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4 Benefits of a Ductless Heating System 

Your HVAC system is one of the most crucial parts of your home, and it’s important to make informed decisions about how you go about replacing or repairing it. While traditional forced-air setups have been the standard for many years in HVAC systems, ductless systems—also known as "mini-splits"—have recently been growing in popularity. Since these systems don’t need ducts to provide warm or cool air to homes, sheds, and individual rooms, they’re often a smart investment.

What Are Ductless Heating Systems?

Mini-splits are a two-part system. There is a ventilation unit installed inside of your home—usually towards the ceiling—and an outdoor unit that regulates the temperature of the air it is absorbing. Cold air has the heat extracted from it in the outdoor unit, and warm air is cooled, creating an arrangement that provides both air conditioning and heat to keep your home comfortable no matter what time of year it is. 

Unlike standard central air systems that need ducts to distribute air through a home, mini-splits are stand-alone units that don’t require ducts. As a result, they are easily installed in homes or rooms without ductwork. For example, if you have a work shed unattached to your home’s central air system, a heat pump can provide cool or warm air to your shed all year long.

The Top 4 Advantages of Mini-Splits

As you consider whether a mini-split cooling and heating system is right for you, take a moment to review the top four benefits of heat pumps below:

1. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Heating and cooling bills can add up over time, and this is especially true for HVAC systems that are over 10 years old and in need of replacement. If you’ve noticed that your utility bills have been getting higher and higher over the past few months and there haven’t been any repairs needed, it’s probably time to consider a standard HVAC or mini-split system replacement.

Air that travels through the ductwork in a traditional system will lose a substantial amount of heat. As your HVAC works to make up for the loss in temperature, it will consume more energy, and more energy usage means higher monthly bills for your household. With a ductless heating system, there is no maze of vents for the air to travel through, as it is blown directly into whichever room the mini-split has been installed in!

Ductless heat pumps can also save you money in the long run because they use energy more efficiently than central air. They also tend to have a longer lifespan than a traditional forced air system. If properly taken care of, a ductless heat pump can last up to 25 years, meaning you can save money on replacement costs.

2. Zoned Heating and Cooling Control 

Temperature regulation throughout your home can be a tricky balance. All homes are different, and while it may be cold in one part of the house, another room may not need much heating throughout the year. With a traditional HVAC system, when you need to heat up one room, you end up heating the entire house, regardless of occupancy. 

Ductless heat pumps solve this potential issue by giving you the freedom to decide which areas of your home to heat or cool. Do you like to stay warm in the living room but enjoy sleeping in a cooler bedroom? That type of variation is easy to achieve with a multi-unit ductless setup over a traditional HVAC configuration.

You’ll also save money by not unnecessarily heating or cooling the parts of your home that aren’t in use. Additionally, these units can be added to stand-alone structures or garages that don’t have ductwork, making them an excellent complement to a home with central air.

3. Ease of Installation

If you’re building a home or need to replace your current HVAC system, there may be a need to install new ductwork. These installations can be costly, unsightly, time-consuming, and stressful for homeowners. 

Ease of installation is one of the driving factors in ductless heat pump’s rise in popularity. Compared to the extensive labor required in either installing ductwork for the first time or working on existing ductwork in your home, setting up a ductless heating system can be a less invasive project. 

4. Improved Air Quality

Over time, traditional HVAC systems with ductwork can build up dust, mold, and other allergens, potentially compromising the air quality of your home. If you and your family are particularly sensitive to airborne allergens, this can mean a lot of uncomfortable allergy seasons, and getting your ductwork cleaned can be a hassle and expensive.

A ductless heat pump system solves the air quality issues that a traditional setup may cause through simplicity and ease of cleaning. As long as the filtration systems in your ductless heat pump are checked every month, you can rest easy knowing that your household is breathing clean, high-quality air!

Choose Peter Levi For All Of Your HVAC Needs

If you’re looking for ductless heating system replacement or installation services in Novato, Vacaville, or the surrounding Northern California area, choose Peter Levi Plumbing, Cooling, Heating and Drains. When you turn to us for a heat pump repair, replacement, or installation service, you can expect high-quality workmanship and customer service. We also charge by the job, so you’ll always know how much you’re paying upfront. Say goodbye to hidden charges and hello to honest, reliable HVAC service by one of our knowledgeable technicians. You can also review our coupons to save even more on our services.

Learn more about our ductless heating services today. If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment, please fill out our online form or call us at 800-605-5713.

Your Complete Furnace Maintenance Checklist: A Guide from Peter Levi

Your furnace is the unsung hero when it comes to keeping your home cozy during the chilly months. But like any hardworking hero, it needs a little TLC to perform at its best. At Peter Levi, we understand the importance of maintaining your furnace, so we've put together this comprehensive furnace maintenance checklist. Follow these steps to ensure your furnace stays efficient, reliable, and safe all winter.

"safety first" sign

Step 1: Safety First

Safety should always come first. Before you start any maintenance, turn off the power to your furnace. You can usually find the power switch on or near the unit. Safety should also include checking for any unusual smells or signs of gas leaks. If you detect a gas odor, leave your home immediately and call your gas company.

home furnace

Step 2: Inspect and Clean the Furnace Area

Clear the area around your furnace of any clutter, debris, or flammable materials. Make sure there are no obstructions in the vents or around the intake and exhaust pipes. This step ensures proper airflow and reduces fire hazards.

hvac technician replacing an air filter

Step 3: Change the Air Filter

A dirty air filter can cause your furnace to work harder and less efficiently. We recommend checking and replacing your air filter every one to three months, depending on usage. A clean filter promotes better air quality and reduces strain on your HVAC system.

a modern home thermostat

Step 4: Check the Thermostat

Ensure your thermostat is working correctly. Test it by setting it to a higher temperature than the current room temperature. You should hear the furnace kick in within a few seconds. If it doesn't, you might need to replace the batteries or call in a professional for thermostat troubleshooting.

hvac technician completing maintenance on a furnace

Step 5: Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

While regular homeowner maintenance can help, there's no substitute for a professional tune-up. Schedule an annual furnace inspection and maintenance appointment with a qualified Peter Levi Home Services technician. During this visit, our experts will:

By scheduling a professional tune-up, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your furnace is in excellent working condition, maximizing its efficiency and lifespan.

Regular furnace maintenance is essential for a warm, safe, and energy-efficient home. By following this checklist from Peter Levi and scheduling a professional tune-up, you can help prolong the life of your furnace and avoid unexpected breakdowns during the winter season. If you ever feel uncomfortable performing any of these tasks yourself or encounter issues beyond your expertise, don't hesitate to contact our experienced technicians. We're here to keep your home comfortable and worry-free year-round. Stay warm and cozy!

Wondering if we can service your home? Check out our service areas here.

UH-OH! Here’s What Happens When You Neglect Your Furnace Maintenance!

It may be tempting to overlook furnace maintenance, especially during the warmer months when it's not in regular use. However, this can be a costly mistake. Neglecting your furnace can lead to several serious problems that not only affect your comfort but also your safety and wallet. In this blog post, we will discuss the dangers of not maintaining your furnace and why it is so important to keep up with regular maintenance and inspections. Read on to learn more about the potential consequences of neglecting your furnace.

Elevated Energy Bills

We all know that energy bills can be expensive, and when it comes to furnace maintenance, neglecting to keep up with it can increase the amount of money you’re spending every month. Not maintaining your furnace means that it’s not running as efficiently as it should be, and this can cause your energy bills to rise significantly. To save money and make sure your furnace is running at its best, be sure to schedule regular maintenance with a professional HVAC technician.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

When it comes to neglecting furnace maintenance, one of the consequences is decreased indoor air quality. Not only can dirty filters trap airborne particles, but an unmaintained system can also lead to a buildup of allergens, mold, mildew, and other pollutants in your home. Poorly maintained furnaces can also cause excessive dust and dirt to circulate through your air ducts, reducing the quality of your home’s air. This can be especially problematic for people with allergies or asthma. Poor air quality can increase respiratory irritation and worsen any existing symptoms you may have. To ensure your family is breathing healthy, clean air, you must regularly maintain your furnace.

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Neglecting furnace maintenance can lead to concerning issues, including an increased risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that can pose health risks. It may cause symptoms similar to the flu, disorientation, and, in extreme cases, serious harm. When furnaces are not properly maintained, there's a higher chance of carbon monoxide exposure due to potential issues with combustion or ventilation. It's crucial to have a professional inspect your furnace annually to ensure it operates safely and efficiently. Additionally, for added safety, consider installing a carbon monoxide detector in your home to provide early warnings if any harmful gas levels are detected.

Expensive Repairs

If you don't take the time to regularly maintain your furnace, you may be in for some costly surprises down the road. Neglecting to maintain your furnace can lead to breakdowns and the need for expensive repairs. Depending on the issue, the repairs can range from minor fixes to more complex replacements. For instance, if your furnace isn’t getting enough air due to a dirty filter, the repair may just involve replacing the filter. But if the motor has been damaged by a buildup of dirt and dust, you may need a more substantial repair. That's why it's important to stay on top of regular maintenance - it could save you a lot of money in the long run!

Maintaining your furnace is an important part of protecting your home and family. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to serious consequences like carbon monoxide poisoning, elevated energy bills, poor indoor air quality, and expensive repairs. To ensure that your furnace is working properly and safely, it’s essential to have a professional inspect and service your system regularly. Taking the necessary steps to keep your furnace in good working order can save you time, money, and possibly even your life. Don’t wait—contact a qualified Peter Levi technician today to help keep your furnace in peak condition and don't forget to ask about our current coupons.

5 Signs Your Thermostat Reading Is Inaccurate

Your home’s thermostat is one of the most important components of your HVAC system, as it measures and controls your home’s temperature. When you have an inaccurate thermostat, your HVAC system won’t generate enough cool or hot air to match your setting. Fortunately, knowing the five main signs of an inaccurate thermostat can help you get ahead of the problem and solve it before it impacts your quality of life.

1. Your Home Doesn’t Feel Like the Temperature Displayed on Your Thermostat

The most obvious sign that you have an inaccurate thermostat is if your home feels colder or warmer than the temperature you’ve set. For example, if you’ve set your thermostat to 70 degrees, but you’re sweating indoors and your home feels like it’s in the 80s, your thermostat likely has an issue

While you can usually tell if a thermostat is inaccurate based on how a room feels, you could also compare your thermostat’s reading to a separate portable thermostat’s reading. If the two thermostats show different temperatures, an HVAC technician will need to inspect your thermostat to find out what’s causing the inaccurate thermostat reading.

2. Your Thermostat Is Installed Near An Area Prone to Temperature Swings

If your thermostat is installed near a place in your home where the temperature consistently swings, your thermostat’s reading is likely off. For instance, a thermostat near a door will likely experience various temperature swings as people enter and exit your home. A thermostat exposed to direct sunlight can also be affected, as the sunlight can make the thermostat believe your home is warmer than it actually is.

Typically, this issue can be solved by installing the thermostat in a new location. However, if your home isn’t properly zoned, you could also need home zoning services to prevent temperature fluctuations.

3. You Have a Mercury-Based Thermostat That Isn’t Level

Another sign that you have an inaccurate thermostat is if you’re still using a mercury-based thermostat that’s not level. These older thermostats are usually installed in older homes and need to stay level to provide an accurate reading.

If you have one of these thermostats and it’s not in a level position, you’ll need to adjust it back to a level position to get an accurate reading. However, it’s usually best to replace the thermostat and invest in programmable thermostat installation services to receive the convenience and energy-saving benefits of modern thermostats. 

4. The Inside Of Your Thermostat Is Dirty

Modern thermostats rely on sensors to detect your home’s temperature and provide an accurate reading. When these sensors are dirty or damaged, your thermostat can’t properly determine the correct temperature. As a result, a visibly damaged or dirty sensor is a sign you have an inaccurate thermostat. While you can fix a dirty sensor by cleaning the inside of your thermostat and recalibrating it afterward, you’ll need an HVAC professional to repair a damaged sensor.

5. Your Thermostat Is Old

Thermostats usually have a life expectancy of about ten years. If you have an old thermostat past its expected lifespan, it could be providing inaccurate readings. Instead of repairing an old thermostat, it’s often better to replace it with a new model, especially if you don’t have a smart or programmable thermostat. 

With programmable thermostat installation, you can receive all the benefits of the newest temperature-control technology. For example, programmable thermostats give you the opportunity to set your thermostat on a schedule that saves energy while you’re away from home. Many new thermostats also pair with phones and other devices, meaning you can conveniently control your home’s temperature even when you’re away.

Choose Peter Levi for Thermostat Repair and Installation Services in Fairfield, CA

If you’re looking for thermostat repair, replacement, or installation services near you in Vallejo, Benicia, Fairfield, Novato or the surrounding Northern California area, turn to Peter Levi. Our HVAC professionals can inspect your inaccurate thermostat and provide a solution that fixes it for you. You can also turn to us for smart or programmable thermostat installation when you want to upgrade your existing thermostat and receive the most accurate reading possible. Additionally, you can review our coupons to ensure you get a great deal.

Learn more about our programmable thermostat installation and repair services today. If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment, please contact us.

What Thermostat Temperatures Is Best for Pets?

Women with pets sitting on couch comfortably

If you own a cat or a dog, you probably want to give them the best life possible. Besides feeding them their favorite foods, buying them a comfortable bed, and playing with them throughout the day, you can make sure they're as comfortable as possible by keeping your home at the best temperature for them. After all, you don’t want your furry companion to be too cold or hot. Fortunately, it’s fairly easy to keep your home at the right temperature when you know how to pick the right temperature settings for dogs and cats.

What’s Usually the Right Temperature for Pets?

While it’s a good idea to raise your home’s temperature in the summer and lower it in the winter while you’re away from home to reduce energy usage, it’s not always a great idea if you own a pet. For example, it’s usually smart to raise your thermostat past 80 degrees in the summer when you’re not at home, but that thermostat setting can be a bit too hot for your pets. 

In the same way, you won’t want to set your home at 60 degrees or colder, as this can be too cold for cats and other animals. Learn more about the right temperature for your pets during the summer and winter below:

The Right Summer Thermostat Settings for Cats and Dogs

During the summer, it’s typically best to keep your home between 75 and 78 degrees at most times for your cat or dog. However, depending on your dog breed, you may be able to bump it up to 82 degrees (but no higher!) when you’re away to save on energy costs. For cats, you can set your home to the mid-80s while you’re gone, as most cat breeds tend to tolerate higher temperatures more easily.

The Right Winter Thermostat Settings for Pets

In the winter, you can have your home cooler to save energy and still keep your cats and dogs comfortable. Usually, the right winter temperature for dogs is between 69 and 72 degrees when you’re at home. While you’re away, you can sometimes bump it down to the lower 60s (but now lower) if you only own a dog and it has a longer coat of fur. 

When you own a cat, you’ll never want to set your thermostat below the 70 to 72-degree temperature range, as cats struggle to maintain their natural body temperature below 70 degrees. That being said, if you like your home toasty warm during the winter, you’ll be happy to know that most cats can be comfortable in temperatures up to 88 degrees.

What Factors Can Affect the Right Temperature for a Pet?

It’s important to remember that the recommended temperature ranges listed above aren’t right for every pet. While most cats and dogs will be happy at the temperatures above, some factors can affect the right temperature for your pet. The main factors you’ll want to consider when choosing the right temperature for your pet include:

Since these factors can impact what temperature is right for your pet, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian on their temperature recommendation. Additionally, if you have any exotic pets, you’ll also want to check with a vet about the right thermostat settings.

How To Easily Control the Temperature of Your Home

While we all want to be great pet owners, it’s easy to forget to change the thermostat before you leave for work or remember what temperature is right for your animal. With a programmable or smart thermostat, you can solve these issues, as these thermostats will automatically adjust your thermostat on a schedule. Additionally, some smart thermostats allow you to change the temperature while you’re away from home, ensuring you can always keep an eye on your home’s temperature and adjust as needed.

Choose Peter Levi for Programmable Thermostat Installation in Northern California

If you’re looking for programmable thermostat installation services near you in Novato, Vacaville, or the surrounding Northern California area, turn to Peter Levi. With our trained HVAC technicians in your corner, we can help you select the right programmable thermostat for your home and your pet. After you decide on a thermostat, we can install it for you to ensure you can always easily control the temperature of your home.

Learn more about our smart and programmable thermostat installation services today. If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment, please contact us.

You deserve a warm home for the holidays. There's nothing worse than your furnace breaking down in the middle of all your holiday festivities. Bah-hum-bug! That's why annual furnace maintenance is so important. Here are 5 reasons why you should schedule furnace maintenance before the holidays.

1. Ensures System Efficiency

Overtime, your furnace will experience normal wear and tear - especially if your unit is used constantly. However, a furnace maintenance will help ensure that you don't face any premature breakdowns or malfunctions. If you want your system to run efficiently for as long as possible, regular cleanings are essential. For example, if you have a dirty air filter, your unit will have to work much harder to heat your home. This added stress can greatly impact your furnace's efficiency levels. Not only that, but it can also lead to high energy bills. During the holidays, especially, you want to save money where you can. A furnace maintenance will clean all the necessary components to ensure system efficiency - and help you save money!

2. Extends The Lifespan Of Your Furnace

Your furnace is one of the biggest appliances you own - and it's not cheap! You want your unit to last as long as possible, right? Well, the more well-maintained your furnace is, the longer it will last. Not maintaining your unit can cause it to break down early because small problems got larger. During your maintenance, a technician won't just clean your unit, but they will also test and check all the different components to catch any problems early enough. That way, you can fix any issues before they end up causing your unit to fail. This will also help you save money on needing emergency repairs. The last thing you need is for your furnace to fail during your holiday celebrations.

3. Keeps Your Family Safe and Healthy

Without routine maintenance, your furnace can pose a threat the health and safety of your family. During normal operation, your furnace is designed to release carbon monoxide. However, if there's a crack or a leak in your heat exchanger, for example, it can cause the carbon monoxide to leak out into your home. An HVAC technician will be able to inspect your unit for any signs of any heat exchanger damage and carbon monoxide leaks. Leaks like this can be extremely harmful, and even deadly. That's why we recommend that anyone with a gas furnace have carbon monoxide detectors installed. Don't let carbon monoxide be the Grinch that stole Christmas!

4. Protects Your Warranty

Furnace warranties are extremely important. They provide you, as the homeowner, protection if you ever experience a problem with your new unit such as it failing prematurely. However, if you forgo furnace maintenance and don't take care of your equipment, many companies will void your warranty and you will lose that protection. It's best that you check your paperwork to see the terms and conditions of your warranty agreement.

Contact The Pros At Peter Levi Today! We Are Here For All Your Furnace Maintenance Needs In Northern California.

For over 35 years, Peter Levi has been providing fast, professional heating and cooling services you can count on. The experts at Peter Levi are here to help with all your furnace maintenance needs. Contact us today at 800-868-6885 or online here.

Winter is coming... is your HVAC system ready? The last thing you want is to find out there's a problem with your system when the weather begins to cool down and you need your furnace the most.  Luckily, there are ways you can make sure your HVAC system is ready for winter so you can enjoy peace of mind and comfort all season long.

1. Change Your Air Filters

Air filters should be changed every 1-3 months to ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. When your air filters are dirty and clogged with pollutants, your HVAC system has to work harder to pull air through. This added stress can increase your utility bills, cause system breakdowns, and lead to poor indoor air quality. Before winter arrives, change out your air filters and remember to do so every few months.

2. Test Your Furnace Before Winter Arrives

Before winter arrives, turn your furnace on a few times and let it run for a while. This will allow you to see if there are any problems that need to be addressed. If you notice anything strange, like loud noises, bad odors, no heat, or weak airflow, then schedule an appointment with your local HVAC technician right away. You should also check your thermostat and make sure that it shows your home is heating up. If it doesn't, then this could indicate a problem with your thermostat. The last thing you want to deal with is a furnace breakdown in the middle of a cold spell, so make sure to address any concerns now.

3. Get A Smart Thermostat

Get smart by getting a smart thermostat! This will allow you to stay comfortable while also saving energy this winter. If you purchase a smart thermostat with Wi-Fi connectivity and a phone app, then you will be able to track and control your temperature and energy consumption at all times - whether you're home or away. A smart thermostat will allow you the ability to turn the heat down while you're gone for the day, but kick it on right before you get home so you're not walking into an igloo!

4. Inspect Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide is also known as the "silent killer" because it's odorless and invisible. That's why it's so important for every home to have carbon monoxide detectors. Any furnace that burns fuel produces carbon monoxide as a byproduct. In fact, the number one cause of carbon monoxide leaks is a failed or a leaking heat exchanger. When it comes to your HVAC unit, make sure you're cleaning your heat exchanger and that it's working properly. Have a professional check for any cracks or leaks during your annual inspection. You should also make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are all working properly.

5. Schedule HVAC Maintenance

One of the best ways you can prepare your HVAC unit for winter is to schedule maintenance. It's recommended you schedule maintenance bi-annually (once for your AC unit in the early spring, and once for your furnace in the early fall). This will help you catch issues early enough to avoid breakdowns or malfunctions this winter. Not only that, but maintenance can help prolong the life of your unit and also help you save on energy costs.

Contact The Pros At Peter Levi Today! We Are Here For All Your HVAC System Needs In Northern California.

For over 35 years, Peter Levi has been providing fast, professional heating and cooling services you can count on. The experts at Peter Levi are here to help with all your HVAC system needs. Contact us today at 800-868-6885 or online here.

Top 8 Tell-Tale Signs It's Time To Schedule a Furnace Repair

Your furnace is an important, essential part of your home but it's easy to take for granted. Homeowners often don't realize how much they rely on their furnace until it stops working. Here are the top 8 tell-tale signs it's time to schedule a furnace repair.

1. Old Age

Furnace are designed to last a long time, but there still comes a time when they wear out and stop working as efficiently as they once did. Most companies would recommend replacing your furnace if it's over 10 years old. However, sometimes all it takes is a repair. To determine the best solution, contact your local HVAC company.

2. Strange Sounds

Do you hear banging, clanking, and/or screeching sounds coming from your furnace? While it's normal for furnace to make some kind of sound when they're operating, these sounds are not normal and shouldn't be overlooked. Usually, these noises indicate your furnace needs repaired. There are many reasons for the noises, and each noise indicates a different problem. You should have a professional take a look right away.

3. Inaccurate Thermostat

Are you noticing an inaccurate thermostat? If so, then it may be time to schedule a furnace repair. First, you should check your HVAC system's air filter to see if it's possibly clogged. This can interfere with your furnace's ability to heat your home and your thermostat's ability to read the air temperature. If that doesn't solve the problem, there could be many other reasons for the inaccuracy. Leave it to the pros to help you determine the cause and how to fix it.

4. High Energy Bills

High energy bills can really put a damper on your day or your entire month! If you've noticed higher-than-usual energy bills, don't wait to have your furnace looked at. This could be an indication you have a leak, you're low on refrigerant, you have a dirty air filter, your unit needs maintenance, or something else.

5. Poor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality can be harmful to you and your family - especially if someone in your home is already living with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions. Your furnace, unfortunately, could be to blame for your poor air quality. If your furnace isn't working properly, then it could be releasing contaminants such as allergens, dust, and other harmful particles into the air. While changing your filter can help this problem temporarily, you should still plan to call your local HVAC company for an inspection.

6. Slow Startup Time

A furnace shouldn't take too long to turn on. If you find yourself waiting a while, it could be due to a number of issues. For one, it could be due to your furnace's old age, a faulty or burnt-out pilot light, or a dirty or bad flame sensor, just to name a few. Don't wait to contact a professional HVAC company for furnace repair if you notice a slower-than-usual startup time.

7. Red, Yellow, or Orange Pilot Light

If you're noticing abnormal pilot light colors, such as red, yellow, or orange, then it means your furnace isn't working properly. These light colors can be an indication there's rust or other harmful compounds present in your furnace. This can not only cause your furnace to not operate efficiently, but it can also cause it to release harmful pollutants in your air.

8. Constant Cold Spots

There's nothing like turning on your furnace to heat your home, only to find it's doing the exact opposite! If you're noticing some rooms are cold and drafty no matter how much you adjust your thermostat, then it could be time to schedule a furnace repair.

Schedule Furnace Repair With The Pros at Peter Levi Today! We Are Here For All Your HVAC Needs In Northern California!

For over 35 years, Peter Levi has been providing fast, professional furnace repair services you can count on. The experts at Peter Levi are here to help with all your HVAC needs. Contact us today at 800-868-6885 or online here.

furnace, heating, winter heating, winter heat, keep warm in winter, how to keep warm in winter

How To Keep Your Home Warm For Less This Winter

Winter is upon us, which means if you are not prepared, your home may see a rise in heating expenses over the next few months. However, you don’t need high utility bills to stay warm and cozy this winter. We have rounded up a few tips that will help keep your home warm this winter without having to spend a fortune!

1. Hang Heavy, Durable Window Curtains

Thin sheers that you may have hanging up during the summer months aren’t going to do any good during the winter. It’s time to switch out those thin sheers for heavy drapes. Drapes will help keep the warm air in and that chilly breeze out. Make sure you open them during the day, as well, so you can let natural light warm up your home!

2. Consider Using a Smart Thermostat

The right thermostat can make a HUGE difference in your home this winter. A smart thermostat learns your family's habits and allows you to adjust the temperature in your home depending on your schedule. That way you are not heating an unoccupied home, which will help save money.

3. Use Throw Rugs in Rooms With Hard-Surface Floors

Throw rugs aren’t only for looks! They can also help insulate your home during those chilly months of the year. How? Well, when you place rugs down on wood floors, it helps reduce any drafts between the floorboards!

4. Change The Direction Of Your Ceiling Fan

Most people forget about this super easy and quick tip! During the winter, reverse your fan’s rotation to push cool air upward and mix with the rising heat. The mixed air will then spread downward, warming the room.

5. Make Sure Your Furniture Isn’t Covering Ventilation Ducts

Double-check that your furniture is not blocking any of your vents. Furniture that covers an HVAC register is preventing your home from getting a proper flow of heat. This is especially important if you have baseboard heating, which can lead to a fire if blocked.

6. Get a Furnace Tune-Up From Peter Levi

It can be hard to tell if your system is working at full efficiency, especially if it's been slowly losing power over the years. If you want to keep your home warm and cozy this winter, give our team a call today to check and tune-up your furnace! A system breakdown in the middle of winter can be quite a headache and can add on an unexpected cost.

By following these tips you can remain warm and cozy at home without having to worry about an increase on your next utility bill. Our team at Peter Levi is ready to TAKE CARE OF YOU today! Give us a call at (833) 221-2971 to book your furnace tune-up.

4 Signs Your Furnace Needs A Tune-Up ASAP

With colder weather approaching, it is important to pay attention to what your furnace is telling you! With most things in life, age brings change, and your furnace isn’t an exception! Over time, your furnace will provide several warning signs that it needs a tune-up, check out what to look for below!

1. Fluctuations in Temperature

If the indoor temperature is fluctuating throughout the day, then it is a clear indicator that a technician should be dialed to diagnose the problem. Annual and biannual maintenance visits will ensure that your system is working properly and efficiently to prevent uneven heat distribution throughout your home.

2. Unusual Noises

It is typical as your home ages to begin to hear strange noises, especially from your furnace. However, once your furnace begins to make noises such as rattling, popping, humming, and screeching, you will know without a doubt that something is off. Each noise has an individual issue attributed to it that a technician will be able to diagnose and fix.

3. Increases In Utility Bills

If you see a steady increase in your utility bills each month, it is typically a sign something isn’t working properly. A technician will be able to quickly diagnose what is wrong with your system. If your system is around 10 years old, you may want to strongly consider replacing it.

4. Yellow Pilot Light

A properly working and efficient furnace will ALWAYS produce a blue flame. If the flame from your furnace is yellow, it may be a sign that your system is producing carbon monoxide. Yellow flames are also an indication of a potential gas leak that needs to be addressed.

If you have noticed one or more of these signs in your home, it may be time for your furnace to receive a tune-up. Call our Peter Levi team today at (833) 221-2971 and let our Peter Levi team TAKE CARE OF IT!

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