Heating

HEATING INSTALLATION

Don't continue suffering from the drawbacks of an outdated furnace. When you take the plunge and have new equipment installed, here are the benefits you can expect to enjoy:

• Lower heating bills: New furnaces are nearly 100 percent efficient, allowing you to heat your home for less. These monthly savings help your new furnace pay for itself over the coming winters.
• Less pollution: By consuming less energy to heat your home, you contribute fewer emissions into the atmosphere, which is good news for the environment.
• Renewed warranty coverage: The warranty on your existing equipment probably expired years ago. A furnace installation is your chance for a fresh start with renewed warranty coverage.
• Better home comfort: From improved airflow to enhanced humidity control, you can expect more even temperatures from room to room and better overall home comfort once your new equipment is professionally installed.

Choose First Call Heating & Cooling, Inc. to install your furnace in Racine or Kenosha. Our highly qualified, NATE-certified technicians will ensure the following:

• You get a high-efficiency furnace that satisfies your family's needs and budget.
• You get a system that's properly sized to heat your home as efficiently as possible.
• Your furnace comes with full warranty coverage in case you need to repair or replace any parts.
• Your furnace is installed in accordance with the highest standards for your complete satisfaction.

The team at First Call Heating & Cooling, Inc. strives to deliver the very best in workmanship and customer service so you can expect the best from your new furnace installation.

HEATING MAINTENANCE

Routine maintenance is one of the best ways to extend the life of your heating system. While nothing in this world is foolproof, it is widely recognized by most experts that maintenance will decrease the number of breakdowns that occur.

Important reasons to schedule annual maintenance:

• Reduce your energy bill by maintaining optimal efficiency.
• Ensure safe operation for peace of mind.
• Helps prevent costly and inconvenient breakdowns.
• Prolong the life of the unit.
• Improve indoor air quality.
• Maintain manufacturer’s warranty.

HEATING REPLACEMENT

When your existing furnace nears the end of its lifespan, it's time to consider replacing it. Prior to a total breakdown, look for these signs that your furnace won't last much longer:

• Old age: A furnace can last up to 20 years or more if you take proper care of it. However, if you've had your furnace for more than 15 years, it's wise to start browsing for replacements now.
• Drop in efficiency: Rising energy prices aren't the only thing to blame for higher heating bills. Your furnace could be performing less efficiently this season than in the past if it's nearing the end of its lifespan.
• Frequent repairs: Furnaces must often be nursed through the final few years of their life with increasingly frequent repairs, which tend to climb in price each time. If you have already repaired your furnace two or more times this season, stop throwing good money away and seek a furnace replacement the next time your furnace breaks down.
• Uneven heating: Older furnaces sometimes lose their ability to circulate air properly. This causes some rooms to overheat while others feel too cold. Stamp out this comfort problem with a new furnace.
• Odd cycling patterns: Over the years, you become familiar with how your furnace operates. If it has been cycling on and off more frequently lately, this is a sign that the furnace is beginning to malfunction.
• Unusual noises or odors: Rattling, buzzing, humming, or other noises could mean a simple repair is in order. The same is true of strange smells. However, if an HVAC technician discovers the problem is more serious, you may need a replacement.
• Excessive dust, rust, or soot: If the horizontal surfaces in your home collect dust faster than usual (dust that appears black or copper colored) the furnace could be blowing rust or soot particles into your home, a clear sign that furnace replacement is looming.
• Visible rust or corrosion: If any furnace components are rusted or corroded - particularly the heat exchanger - take it as a serious warning sign. A cracked heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide into your home, potentially harming you and your family.

HEATING REPAIR

Many homeowners rush to call a heating expert at the slightest sign of trouble. However, you should start with basic troubleshooting tips if your furnace won't turn on or keeps shutting off prematurely.

• Check the thermostat: Is it switched to "heat" mode? Is the temperature set higher than the current temperature in the room? Make these adjustments and see if your furnace starts working again.
• Make sure the furnace has power: Start by turning the fan switch on the thermostat to the "on" position. If nothing happens, check the circuit breakers. Reset any tripped breakers and try to power on the furnace again. If your furnace has an SSU switch (located in a gray box near the furnace), make sure it's turned on.
• Examine the furnace filter: If you can't remember the last time you changed the filter, do so now. Restricted airflow can cause problems ranging from comfort issues to high energy bills to an overheated furnace that shuts itself off.
• Inspect your home's return air vents: If more than 20 percent of the return vents in your home are closed or blocked by furniture, the entire system could suffer. Even accidentally closing the register in one room could be the reason it feels chillier than normal. Make sure the return vents aren't blocked, either, so the system maintains proper airflow.

Sometimes troubleshooting can't repair the problems you're having. Don't hesitate to schedule furnace repair if you notice these issues:

• Strange noises: Popping, rattling, banging, or squealing could be signs your furnace is about to break down. From a loose belt to an ignition problem, don't wait around for complete system failure. Contact us for furnace repair right away!
• Yellow burner flame: The flame should be a steady blue color. If it flickers or looks yellow, excessive carbon monoxide could be entering your home and putting your family's health at risk. Our team can repair the problem and ensure the furnace doesn't endanger your family.
• Comfort problems: If comfort problems persist after changing the air filter and opening all air vents, schedule furnace repair.