower upfront cost — usually 25% less than natural gas.

Electric Furnaces: This type of furnace is an excellent alternative if you don’t have access to a natural gas line. Electric furnaces are usually inexpensive to purchase upfront, which is generally 50% less than gas furnaces and is more compact as compared to the other two types, making it easy to install. They typically last up to 10 years. Despite being the cheapest and having an extended lifespan, the higher cost of electricity will incur additional expenses in the long run.

Propane Furnaces: Another great alternative if natural gas and oil are not readily available. Propane tanks fuel this type of furnace. Its downside, however, is that it’s less efficient.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a New Furnace

BTU Number of the Furnace: BTU number refers to the heat output of the furnace. The higher the number, the more heat it can produce. Larger homes need a considerable amount of heat to achieve a thermostat setting hence, requiring a furnace with high BTU numbers. The size of your home, climate, and overall volume of your home must be taken into consideration.

Climate and Region: Your location and climate determine what type of furnace is ideal for your home. A general rule of thumb is: if you’re living in a mild, temperate climate — the natural gas furnace is more efficient. An oil furnace is ideal for cold climates and, if you’re in a place with relatively lower electricity rates, an electric furnace is perfect.

Keep in mind that operation costs vary over time, depending on fuel and utility costs, usage, and situations experienced by each home. There also may be rebates and incentives available depending on state laws and provisions.

For help on selecting the correct furnace for you, contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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How to Clean a Furnace

January 20, 2020 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling furnace maintenance

Winter is here, and the need to maintain a warm home is crucial. Furnaces of every type get overworked during this season, and hence it is essential to keep it clean and well maintained. Furnace airways can get clogged with dirt, which might affect productivity. Under such cases, the fuel efficiency of the furnace is lowered. Regular furnace maintenance can prevent this from happening.

It is recommended to clean the furnace before every winter when it will be used extensively. A thorough cleaning of a furnace can be divided into three parts – the filter system, the blower, and the heat exchanger. There are a few items that will come in handy to complete this job:

  • Screwdrivers
  • Replacement filter (if required)
  • Toothbrush
  • Vacuum cleaner

Outlined below is a general step-by-step procedure for cleaning furnaces:

  • Turn off the power switch before beginning then remove the chamber door
  • Vacuum the inside of the burner
  • Filter system- Remove the filter carefully. If the filter is so dirty that light does not pass through it, then it needs replacement. Otherwise, clean it (depending on the type of filter) by either vacuuming or using mild soap and tap water. It is advisable to change the filter once every three months.
  • Blower- After disengaging power to the furnace, remove the front panel of the furnace by loosening the screws. Remove the fan without damaging the wires connected to it. Vacuum the blower carefully and then use a toothbrush to clean it further. Mild soap and water can also be used to clean the blower assembly. Replace the blower to the original position.
  • Clean the surface igniter by blowing the dust off with a straw
  • The flame sensor (for a gas furnace) can be cleaned using a fine cloth after removing it from its bracket
  • Heat exchanger- The chamber should be cleaned using a damp cloth. A narrow vacuum attachment can be used to clean all loose debris.
  • If the drive belt is cracked or frayed, replace it and adjust the tension
  • It is advisable to oil the shaft bearings and the blower motors for their smooth functioning.
  • Reinstall the chamber door, plug-in the furnace, and switch on the power and gas. Turn it on and observe if the flames (in a gas furnace) are even and blue.

Refer to your furnace’s owner maintenance manual for the exact cleaning procedure for your furnace.

To have your furnace maintenance done by a professional technician, contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling. Call 215-947-1166 to schedule an appointment today.

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What is a Furnace Inspection?

January 6, 2020 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling furnace inspection

When you’re preparing your house for winter, don’t oversee your heating system. We often get this question a lot about how frequently one should have a furnace inspection. HVAC experts recommend twice a year inspection of your overall system – in fall for heating and spring for cooling.

At Good Deals Heating & Cooling, we suggest twice a year assessment on both your air conditioning and furnace. It will not only prolong the life of your HVAC system and but also help you save on energy bills. Our licensed contractors can provide an expert evaluation of your heating and air conditioning system and a free estimation of repair or replacement. It will help catch problems at an early stage before they grow bigger and prevent your system from major breakdowns.

What Steps Are Involved In A Furnace Inspection?

Let’s review a few of the steps we execute during a routine furnace inspection:

  • An examination for leaks, corrosion, and proper ventilation
  • Verifying that all features are giving their peak operational performance
  • Inspecting any gas leakages in a gas furnace
  • Checking evaporator coil
  • Inspecting and cleaning the burner
  • Checking ignition and safety controls
  • Performing a thorough inspection of the heat elements and heat exchanger.
  • Checking the duct system confirming good connections.
  • Checking electrical connections, including wiring, and control box
  • Checking the belts for wear or cracks.
  • Testing that the system’s shutdown and startup control cycle is functioning correctly.
  • Measuring temperature changes and adjusting the thermostat accordingly.
  • Testing the multiple gas pressures to make sure that the precise amount of fuel is being supplied to the burners
  • Checking the air filter of the furnace. A dirty filter can restrict the required airflow, thus reducing the unit’s efficiency and damaging the vital system mechanisms over time.

Performing a thorough inspection of a furnace system takes more than just flipping a switch. It would be best if you had your furnace examined on a timely schedule to ensure your furnace system is functioning correctly.

Having your heating system shut down amid winter will not only bring discomfort, but it can cost you hundreds of dollars in getting it repaired or sometimes replaced. Preventative maintenance has proven to be the most cost-effective way to dodge costly furnace repairs later.

Contact Good Deals Heating & Cooling experts about our annual HVAC health checkups and to schedule a furnace inspection by our licensed contractors. Call 215-947-1166.

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What To Do In An HVAC Emergency

December 16, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC emergency

Your HVAC is an invisible comfort that works unnoticed all the time. However, things change when the HVAC system malfunctions or breaks down. When an HVAC emergency happens, you should know what to do to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in the house.

Having a heating or cooling problem is no joke especially if it occurs during severe weather conditions. It’s a question of the overall safety of your family. Anytime your HVAC system goes down; it is imperative to get it repaired and running as soon as possible. If it breaks down during the night or over the weekend, there are emergency HVAC services you can rely on and get the problem sorted.

When an HVAC emergency presents itself there are a few things you can check before calling the professionals. Here are some dos and don’ts:

Troubleshoot

Check for simple solutions to the problem. Do you have power? In case there is a blackout, restoring your power might get the HVAC system back up and running. If power isn’t the problem, check if your thermostat is programmed correctly. Do you have a dirty filter that might be inhibiting free airflow in the HVAC system, or is the outdoor condenser clogged or congested by debris? These are some of the simple problems that can cause your HVAC system to malfunction. Before you call an emergency technician, check these out.

Don’t Attempt DIY

In case of an HVAC emergency, you might get tempted to do some repairs to your system, but you shouldn’t. HVAC systems are complex systems and problems can be made worse, especially if handled by a person with no experience. Don’t make a simple fix become a costly affair – leave the repair to the professionals.

Alternatives

Sometimes troubleshooting bears no fruit, and you have no option but to call an HVAC repair expert. Before the HVAC technician arrives, use alternative methods to try and heat or cool your home. Open the windows if there is too much heat and turn on a secondary fan if you have it. Keep your family’s peace of mind as you wait for an emergency technician to arrive.

Have an HVAC emergency? Contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling for service. Call 215-947-1166 for more information.

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Protect Your HVAC Before the Snow

December 2, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC


It is crucial to protect your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit from the elements throughout the year but especially in the winter. Snow and ice can damage your unit and cost you unnecessary repair costs or even replacement.

Whether your unit is on the ground or roof, it needs to be clear of debris and whatever the weather can bring. Rooftop units usually function well on their own. One concern with this type of unit is heavy snowfall. The rooftop unit will have to be checked and possibly cleared of snow. A heat pump unit will need more attention because even a moderate snowfall might affect it. Here are some items to check before the snowflakes start to fall:

Air Filter

To keep your unit running smoothly, it is a good idea to change the air filter on your unit. When your system gets clogged with dust and debris, it can hinder its function.

Thermostat

Check if your thermostat responds to the set temperature you desire for your building. If the thermostat is battery-powered, make sure that the battery is working. The battery should be changed at least once a year.

Outdoor Unit

If there is any debris around your unit, remove it. Cut back any overgrowth of bushes or grass. By having a clean area around your unit, you will ensure it remains in proper working order.

Ductwork Inspection

Schedule an inspection of your ductwork, replacing any missing or damaged insulation. Check for hole where air can leak into or out of the duct. Ductwork should also be free of debris for unobstructed airflow. Leaks and obstructed airways raise energy costs by overworking the unit.

Fuel Supply

It is essential to make sure that you have enough fuel to last the winter. Houses that use oil, propane, or natural gas should check their supply before winter begins. Running out of fuel in the middle of winter is not desirable. A fuel heating system can be more cost-effective than electric heating systems.

Professional Maintenance

Have a scheduled maintenance check two times a year. Once in the spring and once in the fall. By doing this, you will ensure your HVAC unit is operating at its optimum level. Regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of the unit.

To schedule professional service for your HVAC system contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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HVAC Can Flood Your House

November 18, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC

HVAC units remove heat, cold, and moisture from your house, but this process has an unfortunate by-product in the form of moisture build-up. There is a built-in mechanism designed to address this issue, but sometimes, it fails. When this happens, the unit leaks excessive water—flooding your house. Other problems, such as malfunctioning parts of the HVAC units, can cause moisture build-up as well.

Water Build-up on HVAC Units

While moisture build-up on the HVAC units is perfectly normal, it becomes a problem when it leaks into your house. To better understand this scenario, try pouring cold water into a glass on a hot day. Notice the moisture build-up on the exterior of the glass; eventually, it begins to drip down.

This condensation process happens in your standard AC unit. An AC unit contains an evaporator coil that houses the cold refrigerant. Warm air inside your room is blown over it, cooling the air and causing moisture to build-up on the coils. This moisture then drips into a drip pan and down a condensate drain line that leads out of your home. This process is contained inside the HVAC unit. If you see any water outside the unit, there is a problem.  Listed are a few reasons why there may be water escaping from your HVAC unit.

Clogged Condensate Drain Line

A clogged drain line is the number one cause of water leaks from your AC unit. Accumulated dirt can easily find its way to the drain line with the help of water flow. When this happens, water backs up. Backed water causes further problems because it can create sludge and mold, clogging the line even more and will eventually fill up the drip pan—overflowing the unit.

There are numerous unclogging methods, but a guaranteed way is to have a professional use a vacuum to suck out the blockage material or opt for a drain line with an air vent and P-trap.

Old Damaged Drip Pan

Due to its long service duration, old drip pans can develop rust and holes, so water just falls right through. If this happens, you must replace it with a new drip pan.  Maybe add it to your yearly maintenance routine.

Malfunctioning Condensate Pump

If your HVAC units are located in the basement, it needs a condensate pump to push the water outside your home. But if the pump is malfunctioning, there will be no means to push water outside and will eventually fill up the drip pan—overflowing the unit. Ensure that the condensate pump is functioning soundly.

Dirty Air Filter

Dirty air filters block the smooth airflow of warm air to the evaporator coils. Due to obstructions, an insufficient amount of warm air is blown over the evaporator coils causing it to get too cold and freeze over. The accumulated ice will eventually melt, and the drip pan may not be able to handle the excess water, causing it to overflow. Cleaning your air filter is an easy task, and you need to do it frequently to prevent dirt build-up.

Misaligned Unit Placement

AC units placed on an inclined surface may not allow condensation to drain properly. Instead, install the unit slightly inclined towards the condensate drain line to force the water into the drain line by gravity.

Unsealed Unit

If your AC unit is not sealed completely, warm air can get inside the unit. Excess warm air constitutes excess moisture build-up due to condensation, which can overflow the drip pan. Ensure that your unit is correctly sealed.

If you see water pooling near your HVAC unit, call the professionals at Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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Innovations Improve HVAC Systems

November 4, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC system

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) is the system that controls both the climate and air quality of a residential or office building. All three components work together and provide proper room air distribution in all the rooms while controlling humidity and temperature. These systems have been improved continuously, especially in homes with the constant demand by homeowners for stronger efficiency and to reduce energy costs.

One of the latest improvements built into the HVAC system is motion-activation that provides air conditioning only when someone is present in the room. A digital thermostat that can be set to lower or raise the temperature on a schedule, but that still costs money when nobody is home. With motion sensors in the room, the HVAC will only turn on when someone is present and thus preserve the energy all day.

Air conditioning is able to be thermally or solar-driven, which virtually eliminates the need for electricity – the main reason energy costs go up. Of course, it is likely to work best in places with warm climates like Florida, Texas, Arizona, and California, but is still a viable option when going Eco-friendly.

HVAC systems can also use sensors that involve the ventilation of the home keeping it under control. This monitor measures a home‏’s temperature and air pressure and makes the necessary adjustments. New homes being built are now “smart.” They are connected to all technology through apps and touch systems accessed throughout the house. The smart technology that is in our phones, laptops, and appliances, are now being built in everything else we touch. With voice-activated objects, people can call for the temperature to change or fans to turn on or off.

Other improvements being developed at the moment have not yet become a reality for consumers. Air conditioning powered by ice and 3D air conditioners are being constructed and tested to improve the quality of life.

HVAC systems are the nucleus of the home’s livability because cold, warmth, and comfort all come from one place. These innovations are being incorporated into the HVAC system, so consumers are kept comfortable, and costs are kept down.

For more information on the latest innovative HVAC systems contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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How Do I Keep the Leaves Out of My Air Conditioner?

October 21, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling air conditioner

Keeping your air conditioning equipment clean and the debris out makes it more efficient and durable. Plants are great and beautiful. They provide shade, beauty, and camouflage the air conditioner. However, having plants too close to the AC unit interferes with the airflow and efficiency of the system. There is a lot you can do to keep leaves out of the air conditioner.

Keep Plants Trimmed

You should always ensure the plants surrounding your air conditioner are trimmed regularly. Cut the plants leaving at least two feet of clearance around the air conditioning system. This way, they won’t interfere with the airflow, and you also prevent the leaves and organic debris from getting inside the equipment.

Mow the Grass

If your air conditioner is surrounded by grass, make sure you mow it, and the clippings are mulched or blown away from the air conditioning equipment.

Put a Lid On It

You might have a tree providing shade to the air conditioner, and you don’t want to cut it. You can use a cover and place it on top of the AC equipment. The cover should be a mesh or screen made of PVC coated polyester. It helps keep the leaves away, especially when the system is running.

Cover It Up

There are seasons when the air conditioner when it’s not running at all. There is a specially designed fabric that is made to cover the entire air conditioning equipment. It also has a water-repellent undercoating meaning you don’t have to worry about water or debris getting inside the HVAC unit.

Turn It Off When You Rake

Sometimes, the only option you have to keep leaves out of your air conditioning equipment is raking and collecting the leaves and debris around the air conditioner. To do this, turn off its power and make sure it’s not running. Rake away all the leaves and debris around the outdoor unit and if there are any inside the protective grill, unscrew it and remove the grill to clean all the leaves and debris especially near the condenser coil.

Keeping leaves and debris away from the air conditioner is daunting at times. No matter how much you try, there is going to be debris and leaves that make way into the outside air conditioner. Proper yard planning and regular raking, brushing away dust and debris with a broom are recommended. It’s good to schedule a tune-up with a qualified HVAC company every spring to keep your AC running smoothly.

For more tips on keeping debris out of your air conditioner, contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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Don’t Let the Cost to Replacement Your HVAC Scare You

October 7, 2019 By
Good Deals Heating and Cooling HVAC System

If your HVAC is not functioning properly, you might need to replace or repair it.  Having an efficiently running HVAC system keeps energy costs down. Before repairing your system, you might evaluate the option of investing in a newer HVAC. It may be more cost-efficient to replace than to repair.

When Should I Replace My HVAC System?

There are a few indicators that signal that your HVAC system needs to be replaced.

System is 15 Years Old.  A simple rule to keep in mind is that if your system is older than 15 years, it is high time to look for a replacement. Typical HVAC systems will run up to fifteen years without any significant issues. But as the system ages, its efficiency declines.  When the unit becomes less efficient, it is more costly to operate.

Safety Concerns.  Some HVAC systems use gas-based thermal exchange systems. With older systems, gas leaks can occur, which can be hazardous to the household occupants. If this is the problem, replacing an HVAC system is imperative to guard against such dangerous incidents.

Constant Breakdowns.  If you have had to repair your HVAC system multiple times over a short period, then invest in a brand new HVAC system.  A new unit will perform as intended and reduce the operating costs while being environmentally friendlier.

Most people cringe at the cost of replacing their HVAC system, and rightly so.  HVAC units are expensive, but so are numerous repairs, and after repairs you often have to replace the unit anyway.

One example is an HVAC system which has a coolant leak is far more costly to refill frequently than it is to buy a new HVAC system. Prices of R22 coolant refill can cost up to 500 dollars.  With a coolant leak, there is a high probability that the compressor will fail soon. In such a case, it would be more cost-efficient to replace the entire HVAC system instead of having the coolant filled multiple times. These sorts of scenarios should be considered when weighing options between repair and replacement, and so the mere thought of the cost of replacement must not scare you.

For more information on how to know when to replace your HVAC system contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.

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