Future Investments

Category: Furnaces

Minimizing Energy Losses in Ducts

A well-designed, well-maintained air duct layout can improve the efficiency of your HVAC systems exponentially, dramatically reducing your long-term heating and cooling costs. It isn’t always easy, though. Minimizing energy losses in ducts starts from the initial design concept and includes everything up to performing repairs.

Choose An Efficient Design

If you’re building a new property or having your ductwork retrofitted, you have a lot of freedom with the overall design of your duct system. Take this opportunity to make sure you’re getting the most efficient design for your investment. You want a design that evenly disperses the air throughout your entire property without any air leaks and supports an even airflow that ensures ideal air pressure throughout your home or business. If you’re unsure what that looks like, feel free to contact our seasoned professionals at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling for guidance!

Trust The Right Installation Professionals

Guaranteeing your air duct’s maximum efficiency requires a meticulous installation performed by an experienced professional. Regardless of what kind of configuration you’ve chosen (spider, perimeter loop, radial, or trunk and branch), the right installation professionals, ours, will know exactly what to do to get your new duct system set up quickly and maximize its proficiency.

Maintain Your Duct Health

Over time your duct system can become more susceptible to problems, including leaky unsealed joints and obstructions, because of standard wear and tear. There are, however, things you can do to prolong the health of your ducts. Ensuring your ducts are thoroughly sealed with help from maintenance professionals, keeping your vents clear of furniture and other objects that may reduce airflow, and cleaning out your vents regularly to prevent dust/debris buildup.

Invest In Upgrades

If your existing duct system is not functioning as efficiently as it could, there’s a good chance our HVAC specialists know of a few upgrades that can help. Our talented technicians can easily undercut doors to enhance air return, install jumper ducts, and even install fresh return-air grilles to increase airflow. Plus, we can make sure you have all the carbon monoxide detectors you need to protect your property from vicious gas leaks.

Learn How to Detect Damage & Know When You Need Repairs

Joint separation and holes are obvious evidence of air leaks, however, there will come a day when specially made tapes or even ‘duct mastic,’ the preferred DIY duct sealer, won’t be enough to cover the damage anymore. Damaged, inefficient duct systems cost property owners money, which is why sometimes you simply need to call in the pros for comprehensive support. Whether you have an air leak, poorly insulated basement ducts, loose vapor barrier, or flawed return registers, our HVAC specialists at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling are here to save the day!

Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling offers all the heating and cooling services residents and business owners in Arizona need. For more information on minimizing energy losses in ducts or investing in your property’s HVAC health, we encourage you to connect with our talented heating and cooling technicians at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling by calling (602) 499-7855, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar.

June 25, 2023
Minimizing Energy Losses in Ducts

A well-designed, well-maintained air duct layout can improve the efficiency of your HVAC systems exponentially, dramatically reducing your long-term heating and cooling costs. It isn’t always easy, though. Minimizing energy losses in ducts starts from the initial design concept and includes everything up to performing repairs.

Choose An Efficient Design

If you’re building a new property or having your ductwork retrofitted, you have a lot of freedom with the overall design of your duct system. Take this opportunity to make sure you’re getting the most efficient design for your investment. You want a design that evenly disperses the air throughout your entire property without any air leaks and supports an even airflow that ensures ideal air pressure throughout your home or business. If you’re unsure what that looks like, feel free to contact our seasoned professionals at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling for guidance!

Trust The Right Installation Professionals

Guaranteeing your air duct’s maximum efficiency requires a meticulous installation performed by an experienced professional. Regardless of what kind of configuration you’ve chosen (spider, perimeter loop, radial, or trunk and branch), the right installation professionals, ours, will know exactly what to do to get your new duct system set up quickly and maximize its proficiency.

Maintain Your Duct Health

Over time your duct system can become more susceptible to problems, including leaky unsealed joints and obstructions, because of standard wear and tear. There are, however, things you can do to prolong the health of your ducts. Ensuring your ducts are thoroughly sealed with help from maintenance professionals, keeping your vents clear of furniture and other objects that may reduce airflow, and cleaning out your vents regularly to prevent dust/debris buildup.

Invest In Upgrades

If your existing duct system is not functioning as efficiently as it could, there’s a good chance our HVAC specialists know of a few upgrades that can help. Our talented technicians can easily undercut doors to enhance air return, install jumper ducts, and even install fresh return-air grilles to increase airflow. Plus, we can make sure you have all the carbon monoxide detectors you need to protect your property from vicious gas leaks.

Learn How to Detect Damage & Know When You Need Repairs

Joint separation and holes are obvious evidence of air leaks, however, there will come a day when specially made tapes or even ‘duct mastic,’ the preferred DIY duct sealer, won’t be enough to cover the damage anymore. Damaged, inefficient duct systems cost property owners money, which is why sometimes you simply need to call in the pros for comprehensive support. Whether you have an air leak, poorly insulated basement ducts, loose vapor barrier, or flawed return registers, our HVAC specialists at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling are here to save the day!

Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling offers all the heating and cooling services residents and business owners in Arizona need. For more information on minimizing energy losses in ducts or investing in your property’s HVAC health, we encourage you to connect with our talented heating and cooling technicians at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling by calling (602) 499-7855, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar.

June 25, 2023
How To Choose Between A Furnace And A Heat Pump

If you’re considering upgrading your home or business’s heating systems, you’ve come to the right place. With so many different HVAC options available, it can be quite a challenge to choose between a traditional furnace and a heat pump. Fear not, though. Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling is an industry-leading HVAC solutions provider, which means we have what it takes to help you create the most effective strategy to enhance your heating.

Do You Favor Your Furnaces?

A furnace utilizes a formal fuel source to generate heat that will circulate throughout your property, making it an ideal heating solution in especially cold climates. Although the units are typically larger than heat pumps, they are considerably quieter. Because of their size and complex components, though, furnaces can become quite pricey in terms of initial installation and continued operation costs. You have to take some time to think about whether, in Arizona, you really need independent HVAC systems for your heating and cooling.

Already Know How To Handle A Heat Pump?

Heat pumps are completely different from furnaces in a lot of ways. The most obvious difference between the two is their heat source. While furnaces generate heat by expending fuel, heat pumps draw in heat from the outdoors and transfer it inside to distribute it throughout your home or business. Now, this can make a heat pump slightly louder, but it also makes heat pumps capable of so much more. You won’t need as much space for a heat pump. It’s far less expensive to install and maintain a heat pump. Plus, you can use your heat pump for heating and cooling, which means you’re getting twice the value!

Whichever You Choose, Trust Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling

No matter which types of heating system you think you should choose, just know you will never regret your decision so long as you have our esteemed HVAC professionals at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling guiding you. Our competent heating and cooling specialists can perform a thorough inspection of your home or business and help you better understand the unique advantages each unit can offer your property. We can discuss how your upgrade fits into your budget, so you can start saving more money in other areas of your life. And, when you’re ready, we can even handle the actual installation and continued maintenance as well.

Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling is a full-service HVAC support partner, and we are eager to show you exactly what it means to trust true professionals with your heating and cooling, we encourage you to connect with our talented heating and cooling technicians at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling by calling (602) 499-7855, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar.

April 15, 2023
Things To Check When Your Heat Pump’s Not Working Right

Your heat pump is likely not something you think about very often. If it’s working correctly, you barely even notice it’s there. When it’s not working, though, it’s all too obvious. Being stuck in the cold without sufficient heating is more than just uncomfortable. As many know all too well, being without adequate heat for an extended period of time can be incredibly dangerous. So, to help you get your heat pump back up and running when it’s not working right, here are some things you should check on first.

Check Your Power

If your heat pump stops working because it has no power at all, the first thing you’re going to want to do is check your breaker to make sure it hasn’t tripped somehow. If your circuit breaker has tripped, getting your heat pump back on should be as simple as resetting the breaker. If that doesn’t work, you may need to check to see if you have a blown fuse, which will need a trusted contractor’s touch, or call your local power company and ask about known outages in your area.

Check Your Thermostat

Anytime any of your HVAC systems go out, but the rest of your property has power, the first place you want to look is your thermostat. Is it working? Is it set to the correct temperature? Is your thermostat old and outdated, excessively dirty/dusty, or in need of recalibration? Any one of these things can have your heat pump on the fritz.

Check Your Air Filters/Air Ducts

All HVAC systems have air filters designed to catch dust and debris from the air as it circulates throughout your property. If your air filters are too dirty, however, your airflow will suffer, and your unit will not be able to function correctly, eventually shutting down entirely. The same goes for your air ducts too. If your air ducts are leaking air through holes or loose joints, or there is too much dust, dirt, or debris, your heat pump will have to work overtime to keep your property comfortable until it wears itself out.

Check The Reversing Valve

The reversing valve on a unit helps the system switch between your heating and cooling settings seamlessly. However, when one setting works but the other doesn’t, this is often a sign your reversing valve needs repair, which is a job best left to a trained HVAC professional.

Check Your Outdoor Unit

One of the most common causes of a defective heat pump is a problem with the outdoor unit. Being constantly exposed to the elements means you can experience blockages and clogs in your coils if they get too dirty, or even have your unit freeze up entirely. A frozen outdoor unit can result from clogged ducts, a worn-out motor, a damaged fan, a faulty valve, not enough refrigerant, blatant mechanical/electrical issues, or simply a dirty filter. If you see a lot of frost or ice anywhere on or around any component of your outdoor unit, it’s typically a good indication that your unit is freezing up or already frozen and you should seek immediate repairs to avoid future costs and concerns.

For more information on how to properly check on your heat pump to maximize its efficiency and prevent serious HVAC problems or to request our assistance restoring the integrity of your heat pump, we urge you to reach out to Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling today by calling (602) 499-7855, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar.

January 31, 2023
Get Your HVAC System Ready For Winter

It’s about that time of year again, the time to get your HVAC system ready for winter. With a little help from Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling, though, it’s sure to be easier than ever this year. Simply read through our helpful HVAC maintenance tips below, and you’ll be good to go!

Check Your Thermostat

The first thing you want to do is look at your thermostat. If it uses batteries, replace them. Turn the furnace and AC on one at a time, and make sure you can hear your unit turn on and off. If you really want to go a step further to protect your property this winter, you can even consider upgrading to a newer, smarter thermostat for automatic heating and cooling.

Replace Your Filter

The next thing you want to do is change your air filter. A dirty, clogged air filter can degrade your air quality as well as your HVAC unit as a whole, leading to frequent repairs and other serious problems. A fresh air filter will maximize your airflow, keep your unit running smoothly, and ensure your air quality is at its best!

Clean All Your Coils & Other Components

A furnace’s heat burners, heat coils, chimneys, air ducts, and other components can get a buildup of dust and grime over time. If left to worsen, this can lead to significant problems with your unit’s overall efficiency and functionality. At the start of every season, you should ensure all parts of your furnace are clean and free of debris or other contaminants that can hinder your system’s performance and impact your air quality.

Lubricate All Moving Parts

Like any machine, your furnace has a lot of moving parts that will eventually wear down over time. One way to prolong the life of your unit and these individual moving parts is to make sure they are properly lubricated. Ensuring your belt pulleys, blower motor, condenser motor, and fan are all properly lubricated can dramatically extend the life of your HVAC system.

Check/Relight Your Pilot Light

A furnace that still has a pilot light will not turn on or function effectively without it lit. So, make sure after you’re all done cleaning and lubricating your furnace, you check your pilot light and relight it if necessary.

Call Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling

Think you may have found something wrong with your furnace or don’t feel comfortable messing around with its components? Don’t sweat it! Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling is here to help with all your HVAC needs throughout the year. We will have your furnace ready for winter in no time! Get ahold of our brilliant heating and cooling specialists at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling today by calling (602) 499-7855, use the chat feature, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar.

November 30, 2022
5 Benefits of a New Smart Thermostat

Are you still in the process of deciding if a smart thermostat is a worthy investment for your property? Stop deliberating and start reaching out to our reliable HVAC technicians at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling to inquire about getting one as soon as possible. Below are just five of the many benefits you can enjoy by upgrading to a new smart thermostat.

Remote Access

If you’re tired of needing to get up and physically check your thermostat every time you want to adjust the temperature or turn your system on/off, you’re going to love having remote access to your smart thermostat. All your settings are easily accessible from an app you can download onto your phone. Plus, you can check on your thermostat or change your preferences at any time, no matter where you are.

Smart Programming

Another important feature smart thermostats have is their smart programming. With the ability to schedule your property’s heating and cooling ahead of time, your thermostat can automatically adjust your thermostat settings unprompted. This is especially helpful if you work away from home most of the day and don’t particularly need your HVAC running while you’re gone. You can program your thermostat to turn itself on and off according to your schedule, so you save more money without compromising your comfort.

Cost-Effective

Perhaps the best and most obvious benefit of smart thermostats is the savings. With greater real-time visibility of your thermostat settings and access to comprehensive energy reports that keep track of your usage, you can easily maximize your property’s efficiency and minimize your energy expenses. Plus, utilizing your HVAC systems more efficiently will also prevent unforeseen problems and repairs, cutting down on your costs even more!

Long-Term Learning

Smart thermostats don’t just track your energy usage and generate reports, though. Smart thermostats possess long-term learning technology that works in conjunction with untraceable sensors to learn more about your usage habits, including when you’re at home, working, sleeping, and more, so your thermostat can adjust to your habits accordingly. When your schedule changes, your thermostat will note these changes and adjust automatically to preserve your comfort.

Smart Compatibility

Think smart thermostats can’t get any smarter? Think again! Smart thermostats offer all kinds of convenient compatibility features, including voice controls and device pairing, so you can create a custom command network that controls everything on your property, from your lights and virtual assistants to your heating and cooling, from one handheld device.

Learn more about how a new smart thermostat can change your life by getting ahold of our brilliant heating and cooling specialists at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling today by calling (602) 499-7855, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar.

October 31, 2022
What is HVAC Maintenance and Why You Need It

For years, temperatures across Arizona have soared above 100 degrees, and there’s no sign of getting any cooler anytime soon. At least, not outside. The temperature inside your property, however, can be easily controlled. So long as you keep up with your HVAC maintenance.

What Is HVAC Maintenance?

HVAC maintenance can be quite time-consuming and take quite a bit of knowledge and skill, but that’s only because taking proper care of your HVAC systems is vital for maintaining their efficiency. Many property owners choose to outsource their HVAC maintenance to qualified professionals for this reason alone. Trained HVAC technicians, like ours at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling, have a comprehensive checklist they follow to guarantee every component of your system is fully functional. This can include filter changes, temperature tests, testing electrical components, checking refrigerant levels, and much more.

Why You Need HVAC Maintenance

There are plenty of appliances around your property that require little to no maintenance. Your HVAC systems, though, are not among them. In the summer alone, residents in Arizona pay the most in the country for air conditioning because of how hot it can get, often spending as much as 50% more than any other state to keep their properties sufficiently cool. Proper HVAC maintenance practices help prevent these costs from rising any higher by preventing inefficiencies and frequent repairs. Plus, it ensures your air conditioning will likely not fail you, even on the hottest day of the year.

Risks Of Neglecting HVAC Maintenance

Keeping up with your HVAC maintenance isn’t always easy, but it is important. What can start as simply a clogged filter reducing airflow can quickly turn into a frozen or short cycling evaporator coil and eventually lead to a system that doesn’t respond at all. And that’s the best-case scenario. Routine HVAC maintenance can help you detect and prevent other, more serious complications, like damaged compressor motors, refrigerant leaks, and more.

Don’t Do It All Yourself

There are plenty of ways you can help maintain your HVAC systems on your own, including keeping them clean and free of surrounding debris, changing your air filters, and making sure your vents are unobstructed to maintain proper airflow. However, when it comes to more technical maintenance, most of the time, you risk more harm than good trying to take care of everything yourself. If you’re serious about taking better care of your HVAC systems, you need a great HVAC partner!

To partner with Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling, we encourage you to reach out to one of our friendly technicians today. We’ll help you create a cost-effective maintenance strategy that accommodates your property’s unique demands. Call Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling today at (602) 499-7855, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar.

April 8, 2022
Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water?

If water is coming out of your furnace from places you know it’s not supposed to, your first question is going to inevitably be why. However, the answer isn’t always so clear. There are quite a few reasons why your furnace could be leaking water, or you at least think it is. First, though, you must determine what kind of furnace you have.

High-Efficiency Furnaces

High-efficiency furnaces naturally produce condensation. The unit’s unique design aids with this by providing ample drainage support to keep the furnace functioning. When a leak occurs, it can occur anywhere within this internal support system.

Condensate Drain Hose Leaks are as common as they are easy to fix, caused most often by clogs made up of dust, dirt, and other debris. When not regularly cleaned out, these clogs can cause damage and disconnections that result in leaks.

Inducer Assembly Leaks are slightly more difficult to detect than leaks in your drain hose. Your inducer assembly is the compartment condensation flows into from your main drain hose, which means even a small crack can lead to a sizable leak.

Condensate Drain Line Leaks are typically an easy repair. When the drain line is clogged, cracked, loose, or has any kind of damage, water can escape as it tries to drain from your furnace, which means all you need is a replacement.

Condensate Trap Leaks are not as common as some of the other types of leaks mentioned, but only because not all high-efficiency furnaces even have condensate traps. If your furnace does, though, a clog can quickly cause water to become trapped and leak out before making it to your pump.

Condensate Pump Leaks are especially common after their 3–5-year life expectancy is up. The condensate pump is the final drainage location for produced condensate, which means any clog can result in a leak caused by backflow.

Non-High Efficiency Furnaces

If you have a standard furnace not considered a high-efficiency model, your unit likely does not produce any water/condensate. That means, if you have a leak, it must be coming from somewhere else. The most common culprits are your air conditioner, humidifier, and water heater.

Air Conditioner Leaks can be a result of damaged drain pans, frozen coils, clogged drain lines, or failed condensate pumps. The only way to know for sure, though, is to ask one of our heating and cooling pros.

Hot Water Heater Leaks are most frequently a result of loose drain/T&P valves. However, they can also be from cracks in your main tank resulting from interior corrosion, so the sooner you seek repairs, the better.

Humidifier Leaks are only a concern if your HVAC system has a built-in humidifier. If the main water line suffers damage or becomes blocked due to improper maintenance, it can quickly result in leaks.

For more specific information about why your furnace might be leaking, please, feel free to contact our reputable furnace installation and repair specialists at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling by calling Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling today at (602) 499-7855, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar.

March 31, 2022
Change Filters Frequently to Optimize Furnace Efficiency

Owning a furnace, or rather any HVAC system, requires you to change your filters frequently to optimize your system’s efficiency. Some filters, however, offer better protection for your furnace than others.

Thicker Is Better

The cheap one-inch filters you will find in any grocery store do a decent job of filtering your air compared to not having a clean filter or any filter at all. Compared to higher quality four and five-inch media filters, though, the difference is dramatic. This is because the thicker your filter is, the more surface area there is for trapping airborne bacteria, dust, and other particulates. It’s also easier for more air to flow through at once due to reduced airflow resistance.

More Filter, More Savings

The higher the quality (thicker) of your furnace filter, the more chances you have to save money. Standard one-inch filters are flimsy and fade fast, lasting only one to three months while offering your property less protection. Thicker media filters typically last six months to a year and offer improved air quality and airflow that help keep your property comfortable. Meanwhile, you cut costs on your utility bills and extend the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Better Filter, Better Seal

Another reason to opt for a thicker filter with your next replacement is the seal. The thicker the filter, the tighter the seal, which means no air is sneaking past the cracks and crevices surrounding your filter and tainting your air quality. Thicker media filters have durable cardboard edging, and some even have plastic trim for an airtight seal you can fit right in.

Optimizing Furnace Efficiency

If your number one concern regarding your HVAC is efficiency so you can reduce your long-term HVAC costs, you cannot skimp on your filter. Because thicker filters enhance the quality and output of your airflow, there’s much less pressure on your system as a whole. It is able to create and distribute warm, clean air quickly and evenly throughout your property. One-inch filters get dirtier, faster, which means more work for you way more often.

MERV Rating

A filter’s MERV rating refers to how well it filters out microscopic particulates to protect your home. How high you should go with your MERV rating choice depends on your furnace, though. You don’t want to get a filter that’s too thick for an older/single-speed furnace that lacks the power to force air through it. You want a filter that fits your furnace right, and the easiest way to find out is by getting a professional opinion.

Our skilled furnace specialists at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling are happy to help you with anything your property’s HVAC systems need. We’ll help you change out your furnace filter, give you advice about what kind of filter will optimize your furnace’s efficiency the most, and more. Reach out to make an appointment anytime by calling Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling today at (602) 499-7855, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar.

February 28, 2022
How To Clean Your Gas Furnace

Taking proper care of your HVAC equipment is imperative for maintaining the total health and integrity of your property. That means regularly cleaning your furnace. Just like any other part of your home, furnaces can collect dust, dirt, and debris that can compromise their efficiency and your health. And don’t worry; it doesn’t take long. All you need to do is follow five simple steps.

Deactivate Your Gas Furnace

The first step you want to take in cleaning your gas furnace is to deactivate it. You will need to manually turn off all gas and electrical components until the system completely shuts down. Deactivating your gas furnace is for your safety, to help you avoid any potential electrical shorts – or shocks!

Clean Your Furnace Exterior & All Surrounding Spaces

Chances are your gas furnace is quite large, which means it requires a lot of ventilation to function properly. This, of course, means a lot of cleaning. All ductwork and airflow channels should be dust and debris-free. You should vacuum and declutter the surrounding area, removing anything that could restrict airflow. Then, gently dust off exposed electrical components. Compressed air can be effective for removing dust from compact and difficult-to-reach spaces.

Clean Your Blower

Once you have thoroughly cleaned the exterior of your gas furnace, you can remove the metal panel equipped to the front of your unit and access the blower and other interior mechanisms. Carefully remove the blower and use warm, soapy water and a stiff brush to clean and rinse off the blades.

Clean Your Heat Exchange

In terms of importance, a furnace’s heat exchange is at the top. It’s the mechanism responsible for sucking in the cooler air that gets turned into hot air. However, it also tends to suck up a lot of dust. After making sure the heat exchanger is cool to the touch, you can use a stiff brush to dislodge caked-on residue and clean up the remaining debris with a vacuum.

Clean/Replace Your Filter

Finally, the simplest task in your furnace-cleaning checklist: clean or replace your filter. You should do this at least every month or so to prevent any build-up of dust and pollutants that could compromise the efficiency of your furnace or your air quality. Oftentimes furnaces that are suffering unexplainably low performance are treatable with a simple filter change/cleaning.

Does your furnace need more than just a comprehensive seasonal cleaning? If so, our HVAC specialists at Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling are happy to help. Reach out to make an appointment anytime by calling Tru Comfort Heating and Cooling today at (602) 499-7855, or simply fill out the form in the sidebar.

December 31, 2021