Maintenance, Repair, or Replacement: What Does Your Furnace Need?

HVAC technician works on a gas furnace Now that winter has arrived and we’ve experienced some colder weather, you might be feeling a little bit concerned about the furnace in your home. Maybe the air quality in your home is not as good as it used to be. Or, maybe you’ve noticed your energy bills are much higher than they should be. Perhaps, you’re simply not as toasty as you’d like to be. No matter what the scenario – if your furnace isn’t keeping you comfortable, there could be a problem.

Of course, the best-case scenario is that your furnace may just need some maintenance or a minor repair. Unfortunately, it may need more extensive repairs, and if that’s the case, you might be wondering if it would make more sense to simply replace it. In this article, we’ll talk about some of the signs your furnace might be showing if it needs maintenance or repair, and we’ll talk about when it may be time to consider a replacement. Keep reading to learn more!

Signs Your Furnace Needs Maintenance

Let’s start off by saying that getting maintenance for your furnace on an annual basis is a good idea. The Department of Energy encourages heating equipment maintenance, indicating that proper maintenance is vital to efficient operation, and can help you save up to 10-25% in energy consumption. So, choosing an annual maintenance plan from a qualified expert is best practice when it comes to your heating system. However, if you haven’t had your system maintained in a while you might notice these signs that you need to call your HVAC contractor:

  • Your home isn’t as comfortable as you’d like. Whether you’ve noticed a decrease in comfort in certain areas or throughout, this is often a result of a poorly maintained system. There could be dirt or debris build-up that needs to be removed or a clogged filter.
  • You’ve noticed a decrease in the quality of air in your home. If you’re seeing particles dancing in the sunbeams, have noticed you need to dust more often, or your family is sniffling when the furnace kicks on, maintenance is very likely in order.
  • Your energy bills have increased. If you’ve noticed a spike in your energy bills for no apparent reason, it is likely that your furnace is having to work harder, and is using more energy to do so. Usually, this is a result of dirty, clogged filters and internal components.

Signs Your Furnace Needs Repair

While dusty air and higher energy bills often signal the need for a furnace tune-up, sometimes there is more going on than a maintenance call can remedy. If you’ve noticed any of the following, there is almost definitely something going on with your furnace, and you should call your HVAC contractor right away:

  • Screeching, banging, or grinding noises
  • Unusual, foul odors that smell like melting plastic or rubber
  • Your furnace keeps cycling on and off
  • Your furnace will not start

Please note, if you notice any smoke coming from your furnace, or if your carbon monoxide alarm goes off, you should leave your home and call your fire department immediately. These are serious issues and you should not wait for repair services in these instances.

When it Might Be Time to Replace

Of course, this is the scenario nobody wants to think about – having to replace their furnace. Heating equipment is a costly investment in your home and with good reason. Not only does it need to be built to last and keep your family comfortable, but it also has to provide safe heating as well. Still, most homeowners like to weigh their options before purchasing a new system.

Factors you should take into consideration include:

  • How old is my furnace? Most furnaces last between 10-20 years, so if yours is getting up there in age, you might want to replace it. It actually can save you money in the long run, because today’s furnaces are much more energy-efficient than their predecessors.
  • How often has my furnace needed repairs? If you’ve got your HVAC contractor on speed dial, and it seems like you’ve had to have frequent repairs made in order to keep it running properly, then it might be time to consider a replacement.
  • How expensive are the repairs? If you’ve needed frequent repairs, the costs definitely begin to add up. And, if your system breaks down and it will need extensive repairs in order to get it back up and running, you will definitely want to weigh the costs of repair versus replacement, especially if your system is older and less efficient.

How can Family Danz help me get the furnace services I need?

At Family Danz, we take great pride in providing you with complete heating services, including furnace maintenance, repair, and replacement. We can give your furnace the check-up it needs to help determine if there is any cause for concern, and we can make sure it receives proper annual maintenance to help it last longer and operate as effectively and efficiently as possible. And, we’ll help you in the event you need repairs or replacement, too. If you have any concerns about your home’s furnace, give us a call today at (518) 427-8685 to find out how we can help meet your furnace needs this winter – no matter what they may be!
Contact Family Danz

Maximize Your Home’s HVAC System with Ductless

mother and daughter on couch using ductless heating unitWhile ductless heating and cooling has been around for a while now, some people have not yet heard of it, or if they have, don’t really know what it is. Ductless heating and cooling is, quite simply, a heating and cooling system that works without the need for ductwork. Most systems operate via a heat pump system and require minimal construction to install.

Additionally, ductless heating and cooling is very quiet, easy to operate, and best of all, highly energy efficient. But, if you already have an HVAC system in your home, you might be wondering if ductless could be of any benefit to you. The answer is yes! If you use any window air conditioning units or space heaters in your home, ductless can provide a less obtrusive, and more energy-efficient solution. Keep reading to learn more!

Three Ways Ductless Can Help Keep You Comfortable

  1. Ductless is great for additions and converted spaces. If you have built on to your home or converted an area like the basement, attic, or garage into a living space, that part of your home may not have access to your home’s ductwork. And that can make those spaces harder to enjoy when the weather outside gets too hot or cold. Some people rely on window AC or space heaters to keep those areas climate controlled, but they can be obtrusive, noisy, and can use a lot of energy. Having a ductless unit installed in that space is the perfect solution because it can provide the heating and cooling you need to enjoy the area year-round, all while offering energy efficiency.
  2. Ductless can help balance out the temperatures in your home. In larger or older homes, sometimes homeowners find that there are areas that are more difficult to keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter. They may even find themselves cranking up the heat or AC system in order to make these rooms comfortable – and that can use a lot of fuel oil and electricity. By adding a ductless heating and cooling system in these areas, it will be much easier to keep these areas of your home comfortable and will help your central HVAC system not have to work as hard.
  3. If you need to replace old baseboard heat, ductless is a great option. If you have electric baseboard heat in your home that needs replacing, ductless is a perfect choice. Since it doesn’t require ductwork in order to operate, you won’t need to worry about messy construction. And, ductless will likely save you money on your energy bills, too – that’s because ductless can cut heating costs in half, and cooling costs by 30 percent, according to ENERGY STAR.

Do you think ductless might be a good choice for your home? Family Danz can help.

If you’d like to learn more about ductless heating and cooling, and whether or not it’s a good choice for your home, give Family Danz Heating & Cooling a call at (518) 427-8685. We’ll tell you about the different options for ductless, and help you find the solution that best suits your needs.

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Worried About Fuel Costs? Here are Some Tips for Heating Your Home Efficiently.

woman snuggled in warm blanketWith the costs of heating oil on the rise, you might be wondering if there are ways you can stretch your fuel dollars this fall and winter. Of course, you want to keep your family cozy and warm, but you also don’t want to break the bank on fuel oil. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take that can help keep your home more comfortable, and hopefully, save some money on heating costs.

5 Tips to Help Stretch Your Fuel Budget

  1. Make sure you have good insulation. One of the most important steps you can take toward a more energy-efficient home is by making sure you have the proper levels of insulation. Insulation helps keep the warm air inside and the cool air out, and that allows your heating system to work more effectively.
  2. Hang heavier curtains or drapes. Windows are often a spot in your home where warm air can leak out, and cool air can enter. Make sure your windows are adequately weatherproofed, and choose heavier curtains or drapes to help act as another layer against the chilly outdoor air.
  3. Free up your heating vents. If you have anything around your heating vents that could be blocking maximum airflow, be sure to move it. Obstructions not only prevent the flow of heated air throughout your home, but they can also make your furnace have to work harder – and, as a result, use more fuel.
  4. Consider zoning in larger homes. If you live in a larger or multi-story home, you may want to consider zoning. Zoning can be done for you by your HVAC contractor and provides customized temperature zones throughout your home. That way, you and your family will enjoy better comfort – and improved efficiency.
  5. Use a programmable or smart thermostat. Programmable thermostats can be set at different temperatures for when you’re awake, away from home, or sleeping. Basically, you can just set it and forget it. That way, you won’t have to worry that you left the furnace at a higher temperature while at work. A smart thermostat takes it one step further by “learning” your habits and adjusting accordingly.

Of course, Family Danz wants to help you stay as comfortable as possible.

When you choose Family Danz for your heating needs, we can make sure that your home’s heating system is operating as effectively and efficiently as possible. And, we can provide you with quality fuel oil at the best possible price. We have the current cost per gallon on our website at all times, and we can help you choose a fuel oil budget plan that’s right for your consumption needs, and your wallet.

Don’t let the cost of today’s oil prices keep you from getting the fuel you need – choose a trustworthy, reliable fuel oil delivery company to help you with your home and business heating oil needs. Give Family Danz Heating & Cooling a call today at (518) 427-8685 to find out more about how choosing us for your fuel needs can help you stay warm all winter long – without breaking the bank!

Just give us a call at (518) 427-8685, and we will be glad to assist you.

Why Choose a Career in HVAC?

technician servicing a ductless systemNew York is a great place for HVAC technicians. Why? Here, we have variable weather year-round, which means our customers rely on us to help them stay safe and comfortable all year long. According to the ACHR News, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted a growth of 21 percent in the field between 2012 and 2022, and it is only expected to continue rising through 2026. A growing concern throughout the industry is that there are not enough new HVAC technicians to replace those who are retiring, so for anyone interested in the field, there will be many jobs – and competitive wages – available now and well into the future.

Interested in a career in HVAC? Just give us a call at (518) 427-8685 to learn more.Contact Family Danz

What is an HVAC technician’s role?

The HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system in a home or business is responsible for keeping the structure at a comfortable temperature and regulating air quality. HVAC technicians service these systems, offering installation, repair, and maintenance. While many HVAC technicians are trained across the board on all sorts of structures and types of equipment, some specialize in areas such as residential or commercial, heating or air conditioning. Some technicians have additional certifications that allow them to repair, maintain, and install refrigeration systems.

About how much does an HVAC technician make in New York?

While the amount varies from region to region, according to HVACSchool.org, salaries range from around $45-$72K annually. The website also indicates that technicians in New York generally earn a higher wage than the national average, particularly in Nassau, Ithaca, Syracuse, and Albany.

Additionally, there are usually a number of benefits offered to technicians by most reputable HVAC contractors. For instance, at Family Danz, we’re pleased to offer our employees the following comprehensive benefit package:

  • Company Health & Dental Plan
  • Supplemental Health Plan
  • Family Danz 401k Program
  • Personal Time
  • Vacation Time
  • 6 Paid Holidays/Yr.
  • Vision Plan
  • Family Danz Uniform & Cell Phone

Any technicians working with common refrigerants will need federal EPA certification, regardless of local licensing and certification requirements. Fortunately, most trad schools and technical colleges include test prep and the exam as part of their curriculum. They want to make sure you have everything you need to get started in the HVAC field once you graduate.

Where can I go to school for an HVAC degree?

In New York, many BOCES programs, including the Capital Region BOCES in Albany and the WSWHE BOCES in Saratoga Springs, offer an HVAC/R curriculum for both high school students and those interested in continuing adult education. Additionally, many technical schools and colleges offer an HVAC program as well. Here are a few:

How can I learn more about working in the HVAC industry?

At Family Danz, we’re always looking for people to join our team. If you’re already a certified and licensed HVAC technician, we currently have openings and urge you to apply. If you’re interested in a career in HVAC but aren’t quite sure where to start, we’d love to chat with you and tell you more about the business. Just give us a call at 518.427.8685 and we’ll be happy to help.

Is a Heat Pump System a Good Choice for My Home?

Energy efficiency mobile app on screen, eco houseMore and more people are looking for ways to become more energy-efficient, from the types of vehicles they drive to the lighting fixtures they install in their homes. As you may be aware, your home’s HVAC system is one of the biggest contributors to your annual utility costs. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates heating and cooling account for about 50 percent of a typical home’s energy usage. They also estimate that homeowners who replace an electric heating system with a heat pump may save around $459 on heating costs annually, while those replacing oil systems may save nearly $1000.

Want to learn more about heat pumps? Just give us a call at (518) 427-8685, and we will be glad to assist you.Contact Family Danz

As you can see, finding ways to improve your home’s energy usage is important, not just for the planet but for your budget, too. One of the ways you can do this is by replacing old and inefficient heating and cooling equipment with high-efficiency HVAC equipment. And, one of the most efficient HVAC systems available on the market today is the heat pump. In this article, we’ll talk about how heat pumps work, the different types available, and how you can learn more about installing one in your home.

What is a heat pump, and how does it work?

With a traditional combustion heating system, like a furnace, fuel is burned to create heat for your home. With a heat pump system, no fossil fuel is required, because this type of heating system instead moves heat, rather than converting fuel to heat. They use heat from the outdoor air or the earth to heat your home. Because of this, they are a highly efficient type of heating equipment. What’s more, during the summer months, your heat pump can do double-duty as an air conditioner by reversing the process, drawing the heat out of the air inside your home, and moving it outdoors into the air or the ground.

What are the different types of heat pumps?

The most common type of heat pump system is the air-sourced heat pump. This operates by drawing the heat from the outdoor air and bringing it indoors (and reversing the process in the summer to provide cooling.) In the past, many people in the Northeast did not consider heat pumps as a primary source of heating. But, technologies have improved that allow air-source heat pumps to be a legitimate choice, even in chilly climates.

Air-sourced heat pumps come in different configurations that allow them to replace different types of old, inefficient equipment. Ducted systems are an ideal choice for people who are replacing an old system (such as a furnace) that used ductwork to deliver heat throughout the home. People who have used electric heating in their homes may not have ductwork. No worries – ductless systems are available for these situations.

Geothermal heat pumps, on the other hand, extract the heat from the ground (or sometimes from a water source) rather than the air. They are more expensive than air-source heat pump systems but are built to last for a long time and provide such incredible energy efficiency that the system generally pays itself off in less than a decade.

How can I learn more about installing a heat pump in my home?

At Family Danz, we can help you get the right type of heat pump for your home, and we’re dedicated to providing you with high-quality Bryant® heat pumps. They’re designed to bring just the right level of heating and cooling to your home, use a non-ozone-depleting refrigerant, and have achieved an ENERGY STAR rating. Not to mention, there are often rebates and incentives available on high-efficiency HVAC equipment that can help you save money upfront on a new heat pump system.

To learn more, simply give Family Danz a call at 518.427.8685, and we’ll be more than happy to tell you more about quality Bryant heat pump systems and help you decide if one is right for your home.

The Heat is On in Your Saratoga, NY Home – Because You Called Family Danz!

Your heating system is an essential part of your home. It helps to keep you and your family warm, and it keeps your plumbing from freezing when the temperatures dip below zero. As the temperatures outside start to drop, it’s likely that your heating system will kick into high gear – and that means you need a heating contractor you can rely on, who is professional and qualified to meet the needs of your Saratoga, NY home. When you need professional heating system services, you can rely on Family Danz Heating & Cooling to help.

We’ve been helping people in Saratoga, NY and all throughout the Capital Region with their heating system needs for more than 30 years. We believe in treating everyone we work with like family, and when you trust your family’s home heating repair, maintenance or installation to us, you can count on the fact that we’ll always treat you and yours with courtesy, honesty and professionalism. Our technicians are at the top of their craft, and they receive the factory-authorized training needed to ensure that every job they do is completed to perfection.

At Family Danz Heating & Cooling, we work hard to provide our Saratoga, NY customers with the premium heating products and services they deserve, all while keeping their comfort and safety top-of-mind. When you choose to work with us, we’ll strive to provide for your heating needs unlike any other home comfort company, and we promise you that you will be completely satisfied with the heating system products and services we provide. You can trust us to be your full-service heating contractor, and for your convenience we offer a wide range of services. Choose us for:

  • Heating System Maintenance: The best way to ensure that the heating system in your Saratoga, NY home will run reliably, safely and smoothly is by choosing regular heating system maintenance from Family Danz.
  • Heating System Repair: There’s nothing worse than having your heating system stop working on the coldest night of the year, but if you’re faced with a heating emergency, Family Danz can help.
  • Heating Systems: We’re pleased to offer our customers the best heating equipment on the market from Bryant. Choose us for quality Bryant furnaces, heat pumps and boilers for your Saratoga, NY home.
  • New Heating System Installation: Don’t weather another cold winter – let Family Danz install a new heating system in your home. We’re pleased to offer trusted brands installed by our factory certified technicians.

No matter what the heating need of your Saratoga, NY home, you can count on Family Danz Heating & Cooling to help. Whether you need heating system maintenance, repair or installation, simply call us at (518) 427-8685, and we will be more than happy to help meet your needs.

Make the Most of All Your Spaces with Ductless Heating

Woman sitting on couch next to a wall-mounted ductless unitAs the COVID-19 pandemic continues, more people are working and going to school from home. For many homeowners, space in their houses is at a premium. If you have a room that would be a great spot for a home office or classroom but doesn’t have year-round heating, you should know a ductless heating system can help.

Often, seasonal rooms, additions, and converted spaces don’t have access to the home’s duct system, which means they can only be used at certain times during the year. That’s where a ductless heating system comes in. Because these units operate outside of your home’s ductwork, they can be installed quickly and help you maximize every space in your home in a matter of just a few hours.

5 Benefits of Ductless Heating

Aside from helping you make the most of every nook and cranny of your home, there are several additional benefits to ductless heating that you’ll enjoy:

  1. Ductless heating is efficient. Most ductless systems use heat pump technology, which is one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat your home. Ductless systems tend to be far more efficient than space heaters, so installing one can help you save on energy bills.
  2. Ductless systems often provide both heating and cooling. This is a great benefit when it comes to being able to use your space year-round. You’ll enjoy warmth during the colder months, and cool comfort in the summer.
  3. Installation requires minimal construction. Your ductless system is comprised of an indoor and an outdoor unit, which are connected by small-diameter tubing. That means your technician will be able to install your ductless system quickly, with very little construction mess!
  4. Ductless heating helps your main heating system operate more efficiently. This is because it doesn’t have to work as hard to heat your entire home. Ductless heating (and cooling) helps to balance out the temperature of your home, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard. 
  1. Ductless heating offers precise comfort control. Most systems are easy to operate via remote control, allowing you to adjust the temperature of the room easily and to your unique needs.

How can I get ductless heating for my home?

That’s easy! All you need to do is give Family Danz a call at 518.427.8685. We’ll set up an appointment to discuss all the options and benefits of ductless heating with you, and help you get a unit installed in your home – so you can start enjoying every room in your home right away!

Just give us a call at (518) 427-8685, and we will be glad to assist you.

Contact Family Danz

Count on Family Danz for the Heating Products You Need for Your Home

Couple learning about home heating solutionsHave you been dealing with a heating system that just isn’t operating properly in your home? There are many reasons why heating systems like furnaces and boilers stop working well. Maybe your heating system is on the older side. Or, maybe it hasn’t been maintained on a yearly basis. Or perhaps you’ve made changes to your home, like adding living space. All of these factors can impact how long your heating system lasts.

If your energy bills are increasing, your heating system seems to run frequently, you’ve been noticing that you’re just not as warm and comfy as you’d like to be, or all of the above – it could be time to look into a new heating system for your home. Right now, Family Danz is offering savings on all types of heating equipment – so no matter what specific type is currently installed in your home, we can help you get a new one for less.

Learn about the different types of heating systems Family Danz offers.

  • Boilers: Gas, oil, or electric boilers heat your home by moving heated water from a central point through a radiator. In homes with boiler heating systems, there is usually little to no ductwork, but instead, pipes that run the heated water throughout the home. In some applications, the boiler can also act as a water heater for the home.
  • Furnaces: Furnaces produce heat by combustion, heating the air, and then moving the heated air through the home’s duct system. Most people have a gas or oil furnace in their homes, although electric furnaces are also available.
  • Heat Pumps: Heat pump systems are unique in that they don’t require gas or oil to operate; instead, they use the heat from the outdoor air or the earth to heat your home. Because of this, they are a highly efficient type of heating equipment. What’s more, they can be reversed in the summer so that they also act as an air conditioner.
  • Ductless Heating Systems: Ductless heating systems use heat pump technology, but instead of operating as a central heating system and using the home’s ductwork to distribute the air, they require no ductwork. They can be used in a single application to heat a specific area of your home or can be used to heat your entire home through a series of individual units. They are generally highly efficient, providing targeted comfort.

Getting the heating system you need is as easy as calling Family Danz.

There’s no need to deal with another year of inefficient, ineffective heating in your home. Whether you need a boiler, furnace, heat pump, or ductless heating, today’s heating equipment will provide you with better comfort and savings on your utility bills, too. Contact Family Danz today to find out more about how we can help you get new heating installed in your home, all while enjoying our money-saving offer.

Just give us a call at (518) 427-8685, and we will be glad to assist you.

Contact Family Danz

Learn About Heating Your Home This Winter

Young girls reading a book together

When you live in the Capital Region, you know that many months of the year require heating your home. We have long winters here, and that means you need to have a heating system that operates both effectively and efficiently. Many people don’t really think about their home’s heating system until an issue comes up – and that can be a costly venture, depending on the level of repair. One of the most proactive things you can do is learn about heating your home – what types of heating are available, how to know if you need a repair, and what to do if you need a replacement.

Today, there are many different types of heating equipment available.

To learn more, contact us today

Call Family Danz at (518) 427-8685 or complete our online form here:

In the past, most people either had furnaces or boilers in their homes and often, the equipment didn’t provide homeowners with the best energy efficiency. As environmental concerns have increased over the years, HVAC manufacturers have worked to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of heating equipment. Boilers and furnaces from 15-20 years ago, for instance, may have been 60 percent efficient at best. Today, most manufacturers have equipment models that are up to 98 percent efficient; not to mention, there are new, innovative types of equipment that provide optimal heating and incredible efficiency.

Learn about the types of heating equipment available today.

While most people either have a furnace or a boiler in their home, there are other types of equipment available to help people stay comfortable. Learn about the types of heating systems you can get for your home to determine what may be the best system for you and your family.

Boilers

Gas, oil, or electric boilers heat your home by moving heated water from a central point through a radiator. In homes with boiler heating systems, there is usually little to no ductwork, but instead, pipes that run the heated water throughout the home. In some applications, the boiler can also act as a water heater for the home.

Furnaces

Furnaces produce heat by combustion, heating the air, and then moving the heated air through the home’s duct system. Most people have a gas or oil furnace in their homes, although electric furnaces are also available.

Heat Pumps

Heat pump systems are unique in that they don’t require gas or oil to operate; instead, they use the heat from the outdoor air or the earth to heat your home. Because of this, they are a highly efficient type of heating equipment. What’s more, they can be reversed in the summer so that they also act as an air conditioner.

Ductless Heating Systems

Ductless heating systems use heat pump technology, but instead of operating as a central heating system and using the home’s ductwork to distribute the air, they require no ductwork. They can be used in a single application to heat a specific area of your home or can be used to heat your entire home through a series of individual units. They are generally highly efficient, providing targeted comfort.

Resources to Help You Learn More About Heating Equipment & Efficiency

When you’re considering a new heating system, keep in mind that this is a major investment. Like a vehicle, heating systems are complex pieces of machinery that require appropriate installation and operation in order to work effectively, efficiently, and safely. Therefore, doing research is important. Reliable sources can provide you with a wealth of excellent information. That being said, there is an overwhelming amount of information on the internet and it can be tough to ensure that the websites you’re visiting are providing accurate content. To make this easier for you, we’re providing a shortlist of sites that can help you learn more about heating.

  • ENERGY STAR: This is a government organization that focuses on helping people learn about energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers energy-efficiency ratings on various types and brands of equipment to help consumers make the best choices.
  • Angie’s List: As an online review-collecting group, Angie’s List provides an overview of different heating systems, giving you the information you need to make the right choice for your home.
  • The U.S. Department of Energy: This website offers useful statistics, data, and an unbiased review of the different types of heating equipment available, including their efficiency and effectiveness.

Heating System Concerns: How to Know if You’re Headed for a Breakdown

Couple learning how to use a thermostatOf course, heating systems require regular maintenance in order to operate at their most effective and efficient best. Therefore, we recommend that consumers get annual heating maintenance regardless of the type of system they have installed in their home. Getting maintenance can help mitigate the need for repairs while keeping systems running smoothly. As systems get older, they often become less efficient and can need heating repairs from time to time. Here are five ways to tell if your system may be having issues:

  1. Age of Equipment. Most types of heating equipment last 15 years before they need replacing. If your system is nearing that age and hasn’t been performing as well as it used to, you might want to consider replacing it. Unfortunately, heating systems that haven’t been properly maintained can start to show signs of failure even sooner. You can help ensure your system lasts longer by getting annual maintenance and changing out filters when they are dirty.
  2. Utility Bill Spike. If you noticed an uptick in your utility bills over the past winter that doesn’t correlate with increased costs, then it means your heating is likely working harder to give you the heating output your home requires. Sometimes the solution is simple, like cleaning your system and changing the filter, but other times it can signal larger issues.
  3. Dusty House. If you’ve noticed a layer of dust on household surfaces lately, it’s likely your heating system is blowing dust, dirt, and debris around. The fix is usually simply changing the filter. Doing this helps your indoor air quality improve, and it helps your heating system perform better. Your HVAC contractor can help you change the filter
  4. Noisy Equipment. Mechanical equipment makes some noise when it operates. However, if you’re hearing grinding, banging, or squealing sounds coming from your equipment, it’s an indication of a mechanical failure somewhere in your furnace. Shut it down and call a licensed contractor to come help.
  5. Frequent, Costly Repairs. If your system has needed frequent, expensive repairs, you may wish to consider replacing your system. You can find out if a system replacement would be more advantageous than a repair by multiplying the cost of repairs by the age of your system. If the number is 5000 or more, then it’s probably a good time to consider a replacement.

Finally, choose a heating contractor you can trust.

Whether you need repair, replacement, or maintenance for your heating system, choosing a reliable contractor is important. When you choose a company like Family Danz, you’re choosing a family-owned business that has been helping meet the needs of people throughout the Capital Region for more than 30 years. And, we have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, so you can count on us to provide you with quality products and services, and complete customer satisfaction.

To learn more about how we can assist you this heating season, give us a call at 518.427.8685, and we will be more than happy to help you.

Heating Systems 101: Learn About the Types of Heating Equipment

Couple learning how to use a thermostatNow that the heating season has arrived, you may be thinking about the heating system in your home – especially if it’s not working properly. Unlike in the past when most people used either boilers or furnaces to heat their homes, today there are many types of heating systems available. Across the board, modern heating systems are far more efficient than their predecessors and are made to work effectively while providing up to 98 percent efficiency.

You may be considering installing a new system in your home, but might be confused about the different types on the market. What type of heating system is right for you and your family, as well as your home? Below, we’ll explore the different types of heating systems available from Family Danz, providing a brief description of each and a link to the product page on our website.

Learn about the various heating systems Family Danz has to offer.

Boilers: Gas, oil, or electric boilers heat your home by moving heated water from a central point through a radiator. In homes with boiler heating systems, there is usually little to no ductwork, but instead, pipes that run the heated water throughout the home. In some applications, the boiler can also act as a water heater for the home. Read more here…

Furnaces: Furnaces produce heat by combustion, heating the air, and then moving the heated air through the home’s duct system. Most people have a gas or oil furnace in their homes, although electric furnaces are also available. Read more here…

Heat Pumps: Heat pump systems are unique in that they don’t require gas or oil to operate; instead, they use the heat from the outdoor air or the earth to heat your home. Because of this, they are a highly efficient type of heating equipment. What’s more, they can be reversed in the summer so that they also act as an air conditioner. Read more here…

Ductless Heating Systems: Ductless heating systems use heat pump technology, but instead of operating as a central heating system and using the home’s ductwork to distribute the air, they require no ductwork. They can be used in a single application to heat a specific area of your home or can be used to heat your entire home through a series of individual units. They are generally highly efficient, providing targeted comfort. Read more here…

Family Danz can help you choose the right heating system for your home.

When you need a new heating system, you can trust Family Danz to help you choose the best system for your home and your family’s needs.

Just give us a call at (518) 427-8685, and we will be more than happy to schedule a consultation with you.

Contact Family Danz