DB Heating & Cooling, Inc. Blog

Why is My Living Room Colder Than the Rest of the House?

October 28th, 2013

Westwood, NJ heating issues are compounded not only by our cold New Jersey winters, but by the fact that we have many larger and older houses within our city limits. This can create unique heating issues that some homeowners may struggle to resolve.“Why is my living room colder than the rest of the house?” The answers may vary depending on the kind of house you have.

In the first place, heat rises, which means the upper stories of your home tend to be warmer than the lower stories when you run the heat. Since living rooms tend to be located on the ground floor, it stands to reason that they would not be as warm as a bedroom or similar top-story room.

A more serious issue may arise with the ducts that distribute the warm air to the rooms in your home. If you live in an older house, the ducts in your home are probably older too, which means they are more susceptible to leaks and other damage. If the warm air is leaking out before reaching your rooms, this can cause cold spots in your home. If your living room suddenly became colder, the problem may also be a blockage in the ducts. Dirt and dust can build up, and there may even be blockage deeper in the system which diverts the hot air to other parts of your house. A trained professional can hunt down the problem and restore the ducts to their proper functioning.

If you’re asking “why is my living room colder than the rest of the house?” call the professionals at DB Heating & Cooling for help. We handle Westwood, NJ heating systems of all varieties, and stand ready to address issues of drafts, cold spots and rooms where your heating is less than perfect. Call us to set up an appointment today.

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Emerson, NJ Boiler Repair Guide: Hissing from Your Boiler

October 21st, 2013

If your home has a boiler keeping you warm during the chilly months, then you probably haven’t noticed them at work that often. There’s a good reason for this: boilers run with minimum noise. They are one of the quietest home comfort systems on the market. You don’t have to deal with the thumping and whooshing sounds of a furnace when you’ve got a boiler.

When a boiler does make an unexpected sound, you need to look into it. Boilers rarely need repairs because they have few moving parts, but not even the most advanced model is invulnerable. If you hear a hissing sound coming from your boiler, it might be time to schedule repairs. Hire experienced technicians to handle boiler repair in Emerson, NJ. DB Heating & Cooling can make sure to cure your boiler of whatever ails it.

The main reason for a hissing boiler is overheating. There are a number of different causes for this that you might need to investigate. One is an increase in limescale inside the tank. Limescale can result from having water with excess calcium and magnesium in it. Having scale removed can be a large task that will need expert work from a technician.

Fortunately, the other main reason for overheating, a buildup of silt at the bottom of the tank, is a simpler fix. Dirt and sand and sometimes enter the boiler tank through breaks in pipes or at loose connections. The silt gathers at the bottom of the tank, and the reduction of space inside will cause the tank’s water to overheat. Get a professional to flush the system, and this should take care of the problem. Scheduling regular maintenance will help prevent this in the future—and it will help with preventing limescale as well.

A jammed circulator pump might also cause hissing in a boiler. This sometimes happens at the start of the heating season because the inactive boiler has picked up corrosion and rust on the pump. A professional should also have little problem fixing this.

If you hear your boiler hissing, please do not become overly anxious: it’s unlikely your boiler is about to explode. However, this does require attention before the boiler sustains further damage and stops working entirely. You don’t want to lose all those fantastic benefits of a boiler right when you need them the most! Look for boiler repair in Emerson, NJ from DB Heating & Cooling.

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Westwood, NJ Heating Guide: What Is a Thermocouple?

October 14th, 2013

If you’ve taken an interest in how heating your Westwood, NJ home works, you may have come across the term “thermocouple” and heard that it’s an important part of your system. What exactly does this component do?

We’ll try to give you an answer to this question while avoiding too much heavy tech-talk. If you want more information about how thermocouples operate and why they are important to your home heating, contact a professional company like DB Heating & Cooling.

Thermocouples are small devices that determine heat levels. The principle behind their operation is deceptively simple. They are made up of two different pieces of metal that are joined at one end. The dissimilar metals produce higher voltage as the heat around them increases. This occurs because of the “Seebeck Effect,” discovered in 1821. The different metal types vary based on the temperature range they are intended to record. If hooked up to a computerized system, the voltage is translated into a temperature reading. Thermocouples can therefore serve as a guide to machines that require temperature readings in order to operate.

Thermocouples have numerous industrial and scientific uses. In the home, thermocouples are occasionally found in thermostats, but not often any more. The main use you’ll have for thermocouples is if you have a gas-powered heater, where they serve an important safety function. A thermocouple determines if the pilot light is burning. Should a pilot light shut off, unburned gas can begin to build up in the combustion chamber and become a hazard. However, if the thermocouple detects the pilot light has gone out, the voltage to the gas supply valve will cease and the valve will close, preventing this issue.

Because the thermocouple does a vital job in preventing gas build-up, its failure can become a serious issue. Although thermocouples are small, they aren’t something you should try to replace yourself: you are, after all, dealing with flame, voltage, and a flammable gas. You will also not know the proper type of thermocouple to get. If you suspect a problem with your gas-powered heater, no matter if it’s a thermocouple or a break in the line, call in a professional HVAC technician to take care of the matter. Do not risk your own safety.

DB Heating & Cooling offers 24-hour emergency service, so give us a call anytime you think you have a problem with your heating system in Westwood, NJ!

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Is a Boiler Installation in Waldwick the Right Option for You?

October 7th, 2013

Boilers have been around for hundreds of years, and they are still a popular choice for home heating, and for very good reasons.

A boiler might be the best choice for a new heating system in your home. We’ll share some of the advantages of boilers to help you with your decision.

However, don’t make a choice like this on your own. Because of the unique requirements of each home, no “one-size-fits-all” heating option exists. If you want help figuring out whether a boiler installation in Waldwick, NJ will give you the best results possible, call up the technicians at DB Heating & Cooling today.

  • One of the first things to keep in mind about boilers is that they can run off different fuel sources. The most common are electricity, natural gas, and oil. The type of boiler you get will probably depend on what fuel your home currently uses.
  • A major advantage that boilers have is that, unlike heat pumps and furnaces, they contain few moving parts. Boilers will therefore need fewer repairs and have longer lifespans than other systems. Because they don’t use forced air to send heat around your home—instead channeling hot water to radiators or baseboard heaters—they offer cleaner air. The spread of heat is also more even than that of furnaces.
  • Modern boilers operate quietly; most of the noise comes from the burner under the tank, which is usually far from your living space.
  • There are some important savings associated with boilers as well: they cost less to install initially than most heaters, and gas-powered boilers have high energy-efficiency ratings.
  • However, boilers do take longer to provide heat than furnaces or heat pumps, since they have to heat up water first.

Make sure to have a professional advise you about boiler installation. A heat load calculation done on your home will help you find out about your specific needs, and if a boiler will meet them.

DB Heating & Cooling installs some of the top brands of boilers in homes throughout Bergen County. For your Waldwick, NJ boiler installation, look no further than our staff of HVAC experts to give you the quality work you want.

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What to Consider Prior to Your Furnace Installation in Bergen County

September 30th, 2013

If you’re thinking of having a furnace installed in your home, either to replace an older system or because you have a new house, then you want to get moving before the cold weather arrives. It’s smart to take advantage of the early fall to install your home’s new furnace, but you need to take a moment to consider a few factors that will help make the installation successful. A new furnace requires a large investment in time and resources; make certain you’ve thought through what you’re planning to do.

If you need help preparing for a new furnace, consult with the experts at DB Heating & Cooling. We can address all your questions, as well as perform the installation when it’s time.

Is a furnace the best choice?

If you decided to get a furnace because you’ve had one before, take some time to consider the other heating options that may work better for you. There are more types of heaters available today than ever before, and one of them might do a more efficient job heating your home. Heat pumps and boilers offer both advantages and disadvantages. An HVAC expert can help you determine if a furnace is the right way to go, or if another choice might give you improved heating and energy savings.

What size furnace will I need?

It’s crucial that you get a furnace that can evenly heat up your home. Too small, and the furnace won’t give you adequate heat. Too large, and it will short cycle and age rapidly. Have a professional perform a heat load calculation that will evaluate numerous facts about your home, from square footage to the amount of windows, to give you an exact idea of how large a furnace you need to keep you warm and your heating system healthy.

Who should install the furnace?

If you thought you might handle the installation yourself, or have a friend with some experience take on the job, think again. Furnace installation is a huge, complex task, and any errors can lead to poor operation and malfunctions. It will cost you far more in the future, offsetting any savings you get from an amateur job. Find a heating company with a proven track record and trained technicians who will get the installation done right the first time.

DB Heating & Cooling is one of the top Bergen County furnace installation companies. We offer all kinds of services to help you with any heating needs. Call us if you want to get started on installation, or if you just have questions.

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Heating in Emerson: Why Change Air Filters Regularly

September 23rd, 2013

Most furnaces and air conditioning units are equipped with air filters, working to keep dust and debris out of the system. Heating in Emerson and other New Jersey towns is no laughing matter; our cold winters demand a reliable means of making your house warm and comfortable. Regular maintenance and upkeep are as much a part of that equation as buying a furnace in the first place, and you can’t perform maintenance without addressing your air filters. Why change air filters regularly?

The air filter’s primary job is to keep dirt and dust out of your furnace. That extends the life of the furnace immeasurably, preventing wear and tear in the system and keeping the various components functioning at peak efficiency. Over time, the filter becomes clogged with all that dust and debris, which reduces its effectiveness. More dust starts to build up in the furnace, more components are affected, wear and tear increases, and the furnace has to work harder to do its job. That results in higher monthly energy bills, as well as increasing the chance of a component malfunction that will cost a great deal to repair. Furthermore, when an air filter becomes clogged, it can restrict the flow of air though the system, reducing your heater’s ability to warm your house and again raising your monthly heating bill.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Changing your air filter’s regularly ensures that your system stays free of dirt and dust, prolonging its life and keeping it working as it should. Most filters are comparatively inexpensive and can be purchased at any home supply store. Look for filters with a high MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating, which indicates their effectiveness. (MERV ratings usually range between 1 and 11.)

Changing the filter should come as part of a professional maintenance program, with scheduled visits from a trained specialist. He or she can examine your furnace for faulty parts, clean any dust or dirt which has gotten through the filter, and identify potential problem spots for repairs before they become too large. That ensures your unit will provide the most effective heating. In Emerson, NJ, contact the experts at DB Heating & Cooling. They can set up a schedule for you to augment your efforts to change your air filters regularly.

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Oradell, NJ Heating Tip: How to Tell if Your Heater Is Too Large

September 16th, 2013

It may seem that no heater is too big for the job of keeping your home warm during a New Jersey winter. After all, isn’t it better to err on the side of a more powerful heater rather than one that’s too small and won’t keep your house comfortable? Not necessarily. A heating system that’s too large for your home can create numerous problems and cause a drain on your energy bill due to inefficient operation.

Look over this list of warning signals that you may have an oversized heater. If you experience issues with heating in Oradell, NJ, call DB Heating & Cooling for help determining the cause.

Short cycles: A heater that is producing too much warmth for a small space will cycle on and off too rapidly. Regardless of what kind of system you use to heat your home, if it is constantly shutting on and off it will be inefficient and risk wearing down faster, requiring repairs or even replacement in the future. If you think your heater is short cycling, get an expert to take a look at it.

Short cycling can also lead to poor heat distribution. Your heater will heat up the available space too fast. If you discover that certain parts of your home are not getting warm enough even though the heater seems to be working normally, the problem could be a system so large that it isn’t spending sufficient time producing warmth that will reach all parts of your home.

Increased energy bills: Whether gas or electricity powers your heating system, if you notice bills that are far above what you think you should be paying, the fault may lie with an inefficient, oversized heater.

There is no easy way to gauge what the correct heater size for your home is. More factors come into play aside from square footage: insulation and the space available for installation are also important considerations. Get an expert to determine what heating system is the best fit for your living space.

When it comes to heating in Oradell, NJ, trust to the highly-trained staff at DB Heating & Cooling to find the best solution for you.

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How to Choose the Right Oradell, NJ Heating System

September 9th, 2013

In towns like Oradell, NJ, heating systems remain more than just a luxury. They make our homes cozy and comfortable in the dead of winter. That’s why choosing the right system for you is such an important decision. Every household is different, both in terms of the building itself and in the needs of the family that occupies it. Here are some tips for making the right decision for your family.

  • Furnace size. Furnaces need to be properly sized to match the dimensions of your home, including specific factors such as the amount of insulation and the presence of a basement. If the furnace is too small, it won’t heat your home properly. If it’s too large, it will cycle on and off rapidly throughout the day, costing you money on your monthly bills. A qualified professional can inspect your home and give you parameters on the right sized furnace to heat it.
  • Type of fuel. In Oradell and other parts of New Jersey, you have a lot of options when it comes to the type of furnace you buy. Gas, oil and electrical furnaces are all available in New Jersey. Electric furnaces tend to be more efficient than gas furnaces, which tend to be more efficient than oil furnaces, but specifics vary by type. Choose your furnace based on the ease and availability of fuel, and the initial cost of installation.
  • Efficiency. Furnace efficiency is measured in terms of AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating. The federal government dictates that all furnaces possess an AFUES rating of at least 75%. In New Jersey, new non-weatherized gas furnaces need an AUFE rating of at least 90% and boilers need an AFUE of at least 80% (possibly higher depending on the type of fuel used). When selecting a new heating system, look for one with an AFUE as high as possible.

When it comes to proper heating, Oradell, NJ needs the guidance of an expert. DB Heating & Cooling knows the ins and outs of home furnaces, and can help you make the best decision for your home. Call us today to make an appointment.

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Happy Labor Day!

September 2nd, 2013

On the first Monday of every September, we celebrate Labor Day in honor of workers everywhere who strive to make our local community and country great. We enjoy the holiday like any other business as a time for BBQ, hanging out with friends and family, and celebrating the end of summer. It also means the start of the NFL and college football seasons.

The origins of Labor Day are disputed, as is the case with many other holidays. Some cite Matthew Maguire, the machinist and secretary of the Central Labor Union of New York, while others cite Peter J. McGuire of the American Federation of Labor. Whomever the original founder, by 1894, the holiday had become widely recognized and was designated a federal holiday by Congress and President Grover Cleveland immediately following the Pullman Strike. This strike pitted US Marshals and US Military against employees of Pullman Palace Car Company outside Chicago, as workers sought to protest wage cuts and the firing of union representatives. At the time, the holiday was a way of repairing ties with workers and recognizing the importance of their contributions.

Today, we see Labor Day as an opportunity to recognize all the people who work hard to contribute to our county. Thank you, and Happy Labor Day from all of us! 

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When is Duct Cleaning Necessary for My Westwood, NJ Home?

August 29th, 2013

The ductwork in your home distributes cool air from your central air conditioning system. Without it, your system wouldn’t be able to adequately cool your home. In towns like Westwood, NJ, with high summer temperatures and equally high humidity, your ducts are a vital component to keeping your home comfortable.  Duct cleaning is hardly the most exciting way to spend your money, but it may be a necessary one: especially if you used your air conditioning system regularly.

When air circulates throughout the ductwork system, it also carries with it dust, debris and airborne particles. Good filters on your air conditioning system can mitigate that a great deal, but when those filters become clogged, or when the ducts spring leaks along the way, then dust can creep in. As the amount builds up, it circulates through your home. Sensitive family members or those with allergies may find their symptoms worsening. On a less severe note, excessive dust build-up can decrease air flow through your ducts, forcing you air conditioning unit to work harder and resulting in higher energy bills accordingly.

The Environmental Protection Agency suggests a duct cleaning if you can spot mold growing on your vents or other components in the duct system, or if the ducts become excessively clogged (i.e., the air flow from your air conditioning unit is reduced). Either way, they strongly suggest retaining a trained expert to conduct the operation. A qualified technician will utilize tools and techniques that do the job cleanly and accurately, improving the quality of your air in the process. A less professional service may not create adequate seals, resulting in larger amounts of dust release into your home. In the worst cases, they might damage your duct system, creating leaks and further contributing to the problem.

If you believe that your ducts need cleaning, either because the signs of excessive dust are obvious or you believe that it’s contributing to allergic reactions, then it pays to call in a professional. DB Heating & Cooling has duct cleaning experts on staff and handles calls for house servicing all over Westwood, NJ. We are devoted to absolute customer satisfaction, so give us a call today!

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