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Posts Tagged ‘Salem’

Reasons You Should Consider Radiant Heating in Salem, OR

Wednesday, December 18th, 2013

The first time people experience radiant floor heating when they are a guest in someone’s house, it usually astonishes them. The level of warmth, the sensation of heat pouring onto them straight from the sun on a summer day, is so different from the feeling of hot air blown about a room from a furnace, or even the heating coming from a radiator attached to a boiler. Once people have an encounter with radiant heating, they usually want to know if they can have their own system installed.

There are a number of good reasons to consider radiant heating in Salem, OR, beyond their wonderful comfort. If you want to know more, contact our radiant heating specialists at Comfort Flow Heating. They can help you decide if radiant heating will work for your home, as well as determine the type and size to install.

Advantages of radiant heating

  • Cleaner air: Low indoor air quality is one of the leading health risks in the U.S. (according to the U.S. Department of Health), and one of the main contributors is dust blown from the ductwork connected to heat pumps and furnaces. Radiant heating doesn’t need ducts: instead, it uses the clean power of heat waves radiating from warmed objects. If there are people living in your home with allergies to dust, pollen, or hair, radiant floor heating will especially benefit them.
  • Energy efficiency: Forced-air heating systems often blow heat into the upper areas of rooms, where it gathers without warming the space effectively. You have to keep a furnace or heat pump on longer to provide sufficient heat to make a difference. But radiant heating gives you heat directly, from the floor under your feet, and it rises evenly through the room. You’ll need to run your heater far less to get the same level of comfort. Radiant floor heating also experiences no heat loss along ducts, furthering its energy efficiency.
  • Less noise pollution, less visual pollution: Radiant heaters operate so quietly that you’ll hardly notice yours working—except for the cozy warm floorboards. And you shouldn’t see it much either, since if properly installed, a radiant heating system is almost invisible, without needs for vents or radiators.

You might want to dash out right now and order installation of a radiant heating system, but be cautious: the installation process is extensive, and it may not even be the best option for heating your home. For these reasons, make sure you contact experts in radiant heating to help you find out if this is the best path to take, and to have quality installers on the job if you decide to move forward.

For over 50 years, Comfort Flow Heating has helped our clients live better with quality heating in Salem, OR. Let us assist you with radiant floor heating today.

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Here’s Why You Need to Replace Your Heater

Tuesday, December 10th, 2013

Oregon doesn’t experience the bitter winters of some of the states to our east, but we still need to have heaters in good shape year round to combat our many rainy days. Your heating system will see a lot of extra work each winter season… and eventually, no matter how sturdy and reliable it is, it will need to be replaced.

Having a new heater installed is a large task, one you shouldn’t undertake lightly. But you need to know when it’s necessary. We will give you some reasons why that old heater needs to go and a new one brought in. To make this task much easier, contact Comfort Flow Heating, where we provide professional heating service in Salem, OR—and have done so for more than half a century

Why it’s time to replace your heater

  • Inefficiency: Age will eventually wear down any mechanical system, no matter how well it is maintained. If your heater has exceeded its manufacturer’s expected lifespan, then pay attention to your heating bills to see if they have started to rise. If they do, then you know that the wear on the heater has impaired its ability to work efficiently. You should replace it, since the new heating system will offer you savings on your energy bills for many years to come.
  • Noise pollution: A heater growing decrepit will start to turn noisy. Increased noise is usually a sign that it’s time for a replacement, but the noise on its own will soon turn into an extreme annoyance.
  • Take advantage of new technology: A new installation will not only compensate for the older heater’s inefficiency, it will probably vastly improve on it with technological advances. The heaters of today are already far ahead of what they were only twenty years ago in terms of fuel efficiency. In addition, you can update to a new fuel source, put in zone heating, update your thermostat, or switch to a new form of heating altogether. You can also help the environment with a heater that creates fewer emissions.

Consult with professionals

Before you choose to send your old heater to the scrap heap, bring in heating installation and repair specialists to examine it. They can determine if it is indeed a good idea to have a new heater installed. They will also provide suggestions for the best system to install as a replacement.

When you need heating service in Salem, OR, give Comfort Flow Heating a call. We install top brand furnaces, air source heat pumps, geothermal heat pumps, and radiant heating systems. Sign up for maintenance with us as well to make sure your new heater lasts for many years.

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Signs That You Need to Replace Your Heater

Tuesday, October 8th, 2013

Replacing any large appliance in your home, such as a refrigerator or oven, is a major step. When it comes to your heating system, however, it’s both a major step and a complex one. A new heater requires professional installation that takes into consideration numerous factors about your house. It isn’t something to take lightly, but it’s often the wisest solution for getting the best and most cost-efficient home heating.

Although heating replacement is a large task, it doesn’t have to be stressful for you if you hire the right company to perform the installation. The Salem, OR heating professionals at Comfort Flow Heating can handle any size installation and get it done right the first time so you’ll have fewer worries about repairs and breakdowns in the future.

Look for the following signals that your current heating system might be nearing the end of its lifespan:

Consistently high energy bills: If you’ve inspected your power bill and noticed a rise in costs that goes beyond normal seasonal changes or inflation, then you may have a heater that’s too aged and worn to work efficiently. Any machine will wear down over time, no matter how well it’s cared for, and your heater will eventually reach a stage where it must drain excess energy to keep up with your comfort needs. A professional can perform tests to see if your heater has lost efficiency and if it requires replacement.

Mounting repair expenses: Heaters will suffer malfunctions and require repairs at some point—but if those repairs start to come frequently, then the most economical move may be to replace it entirely with a sturdy new model. Look over the repair bills for the past three years and compare them to the cost of a new installation.

Extreme noise levels: A sudden, unexpected noise from your heater may warn you it needs professional repairs. But if your heater begins to make almost constant noise much higher than what you expect, the issue may be that its components have gotten too worn down from age. Think about getting a replacement before a full shutdown leaves you in the cold.

Seeking the advice of HVAC professionals about whether or not to install a new heater is the first step to take. If you do decide to get a new heater, the professionals can help you find the right type, model, and size to suit your home, and then install it quickly and properly.

Comfort Flow Heating installs the top brands of furnaces, heat pumps, and ductless mini splits to fit all needs. Put your Salem, OR heating concerns in our experienced hands.

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How Indoor Air Quality Can Affect Your Air Conditioning

Wednesday, August 28th, 2013

Did you know that according to the EPA most of us spend about 90% of our time indoors? This means that the quality of air that we have in our homes has a huge potential to affect our respiratory health. In fact, the EPA also estimates that poor indoor air quality is one of the top 5 leading threats to respiratory health. However, poor indoor air quality can also negatively affect your air conditioning system. At Comfort Flow Heating, we offer a large range of indoor air quality and air conditioning repair services in Salem, OR. We wanted to share about how your air quality and AC system are interrelated.

Salem, OR Air Conditioning Repair Tip: How Air Quality Affects Your Cooling System

When you have bad indoor air quality it means that your air is full of contaminants like dust, pollen, pet dander, cleaning fumes, insect droppings and more. These are a few of the ways that your air conditioning can suffer because of those problems.

  • Clogged air filter – Probably the most common cause of air conditioning problems is a clogged air filter. If your home has poor indoor air quality then the air filter for your air conditioner could get clogged very quickly with pollutants and restrict the flow of air moving through the system. This could have some very serious consequences. It could reduce the amount of cooling that you get in your home, reduce the efficiency of your system and also increase the need for repair. Making sure that your home has good indoor air quality and that the filter gets changed regularly can go a long way to helping your AC system.
  • Clogged ducts – Another issue that can arise from poor indoor air quality is contaminants in your ductwork. As your AC pulls in outdoor air or recirculates indoor air, the contaminants in the air can get deposited in your ductwork. Not only is this bad for your respiratory health, but it could eventually start to restrict the flow of air through the ducts which will cause the system to have to work harder to push the air through them.
  • Motor issues – Your air conditioning system has a fan motor that pulls in warm air to cool it and then push it throughout your home. If there are a lot of contaminants in that air then they could get deposited inside the fan motor. This will likely cause it to malfunction which would result in you needing to call for Salem air conditioning repair services in order to get cooling in your home.

If you need any kind of air conditioning repair services, call the Salem, OR air conditioning technicians at Comfort Flow Heating.

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What Type of Air Conditioner Is Right for Me?

Thursday, June 13th, 2013

If you’re ready to replace your current air conditioning system or you need one for a new home that you’re building, the Salem, OR air conditioning installation experts at Comfort Flow Heating can help. There are a number of different types of air conditioning systems that are available to consumers. This can be frustrating and confusing process to go through so read on to see our simple guide to choosing a new AC system.

How to Choose a New Air Conditioner

Finding an air conditioning system for your home is a big decision. You have to live with that air conditioning system for many years to come which is why it is so critical to find one that is right for your home. The Salem, OR air conditioning installation experts at Comfort Flow Heating have years of experience working with countless homeowners helping them find a new AC system for their home. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you move forward.

  • Type of air conditioner – When it comes to the type of air conditioner that you get in your home there are a few things to consider. You can go with the traditional stand-by of central AC which produces reliable and efficient cooling. However, there are other kinds of air conditioners available. Geothermal air conditioning systems use the free and endless energy of the earth to provide cooling to your home. Ductless mini split air conditioning systems are terrific for homes that don’t have the space for ducts or want zone control in their homes.
  • Cooling capacity – Probably one of the most common mistakes that homeowners make is buying an air conditioning system that tis too big for their home. If you go out and buy the biggest AC unit that you can afford there are a number of negative consequences that this can have. It will likely make your home less comfortable and more humid. Call the Salem, OR air conditioning experts at Comfort Flow Heating and we’ll make sure that your new system matches your home’s needs and your budget.
  • Efficiency rating – Another important thing to think about is the efficiency rating of your new AC system. Air conditioners are given a SEER rating which describes how much cooling they provide over a season based on the amount of energy that they consume. In order to receive an Energy Star rating air conditioners will usually have to meet a SEER 14 rating at least.

Make sure that you contact the Salem, OR air conditioning experts at Comfort Flow Heating for all your services that you need.

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Salem, OR Air Conditioning Tip: How Duct Cleaning Can Help Your Air Conditioning System

Thursday, May 16th, 2013

A high quality air conditioning system is necessary if you hope to make it through the hot summer months comfortably. Of course, there are a number of different issues that your air conditioner may suffer from which can hinder its operation. The Salem, OR air conditioning experts at Comfort Flow Heating can help ensure that you are able to cool your home with the greatest efficiency and reliability possible. Contact us today to learn more. Here is some information about how scheduling professional duct cleaning service can help you improve your air conditioning experience.

While ductwork can be a great way to distribute heated and cooled air throughout your home, it is also possible for dirt, dander and other pollutants to build up within your air ducts. If your air ducts are improperly sealed, torn or otherwise compromised, you are at a greater risk for dirty air ducts. The professional duct cleaning technicians on our team can help resolve this problem.

Dirt and other pollutants in your air ducts can make their way into your air conditioning system itself. If such pollutants are allowed to build up on vital parts of your air conditioning equipment, such as your coils, the operation of your air conditioning system can suffer. These pollutants can also quickly build up on your air filter. When issues like this come up, your air conditioner will need to use more energy in order to cool your home. This raises energy costs for you and also puts unnecessary strain on your system. The more strain your system is under, the more likely damages and operational problems become.

Biological pollutants can also thrive in the cool, dark environment within your air ducts. When this happens, viruses, mold spores and other pollutants can circulate throughout your home, along with the conditioned air that is intended for distribution. Professional duct cleaning can help prevent your air conditioner from circulating undesirable substances throughout your home.

If you are interested in learning more about professional duct cleaning services, contact Comfort Flow Heating today. Our Salem, OR air conditioning technicians can answer any questions you may have. Call now for more information.

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Salem OR Air Conditioning: Why is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water?

Monday, May 6th, 2013

Central air conditioning is one of the greatest luxuries that homeowners enjoy. As with any mechanical system, though, you are going to experience some problems with your air conditioner every now and then. It is important to remember that the best way to protect the condition of your air conditioning system is to schedule repair service as soon as you discover a problem. One common issue that homeowners may have with their air conditioning systems is leaking water. Call the Salem OR air conditioning experts at Comfort Flow Heating today if you notice a water leak in your AC system.

Frequently, what people mistake for a water leak in their central air conditioning system is actually just the result of a clogged condensate drain. As your air conditioner operates, it also dehumidifies air a bit. The moisture pulled from the air in the process has to go somewhere. That is why your central AC has a condensate drain. If this is backed up, water may begin to pool in the area. Changing your air filter will help keep this drainage line clear by keeping pollutants out of it. If your condensate drain is clogged, a technician on our team can resolve the issue.

Your air conditioning system is not a dehumidifier, remember, despite the fact that some dehumidification takes place during operation. If you have very high humidity levels in your home, you may want to consider the installation of a whole house dehumidifier. High humidity levels can lead to condensation in your home and this condensation may be behind what you think is an AC leak.

Of course, it is also very possible that your air conditioner actually is leaking water. If your drain hose or condensate pipe is broken, it can leak the water that it is draining into your home. Even small water leaks are a serious problem, and real damage can be done to your system and your home if it goes unresolved. Contact us today to learn more.

Don’t let a leaky air conditioner put the condition of your home at risk. Call the Salem, OR air conditioning repair technicians at Comfort Flow Heating as soon as you discover a problem with your system. We’ll have your AC working properly again in no time.

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Salem OR Air Conditioning Tip: Energy Saving Tips You Can Use For Your Air Conditioner

Monday, April 22nd, 2013

As summer approaches the Salem, OR area, homeowners and tenants alike are looking for ways to save energy. Air conditioning probably takes up a significant portion of your home budget every cooling season, and that’s why energy efficiency is often just as important as performance. Fortunately, they often go together. When our AC systems are working as they should, they are maximizing the electrical energy they draw on. We’d like to share with you some energy savings tips that you can rely on to reduce your energy consumption all summer long. For more information, or to schedule a Salem OR air conditioning service, call Comfort Flow Heating today!

  • Duct cleaning. When faulty, damaged, or clogged with debris, the ductwork necessary to airflow can prove incredibly counter-productive. The same airflow channels you rely on to distribute your conditioned air can also hinder it. Over time, your ducts can fill up with dust, pollen, dander, and other debris, all of which can be detrimental to the efficiency of the AC as well to your home’s indoor air quality. Routine duct cleaning in Salem, OR will improve airflow and cut down on the amount of dust and allergens in your home.
  • Programmable thermostat. Imagine if your thermostat knew when to turn on and turn off, so that you didn’t have to pay to cool your home all day just so you can come home to a cool home. A programmable thermostat gives you full control over your air conditioning schedule. It is not only highly convenient, but because you’re able to program automatic temperature changes, you can also save substantially on your energy bills during the cooling season.
  • Clean your air filter. You’ve probably heard this before, but regularly changing your air filter (about once per month during the cooling season) is a great way to ensure that your AC continues to run smoothly. A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing your AC to work harder for the same amount of cool air.

We hope you find these energy saving tips useful. When you need excellent Salem, OR air conditioning services, call Comfort Flow Heating today!

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Salem OR Furnace Tip: Air Duct Tips That Help Improve Furnace Performance

Monday, April 8th, 2013

You rely on your Salem, OR furnace to keep you warm and comfortable throughout the heating season. Improving furnace performance requires ensuring that all the components and mechanisms are working together, including the extensive ductwork that brings heated air throughout your home. If you’re looking to improve your furnace performance, then you cannot neglect your air ducts, which, when faulty or damaged, can be responsibly for up to a third of your heating loss. We’ve compiled a list of air duct tips that we think may help your home heating system. For more information about how your ductwork impacts your energy efficiency, or to schedule a Salem furnace service, call the experts at Comfort Flow Heating today!

  • Seal air leaks. Schedule a professional duct sealing service in order to eliminate any air leaks in your ductwork. Air leaks not only reduce heated airflow, they also cause your system to work harder, thus increasing the amount of energy consumed. It’s important to take care of any air leaks promptly so that they do not affect your heating system. Despite its name, duct tape is not recommended, so make sure to hire a pro for professional mastic sealing.
  • Clean your ducts. Routine duct cleaning ensures that your heated air is unobstructed in its flow from air handler to living space. Over time, your ducts can accumulate dust, mold, and other debris, inhibiting airflow and reducing the quality of your indoor air. By having your ductwork regularly inspected and cleaned, you can ensure that your ducts do not get in the way of your high efficiency heater.
  • Duct insulation. Talk to your local professional about whether duct insulation would be right for your home. If your ductwork runs through your attic, crawlspace or basement, it may be subject to heat loss when it comes into contact with unheated spaces. Also, make sure that your home is properly insulated (especially the attic) to maximize your heating performance.

An effective and efficient furnace is paramount during the heating season. Make sure your home is warm and comfortable by scheduling a duct inspection, cleaning, or sealing. For Salem, OR furnace services, call Comfort Flow Heating today!

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Salem OR Heating FAQ: How Can Duct Cleaning Improve Heating Efficiency?

Monday, April 1st, 2013

During the heating season, many homeowners focus as much on the efficiency of their home heating system as the effectiveness with which it heats their home. With energy prices as high as they are, it is no wonder that so many people are so concerned with their heating system’s energy efficiency. There are many ways in which you can improve the energy efficiency of your heating system. In some cases, professional duct cleaning may be the solution you are looking for. If you are interested in scheduling professional duct cleaning service, call the Salem, OR duct cleaning technicians at Comfort Flow Heating.

There are a great number of factors that may affect the condition within your air ducts. Because we do not often have cause to inspect the interior of our ductwork, many homeowners do not even realize that there is a problem. If dirt, dust and other debris is allowed to accumulate in your ductwork, though, it can lead to a number of different problems, including reduced efficiency.

If there is excessive dirt and dust in your ductwork, your air filters are more likely to clog up. This can increase the airflow resistance within your ductwork. Your heating system will need to work harder to keep your home warm and to distribute heated air in this situation. That means that more energy will be needed to do so. The more energy your heater uses, the more money you will wind up paying to operate it.

When your air ducts are dirty, the condition of your heating equipment itself is put at risk. The air filter installed in your heating system by the factory is intended more to protect your heating equipment than to boost air quality. If dirt and dust is allowed to accumulate on the components of your heating system, its performance may be compromised. This can lead to reduced efficiency levels.

The Salem heating professionals at Comfort Flow Heating are available to answer all your questions about duct cleaning services. Contact Comfort Flow Heating today to learn more. We can help you keep your home warm and cozy in a more efficient, affordable manner.

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