Archive for the ‘Heat Pump Systems’ Category

Champaign IL Heat Pump Repair: Hearing Strange Sounds From My Heat Pump

Monday, April 8th, 2013

We depend on our heat pumps to work year round. They need to provide both heating and cooling, and that means they get a lot of use. One of the indications that you’re in need of heat pump repair is when you hear strange or unusual sounds coming from your system components. While sounds are notoriously subjective and difficult to diagnose, there are some common noises that may indicate certain repairs. It’s important to heed any such sounds, for they could indicate that your heat pump is in need of serious professional attention. For more information, or to schedule Champaign, IL heat pump repair, call the experts at Lanz Heating and Cooling today!

  • Buzzing. This often indicates an electrical problem. The sound of buzzing could mean that you have an electrical arcing issue, which can be both counter-productive and hazardous. It may also mean that a part of the electrical supply line is damaged. Alternatively, the capacitor that energizes the system and stores electrical energy may be poorly connected.
  • Clanging. If it sounds as though two pieces of metal are hitting each other over and over, then it’s probably true. It’s possible that the blades on the exhaust fan are hitting the sides of the housing, or one of the blades is bent or damaged. You may need to replace the fan. There may also be something loose inside the heat pump unit.
  • Grinding. The sound of grinding is often the sound of dry bearings. If it’s the sound emits from your indoor unit, then it’s likely that the bearings in the blower motor have dried out, and are now struggling to make the air handler operate properly.
  • Hissing. This sound is often the result of an air leak somewhere, perhaps in the refrigerant line or in one of the coils. A refrigerant leak can deplete your system fast, making it ineffectual. Leaking refrigerant is also an environmental hazard that needs professional attention.

You should expect your heat pump to make some sounds as it operates, but strange or unusual sounds are often a red flag that there is something wrong. For comprehensive Champaign, IL heat pump repair, call the pros at Lanz Heating and Cooling today!

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Pros and Cons of Various Heating Systems in Longview

Friday, February 3rd, 2012

When it comes time to install a new heating system in your Longview home, there are a lot of options to consider. Many people get overwhelmed when confronted with all of the furnaces, boilers and heat pumps on the market these days. So, to help you get a handle on what each has to offer and which will offer you the best benefits, here is an overview of the modern heating system market.

Furnaces

Furnaces are the core of a forced air heating system and use gas, oil or electricity to heat air which is then circulated through your home by a blower in your air handler. Furnaces are among the most fuel efficient heating systems on the market today with options available at up to 95% AFUE (meaning it uses up to 95% of the fuel consumed to produce heat). They are also inexpensive to install and while they don’t last quite as long as boilers, they are highly efficient when well cared for.

Boilers

Boilers use gas, oil or electricity to heat water or steam which is then circulated through your home into radiators or baseboard heaters. The heated water or steam releases heat into your home and heats it in turn. While not quite as energy efficient as a high efficiency furnace, boiler heat is perfect for homes with existing radiators and no room for vents and ductwork. It also has less of an impact on indoor air quality since there is no air movement and boilers tend to last a very long time when well maintained.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular, especially in milder climates where it rarely gets below 40 degrees F. A heat pump uses the same technology as an air conditioner to extract heat from outside using a compressor, evaporator coils, and condenser coils with refrigerant.

It is most efficient in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild, but it uses much less energy than either a boiler or furnace and it can be used in the summer to cool your home. When properly maintained, a heat pump will last 10-20 years and save quite a bit of money, though it is recommended that you have an emergency heat source for days when the temperature outside gets below 40 degrees F.  Contact Lanz Heating and Cooling with any questions about your heating options.

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