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Homeowner looking over energy bill

How Skipping AC Maintenance Raises Energy Bills

With Florida’s hot, humid weather, it’s not uncommon for air conditioning systems to run almost year round. When homeowners fail to schedule regular maintenance for their systems, dust, debris, and worn-out components strain their units, forcing them to work harder. Unfortunately, this extra strain increases electricity usage, raises monthly utility bills, and shortens the system’s lifespan. When you schedule regular maintenance with professional technicians, it keeps your AC system efficient and your utility bills lower.

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Rusted air conditioner due to salt air coastal erosion

How Salt Air Corrosion Damages AC Systems in Clearwater

Warm weather, brilliant sunshine and the salty tang of a sea breeze. It’s all part of what locals love about living here in Clearwater, FL. Unfortunately, this little slice of paradise is decidedly less pleasant for the air conditioning systems we rely on to keep us comfortable. Humid, salt-laden sea air is a serious threat to outdoor AC condensing units. It steadily corrodes vital components, degrading performance and reliability and eventually leading to premature failure.

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HVAC pro testing R-4554B refrigerant levels in modern heat pump

What Is R-454B Refrigerant?

R-454B refrigerant is a next-generation replacement for HVAC and heat pump systems. It replaces R-410A, which has been used since 1991 and has been the industry standard due to its high efficiency. However, it has been linked to global warming and is being replaced with R-454B, which has similar heating and cooling properties. Why Does Global Warming Matter To Clearwater Residents? Global warming is concerning to Clearwater, Florida, residents because it may lead to rising

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Heat pump outside Clearwater, FL home with proper HSPF rating

What Is a Good HSPF Rating for a Heat Pump?

An ideal HSPF rating for heat pumps is usually 8.5 or higher. In Florida, mild winters are common, and high-efficiency systems can range from nine to 10+ HSPF. In Clearwater, FL, this means that homeowners can enjoy better energy savings and lower heating costs. But, you may also want to weigh the costs and benefits of choosing a heat pump with a higher HSPF when you’re planning for a new installation. Taking a closer look

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Close up of furnace thermocouple

What Does a Furnace Thermocouple Do?

A thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off gas flow if your furnace’s pilot light goes out. In this post, we cover how thermocouples work, signs your thermocouple isn’t working, and the importance of timely repairs. Quick Takeaways Your furnace thermocouple is a rod that detects when there’s no flame coming from your pilot light. It will shut down your system when the pilot light is out to keep your home safe from dangerous

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Inside furnace with properly functioning pilot light

Where Is the Pilot Light on a Furnace?

The pilot light is a system located near the bottom of a gas furnace, usually close to the burners. There is typically a small access panel and perhaps a viewing panel that allows you to see the pilot light. It should appear as a small blue flame, and a couple of thin metal pieces may be nearby. These are the pilot tube and the thermocouple. Be aware that not all furnaces have pilot lights. Electric

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HVAC tech cleaning ductwork

How Often Should You Clean Ductwork?

Your airducts perform the essential function of carrying climate-controlled air into your rooms, ensuring that you have a comfortable living environment. These ducts are mostly concealed, so you likely don’t think about cleaning them often. However, they should be cleaned every two to five years. This is a relatively large window, so exactly when should you schedule your next duct cleaning service? The answer depends on your indoor air quality needs, your living conditions, and

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Freezing dog wrapped in blanked because of uneven heating

8 Common Reasons Your House Heats Unevenly

Uneven heating in your home is frustrating and creates discomfort. You’ll find yourself adjusting the thermostat or taking sweaters on or off according to where you are in your house. The constant adjustments are not only inconvenient, but they can also increase your power bills. The winter climate in Clearwater, FL, is mild and sunny with rare freezes. The winter temperatures typically range from 60 to 70 degrees. Despite the weather, homeowners will need to

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MERV 13 HEPA filters

What Does a HEPA Filter Do?

Your home’s indoor air quality affects everything from sleep quality and risk of infections to respiratory and cardiovascular conditions and more. Standard air filters remove dust mites, carpet fibers, pollen, pet dander, and other small particles, but they aren’t a catch-all solution. HEPA air filters trap a significantly larger number of even microscopic particles to dramatically improve indoor air quality. Quick Takeaways A HEPA filter has a unique design that allows it to trap tiny

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HVAC tech testing indoor air for pollutants

4 Common Air Pollutants Found in Florida Homes

Air pollution issues in the Clearwater area make it clear that indoor air quality services are absolutely necessary. In fact, the American Lung Association found that Florida’s Tampa Bay region scored a C rating for ground-level ozone over the past three years. There are also several other categories to consider, too. For instance, the typical summer humidity is between 75% and 90%. Also, the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can cause nausea, headaches and

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