How to Stay Warm When Your Heater Breaks Down: Tips from Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning
When the chilly and cold Salem fall and winter weather sets in, the last thing you want is for your heater to break down. Unfortunately, this can happen, and it’s important to know how to stay warm while you wait for heater repair in Salem. Here are some practical tips to keep the cold at bay and stay cozy.
Focus on Smaller Spaces – Stick to smaller rooms in your home. It’s easier to keep a smaller space warm, so close the doors to unused rooms to contain the heat where you need it most. Try your best to avoid repeatedly opening and closing doors
Block Drafts and Close Curtains – Ensure that you’re not losing heat through cracks around doors or windows. Use towels or draft excluders to block these areas and close your curtains to keep out cold drafts. This simple step can make a noticeable difference in retaining warmth.
Layer Up and Get Moving – Layering clothing, such as wearing thermal leggings and sweaters, can help keep you warm. Additionally, staying active by doing household chores or exercising can boost your body temperature naturally. Try your best to keep a nice warm hoodie around just in case of a heating emergency.
Use Portable Heaters and Other Heat Sources – Portable electric heaters can be a lifesaver when your main heating system is down. Keep one or two on hand for emergencies. Also, consider using an electric blanket, lighting candles, or even turning on your oven after baking to add extra warmth to your home. If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace in your home, now is the time to use it.
But remember, when using heat sources that use fire, safety always comes first; be sure they are away from flammable objects and properly put out before calling it a night.
Call for Heater Repair in Salem
While these tips can help you stay warm temporarily, nothing beats the comfort of a fully functional heater. If you’re experiencing a breakdown (or want to avoid one), don’t delay—contact Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning for prompt and professional heater repair in Salem. We’ll get your system back up and running, so you can enjoy a warm and cozy home all fall and winter long.
Should I Repair or Replace My Heat Pump In My Salem Home?
Heat pumps are a reliable and efficient home comfort solution, but like all mechanical systems, they can face issues as they age. Deciding whether to replace or repair your heat pump in Salem, Oregon, can be challenging.
To help, our team has put together this quick guide to help you make the best decision for your home.
When to Consider Replacement:
Repair Costs: If the repair costs are too high, especially for major components like compressors or heat exchangers, replacement might be more cost-effective.
Frequent Repairs: Repeated repairs indicate your system is nearing the end of its lifespan. Rather than dealing with constant issues, replacing the heat pump may save you money and hassle in the long run.
Refrigerant Leaks: Leaking refrigerant stresses your system and increases energy costs. A significant refrigerant issue can often justify replacing the unit due to the costs and overall lack of efficiency in a system that leaks.
Out of Warranty: If your system is no longer under warranty and begins to have problems, investing in a new heat pump can offer peace of mind with new warranties and provide you with long-term cost savings.
Age of the System: Heat pumps typically last 15-20 years. If your system is within this age range and is starting to fail, it may be time to consider replacement.
When to Choose Repairing A Unit:
If your heat pump is relatively new and the issue is minor, such as a thermostat problem or a minor airflow issue, repair is often the better choice.
For issues not involving major components or refrigerant, repair can extend the life of your system and delay the need for replacement.
Get Heat Pump Repair in Salem, Oregon
As a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience in the Salem area, we have built a reputation for reliability and expert service. Our team of highly trained technicians is dedicated to providing honest assessments and solutions tailored to each customer’s needs. With a focus on energy efficiency and long-term savings, Melton’s offers not just service, but peace of mind, ensuring your home is comfortable and your HVAC systems are running smoothly.
Not sure which option is best for you? Our HVAC experts at Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning are here to help. Contact us today to explore your options for heat pump repair or replacement, and more.
As summer temperatures soar, air conditioning has become an essential part of many households. However, the comfort of a cool home often comes with a hefty price tag in the form of increased electricity bills. The good news is that there are effective strategies to minimize these costs without sacrificing comfort.
Here, our team at Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning explains how understanding your air conditioner’s operation and making smart choices can lead to major savings.
How Air Conditioners Work
Contrary to popular belief, air conditioners don’t generate cold air. Instead, they cool existing indoor air by passing it through an evaporator coil and recirculating it. This process differs from typical air coolers that use outside air. Understanding this fundamental operation is crucial for optimizing your air conditioner usage and reducing energy consumption.
The Impact of Thermostat Settings
Many people believe that setting a lower temperature will cool a room faster. However, this isn’t the case. Your air conditioner’s thermostat monitors the room temperature and instructs the compressor accordingly. Setting a lower temperature simply means the compressor runs longer which consumes more electricity.
Factors Affecting Air Conditioner Energy Consumption
Several factors influence how much electricity your air conditioner uses, including:
Indoor and outdoor temperature difference
Thermal insulation of your home
Air conditioner temperature setting
The larger the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, the harder your air conditioner must work. Similarly, a well-insulated home requires less cooling which can lead to energy savings.
Smart Cooling Strategies
Utilize Ceiling Fans
Using ceiling fans in combination with your air conditioner can increase comfort while allowing you to set a higher temperature. This can lead to huge energy savings.
Avoid the ‘Quick Cool’ Trap
Many modern air conditioners come with a ‘Quick Cool’ feature that sets extremely low temperatures, often around 64 degrees Fahrenheit. While it might seem effective, it consumes excessive energy. Stick to a more moderate setting around 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal comfort and efficiency.
Understanding Older Air Conditioner Models
If you have an older air conditioner without a thermostat, it likely offers high, medium, and low cooling options. These settings adjust fan speeds but don’t control air temperature directly. While they impact comfort, they don’t affect efficiency.
Tips for Maximizing Air Conditioner Efficiency
Regularly clean or replace air filters.
Ensure proper insulation in your home.
Use curtains or blinds to block out sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.
Consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model if your current air conditioner is old.
Contact Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning for Professional Air Conditioning Services!
While these tips can help you save on air conditioning costs, professional maintenance is key to ensuring your system operates at peak efficiency. At Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning, our expert technicians can provide complete air conditioning services, from routine check-ups to energy-efficient upgrades.
Contact us today to schedule a service and start saving on your cooling costs this summer!
