How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Outdoor HVAC Unit

August 28, 2025

Your outdoor HVAC unit works tirelessly year-round to keep your Peoria home comfortable through Illinois’s varying seasons. With proper care and maintenance, these systems can reliably serve your family for 15 to 20 years or more. Here are essential steps to maximize your unit’s longevity and performance. Keep the Area Clean and Clear Maintain at least two feet of clearance around your outdoor unit on all sides. Remove leaves, grass clippings, and debris that can accumulate around the base, as these materials can block airflow and cause the system to work harder than necessary. Trim back shrubs, bushes, and vegetation regularly to prevent them from growing too close to the unit. Regular Filter Changes Replace or clean your air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and household factors like pets or allergies. Dirty filters force your system to work harder, reducing efficiency and putting unnecessary strain on components. This simple task significantly impacts both performance and equipment lifespan, and is one of the main AC and heating maintenance tasks you can do yourself. Schedule Professional Maintenance Annual professional maintenance is crucial for optimal performance. A qualified technician will inspect electrical connections, check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and identify potential...

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How Landscaping Choices Can Affect Your HVAC System

July 10, 2025

Your yard might look great, but could it be making your home less comfortable or more expensive to cool? The truth is, the way you design and maintain your landscaping can have a direct impact on your HVAC system’s performance. From airflow to debris buildup, small outdoor decisions can influence how well your system runs—and how long it lasts. Plant Placement Matters More Than You Think Trees and shrubs can offer much-needed shade, especially around your home’s exterior. That shade can lower indoor temperatures and help your system avoid overworking during the hottest parts of the day. But placement is key. If plants are too close to your outdoor unit, they can restrict airflow and trap heat, making it harder for the system to release warm air efficiently. To keep things running smoothly, maintain at least two to three feet of clearance around the unit. This allows for proper ventilation and easier access for servicing. Debris Can Choke Your System Falling leaves, grass clippings, and mulch might seem harmless, but over time, they can accumulate around your HVAC unit. When that happens, the unit has to work harder to function, which can increase your energy bills and shorten its lifespan....

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Top Tips for Reducing Humidity Levels in Illinois Summers

June 2, 2025

Illinois summers get hot, and high humidity makes them feel even hotter. High levels of moisture in the air not only makes your home uncomfortable, it can also impact indoor air quality and strain your cooling system. Fortunately, there are several ways you can cut back on excess moisture in your home and keep things feeling cool and crisp. Follow these tips from our AC service team to keep humidity down for higher comfort and lower cooling bills. Use Your Air Conditioner Wisely Your AC system plays a key role in removing humidity from your indoor air. However, it’s most effective when it runs for longer, steady cycles. Setting your thermostat a little higher and using fans to circulate the air can help the system run more efficiently and maintain a better balance of temperature and moisture. Invest in a Dehumidifier A whole-home dehumidifier is one of the best tools for combating sticky air. These units pull moisture out of the air and keep your indoor environment more comfortable. If you frequently notice condensation on windows, musty smells, or clammy air, a dehumidifier can make a noticeable difference. Whole-home types don’t require constant water emptying and remove moisture from every...

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How Smart Home Integration Enhances HVAC Efficiency

May 4, 2025

Smart technology is changing the way we live—and that includes how we heat and cool our homes. By integrating smart devices with your HVAC system, you can improve comfort, save on energy costs, and gain better control over your indoor environment. What Smart Integration Actually Means Smart home integration refers to connecting your HVAC system with devices like smart thermostats, sensors, and home automation hubs. These tools allow you to monitor and adjust settings remotely, learn your habits, and react to changes in real time. For example, a smart thermostat can recognize when you’re away and adjust the temperature accordingly. It can also track patterns in your heating and cooling preferences, automatically making small adjustments that reduce unnecessary energy use. Greater Control Means Better Performance With a smart system in place, you’re not stuck with one-size-fits-all settings. Instead, you can create zones, set schedules, and receive alerts if something isn’t working as it should. This kind of control helps your HVAC system operate more efficiently, which can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bill. Plus, the ability to make real-time changes from your phone or tablet gives you flexibility without sacrificing comfort. Data-Driven Decisions Another big advantage is the...

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Understanding and Preventing HVAC Short Cycling

April 2, 2025

Short cycling is a common HVAC issue that can impact your comfort, energy bills, and even the lifespan of your system. It happens when your unit turns on and off more frequently than it should, without completing a full heating or cooling cycle. This pattern puts unnecessary stress on your system and may signal a deeper problem that needs to be addressed. What Causes Short Cycling? There are several reasons your HVAC system might be short cycling. Some are simple fixes, while others require a more detailed inspection. Here are a few common causes: Clogged air filters that restrict airflow Oversized HVAC units that cool or heat your home too quickly Thermostat malfunctions or poor placement Refrigerant issues, such as low levels or leaks Dirty or frozen evaporator coils If your system is shutting off before it hits your desired temperature, one or more of these problems may be to blame. Call a heating or AC repair pro to diagnose and fix the issue. Signs Your HVAC Is Short Cycling You might not notice short cycling right away, but over time, it becomes clear something’s off. Be on the lookout for these signs: Frequent on/off cycles—every few minutes Uneven temperatures...

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The Best HVAC Accessories for Allergy Season

March 4, 2025

Allergy season can make life miserable, especially when pollen, dust, and other allergens find their way into your home. The good news is that the right HVAC accessories can help improve indoor air quality and keep allergens at bay. Whether you suffer from seasonal allergies or just want cleaner air, these add-ons can make a big difference. High-Efficiency Air Filters Not all air filters are created equal. Standard filters trap larger particles like dust and debris, but high-efficiency filters, such as HEPA or MERV 13-rated filters, capture even the tiniest allergens. Replacing your filter regularly is key to maintaining clean air and preventing buildup that can circulate allergens through your system. Whole-Home Air Purifiers Air purifiers work alongside your HVAC system to remove airborne contaminants before they reach your living spaces. Options like UV air purifiers or electrostatic filters target allergens, bacteria, and even viruses. These systems help reduce allergy symptoms by neutralizing particles that standard filters might miss. Humidity Control with a Whole-Home Dehumidifier Humidity plays a big role in allergy symptoms. High moisture levels create the perfect environment for mold and dust mites to thrive. A whole-home dehumidifier helps maintain optimal humidity levels, making it harder for allergens...

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How to Optimize Ventilation for Improved Air Quality

February 5, 2025

Good indoor air quality isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for your health. Poor ventilation can trap pollutants, allergens, and moisture, creating an environment ripe for respiratory issues and mold growth. Fortunately, optimizing your home’s ventilation can make a significant difference. Understand the Importance of Ventilation Ventilation plays a key role in removing stale air, controlling humidity levels, and introducing fresh outdoor air. Without proper airflow, contaminants like dust, pet dander, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) accumulate, affecting both air quality and overall well-being. Identify Areas That Need Better Airflow Certain areas in your home are more prone to poor ventilation, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. These spaces often collect excess moisture and odors, making proper ventilation crucial. Inspect these areas for musty smells, condensation on windows, or lingering odors—all signs that airflow needs improvement. Use Exhaust Fans Effectively Exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms help remove excess humidity, odors, and airborne particles. Make sure your fans vent to the outside rather than just circulating air within the space. Running these fans during and after activities like cooking or showering helps prevent moisture buildup and keeps air fresh. Open Windows Strategically One of the simplest ways to improve ventilation is...

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The Hidden Costs of Neglecting Your HVAC System in Winter

January 9, 2025

A reliable heating system is essential during the cold Peoria, IL winters, but neglecting regular maintenance can lead to hidden costs that quickly add up. Many homeowners don’t realize how a poorly maintained HVAC system can impact their comfort, safety, and energy bills. Not even your AC should be ignored as you prepare for cold weather. Below are some of the hidden costs and how to avoid them. Rising Energy Bills When your HVAC system is overdue for heating maintenance, it has to work harder to heat your home. Dirty filters, clogged ducts, or worn-out components force the system to use more energy, which directly affects your utility bills. Regular inspections and tune-ups keep your system running efficiently, helping you avoid unnecessary spikes in energy costs. Costly Repairs and Breakdowns Minor issues can quickly become major repairs if left unchecked. For example, a small refrigerant leak or worn-out part can strain your system and lead to a complete breakdown if left unaddressed. Emergency repairs during winter often come with higher costs and the added dangers of frozen pipes and other issues. Reduced Lifespan of Your HVAC System Every HVAC system has a limited lifespan, but neglecting regular upkeep can significantly...

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Should a 25 Year Old Furnace Be Replaced?

December 16, 2024

A 25-year-old furnace has certainly served you well, but is it time to consider a replacement? While many homeowners prefer to hold on to appliances as long as they’re running, aging furnaces come with several concerns that can impact your comfort, safety, and budget. Let’s break down the key factors to help you make the right decision for your home. Efficiency and Energy Costs Older furnaces are significantly less efficient than today’s models. A furnace from 25 years ago likely has an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating of 65% to 75%, meaning up to 35% of the energy it consumes is wasted. By comparison, modern furnaces have AFUE ratings higher than 90%, which translates to lower energy bills and a reduced environmental impact. Over time, upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace can save you thousands of dollars on utility costs. Older furnaces also simply won’t be as efficient as they were when you got them, since they’ve acquired wear and have to work harder to provide heat. Frequent Repairs As furnaces age, parts begin to wear out, leading to frequent breakdowns and costly repairs. If you’ve been calling a technician more often in recent years for furnace repairs, or if...

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Pros and Cons of the Most Affordable Home Heating Systems

November 4, 2024

Choosing the right home heating method is essential for staying warm in the Peoria, IL winter without breaking your budget. Each option has unique benefits and limitations, especially when it comes to energy efficiency, cost, and ease of use. To help you make an informed decision, we’re breaking down the pros and cons of some of the most affordable heating methods available. Electric Space Heaters Electric space heaters have a low initial cost and ease of use. These portable units can heat small areas quickly. However, they’re not energy-efficient for anything but small spaces, so your electric bill will increase quickly if you start using them. Worse yet, they are known for their fire risk and have numerous safety issues. Natural Gas Furnaces Getting a natural gas furnace gives you a solution that’s affordable to run over time, and their efficiency has improved with modern technology. That means they’re extremely efficient, have a long lifespan with proper maintenance, and can quickly heat even large homes. The main downside is that you need a gas line in order to have one installed. For houses without existing gas access, adding this infrastructure is costly. Electric Furnaces Electric furnaces are another popular heating...

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