Thermal Pros Heating & Cooling Inc. Blog

How Dirty Filters Affect ACs

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 19:47:29 GMT

How Dirty Filters Affect ACs

Running air conditioners gather a lot of dust and other particulates over the course of a season. Because of this, it’s a good idea to change your AC filter every few months -- or more frequently if you’re living with pets or people who suffer from allergies.

A clogged air filter can seriously hinder the productivity of your air conditioner. It’s only one of the reasons why regular air conditioning maintenance in Sterling Heights, MI, is vital for homes across the area.

Top Reasons to Change Your Air Filter

When your air filter is clogged, your AC is not able to run at its full capacity. More than that, it will often waste energy trying to make up for inefficient performance. In turn, this can severely impact your monthly utility bill.

A dirty filter will also put increased strain on the mechanical components of your air conditioning system, causing damage that may eventually lead to a more costly repair.

If that isn’t enough, leaving a dirty filter unattended can cause particles to travel back through your ventilation system. This will lower the air quality inside your home, which will quickly become a problem for anyone with allergies or other respiratory issues.

For all of these reasons, it’s best to make sure that you have your cooling system fully taken care of.

Get the Best Air Conditioning Maintenance in Sterling Heights, MI

Yearly air conditioning maintenance in Sterling Heights, MI, is an essential component when it comes to helping your system to last as long as possible. In addition to changing out your air filters regularly, it’s a good idea to schedule a yearly maintenance appointment for your AC. When you want the best service in town, Thermal Pros Heating and Cooling is the partner you need.

We offer air conditioning repair for homes across the Detroit Metro area. We also offer a yearly maintenance plan. Let us make sure your cooling system is ready when you need it most.

If you’re ready to experience the benefits of hassle-free maintenance, call Thermal Pros Heating and Cooling today!

Do I Need an AC Replacement?

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 20:15:55 GMT

Do I Need an AC Replacement?

Your air conditioning puts in a lot of work during the warmer season in Michigan. So what do you do when it suddenly stops giving you the cool air that you need? How can you tell when repairs are no longer enough to keep your current cooling system functional?

Signs that It’s Time for a Replacement

When it comes to AC replacements, a major determining factor is the age of your current system. Most air conditioners are designed to last around a decade. Once it is older than that, it gradually loses efficiency.

An older air conditioner may struggle to properly cool your home. Over time, it may become more expensive to repair the unit than it would be to replace it.

Too many homeowners spend more to maintain an outdated unit than what it’s actually worth. You don’t need to fall into that toxic cycle. If your air conditioner is no longer serving you, don’t be afraid to say goodbye and send it out to pasture. You may be surprised how much a new system improves your day-to-day life.

Benefits of a New AC

There’s a lot to be gained from an air conditioner upgrade. HVAC technology is always evolving, and the newer models can run more efficiently across the board. They’re stronger, which means that they run faster while using less energy. With a replacement, you’ll often save money both on your monthly utility bills and on maintenance overall.

A new air conditioner is an investment upfront, but in the long run, it’ll save you a lot of hassle. And when you do it through the right HVAC service provider, the process is simple the whole way through.

Turn to the Best for Air Conditioning Replacement in Sterling Heights, MI

For the best air conditioning replacement in Sterling Heights, MI, Thermal Pros Heating and Cooling is the team to call. We offer comprehensive AC replacement services, along with installations and tune-ups, to cool you off all year long.

We’ve been serving the Metro Detroit area since 2005. When you want a well-respected team to upgrade your air conditioning, contact Thermal Pros Heating and Cooling today!

What’s This Water Surrounding My AC From?

Fri, 28 May 2021 13:12:02 GMT

What’s This Water Surrounding My AC From?

You rely on your air conditioning in Macomb, MI -- especially in the summer. But as you start to use your AC more regularly, it becomes vulnerable to stress and damage. Luckily, no matter what the problem may be, the team at Thermal Pros Heating and Cooling is here to help.

If you’re found water around your AC, it might be concerning. Here are some of the most common reasons why you might find water near your AC unit.

Water Flow in the AC Unit

There's a natural flow of water in your AC unit. The evaporator coil works to cool the air that passes through it. This causes moisture to form, which then drips into the drain pan. From that point, it goes through the condensate drain line that leads outside of the home.

Collecting and moving water is a part of how your air conditioner functions. But if one part of the system gets disrupted, it can halt the entire process. You might see evidence of this if you find water leaking around your unit.

Clogged Condensate Drain Line

A functioning drain line is vital to your air conditioner’s function. But over time, dust, sludge, mold, and other debris can clog that line and keep it from flowing. This results in water filling the drain pan and eventually spilling outside the unit.

This is the most common cause of water leakage, but it's easily treated by a trained professional. A technician from Thermal Pros Heating and Cooling can clean your drain line and get things moving again.

Frozen Evaporator Coil

A frozen evaporator coil can cause a lot of problems for your AC unit. It'll cause the system to overheat and lose cooling power, hiking utility costs in the home. And eventually, the frost on the coil will melt into the drain pan and leak outside of the unit.

This frost is usually built up through a lack of airflow in the AC system. This happens for many reasons, like when you have a clogged air filter. It could also be due to a low refrigerant level.

Refrigerant is toxic if it is mishandled. That’s why it’s important to make an appointment with one of our trained HVAC technicians when your refrigerant needs to be refilled.

Air Conditioning in Macomb, MI

Thermal Pros Heating and Cooling is the leading name in air conditioning in Macomb, MI. We have over 25 years of experience in providing high-quality local service. Our priority is to improve the comfort of our community, one home at a time. So if your AC is on the fritz, let us know! We’ll help you to get it back up and running right away.

Warning Sounds You Should Never Hear from Your AC

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 18:12:17 GMT

Sounds You Should Never Hear from Your AC

Most home appliances have certain sounds that they make while they are in use. Typically, homeowners become so accustomed to hearing these sounds that they don’t even notice them after a little while.

However, if a major home appliance, such as your AC unit, has started to make a strange noise, it’s typically cause for alarm. Read on to find out whether the sounds you’re hearing mean that it’s time to seek out AC repair in Sterling Heights, MI.

Common Sounds Caused by a Faulty AC Unit

Not sure what to think about the sounds coming from your AC? Here are some of the common noises that homeowners have experienced and what they might mean.

Bubbling or Hissing

If you’re hearing a high-pitched hissing sound or a low bubbling coming from your AC unit, you’re most likely hearing the effects of a refrigerant leak.

When AC systems are installed, they contain enough refrigerant to support the unit throughout its lifespan. Therefore, if a leak is occurring, it’s a sure sign that your AC’s functionality has been compromised. It will likely get worse and worse as the leak continues.

Buzzing or Banging

A buzzing noise from your AC is usually caused by an old or malfunctioning blower motor that is working at an inconsistent or slow speed. A banging noise could be a sign that a component within the unit has come loose, such as a piece of wiring or fan blade.

An HVAC technician can help you to pinpoint exactly what might be making these sounds so that you can decide what the best course of action is.

Clicking or Screeching

A clicking noise is relatively normal when a unit is first starting up, but if the noise continues during normal operation, it may be a sign of a defective component. A screeching noise is usually due to a build-up of excessive pressure within the unit’s compressor, which can be potentially dangerous and cause further damage to your AC system.

Trust ThermalPros Heating and Cooling for AC Repair in Sterling Heights, MI

Common Sign to Know if the Air in Your House is Too Dry

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 03:45:11 GMT

Is the Air in My Home Too Dry?

As winter approaches, people often begin to prepare their homes for the holiday season. Whether you are making plans to visit family or decorating your home, it is an exciting time of year. However, this drop in temperature can also mean that the air in your home will be dry and harsh.

While it may not seem like a major concern, dry air can have several negative health effects. The following things are common signs that the air in your home is too dry:

Difficulty breathing
Cracked lips and dry skin
Increased chance of nosebleeds
Frequent jolts from static electricity
Increased risk of infections and colds
Cracked paint or warped wood flooring

Fortunately, all of these consequences can be avoided with the installation of a whole-home humidifier . These systems are a great way to improve the air quality within your home.

What Does a Whole-Home Humidifier Do?

Whole-house humidifiers are designed to control the levels of moisture in the air within your home. They are integrated into your existing HVAC system. Humidifiers work by introducing moisture into your ducts through a distribution tray.

These systems can help to prevent harmful bacteria from being distributed into the air by maintaining the proper level of moisture within your home. They are a great way to help your family to breathe easier and reduce the risk of illness, which means that you spend more time enjoying the winter season.

Whole-home humidifiers aren’t just for the winter! They can benefit your household all year long. They constantly monitor the humidity in your air and will adjust their output to ensure that the moisture levels are just right.

Getting a Humidifier in Sterling Heights, MI

Whole-home humidifiers are also extremely affordable. There are many different styles and sizes of humidifiers to suit any need. Stop dry air in its tracks and start to enjoy the winter season again.

If you are interested in improving the air quality within your home, contact ThermalPros today. We even offer special financing options . If you need a humidifier in Sterling Heights, MI, we can help!.

Why a Smart Thermostat Is a Smart Idea

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 18:00:25 GMT

Why a Smart Thermostat Is a Smart Idea

There’s nothing better than stepping out from that cold Michigan air and into a toasty home. But for many people, it can seem wasteful to spend money to heat an empty house. They might turn the thermostat way down when they go out, then wait patiently for the house to heat up after they’ve come home.

Surely there’s a better solution, right? There is…a smart thermostat!

What is a Smart Thermostat?

Smart thermostats are thermostats that can be programmed through your phone, tablet, or computer. You can pick the temperature you’d like for your home, and with just a few taps or clicks, you’ll be done.

Smart thermostats can also be programmed to provide varying temperatures at different times of the day, so you can set them and forget them. Smart thermostats can also learn your routines and automatically adjust the temperature to match your normal preferences.

What Are the Benefits of a Smart Thermostat?

There are many reasons why you might want a smart thermostat installed in your home. Here are just a few of the benefits of this incredible technology:

Lower Heating Bills

You don’t have to leave your heater running all day to have a warm house when you get home. Instead, save money by programming your smart thermostat according to the times when you’ll be present. Smart thermostats are designed to learn about your usage patterns, and they even make energy-saving recommendations!

Convenience

Maybe you’re in the middle of cooking dinner and decide that the house feels a little warm. Perhaps you’re about to drift off to sleep and want the house to be a little cooler overnight. Whatever the case may be, you’ll love the ease and convenience of adjusting the thermostat with a quick tap on your phone.

Remote Access

You don’t need to be in the house to adjust your smart thermostat. If your plans change while you’re out, you can use your phone to update your programmed settings.

Information Alerts

Besides controlling the temperature inside your home, smart thermostats also provide important information regarding your heating system. Most smart thermostats can let you know when it’s time to change your air filter. A smart thermostat can alert you to power outages, rising energy usage, and more. It can even alert you to wide fluctuations in temperatures, which can be an indication of problems with your heating system.

Smart Thermostats - Oakland, MI

Are you ready to enjoy the benefits of a smart thermostat? If you’re in Oakland, MI or its surrounding areas, call Thermal Pros and let us install one for you.

6 Common Signs That Your Heater Needs Repairs

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 17:30:27 GMT

6 Common Signs That Your Heater Needs Repairs

There’s no denying that Michigan winters are notoriously chilly. You can manage to get through a day of commuting and running errands, knowing that your cozy home is waiting for you. But what happens if you walk into a cold house? It can be hard to keep warm if your heater stops working.

The signs of a failing heater are often unmistakable if you know what to look for. Scheduling your heater repair when you first notice these signs can help you to avoid having it break down completely -- something that no one wants on a cold Michigan night.

Here are some of the most common signs of a broken heater:

High Heating Bills

If your heating bill has skyrocketed, a failing heater could be to blame. If it’s not producing enough warm air to reach the thermostat setting normally, it might run too often and for too long. Your rising heating bill is a strong indication that your heater needs to be serviced.

Reduced Airflow

Is the air blowing so weakly out of the vents that you can barely feel it? A reduced airflow is a sure sign that your heater is failing. There can be many different causes for this, but a trained HVAC technician can pinpoint and repair the problem easily.

Loud Noises

Your heater should be running quietly in the background. If you are starting to hear bumps, thuds, and clangs, don’t ignore them. It is time to call a specialist.

Shortened Cycles

Does your system keep turning on and off? Maybe it turns on, but won’t stay on? These shortened cycles are signaling that something is wrong with your heater.

Cool House

The heater has been on since the first snowflake fell, but the house still feels cool. It could be as simple as needing a new thermostat, but it might indicate a more serious problem with your HVAC system.

Foul Odors

The first time you turn on the heater for the season, a musty odor is normal. But if the odor persists or worsens over time, it’s time to have it looked at.

Heater Repair – Lake Orion, MI

If you notice any of these signs, your heating system probably needs to be repaired. Our licensed and insured HVAC specialists offer a full range of repair services.

Don’t try to get through the Michigan winter with a weak heater. Call Thermal Pros, the premier specialists in heater repair in Sterling Heights, MI and its surrounding areas. We will have you warm and cozy in no time.

Your Next Water Heater: Should You Go Tankless?

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 17:34:57 GMT

Your Next Water Heater: Should You Go Tankless?

On cold Michigan days, there's nothing quite like taking a hot shower or bath.

If you aren't getting hot water or it takes forever to get warm, it might be time to get a new hot water heater. When you consider what product to buy, you may be considering new options, such as a tankless water heater in Sterling Heights MI.

But, is converting to a tankless water heater worth it? The answer, as you can see, is definitely yes.

They're More Efficient

A tankless water heater in Sterling Heights MI is much more efficient than a heat pump or a water heater that stores water. The average family of four uses roughly 64 gallons of water per day, according to the Department of Energy. That costs roughly $400 to $600 every year.

A tankless water heater is typically 24% to 34% more efficient, which can save a family of four upward of $100 per year. The reason for this is that a tankless water heater only heats water when it's needed. Typical hot water heaters store up to 80 gallons of water that gets heated all the time, just in case you need it.

They Give You Hot Water Fast

That last point above is one of the main benefits of a tankless hot water heater. They are tapped directly into a water line, and heat the water instantly once you turn hot water on at any faucet or appliance in the house. Tankless hot water heaters can pump out upward of 10 gallons of hot water each minute. This means you don't have to turn on the shower for a few minutes -- and waste water -- before hopping in.

It Saves Space

Traditional hot water heaters are big, clunky appliances. They take up a lot of space with their tanks, and they're ugly. Many people try to hide them in a corner or put them in closets to hide them.

Tankless hot water heaters, by contrast, are sleek looking. They are smaller gray boxes that can hang on a wall out of the way. This can provide you some much-needed space in your basement, garage, laundry room or wherever else your current hot water heater is located.

Trust the Pros with Your Tankless Water Heater in Sterling Heights MI

When it's time for a new hot water heater, consider switching to a tankless version. Its on-demand water system is not only a wonderful luxury, it's also much more efficient and can save you space in your home. Call the pros at ThermalPros to discuss your options.

Have You Taken These Steps Toward Winter Comfort?

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 15:44:26 GMT

Have You Taken These Steps Toward Winter Comfort?

Winters in Michigan are more harsh than those in any other state in the country (maybe except for Minnesota, and that’s a big “maybe”). Especially in metropolitan Sterling Heights near icy Lake Erie, Michigan winters are known for frigid temperatures, heavy snowfall, and frozen roadways. In other words, a Michigan winter is a great reason to stay inside.

We rely on our home heating systems to get us through the winter. It’s wise to take a few pre-winter steps to ensure your HVAC system is in optimal shape to avoid breakdowns and extensive repairs. Here are a few suggestions from the Thermal Pros’ heating experts .

Tips for heating maintenance in Sterling Heights MI

Replace your HVAC filter. HVAC filters should be changed frequently, at least once every calendar season. It’s especially important to do so before winter, as autumn often brings allergens, dust, dirt, and other pollutants to your filter. Replace your HVAC filter around the first day of winter. Stock up with an extra filter or two in case an exceptionally cold winter makes you increase your heater usage.

Clean up the heater area, vents, and registers. There shouldn’t be any objects on or near your main heater unit, as furniture, boxes, and other items pose a fire hazard. Clear them away. Also, give your AC vents and registers a routine dusting, as they too collect excessive dust and dander throughout the season. Make sure the vents are all the way open and air pathways are free of obstructing objects and substances.

Test your thermostat. Whether you have a programmable, electronic thermostat or a more hands-on, old-fashioned one, check to make sure it’s working properly. Switch the mode from cooling to heating, and program the thermostat to be a degree or two warmer than the current room temperature. You should hear it whir to life within a minute or two and feel the room getting warmer. If it doesn’t, contact us for service .

Cover up your outside condenser. HVAC systems that don’t employ heat pumps typically use condensers outside the home. This means they’re exposed to freezing winter temperatures and the risk of falling icicles. Use a large trash can lid and some bungee rope to cover up your condenser, or place a stiff wooden board over the top and weigh it down with bricks. Don’t wrap the whole condenser up in a plastic tarp, as it will collect moisture.

Schedule heating maintenance in Sterling Heights MI from Thermal Pros

When it comes to the inner workings of your HVAC unit, don't take the unnecessary risk of fixing them yourself. The experts at Thermal Pros will prepare your home for the upcoming season with our services for heating maintenance in Sterling Heights MI, including:

Refilling gas- and oil-powered heaters
Testing igniters and carbon monoxide detectors
Inspecting chimneys and intake pipes
Cleaning heat exchangers
Lubricating blower motor
Full HVAC system replacement or repair

Call or text us today to get your heater ready for another bracing Michigan winter.